The final day of Group A action in Euro 2024 delivered a dramatic climax, featuring heart-stopping stoppage time goals, record-breaking performances, and the elimination of Scotland. Germany emerged as the group winner after a nail-biting draw with Switzerland, while Hungary's late heroics kept their hopes alive.
Germany secured top spot in Group A with a thrilling 1-1 draw against Switzerland. In a pulsating encounter, Niclas Füllkrug became the record scorer for Germany off the bench at major tournaments with a crucial 93rd-minute equalizer. The result sees Germany advance to the Round of 16, where they will face the runner-up of Group C.
Euro 2024 Group A Finale: Stoppage Time Stunners and Record-Breaking Moments
Despite conceding a late goal, Germany's performance was impressive. They finished the group stage with an eight-goal tally, their highest since the 2006 World Cup. Manuel Neuer also made history, becoming the goalkeeper with the most appearances at the Euros (18).
Switzerland, despite missing out on the group victory, still reached the Round of 16 as runners-up in Group A. They will now face the runner-up of Group B. Dan Ndoye's goal for Switzerland made him the nation's second-youngest goalscorer in Euros history.
Hungary's 1-0 win over Scotland kept their hopes of advancing as one of the third-placed teams alive. Kevin Csoboth's remarkable goal in the 99th minute was the latest regular-time goal in Euros history.
Scotland's elimination capped a disappointing campaign, as they finished bottom of Group A. They remain winless at the Euros when conceding the first goal (0-7-0).
Niclas Füllkrug's goal was his fourth as a substitute at a major tournament, making him the all-time record holder for Germany in that category.
Roland Sallai of Hungary provided an assist of the day, setting up Csoboth's winner with perfect precision under immense pressure.
Manuel Neuer's save of the day kept Germany in the game and ultimately contributed to their group triumph.
Scotland's tournament ended on a sour note, as they left Euro 2024 with the fewest shots (17) and shots on target (3) of any team.
They also became the second team in the tournament to fail to have a shot in the first half of a match, after failing to do so twice.
Hungary's late victory gives them a lifeline in the tournament. They must now wait to see if their points will be enough to qualify for the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams.
However, Hungary's celebrations were marred by a serious injury to Barnabás Varga. The defender was taken to the hospital after suffering a sickening clash of heads.
