Euro 2024: Chris Sutton’s Predictions and Analysis
Introduction:
BBC Sport football expert Chris Sutton has shared his predictions for all 51 games at Euro 2024. In addition to predicting the outcome of each match, Sutton also offers insights into the teams and players involved. Let’s take a closer look at his predictions for the first matches in each group.
Group A:
Germany vs. Scotland:
Sutton will be covering this game for BBC Radio 5 Live and admits he’s unsure what to expect from Germany. Despite being the hosts, there is no arrogance or belief from their fans that they will win the tournament. A draw would be disastrous for Germany, and Sutton predicts they will just scrape by with a win. He also acknowledges Scotland’s recent difficult friendlies and their strong midfield but believes it will be challenging for them to progress in this group.
Hungary vs. Switzerland:
Sutton recognizes that many teams in this tournament are evenly matched, and Switzerland may not be the team they once were. However, their experience and battle-hardened nature could still see them progress. He also highlights Hungary as a team to watch, with their defensive strength and talented players like Dominik Szoboszlai.
Group B:
Spain vs. Croatia:
Sutton suggests that an ageing Croatia team may struggle in this tournament, while Spain could be dangerous, especially if they end up on the opposite side of the draw from France and England in the knockout phase. He predicts a win for Spain in this match.
Italy vs. Albania:
Italy, the defending champions, are expected to be well-organized, but Sutton warns against underestimating Albania. He praises Albania’s direct style of play and goal-scoring ability, suggesting that Italy may not have an easy time against them.
Group C:
Slovenia vs. Denmark:
Sutton expresses doubts about Denmark’s chances in this tournament, considering their poor performance at the 2022 World Cup. He questions the omission of Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley from the Danish squad and suggests that Slovenia and Denmark may end up with a draw in this match.
Serbia vs. England:
Sutton believes that England will have too much firepower for Serbia and predicts a clean sheet for the English team. He praises England manager Gareth Southgate for picking players based on form and hopes to see Phil Foden and Cole Palmer in the starting lineup.
Group D:
Poland vs. Netherlands:
Despite missing Frenkie de Jong, the Netherlands are expected to perform well in this tournament, according to Sutton. He suggests that Poland, although an ageing team, may struggle even if Robert Lewandowski is fit to play.
Austria vs. France:
Sutton admits to always picking France as the winners of every tournament, citing their talent and ability to find a way to win. He also acknowledges Austria as a team that could have a good run under Ralf Rangnick but believes France will come out on top in this match.
Group E:
Romania vs. Ukraine:
Sutton expects a tight game between Romania and Ukraine, as both teams are likely aiming for second place in the group behind Belgium. He predicts a draw for this match.
Belgium vs. Slovakia:
Sutton will be covering this game and suggests that Belgium may not have an easy time against Slovakia. He questions the decision to leave goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois out of the Belgian squad and emphasizes Slovakia’s ability to keep games close.
Group F:
Turkey vs. Georgia:
Turkey is often seen as a surprise package in tournaments, but Sutton notes their poor performance at Euro 2020. However, he believes they will do better this time and predicts a draw against Georgia, the lowest-ranked team at the Euros.
Portugal vs. Czech Republic:
Sutton humorously questions who the real manager of Portugal is, jokingly suggesting it could be Roberto Martinez or Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite this, he recognizes Portugal’s quality and predicts a win for them against the Czech Republic.
Conclusion:
Chris Sutton’s predictions offer valuable insights into the teams and matches of Euro 2024. While his forecasts are based on his own analysis, they provide readers with a starting point for discussions and debates about the tournament.