Hungary’s Striker Undergoes Surgery, Escapes Danger

Hungarian striker Barnabás Varga is now out of danger after suffering a facial fracture that will require surgery, following a violent collision during Sunday’s 1-0 victory over Scotland in the final round of the UEFA Euro 2024 Group A stage in Germany.

The Ferencváros forward was stretchered off the pitch after a heavy fall following a free kick in the 68th minute.

The 29-year-old landed awkwardly on the back of his neck, prompting immediate concern from his teammates who formed a protective circle around him and spread a brown sheet as he appeared unable to move. After some hesitation, the medical staff intervened to provide treatment and evacuate him from the field, receiving applause from fans and visibly affected players.

“It was a confusing situation,” Hungary coach Marco Rossi said. “The players told me that it seemed Barney was unconscious at the time. Everyone was very worried about his condition, and we can say the doctors arrived a little late.”

He continued, “Fortunately, we can now say that Barney is no longer in danger. He will likely undergo surgery in the next few hours because he suffered fractures in his cheek and eye socket. If we progress further in the tournament, he will unfortunately not be part of the team.”

The Hungarian Football Association posted on the “X” platform after the match, “Barnabás Varga’s condition is stable! The Hungarian national team player is currently in a hospital in Stuttgart! We will inform you immediately if there is any news about his condition!”

According to German Magenta TV reports, Varga was conscious and speaking when he was taken to the hospital in Stuttgart.

Roland Sallai, Freiburg’s striker, spoke about the incident, saying, “It was terrible. It was a horrific moment to see Barnabás in that condition. Fortunately, he is in much better condition now. He will likely undergo minor surgery. We are looking forward to his recovery and hope he can return quickly.”

The Hungarian striker, who was named man of the match, confirmed, “We fought for him throughout the remaining 15 to 20 minutes. We wanted to win for him and we dedicate this victory to him.”

Hungary kept their hopes of reaching the Round of 16 alive thanks to substitute Kevin Csoboth’s dramatic goal in the tenth minute of stoppage time against Scotland, who sit bottom of the group with one point. Hungary is in third place with three points, behind group leaders and hosts Germany (7 points) and second-placed Switzerland (5 points).