Austria faced neighbours Hungary in the opening Group F match in Bordeaux. This was the 137th time these two sides met, only Argentina and Uruguay have played more against each other in international football.
From the bookmakers to the football fans worldwide, no one expected Hungary to win this match against the Austrian side, considered one of the dark horses in this tournament.
But goals from Szalai and Stieber ensured Hungary would mark their return to a major tournament after 30 years in style
Austria were definitely the better side in the first half showing their intentions right from the beginning as Bayern Munich star David Alaba rattled the post from 30 yards within 35 seconds into the game. In the 10th minute he sent a cheeky Arnautovic pass straight into the hands of Hungary keeper Kiraly, who became the oldest player at Euros, 40 years of age.
In the 41st minute Arnautovic created a great chance beating Fiola which was wasted by Harnik who couldn’t convert the low cross into goal. Hungary’s best chance in the first half came in the 43rd minute where Dzsudzsak missed by several yards.
Dzsudzsak threatened the Austrians again with a blistering strike from 25 yards forcing a brilliant save from Vienna keeper Almer.
Austria meanwhile continued to create chances but failed to convert any of them. The deadlock was broken in the 62nd minute by Adam Szalai as he linked up with Kleinheiser on the edge of the Austrian penalty area.
Drama unfolded in the 66th minute as a solid strike from hinterregen beating kiraly was disallowed as the refree spotted dragovic committing a late challenge on kadar earning him his second yellow and leaving austria with 10 men
Both sides continued to attack, Austria to find an equaliser and Hungary to extend their lead. Hungary finished it off in the 87th minute converting an Austrian effort into a counter attack with Priskin providing a through ball to Zoltan Stieber which he beautifully chipped over Almer sealing the 2-0 victory for his side.
PLAYER OF THE GAME : LASZLO KLEINHEISER
Not only did he assist the opening goal, he played his role intelligently and vigorously throughout the game to win his side 3 points.