In this preview, we will look at the upcoming match between Germany and Hungary in Euro 2024.
Germany’s Form
Germany made an impressive start to their Euro 2024 campaign with a dominant 5-1 victory over Scotland. This result showcased Germany’s strength and depth, with multiple players getting on the scoresheet. Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala, both young wingers, were particularly outstanding, each scoring in the last match. Kai Havertz also contributed with a goal from a penalty, following his strong second half of the Premier League season. Additionally, Fullkrug and Emre Can scored off the bench, highlighting Germany’s attacking options. Scotland’s performance was hampered by a red card for Ryan Porteous, which gave Germany a significant advantage.
Hungary’s Form
Hungary, on the other hand, suffered a 3-1 loss to Switzerland in their previous match. Despite the scoreline, the match was closely contested. Hungary’s defense showed weaknesses, with gaps appearing between their defense and midfield, which Germany is likely to exploit. Hungary needs to address these defensive frailties to avoid another heavy defeat, as goal difference could be crucial for their chances to progress from the group stage.
Team Analysis
Germany:
Germany is currently first in the group. No significant changes are expected in their lineup. Manuel Neuer will be the goalkeeper. The back four will likely include Joshua Kimmich, Antonio Rudiger, Jonathan Tah, and Nico Schlotterbeck, maintaining the same defensive line from the last match. In midfield, Robert Andrich and Toni Kroos are expected to start, with Andrich likely playing most of the minutes. Ilkay Gundogan, Jamal Musiala, and Florian Wirtz will provide the creative force in the midfield, with Musiala and Wirtz interchanging positions. Kai Havertz is expected to lead the attack.
Hungary:
Hungary will set up in a back three formation with Peter Gulacsi as the goalkeeper. Many Hungarian players, familiar with the German league, will be key to their performance. The back three might consist of Willi Orban, Attila Szalai, and Endre Botka. Wingbacks Loic Nego and Zsolt Nagy will support both defense and attack. In central midfield, Ádám Nagy and András Schäfer will play crucial roles. Dominik Szoboszlai, Hungary’s talisman, will be vital in creating chances, operating in an advanced role. Barnabas Varga, who scored in the last match, will lead the attack alongside Ádám Martin.
Key Players to Watch
- Germany:
- Florian Wirtz: An impressive young winger who scored in the last match.
- Jamal Musiala: Another young talent who offers creativity and goal-scoring ability.
- Kai Havertz: Expected to be the main forward, providing goal-scoring opportunities.
- Hungary:
- Dominik Szoboszlai: Hungary’s key creative player, crucial for set-pieces and attacks.
- Barnabas Varga: Scored in the last match and will be the main attacking threat.
Predicted Outcome
Germany is favored to win this match comfortably. Hungary’s defensive gaps could be exploited by Germany’s attacking talents. While Hungary might manage to score, Germany’s strength should see them through with a couple of goals advantage.
Prediction: Germany 3-1 Hungary
Germany’s attack, led by Havertz, Musiala, and Wirtz, will likely prove too strong for Hungary’s defense. Hungary will need to focus on minimizing their defensive errors to have any chance of securing a point.