THE one group of people aside from the Scots who are probably just as disappointed at Scotland’s early exit from Euro 2024 are the tavern owners in Germany.
The Scottish fans have been busy drinking the pubs dry at every city that has hosted the Tartan Army and that they will be going home early will be of great disappointment to German brewers and publicans alike.
The Swiss underlined their early form with a well-deserved draw against host, ensuring both qualify as the top two in the group.
Scotland 0 v Hungary 1
This was a cagey affair from the offset which was no surprise given what was at stake. Both sides set themselves up to avoid defeat rather go for the win which led to one of them qualifying as third best teams.
Hence clear chances were at a premium as the game descended into a scrappy mess with both sides struggling to impose themselves on proceedings.
There were two major talking points from the game. The first was Argentine referee’s Facundo Tello waving away Scottish appeals for a penalty in the 78th minute.
The fact that it was not reviewed by VAR angered Scotland boss Steve Clarke who insinuated that the Euros should only be umpired by European officials.
The second talking point was the horrific head injury to Barnabas Varga who had to be stretchered off and taken to hospital.
The Hungary FA have reported that he is in “stable” condition and will require surgery for a broken cheekbone.
That injury meant a lengthy amount of time was added on and with virtually the very last kick of the game, Kevin Scoboth scored the winner that broke Scottish (and publican) hearts.
Switzerland 1 v Germany 1
The Swiss have been in good form at Euro 2024 and underlined their credentials with a well-earned draw against the host nation.
Germany had the ball in the net first but was chalked off by VAR for a foul in the build-up by Jamal Musiala.
Switzerland then had the temerity to take the lead through the impressive Dan Ndoye and their hard pressing, physical approach clearly unsettled Germany.
This was the first stress test for a German side that is still finding its feet under Julian Nagelsmann after the poor run of results that led to the dismissal of previous coach Hansi Flick.
Nagelsmann’s ace in the pack is supersub Niclas Fullkrug who stepped off the bench to score in injury time, giving Germany top spot in the group.
The Borrusia Dortmund forward has now contributed four goals from just under 140 minutes of international football. A very impressive return for a fringe player who could be the difference for Germany in the knock out phase of this tournament. – June 24, 2024
Upcoming fixtures:
Albania v Spain – 3am (25 June)
Croatia v Italy – 3am (25 June)
Main pic credit: The Guardian
