After initially falling a goal behind, Szoboszlai put Hungary back on level terms, midway through the second half, as he jinked his way past defenders to fire the ball into the far corner. Wearing the captain’s armband, the Liverpool man remarkably doubled his tally, just two minutes later, after charging up the pitch and combining with striker Martin Adam to slot the ball in at the near post.
A late goal from midfielder Adam Nagy completed the scoreline and Szoboszlai was quick to celebrate with fans in the Puskas Arena, notably downing a shot of palinka as he rejoiced at reaching a major tournament. It was a game that put Szoboszlai’s leadership abilities on full display and Hungary goalkeeper Denes Dibusz paid an incredible compliment to the 23-year-old after the final whistle. “You have the same feeling about him as when Lionel Messi was at his best in Barcelona a few years ago,” Dibusz told Hungarian outlet Index. “When he made up his mind, he went down the field and scored.
“He is a player of an incredible level and a great leader, who is able to lead the team on the field and add something extra to his game that draws the others along, and is also effective. After the Bulgaria match, I think he was also a little frustrated that despite his chances, he didn’t manage to score. I think you can be satisfied with your finishes and performance today”
Szoboszlai’s match-winning performance for Hungary will only add to Liverpool fans’ excitement about the midfielder, who has been an instant hit on Merseyside since signing from RB Leipzig in the summer. The Reds’ number eight has consistently impressed with his all-action displays, with some supporters making early comparisons to Steven Gerrard, and has been a key part of the team’s strong start so far this season.
The Liverpool midfielder was pivotal as he helped his country secure their place at Euro 2024. A 3-1 victory over Montenegro saw Hungary top their qualification group and Szoboszlai was at the heart of a memorable night in Budapest.
