Germany secured qualification for the knockout stage of their home Euros, after a 2-0 win over Hungary. Jamal Musiala scored again but, though comfortable in the end, Germany had to work hard for their win.

With spirits high and flags fluttering around the stadium in Stuttgart, expectations were higher for Germany than they’ve been for some time as their second match of Euro 2024 kicked off. But goalkeeper Manuel Never was called to action within thirty seconds, as the Germany defense failed to deal with a simple long ball.

The nervy start continued, with even Toni Kroos, normally so flawless, misplacing a pass in midfield that allowed Hungary another chance, eventually blocked by Joshua Kimmich.

Soon though, the hosts hit their stride, and eventually got the opener. Jamal Musiala, the only man to score twice in the tournament so far, lashed in from close range after a mixup between two of Hungary’s Bundesliga contingent, Peter Gulacsi and Willi Orban, both of RB Leipzig.

Never was called into action again soon after halftime, clawing out a Dominik Szoboszlai freekick from the top corner. While they had plenty of the ball, and spells where they looked dangerous, Germany continued to give up chances after the break, without making many of their own. Coach Julian Nagelsmann was concerned enough to