Hungary hopes get higher

By Benedikt Rafn Rafnsson

György Sándor’s 12th-minute goal in Iceland took Hungary to within three points of UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 8 leaders Croatia.

Iceland under pressure
It was Hungary's game during the first half and the visitors had numerous chances even after taking the lead, but Icelandic goalkeeper Bjarni Halldórsson made sure that the home team trailed only by one goal at the break.

Máté checks attacks
Iceland tried to apply pressure to the Hungarian goal in the second half without creating any scoring chances, much thanks to Péter Máté's excellent performance in the heart of the visiting defence. Eight minutes from time, Iceland were down to ten men, but substitute Viktor Bjarki Arnarson came close to level the scores in the finals seconds, but he miscued Emil Hallfredsson's cross.

Malta matches
Hungary celebrated their third consecutive win and are behind second-placed Sweden only on head-to-head record. They return to action on 2 September at home to Malta, who visit Iceland, now six points off second place, on Tuesday.