{"id":6022,"date":"2024-06-02T15:45:40","date_gmt":"2024-06-02T14:45:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/?p=6022"},"modified":"2024-06-02T15:46:48","modified_gmt":"2024-06-02T14:46:48","slug":"euro-2024-a-comprehensive-preview","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/european-football-championship\/2024\/06\/02\/euro-2024-a-comprehensive-preview\/","title":{"rendered":"Euro 2024: teams, players, matches and favourites"},"content":{"rendered":"

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<\/strong><\/h2>\n

As the 2024 European Football Championship<\/strong> approaches, excitement is building across the continent. Set to be hosted in Germany<\/strong>, 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 tournament’s structure, key fixtures, and the favorites to lift the trophy.<\/p>\n

Tournament Structure<\/h3>\n

The European Championship<\/a> 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<\/em> in Berlin.<\/p>\n

Key Fixtures<\/h3>\n

Group A: Germany, Hungary, Scotland, Switzerland<\/h4>\n

Key Fixture: Germany vs. Scotland
\nDate: June 14, 2024
\nLocation: Munich (Allianz Arena)<\/p>\n

The host nation Germany<\/strong> 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 hosts’ party. If Germany<\/strong> is strongly recommended for the first place, the second place is truly unpredictable and totally opened to other teams\u2019 chances.<\/p>\n

Group B: Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania<\/h4>\n

Key Fixture: Spain vs. Italy
\nDate: June 20, 2024
\nLocation: Gelsenkirchen (Arena AufSchalke)<\/p>\n

Group B features a blockbuster matchup between Spain and Italy. <\/strong>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.<\/p>\n

This match is pivotal as it could determine the group winner, affecting the path to the knockout stages for both teams.<\/p>\n

Group C: Slovenia, Denmark, Serbia, England<\/h4>\n

Key Fixture: England vs. Denmark
\nDate: June 20, 2024
\nLocation: Frankfurt (Waldstadion)<\/p>\n

Group C has been labeled one of the most competitive groups, featuring the Euro 2020 semifinalists England and Denmark<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n

Group D: Poland, Netherlands, Austria, France<\/h4>\n

Key Fixture: Netherlands vs. France
\nDate: June 21, 2024
\nLocation: Leipzig (Red Bull Arena)<\/p>\n

In Group D, the match between the Netherlands and France<\/strong> 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<\/p>\n

Group E: Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine<\/h4>\n

Key Fixture: Belgium vs. Ukraine
\nDate: June 26, 2024
\nLocation: Stuttgart (MHPArena)<\/p>\n

Belgium’s clash with Ukraine in Group E is a must-watch. Belgium<\/strong>, with their “Golden Generation”<\/em> (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 teams’ progression to the knockout rounds.<\/p>\n

Group F: T\u00fcrkiye, Georgia, Portugal, Czechia<\/h4>\n

Key Fixture: Portugal vs. Czechia
\nDate: June 26, 2024
\nLocation: Hamburg (Volksparkstadion)<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\"Euro
Berlin Olympiastadion will host Euro 2024 Final Game\u00a0 – Credits UEFA<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Favorite Teams<\/h3>\n

France<\/h4>\n

France<\/strong> 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 Mbapp\u00e9, Antoine Griezmann, and N’Golo Kant\u00e9, 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.<\/p>\n

Germany<\/h4>\n

As the host nation, Germany<\/strong> will have the advantage of home support, which could be a significant factor. Germany’s squad is a blend of experienced players like Manuel Neuer and Thomas M\u00fcller<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

England<\/h4>\n

England<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

The likes of Harry Kane, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka<\/strong> provide a potent attacking force, while the defense is anchored by Harry Maguire and John Stones. Gareth Southgate’s men reached the final in the last edition, and they’ll be aiming to go one step further this time around.<\/p>\n

Spain<\/h4>\n

Spain’s<\/strong> 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 Spain’s quest for glory. Their ability to control possession and dictate the pace of the game makes them a formidable opponent.<\/p>\n

Belgium<\/h4>\n

Belgium’s<\/strong> “Golden Generation”<\/em> is running out of time to secure a major trophy. The young guns<\/em> 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.<\/p>\n

Portugal<\/strong><\/h4>\n

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 Jo\u00e3o F\u00e9lix. CR7 will be the very first playing his sixth European Championship. Portugal’s ability to grind out results and their experience in knockout football make them a dangerous opponent.<\/p>\n

\"Euro
Italy won lats European Championsip defeating Engand in a highly strung Wembley final game – Credits UEFA<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Dark Horses<\/h3>\n

Italy<\/h4>\n

Italy<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

Denmark<\/h4>\n

Denmark’s<\/strong> 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 Eriksen’s return, Denmark could surprise many once again. Kasper Hjulmand’s tactical acumen and the team’s unity make them a formidable dark horse.<\/p>\n

Switzerland<\/h4>\n

Switzerland<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

Turkey<\/h4>\n

Turkey has a history of producing unexpected results in major tournaments. With a squad featuring the likes of Hakan \u00c7alhano\u011flu and Merih Demiral, Turkey has the talent to compete. If they can find consistency, they could be a surprise package in this tournament.<\/p>\n

Players to Watch<\/h3>\n

Kylian Mbapp\u00e9 (France)<\/h4>\n

Mbapp\u00e9’s<\/strong> pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability make him one of the most exciting players in world football. His performances will be crucial to France’s success, and he has the potential to be the standout player of the tournament.<\/p>\n

Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)<\/h4>\n

De Bruyne’s<\/strong> 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 Belgium’s aspirations.<\/p>\n

Pedri (Spain)<\/h4>\n

At just 21 years old, Pedri<\/strong> 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 Spain’s chances.<\/p>\n

Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)<\/h4>\n

Ronaldo’s<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

Harry Kane (England)<\/h4>\n

Kane’s<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

Jamal Musiala (Germany)<\/h4>\n

Musiala’s<\/strong> 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 nation’s campaign.<\/p>\n

Conclusion<\/h3>\n

The 2024 European Football Championship<\/strong> 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 it’s 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.<\/p>\n

Final will take place in Berlin Olympiastadion<\/em> July 14th<\/sup> (21 CET).<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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 […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":6027,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[64],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-6022","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-european-football-championship"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6022","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6022"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6022\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6050,"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6022\/revisions\/6050"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6027"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6022"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6022"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dswsport.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6022"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}