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      in Soccer

      Spain vs Italy LIVE SCORE: La Furia Roja seal qualification to Euro 2024 last 16 with win over champs – latest updates

      by

      SPAIN face reigning European champions Italy in their second group game in a massive group game today. The two sides meet at Arena AufSchalke in Gelsenkirchen in a match which could ultimately decide Group B.
      Kick-off time: 8pm
      Stream: ITV1
      Spain XI: Unai Simón; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Fabián, Pedri; Nico Williams, Yamal; Morata
      Italy XI: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori, Dimarco; Jorginho, Barella; Frattesi, Pellegrini; Chiesa, Scamacca
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSDominant display sees La Roja through
      After this win against Italy, Spain are now guaranteed to progress from Group B in Euro 2024.
      Not that Luis de la Fuente will let his squad take their foot off the gas, they will want to win every game they play.
      Spain dominated the game, even if the scoreline does not totally reflect their performance.

      Copy linkCopiedA new look Spain send statement
      While it may not be the tiki-taka football of years gone by, this fresh young Spanish side have something different.
      They have the players to retain the ball while still being able to pass a ball to pick the lock of any defence.
      What is really different with this team though is that, due to insane pace of Yamal and Williams, they are happy to go direct with balls in behind the defence also.
      They will face tougher tests in this tournament but there are not many sides that will be able to lock horns with this Spanish side.
      Copy linkCopiedYoung winger draws plaudits
      Nico Williams is often linked to some of the biggest clubs in world football and tonight you could see why.
      He has pace and skill in abundance and can haunt the dreams of any full back.
      It was his cross that forced the own goal and he struck the crossbar with a thunderous shot from outside the box.
      A true ‘man of the match’ performance from Williams.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedSpanish midfield sparkles in Gelsenkirchen
      While much of the talk is of Rodri and Pedri for La Roja, one player who goes under the radar often is Fabian Ruiz.
      He offers so much in attack but presses the opponents’ defence to stop them getting out of their own half.
      Ruiz came close to scoring on a couple of occasions and was a stand-out performer for Luis de la Fuente’s side.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Spain 1-0 Italy
      Spain could have won this game by three or four goals.
      They need to be more clinical when they get to the knockout phase of the competition or may pay the price.
      Italy struggled to give the Spanish keeper anything to do all evening.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Spain 1-0 Italy
      The referee brings the game to a close.
      While it is a slender win by scoreline, Spain dominated this game from start to finish.
      Italy struggled to cope with their pace and creativity all evening.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      90+4. Italy try to go for an equaliser for one last time.
      The ball is cut back from the byline and headed behind for a corner.
      Chance for Italy to send all their big defenders forward once again.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      90+2. Some brilliant skill by Ayoze Perez for Spain.
      He nutmegs the Italian defender and gets a shot off at goal but it is well blocked by Donnarumma.
      Moments later he is through again but the big Italian keeper gets down well to prevent his shot going into the far corner.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      90. Carvajal makes a terrible dive to try and win a free kick.
      That truly was embarrassing by the Real Madrid full back.
      We are going to have four added minutes.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      88. This is a period of the game now that The Azzurri can patiently build and look to create that one clear-cut chance before the final whistle.
      That is all it will take to get an unlikely equaliser.
      It is crazy to think that Italy have not played at a World Cup finals for ten years now.
      Credit: AP
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      86. As Italy send all their big defenders up for the corner, it is whipped into the near post.
      It is flicked on by an Italian boot but Simon watches it all the way and gathers.
      Spain seem to have taken their foot off the gas now and are dropping deep.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      84. Italy certainly look like they are lacking some quality in the creativity of this team.
      All of their attacks look laboured and there does not seem to be any flair at all.
      That said, none of this will matter if they manage to grab a late equaliser.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      82. Italy are opting for a direct balls over the top of the Spanish defence to try and catch out some tired legs.
      Simon has had so little to do this evening that he is as fresh as any of the recently added players and comes out to collect.
      You can see since the changes now that this Spanish side do not look the same proposition when ‘The A-Team’ are not on the pitch.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      80. We are into the final ten minutes of the game.
      Spain need to be careful not to concede a goal against the run of play now.
      They have worked hard today and fully deserve their win, but football often does not respect such facts.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      78. Torres puts a teasing ball across the penalty area.
      Morata tries to get a boot to it but misses and the referee awards a free kick to the Italians.
      That is the last action tonight for the Spanish skipper as he joins Williams in leaving the pitch.
      Perez and Oyarzabal come on for Spain.
      Credit: AFP
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      76. Well, this game has answered some questions this evening.
      If anyone thought that Italy were contenders for this trophy, think again.
      It looks more likely that Croatia will fancy their chances of beating The Azzurri to progress to the knockout phase.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      74. Pellegrini tries his luck from a free kick in a relatively wide position.
      It drifts over the crossbar and is causing no problems for Simon.
      If Italy were to get an equaliser against the run of play it would seem a harsh justice for Spain.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      72. Pedri and Yamal come off for La Roja.
      They are replaced by Baena and Torres.
      de la Fuente seeing it as time to rest some of his young talent now.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      70. Brilliant play from Williams once again.
      He runs at the defender and cuts inside onto his right foot before trying to bend one in the top corner of the goal.
      The ball thunders back off the crossbar and back into play.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      68. The Italians look to have a little more about them in the forward areas now.
      Di Lorenzo is having a good battle with Williams, with the Italian doing much better in this second half.
      Spain continue to pass it around but Italy are looking to press more and are not giving them time on the ball.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      66. Cambiasso gets down the right wing and puts a teasing ball across the six yard box.
      There is no Italian player there to poke it home.
      First sign of intent from Italy.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      64. Italy make some more changes as Chiesa and Scamacca make way.
      Retegui and Zaccagni both join the game for The Azzurri.
      Spalletti deciding they need some form of creativity up top now.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      62. Italy come forward for the first time in the second half.
      The cross is poor and is easily dealt with by the Spanish defence.
      This has been a long night for the Italians and there is just under half an hour still to play.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      60. Italy are being truly outclasses in this game.
      Yamal receives the ball on the right and cuts onto his left foot before trying to bend one in the far corner.
      Donnarumma is at full stretch but the effort shaves the wrong side of the post.
      Copy linkCopiedSpain 1-0 Italy
      58. Some lovely build-up play from Spai down the left again.
      The ball is worked to Morata in the middle, with only shooting at goal on his mind.
      It is straight at Donnarumma, from some distance, but he has to palm it over the crossbar.
      Credit: Getty
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      in Soccer

      Denmark 0-0 England LIVE SCORE: Southgate’s side UNCHANGED as Three Lions eye knockout stage – stream FREE, updates

