Germany’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann emphasized the importance of keeping home supporters dreaming during Euro 2024. Following a 2-0 victory over Hungary, Nagelsmann expressed his commitment to staying focused on the next match rather than looking ahead to the knockout stage. He praised the incredible atmosphere at the tournament, highlighting moments when fans marched with the team and passionately sang the national anthem as sources of inspiration for his players. According to Nagelsmann, the loud and supportive environment in the stadium has a positive impact on the team, despite the presence of experienced and successful players. He acknowledged that the energy from the fans can influence the players and ultimately contribute to their performance on the field.
The 2-0 victory over Hungary not only secured Germany’s place in the knockout stage but also made them the first team to qualify from their group. With two wins out of two matches, the Germans are guaranteed to finish among the top two teams in their group, as Scotland and Switzerland drew later in the day. Coach Nagelsmann highlighted the performance of Jamal Musiala, who scored in both matches, urging him to play fearlessly and take on opponents without being weighed down by pressure. The 21-year-old’s goal in the 22nd minute, aided by a defensive error from Hungary, set the tone for Germany’s comfortable win. Nagelsmann encouraged Musiala to approach the game with the same freedom and joy as if he were playing with friends on a local pitch, emphasizing the need to focus on the love of the game rather than external expectations.
While expectations were high for the home team, Germany’s win over Hungary marked their first competitive victory against the same opponent since the 1954 World Cup final. The triumph reignited hopes of a fourth European Championship title for the German fans, who are witnessing a team that is steadily improving as the tournament progresses. Captain Ilkay Gundogan acknowledged the challenges that come with growth and evolution, emphasizing the importance of overcoming obstacles and staying resilient in the face of adversity. He highlighted the need for patience and a sense of humility in carrying out individual responsibilities while fostering camaraderie within the team. Gundogan’s reflections on teamwork and cohesion underscore the significance of training together and developing a strong rapport among teammates to enhance overall performance on the field.
Hungary’s coach Marco Rossi conceded that Germany was the superior team on the day, although he criticized certain refereeing decisions that he felt were biased against his side. Rossi pointed out instances where the referee’s calls appeared inconsistent, suggesting a double standard in applying the rules. Despite recognizing Germany’s strength and the likelihood of their victory, Rossi lamented the perceived unfairness in officiating, which he believed had a negative impact on Hungary’s chances of progression in the tournament. The controversy surrounding the refereeing decisions adds another layer of complexity to the competitive dynamics of Euro 2024, highlighting the role of officiating in shaping outcomes and perceptions within the realm of international football.