Late goals were the deciding factor in Group A at Euro 2024 on Sunday. Niclas Fullkrug’s 92nd-minute equalizer secured Germany’s spot in the knockout round as the winner of Group A, while Kevin Csoboth’s 100th-minute goal gave Hungary a chance to qualify as one of the tournament’s best third-place finishers, knocking Scotland out of contention.
The final standings in Group A were as follows:
1. Germany – 7 points, +6 goal difference
2. Switzerland – 5 points, +2 goal difference
3. Hungary – 3 points, -3 goal difference
4. Scotland – 1 point, -5 goal difference
Germany entered their match against Switzerland already guaranteed a place in the knockout round. However, their 1-1 draw in Frankfurt secured them first place in the group. Fullkrug expressed his satisfaction with the result, stating that it changes the situation for Germany and they now face what is perceived to be an easier opponent.
The match between Hungary and Scotland seemed destined for a goalless draw, which would have eliminated both teams. However, a mistake from Scotland during a corner kick allowed Hungary to counterattack and Csoboth capitalized on the opportunity, scoring the winning goal in stoppage time.
In the round of 16, Germany will face one of England, Denmark, Slovenia, or Serbia, while Switzerland will meet Italy, Albania, or Croatia. If Hungary qualifies, they will face either Portugal or the winner of Group E.
Germany had a goal disallowed in the 16th minute when Robert Andrich’s strike was ruled out due to a foul committed by Jamal Musiala in the penalty area. This marked the first time Germany trailed at the Euros after Dan Ndoye scored his first-ever international goal following a rare midfield turnover.
Fullkrug once again came off the bench to score his second goal of the tournament and secure the draw for Germany. However, they will be without star defender Jonathan Tah in the round of 16 due to suspension after receiving his second yellow card of the group stage for a high foot on Switzerland’s Breel Embolo.
Despite the intense match between Hungary and Scotland, a scary incident occurred in the 74th minute when Barnabas Varga suffered a head injury and was stretchered off the field. Varga was taken to the hospital but is conscious, according to reports.
After the game, Hungary celebrated as a group, paying tribute to Varga by holding up his No. 19 shirt.