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      ENGLAND are facing Denmark RIGHT NOW as they close in on top spot in Group C at Euro 2024!The Three Lions need just a point of guarantee they go through to the knockout stage after Serbia’s draw with Slovenia earlier – and a victory to go through as group winners.On the team news front, Gareth Southgate has named an unchanged XI from the win over Serbia.
      Kick-off time: 5pm BST
      FREE live stream: BBC iPlayer
      TV channel: BBC One
      Denmark XI: Schmeichel, Andersen, Vestergaard, Maehle, Christensen, Holjund, Eriksen, Kristiansen, Wind, Hjulmand, Hojbjeg
      England XI: Pickford, Walker, Stones, Guehi, Trippier, Rice, Bellingham, Alexander-Arnold, Foden, Kane, Saka
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL the action from Deutsche Bank Park with our live blog below…Denmark 0-0 England
      6. Kyle Walker is the latest to give away possession…
      …but the right-back quickly makes amends by winning the ball straight back.
      Copy linkCopiedDenmark 0-0 England
      5. Demark enjoy a spell of possession.
      Andersen tries his luck with a cross from the right, dealt with by Guehi, before Eriksen and Kristiansen take over on the opposite flank.
      Copy linkCopiedDenmark 0-0 England
      3. England’s passing hasn’t been too crisp in the opening minutes.
      Trent Alexander-Arnold, in particular, has been sloppy in possession on a couple of occasions.
      Copy linkCopiedDenmark 0-0 England
      2. The first shot of the game comes from the right foot of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, outside the box and straight at Jordan Pickford.
      Not many people would have had the Tottenham midfielder down as the first player to register an attempt.
      Copy linkCopiedKick-off – Denmark v England
      1. Peeeeeeep! Portuguese referee Artur Soares Dias blows his whistle, and Bukayo Saka gets the match underway with a pass all the way back to Jordan Pickford.
      The start was held up momentarily as the sides swapped ends, and the players stood for a minute’s applause in memory of the recently passed Gerhard Aigner.
      Copy linkCopiedHere come the two teams!
      Here we go!
      The England players are made to wait in the tunnel area for a couple of minutes, but eventually their opponents and the officials arrive to queue their entrance out on to the Frankfurt pitch.
      It’s a sea of red and white inside the stadium amid an atmosphere that has been building for the past couple of hours.
      The national anthems are belted out with gusto in front of the watching Prince of Wales, who is stood next to the King of Denmark.
      The formalities are almost over. The football is upon us.
      Copy linkCopiedDon’t bank on goals galore
      England fans have been asking for more excitement after a somewhat uninspired opener against Serbia.
      But if recent history with the Danes is anything to go by, today won’t be the fixture that brings the drama.
      There have only been five goals scored in the last four meetings between Denmark (2) and England (3) in all competitions.
      Copy linkCopiedCountdown to kick-off
      There are just ten minutes until the action gets underway at the Frankfurt Arena…
      …and fans of both countries are busy preparing for the action.

      Copy linkCopiedLive from the Frankfurt Arena
      As predicted, Gareth Southgate has stuck with the same starting 11.
      Some fans I met in the centre of Frankfurt wanted Conor Gallagher in for Trent Alexander-Arnold and another winger to be given a chance in place of Phil Foden.
      But to abandon the TAA midfield experiment after one game would have been ridiculous. Either you think it can work and you are willing to give him a chance to show it can, or you don’t. One tournament-level game is not enough to decide.
      As SunSport columnist Jack Wilshere explained, Foden’s effectiveness was hit the hardest by the way England played in the second half. He was forced into a wide role in what was effectively a 4-5-1 formation, and that is not his game at all.
      The Three Lions looked like a team destined to go out in the quarter finals in their opening game. But tournaments aren’t won in the group stage.
      Denmark make one change from the side that conceded a late-ish equaliser against Slovenia. Joakim Maehle comes in for Alexander Bah at right wing-back.
      An England win would seal top spot in the group and a last 16 game in Gelsenkirchen on June 30.
      Copy linkCopiedEuro return for hero Eriksen
      As horror unfolded at Euro 2020, many feared that we would never see Christian Eriksen on a football pitch again.
      Yet the Denmark hero has fought back from the cardiac arrest he suffered in Copenhagen to again cement himself as the most important part of his nation’s team.
      This evening, he will his 132nd international appearance, equalling Simon Kjaer for the most caps won by a Danish player.
      The 32-year-old scored his first ever goal at a European Championship during their 1-1 draw with Slovenia, and also showed just how dangerous he is at set-plays.
      Eriksen created seven chances from set-pieces during Sunday’s match the most by a player in a European Championship fixture since Gary McAllister for Scotland against Germany in 1992 (8).

      Copy linkCopiedSouthgate calls for continuity
      England head coach Gareth Southgate has explained his reasonings for naming an unchanged team to face Denmark, calling for continuity as his side grows into the tournament.
      However, the Three Lions boss also acknowledged that he will need to call on his substitutes, both today and as the competition progresses.
      With Trent Alexander-Arnold playing in central midfield again, Southgate wants the Liverpool man to unleash his full capabalities.
      We needed to check on all the players but wanted the continuity. We know we did some things very well and some things we want to get better at. There are guys who are training well and pushing, and we’ll need fresh legs at some point. I want [Trent Alexander-Arnold] to do the things he’s really good at. The range of passes he has, the ability to unlock defences, I think he did a lot well on Sunday and if he can add that final moment he can cause Denmark a lot of problems.Gareth SouthgateBBC
      Copy linkCopiedHow the sides shape up

      Copy linkCopiedTrippier brings up half-century
      There were slight concerns when he went down with cramp late on in Sunday’s game against Serbia, but Kieran Trippier has been declared fit enough to face Denmark tonight – and in doing so will make his 50th appearance for the senior England side.
      At 33 years and 275 days, the Newcastle man becomes the third-oldest outfield player to reach a half-century of caps for the Three Lions after Stanley Matthews (41y 301d) and Teddy Sheringham (36y 74d).
      Decent company, that.

      Copy linkCopiedEngland odds-on for success
      The Three Lions famously needed a Harry Kane penalty rebound in extra-time to beat Denmark in the semi-finals of Euro 2020, but the bookies expect no such difficulties this time around.

      Denmark win 23/5
      Draw 13/5
      England win 8/11

      Odds from BetMGM correct at time of post publication.
      Copy linkCopiedSouthgate sticks with same side
      It doesn’t happen often, but Gareth Southgate has shown he is happy to go with the same XI that started against Serbia on Sunday.
      In fact, in his 97 games in charge of England, Southgate has named an unchanged starting XI on just five occasions.
      Each of of the previous four instances all came at World Cups, twice in 2018 and then twice again in 2022.
      Copy linkCopiedMaehle one change for Danes
      Kasper Hjulmand makes just one change as his Denmark squad prepare to take on England in Frankfurt.
      The head coach welcomes back Joakim Maehle – such an impressive performer at Euro 2020 – and he will take over at right wing-back from Alexander Bah.
      With Simon Kjaer only named on the bench, Kasper Schmeichel continues as captain while Manchester United pair Christian Eriksen and Rasmund Hojlund play in attack with Jonas Wind.

      Denmark (3-4-1-2): 1 Schmeichel; 2 Andersen, 6 Christiansen, 3 Vestergaard; 5 Maehle, 21 Hjulmand, 23 Højbjerg, 17 Kristiansen; 10 Eriksen; 9 Hojlund, 19 Wind
      Subs: 16 Hermansen, 22 Ronnow, 4 Kjaer, 7 Jensen, 11 Skov Olsen, 12 Dolberg, 13 Jorgensen, 14 Damsgaard, 15 Norgaard, 18 Bah, 20 Poulsen, 24 Dreyer, 25 Kristensen, 26 Bruun Larsen
      Credit: @dbulandshold on C
      Copy linkCopiedEngland unchanged for Denmark test
      Gareth Southgate has named the same side that started the Group C opener against Serbia on Sunday.
      That means Trent Alexander-Arnold continues in midfield alongside Declan Rice, while Phil Foden is on the left again despite calls to shake up the attack.
      Captain Harry Kane leads the line while Jordan Pickford makes his 21st tournament appearance in goal, taking over the England record set by Peter Shilton.

