Two nations celebrating Euro 2024 qualification as group winners, Hungary and Turkey, will lock horns in a friendly on Friday at the Puskas Arena in Budapest.
Hungary’s Impressive Run:
The hosts, Hungary, have been in scintillating form. Unbeaten in their Euro 2024 qualifiers, they topped their group with 18 points and 16 goals.
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This impressive run continues under Marco Rossi’s management, with Hungary winning nine, drawing five, and losing just two of their last 16 internationals.
Victories over Serbia (twice), England, and Germany highlight their capabilities. They are undefeated in their last seven home matches and boast two wins against Turkey on their own soil (aggregate score 5-1).
Turkey’s Positive Start Under Montella:
Turkey, under new boss Vincenzo Montella, secured their Euro 2024 qualification by finishing first in their group, ahead of Croatia and Wales.
Montella has enjoyed a promising start, winning three and drawing one in his first four games, including a crucial Euro 2024 qualification victory and a memorable 3-2 friendly win over Germany.
Despite their recent success, they haven’t defeated Hungary in their last four meetings.
Montella has a wealth of young, attacking but inexperienced talent at his disposal. Can Uzun has been called up for the first time and the manager will be keen on seeing how he settles into the team.
Kenan Yildiz and Arda Guler are also available, Bournemouth striker Enes Unal is also back after a length injury.
Montella has so many players to pick from that he will be looking at these friendlies to work out his strongest side and which players work best together.
Head-to-Head:
While both teams qualified for Euro 2024 as group winners, their recent head-to-head record favors Hungary.
They’ve won the last three encounters (between 1995 and 2007) and haven’t lost to Turkey in their last two home meetings. However, Turkey will be looking to break this trend and end their winless streak against Hungary.
A Look Ahead:
Friday’s friendly will be a fascinating clash between two in-form nations preparing for Euro 2024. Hungary’s home advantage and recent dominance over Turkey make them slight favorites. However, Montella’s Turkey will be determined to prove their potential and secure a positive result.
