Which Teams Will Make It to the Euro 2024 Final?
As the group stage of Euro 2024 comes to a close, eight of the 24 teams have been eliminated, leaving the remaining sides to battle it out for a spot in the final at Olympiastadion Berlin on July 14th. BBC Sport football expert Chris Sutton, who correctly predicted Austria as his dark horses, had a modest success rate of three out of 12. But can he or anyone else do better in the knockout stages?
Saturday’s Last-16 Ties
Switzerland vs Italy: Switzerland showed their strength by drawing with Germany in their final group game. However, despite Danny Murphy favoring Switzerland, Chris Sutton predicts Italy will prevail. As the defending champions, Italy found a way to secure the result they needed against Croatia and are expected to continue their winning streak.
Germany vs Denmark: Germany started the tournament strongly but faced difficulties against Switzerland. Despite Denmark’s stubbornness and well-organized defense, Sutton believes Germany’s attacking firepower will see them through.
Sunday’s Last-16 Ties
England vs Slovakia: England has faced criticism at these Euros, despite finishing at the top of their group. However, with a favorable draw in the knockout stages, they have a great opportunity to improve their performance. Sutton expects England to win comfortably against Slovakia, who lack standout individuals.
Spain vs Georgia: Georgia has been a surprise package in this tournament, defying expectations. However, Spain’s balanced and disciplined approach makes them the team to beat. Sutton predicts a 3-1 victory for Spain.
Monday’s Last-16 Ties
France vs Belgium: Both France and Belgium have disappointed so far, with pragmatic and uninspiring performances. However, Sutton sticks with his prediction that France will go on to win the whole tournament, expecting them to edge out Belgium in a close encounter.
Portugal vs Slovenia: Portugal made several changes in their loss to Georgia, but Sutton anticipates a different performance this time. Despite concerns about Cristiano Ronaldo’s mobility, Portugal’s individual and collective quality should be enough to defeat Slovenia.
Tuesday’s Last-16 Ties
Romania vs Netherlands: The Netherlands have been unconvincing, while Romania has exceeded expectations by topping their group. However, Sutton believes the Netherlands, led by Memphis Depay, will secure a spot in the quarter-finals.
Austria vs Turkey: Austria has been one of Sutton’s dark horses from the start, and they have proven themselves by finishing above France and the Netherlands in their group. Sutton expects Austria’s organization and intensity to prevail against Turkey.
As the tournament progresses into the knockout stages, the excitement and competition will only intensify. With some surprising results and standout performances, Euro 2024 continues to captivate football fans around the world.