      England (4-2-3-1): 1 Pickford; 2 Walker, 5 Stones, 6 Guess, 12 Trippier; 8 Alexander-Arnold, 4 Rice; 7 Saka, 10 Bellingham, 11 Foden; 9 Kane
      Subs: 13 Ramsdale, 23 Henderson, 14 Konsa, 15 Dunk, 16 Gallagher, 17 Toney, 18 Gordon, 19 Watkins, 20 Bowen, 21 Eze, 22 Gomez, 24 Palmer, 25 Wharton, 26 Mainoo
      Credit: @England on X
      Copy linkCopiedLions stay top thanks to Luka
      The final whistle has just been blown in Munich where – just seconds earlier – Luka Jovic had headed a 90+6th minute equalise to earn Serbia a 1-1 draw with Slovenia.
      The draw means England stay top of Group C ahead of the imminent fixture with Denmark, and should Gareth Southgate’s side now win, they will seal their place in the Last 16 as group winners.
      Credit: uefa.com
      Copy linkCopiedStats disprove Southgate critics
      We’re not creative enough, we’re not positive enough.
      Gareth Southgate has had an increasing number of critics across social media with each tournament that he takes charge of England at.
      But the statistics show that the Three Lions score more goals with him in charge at either a World Cup or European Championship than they ever did under another manager.
      Southgate oversaw his 20th match at a major tournament as England beat Serbia 1-0 on Saturday, becoming just the 16th national team manager to reach the milestone.
      Across those 20 games, his sides have scored at an average of 1.9 per 90 minutes.

      Copy linkCopiedLions ready to roar…
      …and make history.
      After the 1-0 win against Serbia in their opening Group C match at Euro 2024, England are targeting another success which would see them do something they have done before – and that’s win both of their first two matches at a European Championship.
      Copy linkCopiedUpdate from around the grounds…
      Slovenia have opened the scoring against Serbia with 20 minutes to go.
      Zan Karnicnik’s goal means that Matjaz Kek’s side go top of Group C ahead of England’s clash against Denmark later.
      How it stands:
      1 Slovenia – 4pts*
      2 England – 3pts
      3 Denmark – 1pts
      4 Serbia – 0pts
      Copy linkCopiedDenmark fans taunt England supporters with cheeky chant
      Danish fans have made a cheeky dig at England ahead of the vital Euro 2024 clash.
      England face Denmark today in their second Group C match of the tournament.
      A win at the Deutsche Bank Park for Gareth Southgate’s side would guarantee a spot in the last-16.
      While English fans are getting excited about the team’s prospects in the tournament, the Danes have decided to try and bring them down a peg.
      A video has emerged online of the Scandinavian fans marching down a street chanting: “England, England, it’s never coming home.”
      The taunt is a play on the famous 1996 song Three Lions by David Baddiel, Frank Skinner, and The Lightning Seeds.
      Watch Denmark fans taunt England supporters with cheeky chant as they march together ahead of Euro 2024 clash
      Copy linkCopiedEngland vs Denmark H2H
      Last five meetings between the two sides:
      England 2-1 Denmark (July, 2011)
      England 0-1 Denmark (October, 2020)
      Denmark 0-0 England (September 2020)
      England 1-0 Denmark (March, 2014)
      Denmark 1-2 England (February, 2011)
      Copy linkCopiedEngland fans make a splash in Frankfurt
      The Three Lions faithful are in Frankfurt to roar on Gareth Southgate’s side against Denmark in just a few hours time.
      And one supporter found an easy way to cool down on a warm day.
      Crowds cheered as a topless man stood on the edge of a fountain in Romerberg Square and led a rendition of Phil Foden’s On Fire.
      He then bravely took a dive into some shallow water as the spectators went wild.
      Watch England fan dive into Frankfurt fountain as Three Lions get in party spirit before Denmark clash at Euro 2024
      Copy linkCopiedFans prep the stadium ahead of kick-off
      England fans are beginning to turn Frankfurt’s Deutsche Bank Park red and white.
      We’re heading into the final two hours before kick-off.
      Credit: GETTY
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      in Soccer

      Slovenia 1-1 Serbia LIVE RESULT – Serbians pull off last-gasp draw and open door for England to top group

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      SERBIA have scored a last-gasp header to level the scoring in their crucial Group C match against Slovenia.Veljkovic’s header means that the Serbians’ knockout dreams are still alive.And as a result, a win for England against Denmark would see them top Group C.
      Kick-off time: 2pm BST
      FREE live stream: ITV X
      TV channel: ITV 1
      Slovenia XI: Rajkovic; Veljkovic, Milenkovic, Pavlovic; Zivkovic, Ilic, Lukic, Mladenovic; Tadic; Vlahovic, Mitrovic.
      Serbia XI: Oblak; Karnicnik, Drkusic, Bijol, Janza; Stojanovic, Cerin, Elsnik, Mlakar; Sporar, Sesko.
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL the action from the Allianz Arena with our live blog below…Winner takes all tie in Munich
      Serbia will take on Denmark at the Allianz Arena in their final group game.
      Unless something remarkable happens in their game against England later today, it should be a winner takes all match between the pair to see who progresses.
      This could lead to a brilliant open game of attacking football with both Serbia and Denmark trying to ensure their Euro 2024 campaign does not end early.
      Copy linkCopiedEvenly-matched tie ends all square
      Both teams had periods of the game where they began to dominate.
      We have come to expect more from this Serbian side, as do their fans but they will be revelling in that last-gasp equaliser today.
      Dragan Stojkovic’s side will fancy their chances of getting a positive result against Denmark in their final group game.

