EURO 2024: Scotland vs Hungary

The final group stage match between Scotland and Hungary at the UEFA European Championship 2024 promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams fighting for a spot in the coveted knockout round.

Scotland, currently in third place in Group A with 1 point, knows that only a win will keep their hopes of advancing alive. According to Opta's predictions, they still have a 42.8% chance of reaching the last 16, but they must overcome a determined Hungarian side to achieve this goal.

Hungary, on the other hand, is at the bottom of the group with 0 points and faces an uphill battle to stay in the competition. They have been winless in their last eight European Championship games, but coach Marco Rossi is confident that his team can turn things around against Scotland.

Team News and Predicted Lineups

Scotland will be without the injured Kieran Tierney, with Scott McKenna likely to replace him in the starting XI. However, the inclusion of Billy Gilmour in the midfield against Switzerland has provided better balance, allowing John McGinn and Scott McTominay to play a more advanced role.

Hungary's lineup is expected to feature Péter Gulácsi in goal, with Attila Fiola, Willi Orbán, Márton Dárdai, and Bendegúz Bolla in defense. Dominik Szoboszlai, Ádám Nagy, and András Schäfer will likely anchor the midfield, while Roland Sallai and Barnabás Varga lead the attack.

Head-to-Head and Form Analysis

Scotland and Hungary have met only in friendly matches in the past, with Scotland winning two of their last three encounters. However, this will be their first competitive meeting at a major tournament.

In terms of form, Scotland's recent record stands at DLDWLL, while Hungary's is LLWLWW. Both teams will be eager to secure a vital victory in this crucial encounter.

Significance of the Match

For Scotland, a win would take them to four points and potentially secure a spot in the last 16, as the four best-performing third-placed teams qualify for the knockout stage. This would be a historic achievement for the national team, as they have never reached the knockout phase of a major tournament before.

For Hungary, only a win can keep their very faint hopes of advancing alive. They have faced tough losses to Switzerland and Germany, and a victory against Scotland would be a significant boost for their campaign.

The match promises to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams aware that only a triumph will suffice to secure a coveted spot in the round of 16 at Euro 2024. The outcome of this clash could have far-reaching implications for the future of both national teams on the European stage.

The Bad Tackle

Check later. This will be a good one.