In a crucial Group A encounter at UEFA Euro 2024, hosts Germany secured their progression to the knockout stages with a convincing 2-0 victory over Hungary in Stuttgart. The match, held at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Arena, showcased the resilience and attacking prowess of the German side under Julian Nagelsmann.
A Shaky Start for Germany
Germany, donning their striking pink kits, almost found themselves trailing within the first minute. A lapse in concentration from Joshua Kimmich allowed Hungary’s Roland Sallai a clear sight of goal, but Manuel Neuer’s quick reflexes saved the hosts from an early setback. This early scare jolted Germany into action, setting the tone for a fiercely contested match.
İlkay Gündoğan Breaks the Deadlock
The opening exchanges saw Germany struggle to break down a well-organized Hungarian defense. It wasn’t until the 12th minute that Germany had their first real effort on goal, with Robert Andrich’s powerful volley blocked by Bendegúz Bolla. The breakthrough finally came in the 16th minute when İlkay Gündoğan, after a neat exchange with Jamal Musiala, found the back of the net. His shot, aided by a deflection off Attila Fiola and the crossbar, gave Germany a crucial lead. Hungarian protests over a perceived foul in the buildup were dismissed by VAR, allowing the goal to stand.
Hungary’s Spirited Response
Despite the setback, Hungary responded valiantly. Their captain, Dominik Szoboszlai, forced a superb save from Neuer with a curling free-kick, and Barnabás Varga narrowly missed converting the rebound. Hungary thought they had equalized in first-half stoppage time when Sallai bundled in from close range, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a flick-on from Orbán.
Germany’s Dominance in the Second Half
The second half saw Germany continue to press for a decisive second goal. Péter Gulácsi, Hungary’s stalwart goalkeeper, made a series of impressive saves to keep his team in contention. He first denied Gündoğan from a tight angle and then clung on to a deflected shot from Toni Kroos. Hungary had a golden opportunity to level the score just before the hour mark, but Varga’s header went wide, much to the relief of the German defense.
Germany capitalized on Hungary’s missed chances in the 64th minute. A well-worked move down the left flank saw Maximilian Mittelstädt deliver a precise cutback to Gündoğan, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner from the penalty spot. This goal effectively sealed the victory for Germany and confirmed their place in the knockout stages.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Germany’s upcoming clash with Switzerland will determine the group winner, provided the Swiss avoid defeat against Scotland. Despite back-to-back losses, Hungary still has a slim chance of progressing to the knockout stages, contingent on other results. They face Scotland next, in a match that could yet see them advance.
Germany’s 2-0 win over Hungary highlighted their ability to overcome early adversity and deliver a commanding performance when it mattered most. İlkay Gündoğan’s brace, combined with a solid defensive display, ensured that the hosts continued their Euro 2024 campaign with confidence. As the tournament progresses, Germany will look to build on this momentum and aim for further success on home soil.
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