      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia still unbeaten in Group C
      With two draws from their first two games, Matjaz Kek’s side have yet to taste defeat.
      They never expected to qualify from the group stage but will reflect on what could have been.
      If they want to do that now, it would require them beating England in their final game.
      Copy linkCopiedHighs and lows of tournament football
      Both teams, and their fans, went through the full range of emotions there.
      The one Slovenia will remember is that stomach turning feeling of conceding with the last kick of the game, seconds away from a first victory in the Euros.
      If either of these teams want to make it out of the group, they still have plenty to do.
      Credit: EPA
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedFT: Slovenia 1-1 Serbia
      Over the duration of the game, you would have to say that the draw was probably a fair result.
      Not that many Slovenian fans will agree with that.
      They were moments away from a memorable victory.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Slovenia 1-1 Serbia
      The referee brings the game to a close.
      Jovic’s header keeps their dream alive of qualifying from the group.
      That late equaliser puts a different spin on the England game later now.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-1 Serbia
      90+6. What drama in the Allianz Arena.
      As the corner is swung in, Jovic angles a glancing header into the bottom corner.
      Slovenia’s players look devastated.
      Copy linkCopiedGoal – Luka Jovic (Serbia)
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      90+4. The pitch is starting to look Glastonbury on the Monday afternoon post-event.
      Serbia’s fans are not happy with losing this one that is for sure.
      Flares are going off behind Oblak’s goal now.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      90+2. It is batten down the hatches time for Slovenia.
      Jovic is shown a yellow card for trying to tear the ball from Slovenian hands.
      As the cross comes in, he tries an elaborate overhead kick but the ball trickles through to Oblak.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      90. Another cross is swung into the box but once again the quality is poor as it runs straight through to Oblak.
      He falls on the ball and looks to take some time out of the game.
      We are going to have five added minutes.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      88. The Serbia fans are launching empty plastic pint glasses at the Slovenia player taking a throw in.
      All of the ground around him looks like most parents’ houses the morning after some crazy house party.
      UEFA should do something about this, it is not what we want to see.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      86. Slovenia are having to deal with a barrage of crosses and shots.
      Oblak punches clear once again and the follow up shot is brilliantly blocked by a sliding challenge.
      This is great defending from the Slovenians.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      84. Serbia win a free kick deep in the Slovenia half.
      Chance to put a dangerous cross into the box for Mitrovic.
      Oblak gets a glancing fingertip to it and almost sends it towards his own goal.
      Credit: AFP
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      82. Samardzic tries his luck from the edge of the box.
      It is not a million miles away from the far post but Oblak had it covered all the way.
      Slovenia are having to withstand some pressure now.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      80. Serbia continue to pass the ball around, patiently trying to create something.
      As we saw in the Croatia game yesterday, these games can change in a matter of minutes if your concentration levels drop.
      Stojkovic makes another couple of changes in their desperate search for a goal.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      78. Time is starting to run out for Dragan Stojkovic’s side.
      For Slovenia, it is all about game management now.
      Holding onto the ball and making Serbia chase the game.
      Karnicnik shoots from outside the box but it goes narrowly wide of the far post.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      76. Slovenia make some changes to try and hold onto their lead.
      Serbia continue to pepper the box with crosses but they just cannot find the back of the net.
      As Slovenia break once again, they have Serbia stretched but the keeper manages to retrieve the ball.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      74. What a result this would be for Matjaz Kek’s side.
      It would put them within touching distance of the knockout phase.
      Serbia are awarded a free in a dangerous position outside the box.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      72. What a chance for Serbia to equalise.
      As the ball is swung in, it falls perfectly to Mitrovic six yards from goal.
      He hits it on the half volley but it takes the slightest of deflections off the goalscorer, thunders against the crossbar and comes back out into play.
      Credit: EPA
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 1-0 Serbia
      70. It was a great ball into the back post and right back got enough of a contact to send it into the bottom corner.
      That goal really opens this match up now.
      Serbia need to throw bodies forward now if they are going to find two goals to win this game.
      Copy linkCopiedGoal – Zan Karnicnik (Slovenia)
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 0-0 Serbia
      68. Stojanovic makes a great little run into the box.
      He goes down under a challenge, looking to the referee for a decision.
      As the replay shows, he went down a little too easily there and the referee agreed.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 0-0 Serbia
      66. This is officially the longest we have gone without a goal in the game at Euro 2024.
      Not the sort of record either of these teams want to be associated with.
      Drajon Stojkovic is start to look more and more frustrated on the sideline.
      Copy linkCopiedSlovenia 0-0 Serbia
      64. Both teams opt to make some changes.
      Slovenia come on the attack but Stojanovic is dispossessed on the edge of the box.
      Serbia counter and Mitrovic fires a shot off well over the crossbar, much to the irritation of his manager.
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      in Soccer

      Germany 2-0 Hungary LIVE RESULT- Euro 2024: Gundogan and Musiala strike as the hosts sail into knockout stages

      by

      GERMANY have become the first team to advance to the Euro 2024 Last 16 after beating Hungary 2-0!Ilkay Gundogan and Jamal Musiala scored sublime goals to send the hosts through.Hungary are not mathematically out just yet and must beat Scotland in their final group clash to have any hope.
      Kick off time: 5pm BST
      TV channel: BBC One
      FREE live stream: BBC iPlayer
      Germany team: Neuer; Kimmich, Rudiger, Tah, Mittelstadt; Andrich, Kroos; Musiala, Gundogan, Wirtz; Havertz
      Hungary team: Gulacsi; Fiola, Orban, Dardai; Bolla, Nagy, Schafer, Kerkez; Sallai, Szoboszlai, Varga
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow our live blog below…Germany on their A game
      Host nation Germany are the first team to book a place in the knockout stage after back-to-back wins.
      Die Mannschaft sit top of Group A with six points while Hungary must beat Scotland in their final fixture to have any hope of sneaking through.

      Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Stuttgart Arena
      Toni Kroos completed 124 passes in Germany’s 2-0 win over Hungary, the second most on record by a midfielder in European Championship game.
      The Real Madrid star sits only behind Xavi’s 127 successful passes for Spain against the Republic of Ireland at EURO 2012.
      Kroos’ 47 line breaking passes were at least 30 more than any other player in this match.

      Copy linkCopiedFull time – Germany 2-0 Hungary
      And in the end…
      …the Germans won.
      They weren’t as cut-throat and goal-crazy as they were against Scotland, but the host nation once again showed their class to see off a committed Hungary side.
      Goals in either half from Jamal Musiala and Ilkay Gundogan did the business, and Julian Nagelsmann can rest in the knowledge that they have sealed their path into the Last 16.

      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
      90. Hungary almost pull one back with seconds remaining!
      Martin Adam flattens Manuel Neuer, leading to the ball dropping into the path of Willie Orban.
      The centre-back sends an instinctive header goalwards, only for it to be cleared off the line by the recovering Kimmich.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary – Mittelstadt yellow card
      88. Fantasy football players around the globe unleash a volley of expletives at their televisions as popular pick Maximilian Mittelstadt is yellow carded for tripping Kleinheisler.
      An unnecessary caution in so many ways.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
      85. With five minutes remaining, I think both teams have given up on what was such a competitive match for so long – this is meandering towards a 2-0 result.
      Niclas Fullkrug tries to change all that with an effort at goal that sails well wide.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
      83. As much as I hate VAR, I think I hate the extension to five substitutes even more as a flowing football killer.
      Brighton reserve Deniz Undav is on now, taking over the terrific Ilkay Gundogan.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
      81. By the way, I missed it in the excitement of looking up group permutations, but Hungary have brought on lumberjack and social media favourite Martin Adam.
      The towering striker is on along with Zsolt Nagy for the final stages, Milos Kerkez and Bendeguz Bolla making way.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
      79. If Chris Fuhrich wants to strengthen his claims as a professional football then he might want to do better than this.
      In space on the left with plenty of time, the substitute swerves a wayward shot away from goal and towards the corner flag.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
      77. Sane wants a goal to strengthen his first team claims.
      He had one snapshot saved a couple of minutes ago, and now puts another effort wide.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
      75. Germany are quarter of an hour away from sealing their place in the Last 16, an outcome made possible by Albania’s 2-2 draw with Croatia earlier.
      If you want to know the mathematical reasons why, message either M. Platini or A. Ceferin at the Home of Football, Nyon.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
      73. Hungary have been rocked by that second German goal, and the hosts are in no mood to let them off the hook.
      Kimmich goes close again with a thunderous effort that calls Gulacsi into action.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary – Germany double substitution
      71. Jamal Musiala comes off to a tremendous reception.
      The scorer of Die Mannschaft’s opening goal is withdrawn along with Robert Andrich, and on come Emre Can and Chris Fuhrich.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
      69. Kimmich almost makes it three with a thunderous cross-shot on the run down the right.
      To be honest, the defender would have done better to pick Fullkrug out in the middle, and the substitutes wastes no time in letting him know as much.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
      67. It’s two! It’s Ilkay Gundogan! It’s fantastic!
      The German captain finishes off a flowing move, sweeping home with his left foot after wonderful work from Maximilian Mittelstadt on the left.
      Jamal Musiala feeds the defender bursting down the wing, and he centres low for Gundogan to beat Peter Gulacsi in style.
      Germany are heading for two wins from two.

      Copy linkCopiedCaptain fantastic!

      Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary – Hungary substitution
      64. A first change for the Hungarians with Laszlo Kleinheisler coming on for Adam Nagy.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
      62. Musiala shoots wide following some German attacking that has been few and far between in the second period.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
      60. Great chance for Varga! Over!
      Oh, the forward has passed up Hungary’s best opportunity of the game!
      Szoboszlai sent a lovely cross over from the left, Varga got the better of Tah, but the striker put his header back across goal and over the Neuer’s crossbar.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary – Germany double substitution
      58. Julian Nagelsmann is the first coach to make changes.
      The German removes attackers Kai Havertz and Florian Wirtz, but don’t get too comfortable, Hungary fans.
      On come Leroy Sane and Niclas Fullkrug.

      Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
      56. Some robust defending from Tah puts the ball out of play, sends Szoboszlai to the floor, and draws a standing ovation from the fans on the near side.
      You can have all the fancy football you like, but supporters still enjoy an old-fashioned heavy tackle.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
      54. Great reactions from Gulacsi!
      The Hungary goalkeeper pushes out a fizzed cross from the left, and then picks himself up to parry Kroos’ half-volley follow-up.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
      52. The game is beginning to open up.
      After Kimmich and co. stand up to the latest Hungary attack, the Germans almost pull open their opponents on the counter.
      The old maestro Toni Kroos is pulling the strings.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
      50. Hungary are showing a little more attacking intent at the start of the second half.
      They realise a second defeat would leave them with a huge uphill task in Group A.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
      48. Each of the German defence take turns in forgetting how to kick a football following a throw in across their own goal.
      There were shades of Italy’s start against Albania there, although no Hungarian player was able to take advantage.
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      Scotland vs Switzerland LIVE RESULT: Tartan Army secure vital point but left to rue missed chances – latest updates

      by

      SCOTLAND drew with Switzerland in their second group game at Euro 2024. Scott McTominay opened the scoring via a deflection off Newcastle defender Fabian Schar to send the Scotland end into bedlam. But ex-Prem cult hero Xherdan Shaqiri equalised with a brilliant goal, curling in from outside of the box.
      Kick-off time: 8pm BST
      Stream/TV: BBC One/BBC iPlayer
      Scotland XI: Gunn; Ralston, Hendry, Hanley, Tierney; Robertson, McGinn, McGregor, Gilmour, McTominay; Adams
      Switzerland XI: Sommer; Widmer, Akanji, Schar; Rodriguez, Freuler, Xhaka, Ndoye; Vargas, Aebischer, Shaqiri
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThat’s all from Cologne
      Day six of Euro 2024 is over – but Scotland’s campaign is not.
      Steve Clarke’s men and the Tartan Army are still dreaming of the knockout stage after a battling 1-1 draw against Switzerland.
      The Scots’ first point of the Championship has them in third place ahead of Hungary, who they play on Sunday in Stuttgart; win and they have a great chance of making it to the Last 16.
      Attention turns to England tomorrow with the Three Lions facing Denmark in Frankfurt at 5pm.
      We’ll be back with all the action plus live coverage of Slovenia verus Serbia, and Spain against Italy.
      See you then. Goodnight,

      Copy linkCopiedScotland showing brings rare Clarke smile
      It’s not often that Steve Clarke affords himself a laugh and a joke with a pitchside reporter, but the Scotland head coach was all smiles with Eilidh Barbour as he analysed his side’s draw with Switzerland.
      We didn’t turn up in the first game, but we’re a good team when we play. You have to put the first game off as a really bad night. Tonight we were determined to make sure we went pressing, after the ball and higher up the pitch. And it was against a very good Switzerland side, I have to say.Steve ClarkeBBC

      Copy linkCopiedShaq back to punish Scotland
      Fans and followers of Scotland are rightly praising a much-improved performance, but know deep down that it could have been so much better had Anthony Ralston’s misplaced pass not fallen at the feet of Xherdan Shaqiri.
      The 32-year-old was back in the Switzerland side this evening, and rolled back the years with an incredible finish just inside the top left corner of Angus Gunn’s goal.
      In scoring, Shaqiri has become the only European player to have scored in each of the last six major tournaments since the 2014 World Cup.
      And by netting in those, the former Stoke and Liverpool star has scored in twice as many competitions as any other Swiss player in history,

      Copy linkCopiedRobertson: Performance more like us
      Scotland captain Andy Robertson saluted his teammates for the committed showing they put in, just five days after their mauling in Munich.
      The Liverpool defender admitted that Switzerland had their chances, but insisted he was delighted with the intensity and intent the Scots showed across 90 minutes.
      That was much more like us. We were aggressive, on the front foot and couldn’t have got off to a better start. We had our chances but so did they.Andy RobertsonBBC Sport

      Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Cologne Stadium
      The very essence of a tight contest.

      Copy linkCopiedRejuvenated Scots make their point
      Scotland are off the mark in Group A with a hard-fought point against the Swiss, and now have a huge opportunity when they play Hungary next; win that and they could likely qualify in third place.
      Credit: uefa.com
      Copy linkCopiedFull time – Scotland 1-1 Switzerland
      It’s all over in Cologne!
      A intense, nail-biting 90 minutes comes to a close; Scotland are bruised and battered, but still alive.
      Steve Clarke affords himself a fist bump before embracing counterpart Murat Yakin, and the mission is now clear: beat Hungary.

      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      90+2. Scotland are pushing hard in stoppage time, but the ball just won’t fall kindly for them.
      A Robertson header across the face of the goal has a nation on its feet, but nobody in blue can get themselves on the end of it.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      90. Amdoui gets up and must score! Wide!
      Rieder’s free-kick from the right is met by the perfect fun of the Swiss substitute, who looks certain to head in a last-minute winner.
      Somehow, it bounces up and wide of the far post with Angus Gunn stranded.
      A huge moment at the end of his contest!

      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      88. Robertson fouls Rieder on the near touchline, and Switzerland have the opportunity to pack the penalty area.
      The Scotland fans inside the stadium can’t bare to look.

      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland – Switzerland double substitution
      86. That’s the end of the night for Dan Ndoye, who departs with four shots and a disallowed goal to his name.
      Also off is Silvan Widmer with Burnley forward Zeki Amdouni on along with defender Leonidas Stergiou.
      Copy linkCopied Scotland 1-1 Switzerland – Sierro yellow card
      84. Che Adams has been on the receiving end of a few kicks this evening, and this latest one leaves him sprawled out on the pitch.
      It earns Swiss midfielder Vincent Sierro a yellow card.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      82. Breel Embolo breaks through from halfway, and finishes beautifully over Angus Gunn!
      But the flag is up on the near side and the striker’s celebrations are cut short.
      The immediate consensus was that the sub had gone too early, but – once again – replays show the decision was much closer than first assumed.
      It would have been cruel on Scotland, especially as it came seconds after Scott McTominay’s volley in the other box had been blocked at close quarters.

      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      80. Into the final ten minutes, and this is so finely poised.
      One moment of magic could win it.
      More worryingly, one lapse in concentration could lose it.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      78. Dan Ndoye tries his luck again, but he’s no closer to finding the target. If anything, his shots are getting further away.
      Still, the forward is a constant danger, and cannot be afforded such space.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      76. McKenna fouls again. The sub will have to be careful considering his earlier booking.
      Meanwhile, Gilmour gets up inside the area for a cross, but comes off second best in his duel with Schar.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland – Switzerland double substitution
      74. A double change for the Swiss.
      Off goes the dangerous Ruben Vargas and midfielder Remo Freuler. The duo are replaced by Vincent Sierro and Fabian Rieder.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland – McGinn yellow card
      72. Now John McGinn goes into Ivan Kruzliak’s book.
      The midfielder is cautioned for leaving one on Fabian Schar after the Swiss defender sent a long ball upfield.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      70. Euro 2024 has been brilliant so far. Six days packed full of thrilling games, wonderful football and outstanding goals.
      But on the whole, the set-pieces have been rubbish.
      Andy Robertson is the latest culprit, faltering again with another right-wing corner.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland – McKenna yellow card
      69. Scotland substitute Scott McKenna goes into the book for fouling Breel Embolo.
      It’s an unsteady start for the defender, but at least stopped what could have resulted in a swift Swiss counter.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      67. Hanley heads against the post!
      Robertson’s free-kick on this occasion is perfect, floated perfectly into the six-yard box where Hanley had wrestled from Schar.
      The defender only had to keep it on target to score but instead helps it on to the woodwork.
      Was that the moment?
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      65. Scott McTominay beats Manuel Akanji to the ball just to the right of the Switzerland penalty area, and wins a free-kick in a dangerous position.
      Victory to United in the Manchester derby.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      63. Scotland need to refocus themselves on the job at hand.
      Still adjusting to Tierney’s injury, they find themselves up against it as Vargas skips inside from the left wing and smashes wide with his right foot.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland – Scotland and Switzerland substitutions
      61. Scott McKenna is on in place of the stricken Tierney and will slot into the back three.
      Meanwhile, another player who knows about distressing injuries is Breel Embolo.
      The striker, out for most of last season after rupturing his ACL, is on for goalscorer Xherdan Shaqiri.
      Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
      60. It’s a sad sight for Scotland, and for football fans everywhere.
      Kieran Tierney departs the pitch on a stretcher with his hands covering his face, visibly distraught at his setback.
      It’s the latest in a long line of injury concerns for such a classy performer, and he is surely set for another spell on the sidelines.

