"The man for big occasions", "Better than Kroos" - Fans hail 33-year-old star's performance as Germany defeat Hungary 2-0 in Euro 2024 clash

Fans on X have praised Ilkay Gundogan after the Barcelona star inspired Germany to a 2-0 win against Hungary at Euro 2024 (Wednesday, June 19). He scored one goal and assisted another to help his side seal all three points.

Die Mannschaft impressed at the MHPArena, making it two wins on the bounce following their 5-1 win against Scotland during the Euro 2024 opener. They took the lead in the 22nd minute after Gundogan fed the ball into the path of Jamal Musiala, who made no mistake to find the back of the net.

While Hungary had a few opportunities to equalize, Germany showed great resilience and control to ensure the scores remained 1-0. Gundogan doubled their advantage in the 67th minute, sweeping the ball home to ensure they sealed all three points.

The former Manchester City star had a brilliant game and was the highest-rated player by FotMob (8.5). He scored a goal, provided an assist, and created two chances. Moreover, he completed 38 passes out of an attempted 45 with an accuracy of 84 percent.

One fan posted:

"Gundogan is the man for big occassions, Kroos is a fraud."

Another fan wrote:

"It's Gundogan who is carrying Germany"

Another fan chimed in:

"Far far better than kroos"

Other fan reactions can be viewed below:

"Aged like a fine wine," one fan stated

"Currently Germany's best player..but their media treats him like ozil," one fan insisted

"Deploying behind the striker is the best version himself. Absolutely Rolls Royce midfielder. Classy performance everywhere he plays," another wrote

"Yesss, critics can shut up! He's been class this Euros so far, hopefully he can continue this way :)" one fan said

"The most underrated player on this planet," another added

"We are so blessed to have him in Barcelona," one fan chimed in

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Manchester City's Jack Grealish hails Ilkay Gundogan on social media after latter inspires Germany to Euro 2024 win

Manchester City star Jack Grealish waxed lyrical about Ilkay Gundogan on Instagram after the latter guided Germany to a vital 2-0 win against Hungary at Euro 2024. Grealish also admitted the 33-year-old is one of the best players he's ever played with.

Gundogan's Player-of-the-Match performance ensured Die Mannschaft remained at the top of Group A with six points from two games. Meanwhile, Hungary are third with zero points from two games and will need a miracle to qualify for the Round of 16.

Grealish posted (via City Xtra):

"Can't explain how good this guy is man. Honestly one of the best I've ever had the pleasure of playing with"

Grealish and Gundogan played alongside each other at Manchester City for two seasons between 2021 and 2023. They found great success, winning a total of four trophies, including the treble during the 2022-23 campaign.