Although it seemed possible that Dominick Szoboszlai might only play one game during the international break, Hungary has since criticised Bulgaria for their “unprecedented” level of organisation.
Szoboszlai is one of 18 first-team players who will represent their country during the year’s last international break, although his first of two qualifiers had been fraught with controversy.
During the break, Hungary plays Bulgaria on November 16 and Montenegro on November 19. A win in their opening game would send them to Euro 2024, albeit it was unclear if the tournament would even happen.
Fearing protests from the fans, Bulgaria had originally shifted the event to a private setting and altered the venue; however, the stadiums they had selected were still under construction and could not be used.
The Bulgarian Football Union was forced to improvise in order to play at the Vasil Levski National Stadium without spectators after the Plovdiv authorities, where the game was supposed to be played, rescinded their authorization to host the match.
The Bulgarian Football Union has come under fire from the Hungarian football federation, despite UEFA’s assurances that the game can be safely played in Sofia.
Bulgaria was criticised for its “unprecedented, totally unjustified, and grossly unsportsmanlike” acts, and Hungary was given little more than a few days’ notice of the fixture.
Szoboszlai, the captain of Hungary, will play a significant role for his nation; nevertheless, if Liverpool manages to qualify on Thursday, he might benefit from a rest.
The No. 8 has appeared in all but one of Liverpool’s first 18 games and has played the second-most minutes of any Red player thus far this season (1,242).
