Sunday saw the final curtain fall on Group A at Euro 2024, and it was a day that offered both drama and lingering questions.
Germany Held, Shows Vulnerability
Germany, the tournament favorites and dominant in their first two matches, displayed a worrying blip against Switzerland. Despite controlling possession (62%) and boasting superior expected goals (1.65 vs. 0.57), they conceded their first non-own goal of the tournament. Switzerland’s strategy of stifling the Germans proved effective until a dramatic 92nd-minute equalizer by Niclas Fullkrug salvaged a point. While not a cause for panic, this performance has provided a blueprint for future opponents to exploit potential weaknesses in the German approach.
Scotland Crash Out Despite Late Controversy
Scotland’s Euro 2024 campaign ended in familiar disappointment. Following an opening defeat to Germany and a draw with Switzerland, they fell short against a similarly uninspired Hungary side.
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Despite a second-half penalty shout controversially disregarded by VAR, Scotland created only one shot on target throughout the match. This defeat extends their unwanted record of never progressing past the group stage of a major tournament.
Hungary Grab Dramatic Winner, Varga’s Injury Casts Shadow
Hungary, mirroring Scotland’s struggles throughout the group stage, managed to snatch victory at the very death. Kevin Csoboth’s late counter-attack goal gives them a lifeline for potential progression, albeit a somewhat fortunate one.
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The match was overshadowed by a serious injury to Hungarian striker Barnabas Varga. A collision with Scotland keeper Angus Gunn left Varga in a worrying condition, requiring lengthy treatment and a stretcher off the field.
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Thankfully, reports after the final whistle confirmed he was conscious and stable. Hungarian captain Dominik Szoboszlai’s emotional tribute to his stricken teammate highlighted the human drama that can unfold alongside the on-field competition.
Looking Ahead
With Group A settled, Germany will face a stern test in the knockout stages, while Switzerland navigates a challenging path themselves. Scotland departs with questions about their attacking capabilities, and Hungary clings to a thread of hope, their progression very much dependent on the vagaries of the draw. The group stage may be over, but the drama and uncertainty surrounding Euro 2024 are far from over.
