Watch Hungary vs Switzerland full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 13:00 (GMT) on 15th June 2024
The referee for this match is S. Vinčić
Game played at Cologne Stadium
This is a match in Europe – UEFA European Championship, Group A, Season 2024
Switzerland took a significant step towards qualifying for the knockout stages of Euro 2024, starting their campaign with a 3-1 victory against Hungary in Cologne. Despite a second-half rally from Hungary, the Swiss team showcased their experience and determination.
Early Dominance
With Germany’s dominant 5-1 win over Scotland setting the stage, the match between Switzerland and Hungary became crucial for Group A standings. Switzerland began as the stronger side, leveraging their vast experience. Newcomer Michel Aebischer played a key role, slipping a clever pass through a crowd of defenders to Kwadwo Duah, who scored his maiden international goal in just his second appearance for the Swiss.
Continued Pressure
Switzerland almost doubled their lead when Milos Kerkez’s error gave Ruben Vargas a clear chance, but Hungarian goalkeeper Péter Gulácsi made the save. Despite Hungary matching Switzerland’s intensity, their mistakes were costly. Just before halftime, Aebischer scored a stunning goal, bending a strike around András Schäfer and into the corner, giving Switzerland a 2-0 lead.
Hungary’s Response
Hungary struggled initially after the restart, with Gulácsi making crucial saves to keep the deficit at two. However, they soon found their rhythm. Barnabás Varga headed narrowly wide before scoring Hungary’s only goal, converting a cross from Dominik Szoboszlai. This goal heightened the tension, and Switzerland’s defense showed signs of anxiety as they aimed to maintain their lead.
Sealing the Victory
Despite Hungary’s efforts, they couldn’t find an equalizer. Switzerland sealed the win in stoppage time when Breel Embolo capitalized on a poor defensive header, lifting a lob over the onrushing goalkeeper to secure a 3-1 victory. This result highlighted Switzerland’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, despite a lackluster qualifying campaign.
Looking Ahead
This victory positions Switzerland favorably for the knockout stages, demonstrating that form can often be disregarded in international tournaments. Hungary, having suffered only their second loss in 17 matches, will need to regroup quickly for their upcoming games.
Key Match Highlights
- Kwadwo Duah’s Opener: Duah scored his first international goal with a composed finish after a brilliant assist from Aebischer.
- Aebischer’s Strike: Aebischer scored a spectacular goal, bending a shot around Schäfer just before halftime.
- Hungary’s Rally: Barnabás Varga pulled one back for Hungary, capitalizing on a dangerous cross from Szoboszlai.
- Embolo’s Late Goal: Embolo secured the win for Switzerland with a deft lob over the goalkeeper in stoppage time.
This match sets the tone for a competitive Group A, with Switzerland demonstrating their potential to advance and Hungary needing to recover swiftly to keep their tournament hopes alive.