Ball-boy Dominik has grown up and is ready to face his childhood idol Cristiano

Circles. They're present in our lives even when we may not be aware of them. Just look at Dominik Szoboszlai's case. The Liverpool midfielder was on the pitch on September 9, but 16 years ago, as Hungary faced Portugal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. The 9-year-old was a short-haired ball-boy standing close to his childhood idol Cristiano Ronaldo, then 24.

After so much time, on the very anniversary of that game, which ended in a 1-0 away win thanks to Pepe's first-half header, the two sides meet again. Only this time, Dominik, 24, is captain of his side, and Cristiano is still around, although he is 40 years old now.

"I've thought a lot about playing against Cristiano. I've played against great players, but never against him. He's been my role model since I was a kid. I hope it will be a positive experience," said Szobo ahead of the game.

Portugal have played the Magyars in nine competitive games, winning eight alongside one draw. Six of the previous seven victories have come with a clean sheet.

Roberto Martinez's side successfully began Group F by trashing Armenia away 5-0.

Cristiano continued his fine form for Portugal, scoring in four consecutive games for his country for the first time since July 2021. He has scored six goals in six appearances against Hungary.

2026 FIFA WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS - EUROPE

Tuesday

19.00: (5.30) Armenia (3.50) R.Ireland (1.72)

19.00: (6.25) Azerbaijan (4.00) Ukraine (1.55)

21.45: (1.35) Albania (4.60) Latvia (10.5)

21.45: (4.70) B&H (3.50) Austria (1.80)

21.45: (5.80) Cyprus (3.80) Romania (1.62)

21.45: (1.08) France (13.0) Iceland (20.0)

21.45: (6.50) Hungary (4.10) Portugal (1.53)

21.45: (1.10) Norway (10.5) Moldova (22.0)

21.45: (5.50) Serbia (4.00) England (1.70)

***odds are subject to change***