Kevin Csoboth scored in the 10th minute of added time, securing Hungary a dramatic 1-0 victory over Scotland and keeping their hopes alive for a spot in the last 16 of Euro 2024.
The match was marred by a horrific collision that saw Hungary’s striker Barnabas Varga stretchered off in the second half, leaving his teammates visibly shaken. Despite the setback, Csoboth’s late goal breathed life into Hungary’s tournament aspirations.
For Scotland, it was a heartbreaking conclusion to their campaign, as they were pressing for a goal in the dying moments when Hungary capitalized on a counter-attack. This defeat dashed Scotland’s hopes of advancing to the knockout phase of a major tournament for the first time.
In Group A, Germany secured the top spot after a 1-1 draw with Switzerland, who advance as runners-up. Hungary must now depend on other results to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. Scotland finished last in the group with just one point, extending their wait for a European Championship win since 1996.
Scotland’s coach, Steve Clarke, was forced to make an enforced change, with Scott McKenna replacing Kieran Tierney, who suffered a hamstring injury in the previous draw with Switzerland. For Hungary, English-born Callum Styles returned to the midfield after recovering from an injury, and Endre Botka made his first appearance of the tournament on the right side of a back three.
The atmosphere was electric as Scotland fans gathered outside the team hotel, singing passionately and raising hopes for a historic night. However, the match began on a cautious note, with few genuine scoring opportunities in the first half.
Hungary arrived at Euro 2024 with high expectations following a 14-match unbeaten streak from November 2022 to March 2023, including notable victories over England and Germany. However, consecutive defeats had dampened their confidence, making the win against Scotland crucial for their progression.
Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn made a crucial save early on, deflecting a dipping drive from Bendeguz Bolla. The match saw intense physical play, with both Callum Styles and Willi Orban receiving bookings for fouls on John McGinn. Hungary’s Dominik Szoboszlai, despite injury concerns, managed a powerful shot from distance, while Scotland registered their first shot in the 53rd minute.
Defensively, Scotland held firm with Jack Hendry blocking Roland Sallai’s attempt and Marton Dardai heading over from a cross. The game took a grim turn when Varga was left prone in the Scotland area following a collision with Gunn and Anthony Ralston, underscoring the match’s intensity.
As Hungary clings to their hopes of advancing in Euro 2024, they await the results of other matches to determine their fate.
