Slovakia
Slovakia frustrated at times this tournament but they also showed some great attacking movements and individual moments of quality. However, too many times they stepped back and invited teams onto them, which is understandable when defending a 1-goal lead against Russia in the last ten minutes. But totally unforgivable when they did it for 90 minutes against England to gain a point.
They were however outclassed against Germany in the knockout stages, something which was bound to happen.
Star Man: Marek Hamsik
It was always going to be Marek Hamsik, you do wonder how their tournament could have panned out had Ben Davies not blocked the Napoli man’s effort off the line early Vs Wales. But he can be happy with his performances overall despite the fact he was shackled by a system that wouldn’t let him flourish.
Best Moment: Marek Hamsik goal vs Russia.
Again the Napoli man showed his talent to score from the narrowest of angles to set his side up for the 3 points, and their only win of the tournament. If only he was allowed to do this more often.
Overall Grade: C-
Hungary
After a credible campaign in the group stage, many pundits saw Hungary as a dark horse to progress into the latter stages of the tournament. However, they were undone by a Belgium side who decided they wanted to play nice with each other on the day.
So while they can be impressed with the progress they made they should also be looking at ways to improve the side they have at the moment as it is showing clear signs of ageing. But nevertheless conceding 4 goals in a tournament match is embarrassing and it’s back to the drawing board for them.
Star man: Balazs Dzsudzsak
The Bursaspor man was the top scorer for Hungary with 2 goals. Although both came in the one match his contribution to the side can’t be underplayed. Unfortunately, he couldn’t carry them beyond Belgium, who for most of the game looked likely to concede an equaliser.
Best moment: 2-0 win Vs Austria
It’s always important to get off to winning start at a tournament and they did it with an impressive victory against a half decent Austria side which set them up nicely to qualify from the group as winners and sent Austria on a decline that saw them pick up just 1 point.
Overall Grade: B-
