Hungary and Italy in waiting room after finishing third

The European Championship 2024 group stage came to an electrifying conclusion as the final matches in Groups A and B brought unexpected twists and turns. The outcomes of these matches not only determined the teams advancing to the knockout stages but also showcased some intense football drama.

Group A

Germany (Duitsland) vs. Switzerland (Zwitserland) - 1-1

In a tightly contested match, Germany and Switzerland shared the spoils with a 1-1 draw. Switzerland took an early lead with Dan Ndoye finding the net in the 28th minute, setting the stage for a fierce battle. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, Germany struggled to break down the Swiss defense. It wasn't until the dying moments of the game that Niclas Füllkrug salvaged a point for Germany with a dramatic equalizer in the 92nd minute. The draw ensured Germany topped Group A with 7 points, while Switzerland secured second place with 5 points, both advancing to the knockout rounds.

Scotland (Schotland) vs. Hungary (Hongarije) - 0-1

Hungary clinched a last-gasp victory against Scotland, thanks to Kevin Csoboth’s strike in the 100th minute. The match saw Scotland controlling possession but failing to convert their dominance into goals. Hungary, on the other hand, capitalized on their limited opportunities and showed resilience in defense. This win, however, was not enough for Hungary to progress as they finished third in Group A with 3 points, while Scotland ended their campaign at the bottom with a single point.

Group B

Spain (Spanje) vs. Albania (Albanië) - 1-0

Spain continued their perfect run in the tournament with a narrow 1-0 victory over Albania. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 13th minute, ensuring Spain’s place at the top of Group B with 9 points. Despite Albania’s valiant efforts and solid defensive play, they couldn't find the equalizer, finishing last in the group with 1 point.

Croatia (Kroatië) vs. Italy (Italië) - 1-1

In a match filled with tension and late drama, Croatia and Italy played out a 1-1 draw. Luka Modrić opened the scoring for Croatia in the 55th minute, but Italy’s Mattia Zaccagni equalized deep into stoppage time in the 98th minute. The draw meant Italy finished second in Group B with 4 points, progressing to the knockout stages. Croatia, despite their spirited performance, ended third with 2 points and were eliminated from the tournament.

Final Standings

Group A

• Germany - 7 points
• Switzerland - 5 points
• Hungary - 3 points
• Scotland - 1 point

Group B

• Spain - 9 points
• Italy - 4 points
• Croatia - 2 points
• Albania - 1 point

What’s next?

With the first two groups ended, Hungary is now in a good place to reach the knockout stages. Germany and Switzerland are qualified from Group A. Spain and Italy join them from Group B. This means we now know the first round of 16 tie is going to be Switzerland versus Italy on the 29th of June. Hungary and Croatia are in the waiting room in third place. Hungary is currently close to qualification, since only the worst two numbers 3 drop out of the tournament. The first Euro 2024 tickets for the knockout stages are available now!