Football fans at the iconic Puskás Aréna were treated to a dramatic showdown as Hungary and Germany wrapped up their UEFA Nations League (UNL) group stage campaign with a thrilling 1-1 draw. Dominik Szoboszlai stole the headlines with a cheeky Panenka penalty in the 99th minute, denying Germany another dominant victory like their reverse fixture’s 5-0 thrashing.
This result highlighted Hungary’s resilience and secured their impressive 13th consecutive home match without defeat since September 2022. The game was a learning curve for Germany, as they already had one eye on the knockout stage.
Nagelsmann’s Rotation and Hungary’s Strong Start
With qualification already in the bag, Julian Nagelsmann made nine changes to the German squad that had comfortably beaten Bosnia & Herzegovina. The fresh-faced lineup appeared composed early on, but Hungary’s talisman, Dominik Szoboszlai, ensured Germany would not have it easy.
Szoboszlai’s early interception of Felix Nmecha’s pass set the tone for Hungary’s aggressive play. The Magyars applied pressure across the pitch, with their organized defense limiting Germany’s chances. Serge Gnabry missed a rare opportunity for the visitors, firing wide when presented with space.
Hungary was not content to defend—they attacked with intent. A teasing cross from Szoboszlai found Barnabás Varga, who narrowly missed converting with an improvised effort. As the hosts gained momentum, András Schäfer forced Alexander Nübel into a crucial save, while Zsolt Nagy caused further problems for the German defense before halftime.
Second-Half Substitutions Spark Action
Germany introduced Robin Gosens at halftime to reignite their attacking threat, and Hungarian goalkeeper Dénes Dibusz efficiently dealt with his early attempt. On the other hand, Hungary kept up its pressure, with Loïc Négo testing the German defense with a speculative volley.
In a game filled with near-misses, Julian Brandt thought he had broken the deadlock, but his goal was ruled offside. Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, and Kai Havertz were introduced as Germany sought to tilt the match in their favor. Havertz came close, hitting the post, only for Leroy Sané’s follow-up to be heroically blocked by Márton Dárdai.
Late Goals and High Drama
Germany finally found the net in the 76th minute. Felix Nmecha capitalized on a saved header by Nico Schlotterbeck, poking home from close range to give the visitors the lead.
However, Hungary still needed to be done. A controversial handball by Robin Koch in the dying moments gave Szoboszlai the chance to equalize from the spot. The Hungarian captain displayed nerves of steel, delivering a sensational Panenka penalty to salvage a point for his team dramatically.
This result reinforced Hungary’s fortress-like home form, while Germany finished the group stage unbeaten in regulation time across 15 matches in 2024.
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Final Thoughts
The 1-1 draw at the Puskás Aréna was a football spectacle that lived up to its billing. Germany showcased its depth despite a rotated squad, while Hungary proved why it remains a formidable force at home. As the UNL knockout stages approach, both teams will be looking to build on their impressive campaigns.
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