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      in Soccer

      Germany vs Hungary LIVE SCORE – Euro 2024: Kai Havertz STARTING as hosts look to close in on Last 16 – latest updates

      by

      GERMANY are taking on Hungary in their second game of Euro 2024 RIGHT NOW!The hosts hammered Scotland 5-1 to lay down a marker to their European rivals.Meanwhile, Hungary were beaten 3-1 by Switzerland in their first match of the tournament.Germany could secure qualification to the last-16 of Euro 2024 with a win in Stuttgart this afternoon.
      Kick off time: 5pm BST
      TV channel: BBC One
      FREE live stream: BBC iPlayer
      Germany team: Neuer; Kimmich, Rudiger, Tah, Mittelstadt; Andrich, Kroos; Musiala, Gundogan, Wirtz; Havertz
      Hungary team: Gulacsi; Fiola, Orban, Dardai; Bolla, Nagy, Schafer, Kerkez; Sallai, Szoboszlai, Varga
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow our live blog below…Germany 0-0 Hungary
      7. Szoboszlai’s inswinger did hit the first man, but Hungary somehow kept the opportunity alive.
      It’s switched across the area to Bolla, whose shot is deflected behind for another corner.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 0-0 Hungary
      5. Hungary force the first corner of the game, and all eyes turn to Dominik Szoboszlai.
      The captain can fire in a mean set-piece when he’s not putting them straight at the first man/defensive wall.
      Copy linkCopiedGermany 0-0 Hungary
      3. Up the other end, and Kai Havertz tries to make room for himself in the box – only to find himself crowded out by four quick-thinking Hungarians.
      Scotland should probably have tried some of that.
      Copy linkCopiedKick-off – Germany v Hungary
      1. It’s the host nation that get us underway, playing in their flamboyant changed strip of pink and purple.
      And they almost make the perfect argument for complacency after Friday night’s breeze in Munich.
      A loose header has the defence in trouble, and it needs some alert reactions from old man Neuer in nets to deny Roland Sallai an extremely early goal.
      Copy linkCopiedHere come the two teams!
      It’s been an exhilarating afternoon in and around the stadium with the two sets of fans creating an incredible atmosphere.
      But now it’s the turn of the players.
      Led out by captains Ilkay Gundogan and Dominik Szoboszlai lead out their respective countries, matchday two in Group A is now just moments away.
      Dutchman Danny Desmond Makkelie is the man in charge, and kick-off comes next.
      Copy linkCopiedLive from the Stuttgart Arena
      Andy Dillon is our man in the stadium this evening, and he’s been in touch ahead of kick-off to tell us…
      Seven of Hungary’s starting XI here either play in Germany or have done.
      That is how close the connection is between these two nations.
      Germany has struggled in recent years against their near neighbours from the east.
      They are winless in three matches against the so-called Magyars. Coinciding with a lean spell for the Germans all round.
      The atmosphere is pumped in the sun. Germany will be wearing pink and the replica shirts stand out in the crowd on a warm early evening.
      Copy linkCopiedMannschaft sharing the goals around
      All five of Germany’s goals against Scotland in their opening game were scored by different players – Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, Kai Havertz, Niclas Fullkrug and Emre Can.
      It’s already two more different goalscorers than they had in the entirety of Euro 2020 (3), while only in 1996 (6), 2016 (6), and 2012 (8) have they had more in a single edition of these finals.

      Copy linkCopiedVarga the danger for Magyars
      There’s no doubting where Hungary’s attacking threat lies.
      Twenty-nine-year-old Barnabas Varga has scored seven goals in just nine starts for the Magyars in all competitions.
      The striker could become only the second player to score in both of his first two European Championship appearances for the nation, following in the footsteps after Ferenc Bene in 1964.

      Copy linkCopiedSensational scenes at the Stuttgart Arena
      There may still be 25 minutes until kick-off, but the atmosphere inside the Stuttgart Arena something else.
      Fans of the hosts and Hungary have had this place packed out for the past hour, and now can’t wait for the action to get underway.

      Copy linkCopiedWriting off the Germans?
      More like the writing on the wall.
      After beating Scotland 5-1 on Friday night, Germany are looking to win both of their opening two matches at a European Championship tournament for the fifth time.
      They did so previously in 1972, 1980, 1996, and 2012, eventually going on to win the competition in three of those instances; they only failed to do so in 2012, losing out to Italy in the semi-finals.
      Prevail this evening, and the rest of Europe may as well pack up and go home.
      Copy linkCopiedGoals guaranteed when pair meet
      This afternoon’s Stuttgart showdown will be the fourth encounter between Germany and Hungary at a major tournament.
      They pair met twice at the 1954 World Cup with the Hungarians – Puskas et al – triumphing 8-3 in the group stages.
      However, West Germany got their revenge on the biggest stage, prevailing 3-2 in the tournament’s final.
      They countries also played in the group stages of EURO 2020, battling out an exciting 2-2 draw at the Allianz Arena.
      Copy linkCopiedRossi shakes up Hugary defence
      Hungary were pulled apart by Switzerland in the first half at the Cologne Stadium on Saturday, and so it’s no surprise that Marco Rossi makes a couple of changes.
      Adam Lang and Attila Szalai drop out of the defence with Bendeguz Bolla and Marton Dardai coming in; Bolla may operate on the right with Attila Fiola moving back into the centre.

      Hungary (3-4-3): 1 Gulacsi; 5 Fiola, 6 Orban, 24 Dardai; 14 Bolla, 8 A. Nagy, 13 Schafer, 11 Kerkez; 20 Sallai 19 Varga, 10 Szoboszlai
      Subs: 12 Dibusz, 22 Szappanos, 2 Lang, 3 Balogh, 4 Szalai, 7 Nego, 9 Adam, 15 Kleinheisler, 16 Gazdag, 17 Styles, 18 Z. Nagy, 21 Botka, 23 Csoboth, 25 Horváth, 26 Kata
      Credit: @MLSZhivatalos on X
      Copy linkCopiedGermany unchanged for Hungary test
      Julian Nagelsmann sticks with the same XI that started against the Scots on Friday.
      Arsenal’s Kai Havertz leads the line, Ilkay Gundogan captains the team and Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala will be out to impress again in attack.

