Germany secured their place in the knockout round of Euro 2024 with a convincing 2-0 victory over Hungary on Wednesday. Goals from Jamal Musiala and Ilkay Gündogan sealed the win, making them the first team to progress in the tournament.

This win holds extra significance as it’s Germany’s first competitive win over Hungary since their 1954 World Cup final triumph. With a raucous home crowd behind them, the Germans dominated possession and created numerous chances.

Musiala, playing in his hometown of Stuttgart, opened the scoring in the 22nd minute after a Hungarian defensive error. Gündogan put the game to bed with a composed finish in the 67th minute.

Hungary had their moments, with Roland Sallai having a goal disallowed for offside. However, they struggled to contain the German аttаck, especially the lively Musiala.

This result leaves Germany top of Group A and needing just a point from their final match against Switzerland to secure top spot. Hungary’s fate remаins uncertain, but a win against Scotland and favorable results elsewhere could see them sneak into the next round.

Germany’s captain, Gündogan, acknowledged the team’s improvement but highlighted areas for work. “We are getting better but […] we have to overcome some problems,” he said. “We survived and then Һit back.”

With their dominant performance, Germany have sent a strong message to the competition. They are not only the first team into the knockout stages, but they are also emerging as favorites to lift the Euro 2024 trophy on home soil.