In a dramatic turn of events, Hungary clinched a 1-0 win against Scotland at the European Championship on Sunday, dealing a significant blow to Scotland's aspirations of reaching the knockout stage for the first time in its history.
Kevin Csoboth, a late substitute, scored his first international goal in the 10th minute of stoppage time, securing Hungary the third spot in Group A. Germany topped the group, followed by Switzerland.
The match was marred by a serious injury to Barnabás Varga in the second half. The Hungarian forward was taken to the hospital with multiple facial fractures and is expected to undergo surgery. Varga will not be able to participate in the remainder of the tournament, pending Hungary's potential qualification for the round of 16 as one of the four best third-place teams. This will be determined after the final group games conclude on Wednesday.
“It was terrible. Was a terrible moment to see Barnabás like that,” Hungary midfielder Roland Sallai said. “Fortunately, he’s in a much better condition ... We cross our fingers for him, that he can return quickly.
“Naturally, it was a terrible incident. Of course, we were fighting for him in the remaining 15-20 minutes, and we would have liked to win for him and we were very happy we could achieve that. And yes, this we dedicate to him.”
The stadium fell silent as Varga collided with Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn. Medical staff attended to Varga on the field for approximately 10 minutes, with teammates holding up blankets for privacy. Both sets of fans applauded as Varga was stretchered off.
Germany secured the top spot in the group with a late goal, resulting in a 1-1 draw against Switzerland.
Scotland, finishing last in the group with only one point from a draw against Switzerland, was eliminated. Their campaign included a 5-1 defeat to Germany in the opening match of Euro 2024.
Controversy arose late in the match when Scotland's penalty appeals were dismissed. Stuart Armstrong was brought down by Willi Orbán, but Argentinian referee Facundo Tello did not award a penalty.
“100% penalty. Somebody somewhere has to explain to me why that’s not a penalty,” Scotland coach Steve Clarke said. “It’s 100%. And like I say, it’s a one-goal game, we get a penalty, can be a different night. I’ve got other words, but I’m not going to use them.
“European competition might have been better to have a European referee, but we had European VAR. And maybe the referee didn’t see the challenge clearly on the pitch so what’s the purpose of the VAR if they’re not going to come in on something like that. It was a penalty.”
Despite the high stakes, clear chances were rare. Scotland dominated possession but struggled to penetrate Hungary's defense.
Hungary nearly scored four minutes before halftime when Willi Orbán's header from a Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick hit the crossbar. Scotland finished the half with 64% possession but no attempts on goal, compared to Hungary's five.
Scotland's first shot came in the 53rd minute when Ché Adams' effort went over the bar.
Csoboth, substituted in the 86th minute, almost made an immediate impact by hitting the far post from a tight angle.
In the chaotic stoppage time, both goalkeepers made crucial saves before Csoboth's decisive goal. He initiated the counterattack, passed to Roland Sallai, and then finished the return pass to score, igniting celebrations among Hungarian players and fans.
The Scottish players were left dejected.
“Tonight and for a long time we have to get over this,” Scotland captain Andy Robertson told the BBC. “It’s a tough one. It’s devastating. All the lads are absolutely gutted. I will say thank you to all the supporters; sorry for letting you all down.”
