Al Gharafa’s star striker Krisztian Nemeth is set to represent his native Hungary at the upcoming Euro 2016 tournament in France. This is the first time Hungary will be participating in the tournament after 1972.
The former Sporting Kansas City striker has made an immediate impact at his new side since moving in late January. Seven goals in just ten Qatar Stars League (QSL) games added much-needed firepower to the Al Gharafa frontline.
“I have settled quickly at Gharafa, I have played in many countries before so I knew I could adapt. The coach and the players have welcomed me and I am comfortable at Al Gharafa,” Nemeth told QSL online.
The Cheetah’s ended the season in ninth place. However, with the addition of head coach Pedro Caixinia and winger Vladimir Weiss along with Nemeth in January, the team had an upturn in form with many pundits predicting a strong 2016-17 season for one of the QSL’s most successful sides.
Despite being in Qatar only for a few months now, Nemeth has seen plenty of potential in the QSL. “Of course the league is growing and developing, but you can see plenty of good things in terms of football here. I am just learning about football in Qatar really, I believe we can build on this half season at Gharafa to something better next time.”
With Nemeth quickly finding his feet on the pitch, the Hungarian international had some warm words for teammate Weiss, who will also be appearing at the Euro 2016 tournament with Slovakia. “Vladimir Weiss is a great example for the QSL as a young player who has a real talent and he has shown his qualities in the league and has won trophies with Lekhwiya. He has plenty of skills and is a top player; he has certainly helped me settle in Qatar.”
Talking about the European Championships, Nemeth is clear that this generation will do the country proud in France.
“Hungary has a rich footballing history, and it’s important to celebrate that, but as a group we are only looking forward. Our past can certainly motivate us to achieve our goals at Euro 2016,” he said.
Hungary is perhaps best known for its magical side in the 1950’s.
Focusing on Group F, he specially mentioned the tie against Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo.
“I have plenty of respect for Ronaldo, but on the pitch he is a normal player. When you face great players, it gives you the motivation to do better. We certainly want to show what we can do at the European Championships,” he said.
“Realistically we have to look for a point against Austria, and then a win against Iceland ideally. Then with the Portugal game, anything can happen, with three teams potentially qualifying we have a chance. Then if we get into the knockout stages, it’s all about luck.”
 (QSL.com.qa)