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Germany escaped their first loss at the European Championship 2024 with a dramatic header from Niclas Fullkrug in the stoppage time on June 23. The Germans gave it all in their last push against Switzerland and it paid off with Fullkrug scoring the equaliser to beat Switzerland goalkeeper Yann Sommer and find the top corner of the net.
“We risked a lot in this phase because we could have conceded a second goal,” Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann explained the reason behind getting defenders in the front. "Who doesn't dare to risk, doesn't get to draw.”
Earlier, Dan Ndoye scored for Switzerland in the 28th minute with a volleyed shot. Had Ruben Vargas not been offside, Switzerland would have doubled their lead against the table-toppers of Group A.
Despite the draw, Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka who was named player of the match was proud of his teammates making Germany struggle against them.
“When you see how the Germans celebrated their goal that says everything," said Xhaka.
Germany and Switzerland’s possible round of 16 opponents
Germany had already qualified for the round of 16 before facing the Swiss. They will face any of the four teams in Group C -- England, Slovenia, Denmark or Serbia. Nagelsmann feels that Germany's opponent will not be happy with having two fewer days to rest.
"We have to prepare for four teams, they only have to prepare for one team,” said the 36-year-old.
On the other hand, second-placed Switzerland will take on either Italy or Croatia from Group B (whichever finishes runner-up of the ground) on June 29. Swiss coach Murat Yakin is happy with the team's unbeaten run in group stage.
“I think we have a certain standing which we worked hard for. Were on a good path,” Yakin said, “without a defeat, with a very good style of play. We like being the dark horse.”
Hungary edge past Scotland after Varga’s freak injury
In the other Group A clash of the day, Hungary beat Scotland 1-0 as substitute Kevin Csoboth scored a stoppage time goal to keep his side alive in the tournament. Earlier in the second half, Hungary forward Barnbas Varga got injured after a collision with Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn. The game was halted for 10 minutes and Varga was rushed to the hospital. He is stable but suffered several broken bones in his face.
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