Germany advanced to the knockout stage of Euro 2024 with a 2-0 victory over Hungary in Group A on Wednesday. This win secured their position as one of the top third-placed teams, ensuring their progression in the tournament.
Playing at home, Germany took the lead in the 22nd minute thanks to a goal from Jamal Musiala. The opportunity arose from a defensive mistake by Hungary, with Ilkay Gundogan poking the ball into Musiala’s path. The 21-year-old midfielder, playing in his hometown, did not waste the chance and hammered the ball into the net with the help of a defender.
Despite a strong response from Hungary, which included a disallowed goal by Roland Sallai in first-half stoppage time and several wasted chances, Germany maintained their composure. Gundogan, who delivered a man-of-the-match performance, doubled the lead in the 67th minute. His goal came from a well-executed build-up, finishing a low cross from Maximilian Mittelstadt.
This match marked Germany’s first competitive win over Hungary since the 1954 World Cup final, a historic victory that secured their first of four world titles. The win has rekindled dreams among German fans of a fourth European Championship triumph, especially significant as the tournament is being hosted on home soil.
German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer reflected on the team’s performance and the atmosphere surrounding the tournament. “You can feel the euphoria of the people. The atmosphere is good and happy that it is taking place here,” Neuer said. “Germany is always among the favorites, but we need to do our homework. We play the toughest group team next.”
The match was attended by high-profile figures, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, adding to the charged atmosphere in Stuttgart. Hungarian manager Marco Rossi had emphasized the importance of avoiding mistakes, but his team faltered in the 22nd minute. Defender Willi Orban’s failed attempt to shoulder-barge Gundogan led to Musiala’s goal, which was confirmed after a quick VAR check.
Hungary continued to press for an equalizer, with Neuer making a crucial save from a Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick. Their hopes were momentarily lifted when Sallai scored from a rebound, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Another opportunity slipped by when Barnabas Varga headed over the bar after halftime.
Germany kept up the pressure, with Musiala remaining a constant threat. He played a key role in the second goal, involved in the build-up that led to Gundogan’s strike. Reflecting on the match, Gundogan highlighted the importance of overcoming challenges. “We are getting better, but as we improve, we have to overcome some problems. That is what this game showed today, especially in the first half. But that’s the tournament – you have to survive such situations. We survived and then hit back,” the 33-year-old said.
Germany managed to maintain possession and run down the clock, securing their place in the next round before their final group game against Switzerland on Sunday. Hungary, on the other hand, still has a chance to progress if they can defeat Scotland and other results go in their favor.
With this victory, Germany not only demonstrated their potential but also set the stage for an exciting continuation of their Euro 2024 campaign. Fans are hopeful that this blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent will lead to a successful run in the tournament.
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By- Sahiba Suri