Collective competence can remind Hungary of golden history

It has been a qualifying stage for the underdogs, with the likes of Iceland and Albania both booking tickets to France, and Hungary (11/2 to defeat the Norwegians by 1-0 again) will be eager to join their fellow outsiders in reaping rewards for hard graft.

“We are a strong team. Now we just have to show that in Hungary, too”, centurion and custodian Gabor Kiraly told press, after being key to keeping a clean sheet in his 100th cap against Norway.

Magical Magyars mix of evergreen industry and exuberance

Centre back stalwarts still in the squad, Roland Juhasz and Vilmos Vanczak, are two who join Kiraly and Gera in the top 10 for all-time appearances, yet there is also a balance on this roster, attributed to a sprinkling of youth.

Poland-based Tamas Kadar and home hopes Attila Fiola and Adam Lang were three of a stout back four that shut-out Norway, all aged 25 and under.

While, goal hero Laszlo Kleinheisler, whose long-range rocket shocked the Scandinavians on home soil is just 21 and a real hope for the future. The midfielder, dubbed “[Paul] Scholes” by teammates, bagged on his international bow, with a strike the Ginger Prince would have been proud of.

View Kleinheisler’s goal below:

“It was a sensational experience,” Kleinheisler, who plays for club side Videoton, told media. “I was given an opportunity and I took advantage.”

Hungary will need a little more of that inspirational stardust if they are to cement safe passage to the finals, with more attacking verve required in addition to their currently successful policy of containment. Watch this space.

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