Hungary claimed a 2-1 victory over Finland in an international friendly at the Puskás Aréna on Friday evening, thanks to a first-half brace from Barnabás Varga.
Varga strikes twice before the break
The Hungarian national team dominated proceedings for the opening hour and deservedly took control of the match through Varga. The AEK Athens forward opened the scoring in the 26th minute with a well-placed header before doubling Hungary’s advantage shortly before half-time with a composed finish from open play.
Marco Rossi’s side looked comfortable throughout much of the contest and created the better chances against a Finnish team that struggled to gain a foothold in the match.
Finland pull one back
The visitors reduced the deficit in the 72nd minute when Tony Miettinen unleashed a powerful long-range effort that found the back of the net, giving Finland hope of a late comeback.
However, Hungary remained in control and successfully saw out the match to secure a deserved home victory in front of their supporters in Budapest.
Three debutants introduced by Rossi
National team head coach Marco Rossi handed international debuts to three players during the encounter. Márk Csinger was named in the starting line-up, while goalkeeper Áron Yaakobishvili came on to replace Péter Szappanos, who was making his final appearance for Hungary. Yaakobishvili impressed with two excellent saves after entering the match.
Forward Bendegúz Kovács also made his debut, replacing the two-goal hero Varga in attack, MTI reported.
Attention turns to Kazakhstan
Hungary are using the June international window to prepare for this autumn’s UEFA Nations League campaign. Their next friendly will take place on Tuesday in Debrecen, where Rossi’s side will host Kazakhstan.
If you missed it: Champions League final: Budapest police report 13 incidents
