Goals from Jamal Musiala and Ilkay Gundogan ensured hosts Germany became the first team to confirm their place in the knockout stage of Euro 2024 with a comfortable win against Hungary on Wednesday night. The victory, which followed their commanding 5-1 opening match win against Scotland, underscores Germany’s dominance in Group A of the tournament.
Germany, led by head coach Julian Nagelsmann, capitalized on their home advantage at Stuttgart Arena. With two victories on the books, Germany sits firmly at the top of Group A with six points, leaving Switzerland trailing behind with four points. Scotland, with just one point, and Hungary, yet to register a point, are left battling for chances to advance.
Despite the final scoreline, the match proved to be more challenging for Germany compared to their thrashing of Scotland. The Hungarian side put up a resilient fight from the onset, making Germany earn every inch on the pitch. Nevertheless, Nagelsmann’s tactical acumen and the sheer talent in the German squad ultimately saw them through.
The match started on an even keel, with both teams testing each other’s defenses. Hungary showed they were not mere pushovers, mounting steady defensive stands and looking for opportunities to counterattack. However, it was the young sensation Jamal Musiala who broke the deadlock. Musiala, the first player to score more than once in this edition of the European Championship, replicated his brilliant form from the opening match. His close-range finish after a swift German attack put the hosts ahead and ignited the home crowd.
Key to the German performance was their stalwart goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Making his 17th Euro appearance, Neuer matched Gianluigi Buffon’s goalkeeping record and delivered a performance worthy of such a milestone. His pivotal moment came in the 26th minute, as he launched himself to his right to parry away a curling free-kick from Hungary’s Dominik Szoboszlai. This save was crucial in maintaining Germany’s fragile lead and showcased Neuer’s enduring prowess between the posts.
As the second half commenced, Germany sought to extend their lead and cement their place at the top of the group.
. Toni Kroos nearly doubled their advantage ten minutes into the half. His deflected shot, however, was expertly saved by Hungarian goalkeeper Péter Gulacsi. Hungary also had their moments, with Barnabas Varga heading narrowly over the bar in what was their best chance of the match.
The game’s outcome was essentially sealed by the 63rd minute, thanks to a piece of brilliant play. Maximilian Mittelstädt delivered a precise low cross into the Hungarian penalty area, which Ilkay Gundogan effortlessly guided into the net. This assured finish not only doubled Germany’s lead but also guaranteed their progression to the tournament’s knockout stages. Gundogan’s celebration encapsulated the relief and joy of a team that had effectively secured their early ambitions in the competition.
Germany’s performance across their first two matches has been a beacon of efficiency and tactical flexibility. By securing six points from a possible six, they have shown formidable strength, especially in light of the balanced nature of Group A. Switzerland’s four points mean they still stand a chance to challenge, but it is Germany’s consistency, depth, and star power that have put them in the driver’s seat.
With the group stage entering its final leg, Nagelsmann and his squad will now set their sights on maintaining their momentum. Given their rich Euro pedigree, advancing to the latter stages of the tournament is not only expected but essential for Germany, who have underlined their championship credentials with these initial performances.
Meanwhile, for Hungary, the defeat must be seen in the context of their broader challenge. While their prospects of advancing seem slim, they still have pride and potential upsets to play for, as the group stage finale will determine the fates of many teams.
Germany’s progression into the last 16 marks a significant chapter in Euro 2024, reinforcing their status as perennial contenders and setting the stage for potentially more electrifying displays. Their victory over Hungary, while not as emphatic as their opener, was a testament to their resolve and tactical ingenuity.
As Euro 2024 continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Germany to see if they can sustain this early success and march further into the competition. The knockout stages now await, and Germany’s blend of youth and experience might just see them go all the way.
