Back in October I wrote a piece about the footballers and football experts of Norway pitying Hungary and being really happy about the fact that their team was lucky enough to draw Hungary in the playoff matchup to qualify for the European Championships in France next month. “We couldn’t have dreamed of a better opponent.” “People here don’t know a single member of their team.” “They are not on a level that justifies them being in the playoffs.” “This is good, very, very good.” These were the lines. We all know the result. After a double victory Hungary is preparing for Euro 2016 while the Norwegian players are getting ready for … who knows what they are getting ready for. Probably a summer vacation. The situation right now is somewhat similar. Hungary was very much wanted when it came to the draw for the groups in June, and when Austria, Portugal and Iceland realised that they were the lucky ones, similar statements started to surface. They were a little bit more careful but still happy to be facing our national team. I was optimistic then and I am optimistic now. Due to the new rules one victory could actually be enough to advance from the group stage and it could come against any of the teams. Hungary is now 18th in the FIFA world ranking – though France being ranked 21st and the Cape Verde Islands 47th makes me question the validity of the list a bit –, so it is a tough team to beat. And the fact that they are still underestimated works perfectly for us. So here’s hoping that Austria, Iceland and Portugal will be riding in on a high horse. Especially Portugal. Being a fan of Barcelona, nothing would make me happier than seeing the shocked face of one Cristiano Ronaldo.
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