Hungarian striker Barnabas Varga suffered a facial fracture which will require an operation, after a violent shock which caused a big scare during the Euro 2024 match won against Scotland (1-0), Sunday June 23.
On a Hungarian free kick in the 68th minute, the 29-year-old fell violently on the back of his neck and was immediately placed in a side safety position by his teammates as he appeared unable to move. At real speed, it was impossible to see the brutality of the contact with the Scottish goalkeeper, contrary to photographs from different angles which attest to this.
“It was a terrible moment”
After long seconds of hesitation, the emergency services finally intervened to evacuate him from the field to applause, after his partners, very touched by the scene, formed a circle around him by unrolling a brown sheet.
“The situation was confusing. What the players told me was that at that moment, “Barni” appeared to be unconscious. Everyone was therefore very worried about his condition and also about the fact that the doctors had arrived a little late”declared his coach Marco Rossi.
“Thankfully, we can now say that “Barni” is no longer in danger. He will likely have surgery in the next few hours as he suffered a fracture here (showing his cheek and eye socket). If we go further in the competition, of course he will no longer be part of the team.”he detailed.
According to reports from German broadcaster Magenta TV, Varga was conscious and talking when he was taken to hospital in Stuttgart.
” It was terrible. It was a terrible moment to see Barnabas in this state. Fortunately, he is in much better condition. He will probably have to undergo minor surgery. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that he can return quickly…”reacted his teammate Roland Sallai at a press conference.
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“We fought for him for the remaining 15 to 20 minutes. We wanted to win for him and we dedicate this victory to him.” assured the Hungarian player, elected man of the match.
A victory obtained at the end of added time by Kevin Csoboth, which allowed Hungary to maintain their chances of qualifying for the round of 16.
