Szécsi inspires Hungary to Iceland success

Goals in either half by Soma Novothny and Márk Szécsi handed Hungary their first win of UEFA European Under-17 Championship elite round Group 7 against Iceland.

Hosts Hungary had lost 2-1 to Russia in Thursday's opener but their win today keeps them in contention. Romania beat Russia 2-1 to go a point clear of both that side and Hungary while Iceland, who held the new leaders on Thursday, are now out.

Despite dominating possession for most of the first period, the visitors had only long-distance efforts by Szécsi and Attila Lőrinczy to show for their superiority until they broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time. The opening goal came after a fine 20-metre run from Szécsi, who cut in from the right and teed up Novothny, who clipped the ball under Bergsteinn Magnússon from a tight angle.

Two minutes after the break, Frenc Bene's side were two goals to the good when the impressive Szécsi pounced on a loose ball outside the penalty area and curled a right-footed shot beyond Magnússon. Thereafter, Hungary looked firmly in control with substitute Péter Karacs coming closest to adding a third after being sent clear by Bence Szenes on 74 minutes. To qualify, Hungary must beat Romania on Tuesday and hope Iceland do not lose to Russia.