Musiala and Gundogan Lead Germany to Euro 2024 Last 16 with Victory Over Hungary

Jamal Musiala and Ilkay Gundogan scored as hosts Germany secured their spot in the last 16 of Euro 2024 on Wednesday, defeating Hungary 2-0 in Stuttgart.

Musiala netted for the second consecutive game midway through the first half, despite protests from Hungarian players who believed a foul should have been called during the build-up. Gundogan added the second goal in the 67th minute, ensuring Germany’s second straight win in Group A and guaranteeing their progression to the knockout stage at least as one of the best third-placed teams.

Julian Nagelsmann’s side can clinch the top spot in their group with a win against Switzerland in Frankfurt in their final group match on Sunday.

Hungary faces potential elimination after two consecutive losses and must defeat Scotland to have any hope of advancing to the last 16.

Germany retained the same lineup that had thrashed Scotland 5-1 in their tournament opener, breaking a streak of three major finals where they had lost their first match. Hungary’s coach, Marco Rossi, made two changes following their 3-1 defeat to Switzerland, introducing Marton Dardai in defense and Bendeguz Bolla at right wing-back.

Hungary nearly scored in the opening seconds as Manuel Neuer swiftly intercepted Roland Sallai. Kai Havertz then overpowered Willi Orban but was brilliantly denied by Peter Gulacsi, who saved with an outstretched right hand. Robert Andrich’s volley from the subsequent corner was courageously headed away by Bolla, but Germany’s pressure soon paid off.

Musiala set up Gundogan, who kept the attack alive despite a tussle with Orban, and Musiala hammered the ball in off the crossbar with a deflection from Attila Fiola.