Germany avoid Hungary scare
The German supporters in the Allianz Arena were subjected to a whole host of varying emotions throughout the 2-2 draw with Hungary.
Never leading the match, Joachim Low’s side had to come from behind twice to level the scores at 1-1 and then 2-2.
Hungary remained as resolute as possible, hitting on the counter in few opportunities.
Germany looked unimaginative and relied on a fortunate Kai Havertz goal and a late Leon Goretzka strike to even the playing field.
After the disappointment of the 2018 World Cup whereby the nation went out in the group stage, it was important that the Germans ensured progression to avoid a second early elimination.
Now the focus will be on reaching the quarter finals, but an elite adversary stands in their way.
Low ‘not worried’ about England
Germany have had things very hard so far in Euro 2020.
A group containing France, Portugal and an inspired Hungary side nearly saw them miss out.
Their second place finish however sets up a tasty tie at Wembley with England and Joachim Low has said he is ‘not worried’ due to the fact England will play more expansive football compared to Hungary.
“I’m not worried, it’s a totally different match,” he said. “Hungary parked the bus, with everyone behind the ball, entered every duel, against England it will be a totally different match.
“They are playing at home, they want to attack, it’s going to be an open match, more open than it was tonight. We need to improve on things, we are aware of that, and need to take care and be careful, especially at set-pieces.
“We cannot repeat the same mistakes again. We need to do things better here, but ahead of the match against England, we’re looking forward to it.”
MUNICH, GERMANY – JUNE 19: Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal scores their side’s first goal past Manuel Neuer of Germany whilst under pressure from Robin Gosens of Germany during the UEFA Euro 2020 Championship Group F match between Portugal and Germany at Football Arena Munich on June 19, 2021 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Kai Pfaffenbach – Pool/Getty Images)
Low said that he is relishing the opportunity to face England on their own turf and knows from the Portugal performance that anything is possible.
“It’s great news to play in London at Wembley against England,” he said.
“The group stage is over and now we have to focus. It’s in or out now. Our performance so far hasn’t been too good, but if we show what we can, as we did against Portugal for long spells, we can be a strong opponent, and if we don’t do that we can get into difficulties.”
