Former Bayern Munich boss and current German national team manager Julian Nagelsmann knew taking down Hungary would not be easy.
During Germany’s 2-0 victory, the manager was proven correct, but he did want to credit his team’s solid play and perseverance for helping be deciding factors against a rugged group of Hungarians.
“There were moments we had to persevere, but that’s a process of maturing. In October, we wouldn’t have won the match today 2-0. On this level, you have to remain stable. They were a very uncomfortable opponent, but we remained stable in most situations. You have to win a match like this first, and we managed to do that,” Nagelsmann said (as captured by @iMiaSanMia). “The fan walk went past our hotel, it was very loud in the stadium – that just gives you a good feeling. That helps us, which is hard to believe because we have such incredibly experienced and successful players, but it does something with you. It moves you. It’s our task to let the fans keep dreaming.”
Now, Nagelsmann will lead his boys into the knockout round. Part one of this mission has been accomplished, but there is still a long way to go for the team to get where it really wants to me.
Looking for more thoughts and analysis on Germany’s big EURO 2024 win over Hungary? Then check out our Bavarian Podcast Works — Postgame Show on Spotify or below: