Europe

Germany vs Hungary: Germany look to secure knockout round spot

Following a emphatic 5-1 win over Scotland on matchday one, Germany will be looking to secure their spot in the round of 16 with a game to spare when they face Hungary on Wednesday. After coming up short at recent tournaments Germany, who are the joint-most successful team in Euro competition history (alongside Spain who have also won three titles), are naturally determined to silence their critics and put on a good show in front of their home fans.

Julian Naglesmann’s men were in total control of proceedings as they cruised to a 5-1 result against a Scotland side who had to play much of the match with ten players following Ryan Porteous’s first half dismissal. Now, die Mannschaft will turn their attention towards an opponent who were beaten 3-1 in their own tournament opener. The win for Germany over Scotland set multiple records, including the highest ever opening match in this competition’s history, and saw promising youngsters Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala both open their respective accounts, while Niclas Fullkrug, Emre Can, and Kai Havertz all grabbed a goal each. 

Jamal Musiala was one of the young stars for Germany to have a strong performance during his team’s Euro 2024 opener, and even grabbed himself a goal. (Image: Getty)

As a result of their massive victory, Germany are now top of Group A ahead of Switzerland, who beat Hungary 3-1 on matchday one. This outcome means that die Mannschaft are not only in key position to qualify for the round of 16, but also could do so as group winners depending on the results from the Switzerland vs. Scotland match taking place later on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Hungary will be facing an uphill battle following a demoralizing 3-1 loss to Switzerland in their competition opener. The loss is only their second in their last 13 matches, but worryingly for the team and their fans, both defeats have come in recent weeks. It was a very frustrating day at the office for Liverpool ace Dominik Szoboszlai who was largely kept quiet throughout the clash against Switzerland. Indeed, despite providing an assist, his efforts were in vain as it turned out to be a mere consolation. 

As such, the 23-year-old team captain – the youngest ever in Hungary’s history – will be really keen on helping his colleagues to try to get something out of this match. Interestingly, Hungary are actually unbeaten in their last three encounters with Germany, albeit they will really need to step it up if they want to have avoid what would be another huge setback in their quest to avoid an early exit from Euro 2024.

Michelle Bonsu

Freelance football journalist based in New York. Primarily support AC Milan as well as the Ghanaian and Italian NT’s, but you’ll find me watching the Bundesliga and Premier League as well–enjoy a good game, regardless of where it’s being played. Zlatan Ibrahimovic is one of my favourite players.