Euro 2024: Thrilling Final Round in Group A as Germany's Late Equalizer and Hungary's Last-Minute Triumph

The final round of games in Group A of EURO 2024 unfolded dramatically, with each of the four teams still vying for their respective goals.

Germany, already assured of a place in the last 16, needed to avoid defeat to Switzerland to secure top spot in the group. Meanwhile, Scotland faced Hungary in a must-win game to keep their qualification hopes alive. The evening was filled with tension, late goals, and heartbreak, providing a fitting end to the group stage of Euro 2024.

Germany Finds a Late Equalizer Against Switzerland

Germany entered their match against Switzerland knowing that a draw would suffice to maintain their position as group winners. The Germany vs Switzerland game started with Germany on the offensive, showcasing their attacking intent. Jamal Musiala, displaying his electrifying skills, set up İlkay Gündoğan early on, but a last-ditch challenge by the Swiss defense prevented a shot on goal. Shortly after, Kai Havertz’s header from a corner was comfortably saved by Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer.

Germany thought they had taken the lead midway through the first half when Robert Andrich curled a low shot from 25 yards into the net. However, their celebrations were cut short by VAR, which ruled the goal out due to a foul in the buildup. This decision left the German side feeling aggrieved.

Their frustrations were compounded ten minutes later when Switzerland took the lead. Ndoye connected with a cross from Remo Freuler, heading the ball past Manuel Neuer and putting Switzerland on top of Group A. Germany struggled to regain their rhythm, and Switzerland comfortably held onto their lead as the first half ended.

After the break, Germany pressed forward but found it difficult to penetrate the well-organized Swiss defense. Several penalty appeals were dismissed by the referee, adding to Germany’s frustration. Switzerland nearly doubled their lead, but the offside flag came to Germany’s rescue. Moments later, Neuer made a crucial save to deny a long-range effort from Granit Xhaka.

The game seemed to be slipping away from Germany until stoppage time. Niklas Fullkrug rose highest to nod home a crucial equalizer, ensuring Germany finished top of Group A. The late goal sparked celebrations among the German players and fans, as they secured their place in the knockout stages.

Stoppage-Time Winner Breaks Scottish Hearts in Euro 2024

In the other Group A Scotland vs Hungary match, Scotland faced Hungary in Stuttgart, with both teams needing a win to keep their EURO 2024 hopes alive. Scotland started brightly, dominating possession as Hungary adopted a counter-attacking approach. Hungary’s first significant effort came from Bendeguz Bolla, whose long-range shot was saved by Scotland’s goalkeeper, Angus Gunn.

Despite controlling possession, Scotland failed to test Hungarian goalkeeper Péter Gulácsi in the opening 20 minutes. As the half progressed, Hungary began to find their footing, shifting the momentum slightly. The first half ended goalless, with Scotland failing to register a single shot on target and Hungary managing just one.

The second half started in a similarly scrappy fashion. A yellow card for Scotland’s Scott McTominay ruled him out of any potential last-16 match, adding to their woes. The game experienced a lengthy delay due to a serious injury to Barnabas Varga, resulting in extensive added time.

Scotland had a moment of controversy when Stuart Armstrong was brought down in the penalty area, but the referee waved away the appeals. As the match entered the ten minutes of added time, both sides faced the prospect of elimination with a draw. In the final moments, Hungary burst into life. Dominik Szoboszlai’s shot was saved by Gunn, and moments later, the woodwork denied Hungary another goal. Scotland had their first shot on target in the seventh minute of stoppage time, but it was Hungary who delivered the decisive blow.

Breaking quickly from a Scotland corner, Hungary launched a counter-attack down the right. The ball eventually found Kevin Csoboth, who calmly slotted it into the corner of the net. The 100th-minute goal shattered Scottish dreams and kept Hungary’s qualification hopes alive.

Conclusion: A Dramatic End to Group A

The final round of matches in Group A provided a thrilling conclusion to the group stage of EURO 2024. Germany’s late equalizer against Switzerland ensured they topped the group, while Hungary’s stoppage-time winner broke Scottish hearts and kept their tournament dreams alive. These matches encapsulated the drama and excitement that EURO 2024 promises to deliver as the tournament progresses into the knockout stages.