Hungary coach delighted by Euro 2016 success

Mark Holmes
Hungary: Celebrate reaching Euro 2016 finals at expense of Norway

Hungary: Celebrate reaching Euro 2016 finals at expense of Norway

Hungary’s German coach Bernd Storck believes he now has dual nationality after guiding the country to their first major finals for 30 years.

Tamas Priskin struck early in the first half of their Euro 2016 qualifying play-off second leg before Norway’s Markus Henriksen scored at both ends late on as the hosts won 2-1 in Budapest and 3-1 on aggregate.

It secured a place in France next summer, their first tournament since the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.

“Congratulations to the team for a huge performance throughout the qualifying series,” said Storck.

“This is huge success for the football team and the country. Now I’m Hungarian!

“I’m thankful for the confidence of the Hungarian Football Federation and president Sandor Csanyi, who helped develop Hungarian football.

“Having come back down to earth we are now celebrating. We’ll see how to proceed but we are well prepared for the tournament.”

Priskin, a former Watford and Ipswich striker, registered his 17th international goal in 54 appearances and he was only too aware of the significance.

“I think it was the goal of my life,” he told UEFA.com.

“It was a very important goal for me. (Qualifying) is a big thing for me and my team-mates, it is very important for my country so I am very happy.”

Norway coach Per-Mathias Hogmo admits his side came up short over the qualifying period, not just the play-offs, with goals a significant issue.

His side scored just 13 in 10 group matches and just one in 180 minutes against Hungary, despite dominating last week’s home leg and creating a number of chances.

“We were very close to the dream of going to Euro 2016 but we did not manage it today,” he said at his post-match press conference.

“We score too little, especially at home, and that’s where we set the foundation for away games.

“I understand the disappointment and no-one is more disappointed than the players and us in the backroom team.”

Midfielder Stefan Johansen offered the team’s apology to fans for their failure.

“We had a good opportunity but we just have to put our hands up and say sorry to the Norwegian people,” said the Celtic player.