The victory gave Hungary their first win of the league phase after they opened the campaign with a defeat to Ukraine and a draw away to Northern Ireland.
Hungary make the breakthrough
Hungary started confidently, with captain Dominik Szoboszlai testing Georgia's defence with efforts from distance.
The hosts eventually found the breakthrough in the 35th minute. Zsolt Nagy recovered possession before Dániel Lukács delivered a precise cross from the right.
Kerkez met the delivery seven metres from goal and directed a header into the right side of the net to give Hungary a 1-0 lead.
The goal was particularly significant for the Bournemouth defender, as it was his first goal for Hungary at senior international level.
Georgia unable to find an equaliser
Georgia looked for a response after the interval, with Georges Mikautadze and other attacking players attempting to create openings.
Hungary, however, remained organised and protected their advantage. Both managers made several substitutions as the match progressed, but neither side was able to alter the scoreline.
The hosts held on through the closing stages to claim all three points.
Hungary strengthen their Group B2 position
The victory moves Hungary onto four points after three matches in Group B2, while Georgia remain on one point. Hungary's campaign began with a 1-0 home defeat to Ukraine before they drew 0-0 away to Northern Ireland.
The two sides will meet again later in the Nations League league phase as Hungary continue their Group B2 campaign.
Match details
• Hungary: Milos Kerkez 35'
• Georgia: No goals
• Venue: Puskás Aréna, Budapest
• Competition: UEFA Nations League, League B, Group B2
• Date: 2 October 2026