EURO 2024: Switzerland Triumphs (3-1) Over Hungary

By Score More

After Germany’s dominating 5-1 victory over Scotland in the opening match of Euro 2024, Switzerland secured a 3-1 win against Hungary in the second match of the competition. The Group A encounter took place in Cologne, Germany, on Saturday afternoon, with Michel Aebischer emerging as the standout player for the Swiss team.

First Half Dominance

The first half saw Switzerland in control, with Hungary posing a threat only through set pieces. Murat Yakin’s team displayed fluid ball movement without much difficulty. A key moment came when Kwadwo Duah, playing only his second game for Switzerland, made a significant impact. The Ludogorets forward executed a brilliant run, and Aebischer, from Bologna, delivered a precise pass behind the Hungarian defense. The VAR review confirmed the goal, leading to jubilant celebrations.

Switzerland’s defensive setup in a 5-3-2 formation saw Duah and Ndoye leading the press, with the wing-backs dropping deep to support the central defenders. This structure allowed the Swiss to exploit the spaces between Hungary’s defense and midfield effectively. In contrast, Hungary seemed disjointed, struggling to maintain the cohesion that saw them go unbeaten in the qualifiers.

Hungary’s possession was largely ineffective, rarely penetrating the final third. Their main threat came from set pieces, with Szoboszlai delivering quality indirect free kicks. A significant moment occurred at the 40-minute mark when Orbán’s weak header, following a lateral free-kick, forced a save from Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer.

Just before halftime, Switzerland doubled their lead with an unexpected scorer. Michel Aebischer found space outside the box and unleashed a powerful, well-placed shot that beat Hungarian goalkeeper Gulácsi. It was Aebischer’s first goal for the national team and his debut goal of the season.

Second Half Complacency and Resurgence

In the second half, Switzerland appeared to suffer from complacency after their dominant first half. Hungary gradually gained momentum, creating danger through direct play. This approach eventually paid off when Barnabás Varga, after an initial attempt, scored with a header following a precise cross from Szoboszlai.

As the game became more open, chances for both sides increased. However, it was Switzerland who sealed their victory. Breel Embolo capitalized on a long ball from Sommer and a lapse in the Hungarian defense, skillfully chipping Gulácsi to secure a 3-1 win for Switzerland.

With this result, Switzerland matched Germany’s achievement, earning three points in Group A, while Scotland and Hungary remain without points.

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