Hungary secured their place at Euro 2024 in style – they went unbeaten with five victories and three draws in their eight games and finished top of their group for the first time in qualifying history.
Serbia finished as runners-up in a group that also included Bulgaria, Lithuania and Montenegro.
Tournament Record
Hungary have a rich history in European Championships, dating back to the early days of the tournament. They claimed bronze at Euro 1964, their most notable result.
This will be their fifth participation and third in a row. At Euro 2016, they reached the last 16 after progressing from a group that included eventual winners Portugal and tournament sensation Iceland. Three years ago, they failed to get out of the group of death but earned praise for their spirited displays against Portugal, France and Germany.
The Manager
Marco Rossi, the Italian tactician, took charge of the national team in 2018 and transformed the team, achieving success after success: qualification for back-to-back Euros, a promotion to Nations League A, and victories over England and Germany.
His tactical acumen and ability to motivate his players have been key to Hungary’s recent successes. At the same time, he has shown a willingness to develop his side. Rossi previously managed Honved, winning the league in the 2016/17 season. No surprise then that he is a popular man in Hungary.
The Star Player:
Dominik Szoboszlai is undoubtedly Hungary’s standout star. He has been the first Hungarian since Ferenc Puskas at Real Madrid to establish himself at a European elite club. His first season at Liverpool was a success and his team, manager and supporters will be looking toward him to steer Hungary past the group stages.
He combines vision and creativity with a good finish. Szoboszlai, the captain, is also the difference-maker, even more so in the big matches. There is of course a danger that Hungary become too reliant on him.
What to Expect
Hungary enter the tournament with a different, more daring attitude – in short, a statement of mind that allows the team and the nation to dream of greater heights – and with reason. They went unbeaten in 2023, key players peaked at their clubs and the chemistry between Rossi and his players has never been better.
The defense is built around Willi Orban, Szoboszlai has license to roam and Roland Sallai is a menace in the final third. He enjoyed a fine season at Freiburg. The team alternate between a back three and a back five and in the Nations League, they proved that they can match Europe’s powerhouses.
The stars then seemed aligned for the Hungarians to leave a mark on the tournament. They may not be among the tournament favourites, but they can cause an upset.
Schedule
Saturday June 15 – Hungary – Switzerland – Cologne Stadium, Cologne, 3 pm
Wednesday, June Germany – Hungary – Stuttgart Stadium, Stuttgart, 6 pm
Sunday, June 23, Scotland – Hungary – Stuttgart Stadium, Stuttgart, 9 pm