      Germany (4-2-3-1): 1 Neuer; 6 Kimmich, 2 Rüdiger, 4 Tag, 18 Mittelstadt; 23 Andrich, 8 Kroos; 10 Musiala, 21 Gundogan, 17 Wirtz; 7 Havertz
      Subs: 12 Baumann, 22 Ter Stegan, 3 Raum, 5 Gross, 9 Fullkrug, 11 Fuhrich, 13 Muller, 14 Beier, 15 Schlotterbeck, 16 Anton, 19 Sane, 20 Henrichs, 24 Koch, 25 Can, 26 Undav
      Credit: @@DFB_Team on X
      Copy linkCopiedMannschaft making the running
      It didn’t take hosts Germany long to find themselves at the top of Group A.
      Their 5-1 opening night thumping of Scotland has marked them down as the ones to watch this summer, and they could essentially seal their spot in the knockout stages with another success today.
      As for Hungary, they disappointed against the Swiss, and will be eager to show some of the ability that had them being talked up pre-tournament as a side capable of upsetting the big boys.
      Credit: uefa.com
      Copy linkCopiedGood afternoon from Stuttgart
      Welcome to live SunSport coverage of Germany against Hungary at Euro 2024.

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      in Soccer

      Croatia 2-2 Albania LIVE RESULT – Modric and Co’s Euro 2024 hopes hang by a thread after gruelling draw – updates

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      CROATIA’S Euro 2024 knockout stage qualification hopes are hanging by a thread after being held to a chaotic draw by Albania.Luca Modric and Co were stunned when they saw Qazim Laci sneak in behind their defence before nodding Albania ahead.But Andrej Kramaric’s tidy finish followed by a calamitous own goal saw Croatia close in on three crucial points.Until Klaus Gjasula scored an equaliser in the dying minutes of stoppage time.
      RESULT: Croatia 2-2 Albania
      FREE live stream: ITVX
      TV channel: ITV1
      Croatia XI: Livakovic, Juranovic, Sutalo, Gvardiol, Perisic, Modric, Brozovic, Kovacic, Majer, Petkovic, Kramaric
      Albania XI: Strakosha, Hysaj, Ajeti, Djimsiti, Mitaj, Ramadani, Asllani, Laçi, Asani, Manaj, Bajrami
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL the action from The Volksparkstadion with our live blog below…Good result for group favourites
      Both Spain and Italy will be pleased to see a draw in this game.
      While they play each other tomorrow, that result aside, it means that both Croatia and Albania would need to pull off unlikely victories.
      For Albania, this result is a huge positive but Croatia are facing the harsh reality of an early exit.
      Copy linkCopiedFalcons pick off their prey
      Albania have left Croatia feeling like they have suffered defeat there.
      Having worked so hard to turn the game around, the late equaliser from Gjasula left the ‘Checkered Ones’ dead on their feet.
      The Falcons meanwhile, have shown in this tournament that they are nobody’s pushovers.
      Credit: AP
      Credit: AP
      Credit: AFP
      Copy linkCopiedHamburg serves up meaty battle
      What a game of football we were treated to there.
      In different phases of the game, both of these sides were brilliant and looked sure to go on and dominate the game.
      However, we just saw how a game of football can change in an instant.

      Copy linkCopiedSome players cannot be replaced
      When Luka Modric steps away from international football, he will leave a huge hole in this Croatian side.
      Even at the age of 38-years-old, he continuously pulls the strings for Croatia.
      His vision, passing and composure was key for them to get back into this game and almost win it.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Croatia 2-2 Albania
      This is what tournament football is all about.
      Albania deservedly led before Croatia completely turned the game on its head in a matter of minutes.
      Deep into added time, The Falcons score to leave Croatian fans feeling sick to their stomach.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Croatia 2-2 Albania
      The referee brings a dramatic game to a close.
      Both sides had chances to win this after the equaliser late on.
      What a game of football we have witnessed.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-2 Albania
      90+6. Wow. Wow. Wow.
      What drama we are seeing in Hamburg.
      Albania continue to pressure and Broja does well down the left flank to get a cross into the box.
      Gjasula arrives at the edge of the box to slot home and make ammends for his earlier own goal.
      Copy linkCopiedGoal – Klaus Gjasula (Albania)
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      90+4. Wow. Seferi has two gilt-edged chances to score.
      The first is blocked by the defender but as the ball comes back to the Albanian, he blazes his effort over the bar.
      Croatia breath a sigh of relief.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      90+2. Weirdly, the fourth official changes the added time to six minutes.
      The keeper has been receiving treatment for a phantom injury and now has his nose plugged with dressing.
      However, looking at the replay, there was no contact with his head from the Albanian player whatsoever.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      90. If Croatia can hold onto this result, it will leave them with an intriguing last game against Italy.
      Albania get a shot in from the edge of the box but Likakovic makes a good stop.
      The Falcons are first to the follow up but once again the keeper gets a touch as the ball goes over the bar.
      No corner for Albania as the assistant raises his flag for offside.
      We are going to have five added minutes.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      88. Modric rides a challenge and looks to drill one from outside the box.
      He drags it wide of the far post with the keeper at full stretch.
      Time is running out now for the Albanians.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      86. Albania are starting to dominate possession now.
      As they look for a goal that could give them something from this game, Croatia are looking to hit them on the counter.
      The Falcons’ fans look dejected in the stands.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      84. Perisic and Kramaric come off for Croatia.
      They are replaced by Baturina and Sosa.
      Albania are having to throw caution to the wind now.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      82. Albania just do not have enough bodies in the final third whenever they come forward.
      They are not set up tactically to chase this game.
      Up until ten minutes ago, they were planning on defending their lead until the finish.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      80. Croatia look a completely different team in this second half.
      Whatever the manager said in the interval has definitely worked.
      The pressure is on Albania to get forward now.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      78. Suddenly Croatia are in pole position once again.
      If they can hold on for victory, they stand a good chance of making it out of the group.
      They are not letting up here and continue to look for another goal.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      76. Croatia have turned this game on its head in a matter of minutes.
      Looking at the replay the ball ricocheted off two Albanian players before ending up in the back of the net.
      Heartbreak for The Falcons.
      Copy linkCopiedOwn Goal – Klaus Gjasula (Albania)
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-1 Albania
      74. Finally Croatia manage to break down the Albanian resistance.
      As Kramaric checks onto his right foot, the defender does that weird thing they do in the modern game.
      He stands side on to the attacker, not looking to tackle him, and the Croatian puts the ball through his legs leaving the keeper unsighted.
      Copy linkCopiedGoal – Andrej Kramaric (Croatia)
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 0-1 Albania
      72. Albania are getting some pivotal last ditch tackles in.
      They are managing to frustrate the Croatians with time running out.
      The goalscorer comes off for Albania, replaced by Gjasula.
      Credit: EPA
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 0-1 Albania
      70. It is an old cliche in football but Albania need to ‘stop the cross’.
      Perisic is getting some dangerous balls in and it seems only a matter of time before Croatia capitalise.
      Modric comes over to take a corner for the Croatians.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 0-1 Albania
      68. Perisic twists and turns out wide before getting a teasing cross in.
      Petkovic meets it with a header but it is not troubling the keeper.
      That is his last action of this game as he is replaced by Budimir.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 0-1 Albania
      66. First sight of goal for Bajrami in this second half.
      He jockeys the defender and gets a shot off at goal but it is well wide.
      As Croatia push forward more now, that break is always on.
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      in Soccer

      Portugal 2-1 Czech Republic LIVE RESULT – Euro 2024: Supersub Conceicao spares Ronaldo and Co’s blushes in frantic clash

      by

      CRISTIANO RONALDO’s Portugal kicked off their Euro 2024 campaign with a late comeback win!Ronaldo started for Portugal and became the first player to appear in six European Championships.But Roberto Martinez’s side needed a 92nd minute winner from super-sub Francisco Conceicao to seal three vital points.
      Kick-off: 8pm BST
      TV channel/ live stream: BBC One/ BBC iPlayer
      Portugal XI: Diogo Costa; Cancelo, Pepe, Dalot, Ruben Dias, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes; Leao, Bernardo Silva, Ronaldo
      Czech Rep XI: Stanek; Holes, Hranac, Krejci; Coufal, Soucek, Provod, Sulc, Doudera; Kuchta, Schick
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThat’s all from Leipzig
      And the end of another dramatic day at Euro 2024.
      We may have only had two matches to enjoy, but they served up stunners and storyline by the bucketload.
      Wins for Portugal and Turkey have them in charge of Group F yet it could all change in the coming days as the tournament takes in Matchday Two.
      We’ll be back for three more matches tomorrow that include a chance for Scotland to make amends for their awful opener when they face Switzerland in Cologne.
      See you then. Goodnight.

