Euro 2024: Germany become the first team to book their spot in the knockouts

Jamal Musiala and Ilkay Gundogan scored as hosts Germany became the first team to qualify for the last 16 of Euro 2024 on Wednesday after beating Hungary 2-0 in Stuttgart.

Musiala struck for the second game running midway through the first half, much to the anger of Hungary players who felt a foul should have been awarded in the build-up to the goal.

Gundogan grabbed his side's second on 67 minutes as Germany eased to a second successive win in Group A, making sure they will progress to the knockout phase at least as one of the best third-placed sides.

Julian Nagelsmann's men can wrap up top spot when they play Switzerland in Frankfurt in their final group fixture on Sunday.

Hope returns for hosts Germany ahead of Euro 2024

Football

Hungary are staring at elimination after back-to-back defeats and must beat Scotland if they are to stand any chance of reaching the last 16.

How Germany defeated Hungary

A dismal first half left Hungary with too much to do against the Swiss and Rossi admitted beating Germany would require a "perfect match" from his team.

Hungary almost struck in the opening seconds as Manuel Neuer raced out to take the ball off the toe of Roland Sallai.

Kai Havertz outmuscled Willi Orban only to be superbly denied by Peter Gulacsi, who thrust out his right hand to deny the Arsenal attacker.

Robert Andrich's volley from the resulting corner was bravely headed behind by Bolla, but it wasn't long until Germany's persistence was rewarded.

Musiala cushioned the ball through for Gundogan and the Germany captain kept the attack alive after jostling with Orban, knocking it back for Musiala to slam in off the crossbar with a touch off Attila Fiola.

Belgium tower above the rest in open Group E

Football

Musiala headlines top 5 first round performers

In a previous publication, Sports Brief highlighted the top five performers from the first round of Euro 2024, with Jamal Musiala leading the pack.

Musiala dazzled as Germany began their campaign with a commanding 5-1 victory over Scotland on Friday, June 14.

The 21-year-old received widespread acclaim from both fans and pundits, with UEFA's Technical Observer Panel praising his standout performance in glowing terms.