DFB Squad Advances to Round of 16 After Defeating Hungary in Match
Following their victory in the EM group stage against Scotland, the German soccer team aims to continue their success against Hungary. Last time Germany won versus Hungary was eight years ago. If their coach, Julian Nagelsmann, manages to secure another victory, the German Football Association (DFB) can start planning for the knockout phase. Switzerland's results could also be decisive.
Basking in victory's glow: With their second impressive performance, Germany's national soccer team aims to secure a spot in the EURO 16 team early on. The DFB team goes up against Hungary in Stuttgart (6 p.m./ARD, Magenta TV and in the ntv.de live ticker). Another win after the 5:1 against Scotland will give Nagelsmann six points for the round of 16 planning. Hungary started the tournament in Group F with a 1:3 loss against Switzerland and are under substantial pressure.
The Germans are expected to advance to the knockout round, provided Switzerland aids them. Switzerland needs at least a draw against Scotland for the Bravehearts to have no more than one point and Hungary no points, ensuring they cannot surpass the DFB team.
Even a draw could be enough for the next round. Since in addition to the two first-placed teams, the four best third-placed teams also qualify for the knockout phase, 16 of the 24 teams make it to the next round. The best example of such a scenario was the Portuguese team in 2016, who qualified as a group third with only three points and later won the European championship.
The path won't be easy for Nagelsmann's team – and the 5:1 from the opening match suggests otherwise. Nagelsmann will keep the same squad for this game, building on his starting lineup. Several professionals from the opposing team play for German clubs, including Peter Gulacsi, Willi Orban, Andras Schafer, and Marton Dardai.
"The games are incredibly different. Regardless, we know that Hungary has exhibited strong results against top teams lately," said Maximilian Mittelstädt. The second group game will see Scotland and Switzerland face off in Cologne afterwards (9 p.m./ARD and MagentaTV and in the live ticker on ntv.de).
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After securing their place in the Round of 16 with a victory against Hungary, Julian Nagelsmann and the German national soccer team will set their sights on the European Football Championship 2024. With their impressive form in the group stage, a spot in the EURO 16 team is within their reach, providing a solid foundation for future international competitions.