      Copy linkCopiedHasek hails ‘dangerous’ old goat
      Czech Republic head coach Ivan Hasek was incredibly disappointed that his young side couldn’t make it through to the final whistle without conceding a winner.
      However, magnanimous in defeat, the 60-year-old took time in his press conference to praise the record-breaking Cristiano Ronaldo, who played and threatened for the whole match at the age of 39.
      It is really unbelievable how dangerous a player Cristiano Ronaldo is in every game at his age. He showed his genius again, he knows how to get involved in chances. My hat goes off to him; he is one of the best players in football history. Truly a fabulous man.Ivan HasekUefa.com

      Copy linkCopiedEuro 2024 going the distance
      Lukás Provod sensational opening goal for the Czech Republic this evening was the 11th scored from outside the box at this European Championship.
      The 11 goals – many of them stunners – is a total just one fewer than the amount of long range efforts scored in the entire group stage at the 2020 finals (12).
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal up and running in F
      They left it late, but Portugal secure a huge three points to move level with Turkey at the top of Group F.
      The frontrunners face each other in Dortmund on Saturday while Czech Republic and Georgia will be hoping to kickstart their campaigns in Hamburg.
      Credit: uefa.com
      Copy linkCopiedConceicao makes his mark
      Francisco Conceicao’s introduction as the clock raised 90 minutes raised eyebrows from many who wanted Roberto Martinez to make attacking alterations much earlier in the game.
      But just 111 seconds later, the Portugal head coach was vindicated and his 21-year-old substitute was in dreamland.
      In the process, Conceicao became the first Portugal player to score as a substitute at the European Championship since Eder’s winner in extra-time of the 2016 final.

      Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Leipzig Stadium
      Czech Republic took the lead when scoring with their only shot on target, but soon succumbed to Portugal and their 707 passes.

      Copy linkCopiedFull time – Portugal 2-1 Czech Republic
      Portugal prevail in a game that came to life in the last half hour.
      For an hour, the Selecao failed to break down the Czech Republic despite plenty of possession, and then were stunned into life by Lukas Provod’s stunner.
      And even then, the Portuguese needed a helping hand to get them going, literally in the case of Jindrich Stanek, who spilled the ball on to his own defender’s shin for an own goal.
      Portugal kept searching for a winner, and eventually it came in dramatic style in stoppage time, young sub Francisco Conceicao thumping in at the near post.

      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 2-1 Czech Republic
      90+4. Lingr has the Leipzig Stadium holding its breath with seconds left on the clock…
      …but before he can loop his header agonisingly wide, he is flagged for offside.
      That will be enough for Portugal.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 2-1 Czech Republic – Conceicao yellow card
      90+3. Twenty-one-year-old substitute Francisco Conceicao was booked for his celebrations in removing his shirt after scoring.
      I don’t think he’s going to care one bit.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 2-1 Czech Republic
      90+2. Unbelievable!
      On the pitch for little over 100 seconds, and young Francisco Conceicao has won it for the Portuguese!
      Another sub in Pedro Neto makes it, bursting down the left, sitting down his marker, and fizzing in a low cross.
      It takes a touch off one defender, and that’s enough to befuddle Robin Hranac.
      The Czech centre-back slips, and inadvertently tees it perfectly into the path of Conceicao, who slams it straight back under Jindrich Stanek.
      What a moment for the youngster!

      Copy linkCopiedWon at the death!

      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic – Portugal triple substitution
      90. The Czechs will have four further minutes to hold on for
      Meanwhile, young Francisco Conceicao is on for his competitive debut in stoppage time as one of three last-gasp Portugal subs.
      Also on for the Selecao are Nelson Semedo and Pedro Neto; off go Joao Cancelo, Nuno Mendes and Vitinha.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic
      87. Ronaldo against the post! Jota header! Goal!
      Portugal have turned it around thanks to their super sub!
      The Portuguese players, fans and staff celebrate wildly but…
      …but…
      …but there is a goal check going on for a possible offside.
      And it doesn’t take long at all with the semi-automated decisions at these finals.
      The goal is chalked off after Ronaldo drifted ahead of his marker as the cross came in from the right.
      We remain all-square at 1-1 with three minutes to go.

      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic
      85. A crunching tackle from Mendes put the ball out play and knocks the wind from the sails of Coufal.
      You don’t get this at the London Stadium, he thinks.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic
      83. It’s been a while since we’ve seen it, but there’s the classic Cristiano tantrum.
      Hands up in the air and then thrown downwards in frustration after he failed to get a pass from his teammate.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic
      81. A half-chance for the Czechs!
      Substitute Sevcik quickly finds himself with room on his left foot in the box, but the snapshot is blocked by Dias.
      Following up, Soucek is off target with the rebound.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic – Czechia double substitution
      79. Another two switches for the Czechs.
      Among those departing is goalscorer Lukas Provod, along with Pavel Sulc.
      The oncoming Petr Sevcik and Antonin Barak will have some work to do in the final ten minutes plus.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic
      77. Vitinha works Stanek again with a fizzer from long range.
      It’s fierce, it’s low and it skids off the surface in front of the Czech goalkeeper, who does the right thing in turning it behind.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic
      75. Many of these Czech players are flagging, and that’s unsurprising given how much of the game they have played out of possession.
      Quarter of an hour remains.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic
      73. A welcome moment for Stanek, who shows a safe pair of hands in dealing with a Bernardo Silva effort.
      The goalkeeper has done well this evening, but will undoubtedly dwell on that single error.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic
      71. The own goal may be just the inspiration that Portugal needed.
      From looking flat after the Czech opener, the Selecao have a new lease of life, pouring forward at every opportunity.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 1-1 Czech Republic
      69. The Czech Republic lead did not last long – and they only have themselves to blame.
      Nuno Mendes heads down a right-wing cross at the far post, and it should be meat and drink for Jindrich Stanek.
      However, the goalkeeper fails to grasps the ball fully in the wet conditions, instead pushing it up and on to the shin of the unwitting Robin Hranac.
      The ball bounces up off the defender, over Stanek and into the inviting net.
      Level in Leipzig!

      Copy linkCopiedAll square!

      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 0-1 Czech Republic
      67. Among the Portuguese fans in the stadium, we may have just seen the first tears of Euro 2024. Somewhat premature.
      Meanwhile, Provod’s goal was already the 11th from outside the penalty area at these finals.
      Copy linkCopiedPortugal 0-1 Czech Republic – Portugal double substitution
      64. Roberto Martinez responds to the goal with a double change of his own.
      Liverpool Diogo Jota and Goncalo Inacio are on for Rafa Laeo and Diogo Dalot.
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