Krisztian Nemeth and the Hungary Men’s National Team defeated Finland 1-0 on Saturday in a 2016 UEFA Euro qualifier. With the win, the Magyars solidified their third-place position in Group F and moved within a point of second-place Northern Ireland.
Similar to last week’s friendly win over Lithuania, Nemeth began on the bench for Hungary and entered the match at halftime. The Sporting KC striker provided an immediate spark for the visitors, nearly putting Hungary ahead only moments after the break.
In the 52nd minute, the reigning MLS Player of the Month received a pass behind the Finland defense and chipped goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky. The goal was not to be, however, as D.C. United defender Markus Halsti raced back to clear the ball off the line and deny Nemeth.
With both teams needing a result to remain in contention for a spot in next year’s European Championship, the second half featured a slew of chances for both sides. The visitors broke the deadlock in the 82nd minute with Hamburger SV striker Zoltan Stieber scoring his second international goal. The 26-year-old striker rocketed a poor clearance past two defenders and Hradecky for the game’s lone goal.
Hungary is looking to qualify for its first European Championship since 1972. The top two teams from each group automatically qualify for the tournament. The third place team with the highest point total also qualifies for the tournament with the remaining third place teams advancing to a playoff round. The next round of Euro qualifying will take place in September with Hungary hosting Romania on September 4 and traveling to Belfast to take on Northern Ireland on September 7.
Saturday’s appearance was Nemeth’s 17th for Hungary and his first in Euro qualifying. Nemeth will now return to Kansas City ahead of Sporting KC’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match on Tuesday against USL side St. Louis FC. Limited tickets for the match are available and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or by calling 888-4KC-GOAL.
