Montenegro vs Hungary prediction: EUROPE: Euro – Qualification betting tips on match 2023-06-16 16:00.
Anything is possible for Montenegro in their fourth UEFA European Championship qualifying (ECQ) cycle as an independent nation after beginning the campaign with a win and a defeat. However, earning a positive result against the strong-starting Hungary may prove pivotal to their unlikely dream of qualifying for a first-ever major tournament since gaining independence from group leaders Serbia.
Montenegro’s very first officially recognised international was played in this very stadium against none other than Hungary back in 2007, which was the first of two 2-1 home wins against these opponents in home H2Hs. Even so, repeating that feat will be easier said than done for the hosts, who have failed to win in four straight home internationals (D2, L2).
Hungary began their ECQ campaign in fine style with a rampant 3-0 victory over Bulgaria, and they now have the chance to put some distance over their chasers by matching Serbia’s perfect two-game record. Forever in the shadow of the iconic Hungary team that finished as FIFA World Cup runners up in the early 20th century, this modern side have required a play-off to qualify for the last two Euros finals, a fate they’ll hope to avoid this time around.
Achieving success here may not be straightforward if Hungary’s ECQ away form proves indicative, with the Magyars keeping just one clean sheet across their last eight trips in this sphere whilst conceding 1.75 goals per-match on average (W3, D1, L4). Their general away form paints a much prettier picture, with only Italy getting the better of Hungary across their last seven internationals (W4, D2, L1).
Players to watch: Montenegro’s Sead Hakšabanović has largely been limited to appearances from the bench for Celtic this season, yet the pacey winger still managed nine goal contributions (G5, A4) in their domestic treble winning season. Also enjoying domestic dominance is Hungary and Ulsan Hyundai forward Martin Ádám, who is on course for a second straight K-League title with his club and scored in both games during the last international break.
Hot stat: Montenegro have failed to score in an ongoing national record three straight ECQ home games.