Scotland on way home after Hungary's last-kick victory

Why always Scotland? Why always like this? The same, crushing feeling a hundred times over – brings the Tartan Army’s party at Euro 2024 crashing to a halt. With the last kick of the game and in the 100th minute, Kevin Csoboth may have sent Hungary through to the last 16.

- JAMIE BRAIDWOOD

In the far corner, Hungary certainly celebrated like they were in the next round. At the other end, as defeated heroes fell to the turf, Scotland didn’t need to be told they were going home.

And so, a 12th appearance at a major tournament ended with a 12th elimination at the group stage for Scotland. But that does not tell the story of this campaign, of this night. Has a Scotland side ever got so close to making history on this stage? And how did Scotland not get a penalty, for the chance to send themselves through?

As Steve Clarke finally rolled the dice and a tense, tetchy night became one of storm and thunder, the Scotland manager’s attacking changes almost made the impact he needed. Stuart Armstrong, with fresh legs, was sent through on goal as he was pursued by the Hungary centre-back Willi Orban. A moment later, Armstrong and Orban were crashing to the ground. The Tartan Army saved their biggest roar of Euro 2024 and directed its full force in the direction of referee Facundo Tello, then howled again as nothing was given. “A 100 per cent penalty,” said Clarke.

Scotland kept going; they had chances and brought pressure. Grant Hanley shot straight at Hungary goalkeeper Peter Gulasci, then, in the last throes, a loose ball fell to Callum McGregor. Hungary found the blocks they needed to survive. For Scotland, a draw would have left a very slim chance that two points was enough to go through. In a flash, Hungary raced clear to take it away. Finally, the hope was gone.