Euro 2024: Quarter-Finals Preview
Only eight teams remain in Euro 2024, and the quarter-finals promise to be thrilling encounters. BBC Sport football expert Chris Sutton, who has had a good track record with his predictions so far, shares his insights on the upcoming matches.
Spain vs. Germany
The first quarter-final sees Spain take on Germany in Stuttgart. According to Sutton, Spain is the standout team of the competition. They have impressed with their quality and intelligence on the ball, particularly in midfield where Rodri and Fabian Ruiz have been dominant. They also have exciting talents like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams on the wings. While Germany has home advantage and has shown their strength as hosts, it will be difficult to go against Spain in this match. Sutton predicts a 2-1 victory for Spain.
Portugal vs. France
In the second quarter-final, Portugal faces off against France in Hamburg. Sutton questions Portugal manager Roberto Martinez’s indulgence of Cristiano Ronaldo, suggesting that Ronaldo’s ego and negative impact on the team should not be tolerated. Despite Ronaldo’s individual brilliance, Sutton believes that it is absurd to rely on him so heavily when Portugal has quality throughout their side. On the other hand, Sutton remains confident in his pre-tournament prediction of France winning Euro 2024. He highlights France’s solid defense and expects them to click into gear offensively. Sutton predicts a 2-0 victory for France.
England vs. Switzerland
The third quarter-final sees England taking on Switzerland in Dusseldorf. Sutton acknowledges that Switzerland is a well-balanced team with belief in their style of play. They showed strength in their victory over Italy in the last 16. However, Sutton believes England will not be as easily defeated as Italy. While England has areas to improve, such as their lack of balance on the left-hand side, Sutton thinks they have enough talent to overcome Switzerland. He predicts a 1-0 victory for England.
Netherlands vs. Turkey
The final quarter-final match features the Netherlands against Turkey in Berlin. Sutton highlights Turkey’s impressive performance in their last-16 win over Austria, praising their defensive organization and threat on the counter. However, he acknowledges that Turkey will face a tough challenge against the Netherlands, who have quality players all over the pitch. Despite Memphis Depay’s profligacy in front of goal, Sutton expects the Netherlands to come out on top with a 2-1 victory.
As the quarter-finals approach, excitement builds for the remaining teams and their fans. The matches are expected to be closely contested, with surprises still possible. Will Sutton’s predictions prove accurate once again? Only time will tell.