Hosts on a high!

Germany beat Hungary 2-0 to become first team to qualify for knockouts; defender Ruediger insists flop show at earlier tournaments are now history

Defender Antonio Ruediger said Germany’s recent tournament failures were “history” after the hosts qualified for the Euro 2024 knockout stages with Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Hungary. Germany were dominant in beating the Hungarians in Stuttgart just days after thumping Scotland 5-1 in the tournament opener and became the first team to qualify for the knockouts.

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Antonio Ruediger

The home side took the lead through Stuttgart-born Jamal Musiala midway through the first half and captain Ilkay Gundogan sealed the result with a second-half goal. The result and performance is in stark contrast to Germany’s recent efforts at major tournaments. Germany were eliminated at the group stage of the past two World Cups, either side of a last 16 exit at the hands of England at the previous Euros. Ruediger said Germany were looking to the future.

“The last few tournaments, they’re forgotten. They’re history. We are here now and of course it’s very, very good. I think the start was great, but it was important to go one step further and that is what we did today.” Despite the qualification, three-times Euro winners Germany need to beat Switzerland in Frankfurt on Sunday to ensure they are first in the group.

Hungary coach slams refereeing after defeat

Hungary coach Marco Rossi criticised the decision to allow Germany’s opening goal as his side lost 0-2 to the Euro 2024 hosts in Stuttgart on Wednesday. Jamal Musiala gave Germany the lead in the first half after he was set up by Ilkay Gundogan, but the Hungary players felt a foul was not given for a challenge on defender Willi Orban. “I’ve never complained in my career as a player or coach, I’ve never looked for excuses, but what the referee did tonight... the referee used double standards,” said Rossi.

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