Hungary provides medical update on Varga after major scare against Scotland

Hungarian footballer Barnabás Varga, who was hospitalized on Sunday night after a violent collision with Scottish goalkeeper Angus Gunn, suffered "multiple fractures" to his face, the Hungarian federation reported.

In a statement on social media platform X, the federation indicated that the player will "very likely" need surgery.

The incident occurred during the match between Hungary and Scotland (1-0), in the third and final round of Group A at Euro 2024, when Varga was struck by the goalkeeper's elbow and fell, hitting the back of his head and losing consciousness.

During the initial treatment on the field, Varga was shielded by his teammates holding up a protective blanket while he was attended to before being taken to a hospital, where he regained consciousness.

"He fractured several bones and suffered a concussion. He will probably need surgery," the federation added.

The Hungarian medical team acted swiftly to ensure Varga received immediate and appropriate care, highlighting the serious nature of his injuries. The collision was a shocking moment in the match, and players from both teams showed concern for Varga’s well-being.

Hungary eventually won the match against Scotland 1-0, with a goal scored in the 90+10 minute by Kevin Csoboth, a former Benfica player. This victory, though crucial, might not be enough for Hungary to advance. With only three points, it will be challenging for them to rank among the top four third-placed teams from the six groups, which is necessary to progress to the knockout stages of the tournament.

The incident has cast a shadow over Hungary's campaign, as they now face uncertainty not only about their advancement in the tournament but also regarding Varga’s recovery and future participation. Fans and teammates alike are hopeful for his quick recovery, while the federation will likely review safety protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.

This injury also opens a broader conversation about player safety in high-stakes tournaments like the Euros. The collision and its aftermath are a reminder of the physical risks involved in football and the importance of having stringent medical and safety measures in place. As Varga begins his recovery journey, the football community will be watching closely, offering support and hoping for a successful return to the sport.