Two Budapest rivals start with 0 points
The NB I 2025-2026 campaign begins with one of Budapest’s classic derbies and Ferencvarosi TC and MTK Budapest will each bring some momentum into their first fixture.
Ferencvarosi TC are the heavy favourites at 1.60 to win, with MTK Budapest 5.00 and the draw 4.20. According to the latest MTK Budapest vs Ferencvarosi TC odds, this opening match will be crucial for both clubs.
Visitors Ferencvarosi TC have dominated recent encounters, winning 2 of the last 3 NB I clashes with MTK Budapest.
Robbie Keane’s men are coming in after a run of two wins and a draw in the three most recent clashes, including the 3-2 success away to MTK Budapest in NB I 2024/2025.
Keane has given his team plenty of pace in attack and they have really upped the intensity of their pressing game since he took over the helm in January 2025. Furthermore, our MTK Budapest vs Ferencvarosi TC prediction suggests that Keane's strategy could once again prove decisive for the visitors.
MTK’s possession-based approach will not slow the game down
In contrast, MTK Budapest have a methodical, possession-based philosophy, building up slowly and looking to control the tempo and flow of the contest. David Horvath has done a solid job since taking over in October 2022, giving the side a lot of tactical solidity and making them tough to break down.
MTK, starting from seventh in this season’s initial standings, are unlikely to be as positive as third-placed Ferencvarosi TC, whose gameplan is to overwhelm teams in the second phase and turn the tables after getting the ball back from their opponents’ errors. In this MTK Budapest vs Ferencvarosi TC preview, both teams' contrasting styles are expected to produce an intriguing tactical battle.
However, MTK will give it their all and there is a good chance that both teams can get on the board in this derby given that the visitors are such big favourites and the history of the fixture. Both sides have a different style and Keane’s high-pressing system has made Ferencvarosi TC the dominant force in Hungary.
Jurina’s presence makes MTK a threat
But MTK have some experienced, possession-dominating midfielders that can keep the pace slow and make life difficult for the hosts. However, David Horvath’s side have failed to get a win in any of their last four home meetings with Ferencvarosi TC in all NB I competitions, struggling to defend their home patch.
Marin Jurina scored two in his last five.
MTK have been a little disappointing in their recent games, failing to secure a big win when they needed it or finishing off some poor performances when they could have. Our MTK Budapest vs Ferencvarosi TC prediction is that Ferencvarosi TC have the greater firepower and should take the spoils on the opening day, but an organized MTK could keep it close enough to add some more goals to the recent derby record. For those looking for some guidance, the MTK Budapest vs Ferencvarosi TC betting tips point toward a competitive match with potential for goals from both sides.
