Euro 2024 is on the way: Italy puts the title on the line; according to bookmakers England seems to be favourite (again) but dark horses can be more than a surprise
As the 2024 European Football Championship approaches, excitement is building across the continent. Set to be hosted in Germany, this tournament promises to be one of the most competitive and thrilling in recent memory. With 24 teams vying for the coveted title, fans are eagerly anticipating a month of high-octane football, dramatic moments, and the emergence of new stars. This preview will cover the tournamentโs structure, key fixtures, and the favorites to lift the trophy.
Tournament Structure
The European Championship 2024 follows a format that ensures both excitement and fairness. The 24 qualified teams are divided into six groups of four. Each team plays three group-stage matches, and the top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, advance to the knockout stage. The knockout stage includes the Round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final, which will be held at the iconic Olympiastadion in Berlin.
Key Fixtures
Group A: Germany, Hungary, Scotland, Switzerland
Key Fixture: Germany vs. Scotland
Date: June 14, 2024
Location: Munich (Allianz Arena)
The host nation Germany has been drawn into a challenging group that includes Switzerland, Scotland and Hungary and Austria. Germany, will kick off the tournament against Scotland. This opening match is not only significant as the curtain-raiser but also a critical test for Germany as they look to capitalize on home advantage. Scotland, returning to the Euros with a point to prove, will aim to spoil the hostsโ party. If Germany is strongly recommended for the first place, the second place is truly unpredictable and totally opened to other teamsโ chances.
Group B: Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania
Key Fixture: Spain vs. Italy
Date: June 20, 2024
Location: Gelsenkirchen (Arena AufSchalke)
Group B features a blockbuster matchup between Spain and Italy. Both teams have rich histories in international football and a rivalry that promises an exciting, tactical encounter. Italy, under Luciano Spalletti is trying to re-enforce the extraordinary results conquered in 2021 in Wembley against England that brought Italy on the top list after almost 50 years without a major European title.
This match is pivotal as it could determine the group winner, affecting the path to the knockout stages for both teams.
Group C: Slovenia, Denmark, Serbia, England
Key Fixture: England vs. Denmark
Date: June 20, 2024
Location: Frankfurt (Waldstadion)
Group C has been labeled one of the most competitive groups, featuring the Euro 2020 semifinalists England and Denmark. Their clash is highly anticipated, as both teams have shown exceptional form in recent years. This fixture could be decisive in determining who tops the group and secures a favorable draw in the knockout stages.
Group D: Poland, Netherlands, Austria, France
Key Fixture: Netherlands vs. France
Date: June 21, 2024
Location: Leipzig (Red Bull Arena)
In Group D, the match between the Netherlands and France stands out. Both teams boast a wealth of talent and have strong ambitions to go deep into the tournament. France, the reigning world champions, will face a stern test against a revitalized Dutch side eager to make their mark on the European stage
Group E: Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine
Key Fixture: Belgium vs. Ukraine
Date: June 26, 2024
Location: Stuttgart (MHPArena)
Belgiumโs clash with Ukraine in Group E is a must-watch. Belgium, with their โGolden Generationโ (almost getting older without any major trophy to be remembered) are desperate to claim silverware, while Ukraine has shown significant improvement and resilience. This match could be crucial for both teamsโ progression to the knockout rounds.
Group F: Tรผrkiye, Georgia, Portugal, Czechia
Key Fixture: Portugal vs. Czechia
Date: June 26, 2024
Location: Hamburg (Volksparkstadion)
Group F sees defending European champions Portugal taking on Czechia. Portugal, led by their experienced stars, will be looking to defend their title, while Czechia aims to upset the odds. This match could determine the group dynamics and set the stage for the knockout phase.
Favorite Teams
France
France enters the tournament as one of the favorites, aiming to add another European title to their World Cup triumph in 2018 and the final lost against Argentina during the last World Cup in Qatar. With a squad brimming with talent, including Kylian Mbappรฉ, Antoine Griezmann, and NโGolo Kantรฉ, France has the depth and quality to dominate. Manager Didier Deschamps, who led them to World Cup glory, will be looking to solidify his legacy with a European Championship win. This could be his final show. And he wants to close a long and extraordinary stint with another victory.
Germany
As the host nation, Germany will have the advantage of home support, which could be a significant factor. Germanyโs squad is a blend of experienced players like Manuel Neuer and Thomas Mรผller, and young talents such as Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz. Under the guidance of Nagelsmann, Germany will be determined to make up for their disappointing performance in the last European Championship.
England
England, with their young and dynamic squad, is another strong contender. Bookmakers are actually driving the Three Lions team with a special boost that brings the team under an uncomfortable favorite major role.
The likes of Harry Kane, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka provide a potent attacking force, while the defense is anchored by Harry Maguire and John Stones. Gareth Southgateโs men reached the final in the last edition, and theyโll be aiming to go one step further this time around.
Spain
Spainโs resurgence under Luis Enrique has been marked by a return to their tiki-taka roots, coupled with a new generation of talent. Pedri, Gavi, and Ferran Torres are expected to play crucial roles in Spainโs quest for glory. Their ability to control possession and dictate the pace of the game makes them a formidable opponent.
Belgium
Belgiumโs โGolden Generationโ is running out of time to secure a major trophy. The young guns became older with no trophy at all. With players like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Eden Hazard, Belgium has the firepower to challenge any team. Roberto Martinez will be keen to overcome the hurdles that have previously prevented Belgium from achieving success in major tournaments.
Portugal
Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, cannot be overlooked. Ronaldo, despite his age, remains a crucial player, and the squad boasts other stars like Bruno Fernandes and Joรฃo Fรฉlix. CR7 will be the very first playing his sixth European Championship. Portugalโs ability to grind out results and their experience in knockout football make them a dangerous opponent.
Dark Horses
Italy
Italy will defend the title gained in England and must be considered as the most interesting and important underdog. Despite the lack of a true top scorer, Azzurri are going to show their versatility and experience that can always bring to some outstanding result.
Denmark
Denmarkโs impressive run to the semi-finals in the previous European Championship showcased their resilience and quality. With a well-balanced squad and the inspirational story of Christian Eriksenโs return, Denmark could surprise many once again. Kasper Hjulmandโs tactical acumen and the teamโs unity make them a formidable dark horse.
Switzerland
Switzerland has consistently punched above their weight in recent tournaments. Their victory over France in the Euro 2020 Round of 16 was a testament to their fighting spirit. With players like Granit Xhaka and Xherdan Shaqiri leading the way, Switzerland could cause problems for more fancied teams.
Turkey
Turkey has a history of producing unexpected results in major tournaments. With a squad featuring the likes of Hakan รalhanoฤlu and Merih Demiral, Turkey has the talent to compete. If they can find consistency, they could be a surprise package in this tournament.
Players to Watch
Kylian Mbappรฉ (France)
Mbappรฉโs pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability make him one of the most exciting players in world football. His performances will be crucial to Franceโs success, and he has the potential to be the standout player of the tournament.
Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
De Bruyneโs vision, passing, and leadership make him the heartbeat of the Belgian team. His ability to create chances and score goals from midfield will be vital for Belgiumโs aspirations.
Pedri (Spain)
At just 21 years old, Pedri has already established himself as a key player for both Barcelona and Spain. His composure on the ball and ability to dictate the tempo of the game will be essential for Spainโs chances.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Ronaldoโs experience and goal-scoring prowess make him a constant threat. As he approaches what could be his final major tournament, Ronaldo will be determined to leave his mark and lead Portugal to back-to-back European titles.
Harry Kane (England)
Kaneโs goal-scoring ability and leadership are crucial for England. As the captain, he will be looking to inspire his team to victory and add a major international trophy to his impressive career.
Jamal Musiala (Germany)
Musialaโs versatility and creativity have made him a key player for Germany. His ability to play in multiple attacking positions and his knack for scoring important goals will be important for the host nationโs campaign.
Conclusion
The 2024 European Football Championship promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with top teams and world-class players competing for glory. As Germany prepares to host the tournament, the stage is set for unforgettable moments, dramatic matches, and the crowning of a new champion. Whether itโs the established powerhouses like England, France and Germany, or dark horses like Italy, Denmark or Switzerland, every team will be giving their all to lift the trophy.
Final will take place in Berlin Olympiastadion July 14th (21 CET).
