Hungary’s team were notably absent from the Qatar World Cup in 2022. Their last significant international appearance was at Euro 2021, where they faced a daunting task in the so-called “Group of Death.” Competing against Portugal, Germany, and France, Hungary managed to secure only two points, failing to advance beyond the group stage. However, this seemingly modest outcome masks a resilient performance. They held both Germany and France to draws and only succumbed to Portugal, showcasing a commendable fighting spirit against some of the world’s top footballing nations.
Under the guidance of Italian manager Marco Rossi, Hungary’s journey to Euro 2024 was marked by an unbeaten run in the qualification stages. Rossi, who has embraced Hungary to the extent of acquiring citizenship and authoring a book on his managerial experience, has demonstrated a deep commitment to the national team. His strategic nous and dedication were instrumental in guiding Hungary to the top of Group G, securing victories against Serbia, Montenegro, Lithuania, and Bulgaria. Although they managed only 16 goals in eight matches, their defensive solidity and Rossi’s tactical acumen ensured their successful qualification.
Key Players and Tactical Outlook
Dominik Szoboszlai, the dynamic Liverpool midfielder, is the linchpin of Hungary’s Euro 2024 squad. Having taken over the captaincy at the beginning of the 2022/23 season while still at RB Leipzig, Szoboszlai’s influence on and off the pitch has been profound. With 12 goals in 40 appearances for the national team, he is Hungary’s most potent attacking threat. His penchant for long-range strikes and his ability to orchestrate play from midfield make him a player to watch. Szoboszlai’s leadership and creativity will be crucial if Hungary are to navigate the challenges of the tournament successfully.
Alongside Szoboszlai, Hungary’s squad boasts a mix of experienced and emerging talents. However, a significant concern remains the lack of experience among many of their defenders and midfielders, who primarily play in lower-ranked leagues. This inexperience could be a vulnerability on the grand stage of the Euros. Despite these challenges, Rossi’s tactical expertise and the squad’s collective resilience provide hope. Their defensive organization and the ability to capitalize on set-pieces could prove decisive in tight matches.
Challenges and Prospects in Group A
Hungary faces a formidable challenge in Group A, where they are pitted against Switzerland, Germany, and Scotland. According to FIFA rankings, Hungary is positioned 13 places above Scotland but lags seven places behind Switzerland and 10 behind Germany. This discrepancy underscores the tough competition they will face in the group stages. The Swiss and German teams, with their blend of experience and talent, pose significant threats to Hungary’s progression ambitions.
The primary hurdles for Hungary will be their relative lack of big-stage experience and a modest goal-scoring record. Rossi’s side has shown defensive discipline, but their ability to convert chances into goals will be under scrutiny. Szoboszlai’s form and his ability to inspire his teammates will be vital. If Hungary can find a balance between solid defense and clinical finishing, they have the potential to be the dark horses of the tournament. Their previous encounters with high-ranking teams have demonstrated that they should not be underestimated. The upcoming matches will test their mettle, but Hungary’s blend of youthful exuberance and tactical discipline could spring a few surprises.
Hungary’s EURO 2024 FIXTURES & SCHEDULE
Group A
Saturday, June 15: Hungary v Switzerland, 2pm (Koln Stadium, Cologne)
Wednesday, June 19: Germany v Hungary, 5pm (Stuttgart Arena, Stuttgart)
Sunday, June 23: Scotland v Hungary, 8pm (Stuttgart Arena, Stuttgart)
HUNGARY EURO 2024 SQUAD
GOALKEEPERS: Peter Gulacsi, Denes Dibusz, Peter Szappanos.
DEFENDERS: Botond Balogh, Endre Botka, Marton Dardai, Attila Fiola, Milos Kerkez, Adam Lang, Willi Orban, Zsolt Nagy, Attila Szalai, Loic Nego.
MIDFIELDERS: Bendeguz Bolla, Daniel Gazdag, Krisztofer Horvath, Laszlo Kleinheisler, Mihaly Kata, Adam Nagy, Andras Schafer, Dominik Szoboszlai, Callum Styles.
FORWARDS: Roland Sallai, Martin Adam, Barnabas Varga, Kevin Csoboth.
