Armenia’s national team lost its chances of advancing from the group after a defeat to Hungary

Armenia’s national team lost 0–1 to Hungary in the 5th round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and lost its mathematical chances of advancing from Group F.

The only goal of the match was scored in the 33rd minute by Hungarian forward Barnabás Varga, finishing a pass from Hungary’s star player Dominik Szoboszlai.

Yegishe Melikyan’s team played with an experimental lineup due to numerous injuries. Karen Nalbandyan made his debut for the national team, appearing on the field in the 76th minute. In the first half, Armenia used a 5-2-3 formation, and after the break Melikyan switched to a more attacking 4-4-2 model, with Erik Piloyan moving to the flank of the defense.

In the second half, the Armenian team created several dangerous chances. After a solo run and shot by Eduard Spertsyan, the ball passed just wide of the post. Araik Eloyan also had a great opportunity after a cross from Artur Serobyan, but the young forward failed to connect with the ball from a very promising position.

After five rounds, Armenia is 4th in Group F with 3 points. Hungary has 8 points, and Marco Rossi’s team has practically secured second place.

In the final round on November 16, Armenia will face Portugal, while Hungary will play Ireland. If Portugal defeats Ireland today, the last round will lose its tournament significance.

Armenia lineup:

Henri Avagyan — Kamo Hovhannisyan (76, Karen Nalbandyan), Sergey Muradyan, Erik Piloyan, Stepa Mkrtchyan, Nair Tiknizyan — Karen Muradyan (90, Narek Agasaryan), Eduard Spertsyan (C), Zhirayr Shaghoyan (70, Narek Grigoryan), Grant-Leon Ranos (76, Artur Serobyan), Edgar Sevikyan (76, Arayik Eloyan).