Ukraine 1-2 Hungary: Márk Csinger strikes late to seal sweet Nations League revenge

Locking horns once again in Slovakia in UEFA Nations League Group B2, Ukraine and Hungary served up a breathless encounter. Despite Ukraine dominating large spells, clinical pragmatism saw Hungary snatch a 2-1 victory.

Milán Tóth opened the scoring for Hungary in the 52nd minute before Roman Yaremchuk equalised for Ukraine in the 83rd minute. Just two minutes later, a moment of magic from centre-back Márk Csinger in the 85th minute sealed the win for the visitors. Here is how the dramatic clash unfolded.

Late drama and the 85th-minute twist

Ukraine took the initiative right from the first whistle and came agonizingly close to an opener in the 11th minute when they rattled the woodwork. Despite completely dominating the first half, the Yellow and Blues failed to breach the visitors' stubborn defence.

The second half saw Hungary take a surprise lead in the 52nd minute when Milán Tóth fired a clinical left-footed strike into the bottom corner from a Milán Vitális assist. Ukraine threw caution to the wind and restored parity in the 83rd minute, Roman Yaremchuk heading home from close range from Oleksandr Pikhalyonok's corner.

However, just two minutes later, centre-back Márk Csinger ventured forward to meet Rajmund Tóth's cross, steering a left-footed effort past goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin to seal a dramatic 2-1 victory for Hungary.

Pragmatism prevails as Márk Csinger turns hero

Ukraine enjoyed 52% possession and registered 17 shots, but only managed two on target. In stark contrast, Hungary's backline stood incredibly firm, registering 34 clearances to completely eclipse their opponents' tally of 15.

Match-winner Márk Csinger claimed the Man of the Match award with an 8.1 rating, bolstered by an impressive defensive display that included five tackles and five clearances.

Speaking after the final whistle, manager Marco Rossi admitted Hungary rode their luck but praised his side's immense courage. Meanwhile, Ukraine boss Andrea Maldera cut a frustrated figure, lamenting his players' lapse in concentration at key moments.

Editorial verdict

This hard-fought victory lifts Hungary to second in Group B2, level on seven points after four matches. Conversely, a bitter defeat on neutral soil leaves Ukraine languishing in third, facing an uphill battle in their remaining fixtures.

Can Ukraine bounce back from successive defeats in their upcoming fixtures, or is their Nations League campaign in jeopardy?