‘We might just turn it around at the right time’ – Ireland fans travelling for crucial Hungary decider after memorable Portugal win
Emotions were high at Dublin Airport as fans geared up for what is a massive night for the Boys in Green
The next stop for Irish fans is Budapest, where Ireland will clash with Hungary on Sunday, with many departing Dublin Airport yesterday and today.
Shane Quinlan from Ballinhassig, Co Cork, who was at the Aviva, was on his way to Budapest with a group of friends.
“It was the best atmosphere we’ve had since the Shane Long goal against Germany [in 2015]. We don’t get moments like this very often,” he said.
“It was good to have a good night for once. I didn’t really know how to react afterwards, because we’re so used to just being kind of miserable after a game, we didn’t know what to do. It was great.”
Mr Quinlan is hopeful ahead of the game in Budapest, with some plans for a celebration afterwards.
“Win or lose, we’ll be going for pints. We’ll try to enjoy the city a bit.”
Cathal Cummins from Carlow, who was waiting for his Budapest flight at Dublin Airport, said he expected a draw but the atmosphere was “electric” after the win.
“Young people, old people, middle people, just jumping up and down, hugging each other, it was crazy. Really good atmosphere,” he said.
Republic of Ireland fan Shane Quinlan from Ballinhassig Co Cork at Dublin Airport. Photo: Steve Humphreys
He hopes the Portugal win will give the Irish team “a lot of confidence” for the match in Budapest, and he would like to see a 1-0 win for Ireland.
Mr Cummins added that many people booked flights to Budapest after yesterday’s victory, but he booked his flight months in advance.
“We’ll be celebrating before, during and after. I’ve a flight back on Monday evening, so I’m OK. I could have booked a 6am flight, but I said, just in case we win, I think it’s safe to buy a later one,” he added.
Paul Gibson from Santry, Dublin, and Philip Keenan from Mullingar, Co Westmeath, who were wearing Tricolour scarves, go to every Irish match.
It was like a dream
The two friends, who were at the Aviva to see Ireland win, praised the performance of the Boys in Green.
“The atmosphere was electric. When the goals went in, the relief at the final whistle… We defended very well, and we grew in confidence. Once we scored, I think we believed in ourselves a bit more,” Mr Gibson said.
“It was like a dream. The best thing was seeing all the kids there. It’s great for the kids to have the hero today, [Troy]Parrott. And hopefully, there will be more heroes if we get to the World Cup, if we’re lucky enough to get there. It’s great for the country,” he added.
Mr Gibson said he’s “very optimistic” about the game tomorrow.
“We have to put probably more effort in, because they’re at home, sold out. I’m very optimistic. Look it, we might just turn it around at the right time, so hopefully.”
