‘I couldn’t sleep imagining it over and over’

When asked if he would commemorate the goal that ignited a wave of happy celebration for the Republic of Ireland with a new tattoo, Troy Parrott responded: «No, I believe when we reach the World Cup, that’s when I’ll get one!»

It’s quite ironic considering Parrott’s enthusiasm for tattoos – his injury-time winning goal against Hungary on Sunday is a moment now etched permanently in the history of Irish football.

Ray Houghton’s goal against Italy at the 1994 World Cup, Robbie Brady’s goal – also against the Azzurri – at Euro 2016, and now Parrott in Budapest in November 2025.

The making of a legend.

And less than a day after that remarkable evening, Parrott is sharing exclusively with BBC Sport to try to express the goal that will alter his life forever.

«How many times have I gone over it? Likely about 500 times – every moment I access my phone, it’s there,» Parrott articulated.

«Even last night when I got to bed, I was unable to sleep envisioning it repeatedly.

«Generally, I am not particularly emotional, this is the first instance I’ve cried in years. Sure, I can sit here and attempt to describe it, but it is the first experience I’ve had of that nature.

«I have netted goals prior, but none carry the significance of my last one against Hungary. As a nation, we have confronted numerous disappointing outcomes and haven’t provided the fans much to celebrate, so this was tears of joy.»

What unfolded in the Hungarian capital on Sunday night marked the climax of a memorable week for Parrott and the Republic of Ireland.

The 23-year-old’s two goals in a 2-0 victory over Portugal on Thursday night granted Heimir Hallgrimsson’s team a fighting opportunity to qualify for the World Cup through the playoffs in March.

Yet scoring a hat-trick against the Hungarians is something Parrott still finds hard to comprehend.

«I believe what transpired against Portugal and then last night means this must be documented in some fashion,» he commented.

«We are all here for a reason, we all exert great effort to reach where we stand.

«However, one can lay in bed and envision how they wish scenarios to play out and the past week I have experienced is something you cannot even envision.

«For everything to unfold so flawlessly at that moment of the game, it has to be scripted. Everything fell into place perfectly. It’s a touch of good karma for us because as a team and as a nation, we have endured a lot of unfortunate karma.»

As one might expect, Parrott has been celebrated in Dublin over the past 24 hours.

Social media has been overflowing with footage of ecstatic celebrations back in Parrott’s homeland.

Dublin Airport even temporarily changed its name to Troy Parrott Airport on its official X account.

«Yes, I noticed the Dublin Airport alteration – I am enjoying all the attention,» remarked the AZ Alkmaar forward.

«It’s unbelievable. I might be biased, but the Irish back their own like no one else. It’s truly a special occurrence. Wonderful.

«Just witnessing how ecstatic it has made everyone – I was out today and supporters are expressing their gratitude to me.

«I cherish where I hail from, I take pride in being Irish. It’s a sentiment that will stay with me for my entire life.

«Individuals are saying this is the most remarkable night they have ever experienced, so to have played a part in that is something I will always hold dear.

«I know I won’t change, although what happens around me might, but I also feel that I haven’t yet had sufficient time for it to really sink in. It’s beautiful.»

Having progressed through the ranks at Tottenham and being recognized as one of the most thrilling talents in the British academy landscape, Parrott hasn’t had everything turn out as intended.

After stints at Ipswich, Millwall, MK Dons, and Preston, the forward signed with AZ Alkmaar on a permanent basis in the summer of 2024.

«Part of the festivities last night stemmed from the realization that my journey up to this juncture hasn’t been a walk in the park,» Parrott clarified.

«I’ve taken risks by relocating to various teams. I’ve stumbled, risen again. Stumbled again and then found my feet once more. Who’s to say I won’t stumble again?

«The challenging path I’ve traversed has definitely contributed to last night’s emotions. Moving to the Netherlands instilled in me a sense of desire; I felt valued and at times, that’s all an athlete needs.

«I recognize that my experience playing in England didn’t go smoothly, and believe me, I was quite hard on myself during that phase.

«So when the idea of moving abroad came up, I pondered: ‘What’s the worst that could happen?’

«And I genuinely enjoy it; I feel appreciated, I feel free from the limelight, which I hadn’t felt in some years.»

Parrott may find it challenging to escape the spotlight again. Certainly not in Ireland.