Euro 2024

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Last time I posted was to discuss the last World Cup 2022, which you can see if you scroll down this forum. I’ll be following a similar format as then giving a brief rundown of the sides, the groups, and some analysis on the upcoming games with results after the individual contests end.

The contest begins this coming Friday and ends a month later. Euro 2024 takes place in Germany. The last winner was Italy in 2020.

Feel free to join in and comment.

I generally find this tournament to be more exciting than the WC simply because the competition in Europe is at such a high level. The only countries outside Europe that come close to this level of play is Argentina and Brazil. This is a tough tournament to win and can be very unpredictable. It used to be just 8 teams, it got expanded to 16, and now it’s 24. There’s really only maybe 8 elite sides in Europe so you will get some games that are of a lesser level, but overall it tends to produce interesting games.

Enjoy!

[Ponietz]

1. Rec

France are favorite.

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2. Groups

Following are the Groups and how I have ranked them to finish in each group. Those who have the (x-) next to them are the countries I predict will go through to the knockout rounds.

Group A
x-Germany
x-Scotland
x-Hungary
Switzerland

Group B
x-Spain
x-Croatia
x-Italy
Albania

Group C
x-England
x-Denmark
x-Serbia
Slovenia

Group D
x-France
x-Netherlands
x-Austria
Poland

Group E
x-Belgium
x-Ukraine
Slovakia
Romania

Group F
x-Portugal
x-Turkey
Czech Rep
Georgia

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3. Day 1

The tournament opens up with Germany v Scotland.

Germany is one of a handful of countries that could make the final. It remains to be seen since they have fallen off their normal world class performances in past competitions, but it seems they have regained their form. Scotland happy to be back in the Euros. Should be a German win.

The game starts at 3p EST which is 9p in Germany, so the one thing that is certain is both the German and Scottish fans will be drunk, drunk, drunk. The atmosphere in the stadium should be electric!

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4. Result

Germany smokes them. Scotland needs to regroup.

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5. Day 2

Hungary v Switzerland

Chance for the Swiss to prove me wrong and win or draw. Still think Hungary will finish ahead of them.


Spain v Croatia

Two teams that, with the right breaks, could make the final game. But this is two teams going opposite directions. Spain is young but getting better. Croatia is aging but still able to play at a high level. Best game of the day.


Italy v Albania

Italy has no superstars, but they’re solid. Albania sucks. Italy wins.

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6. Results

The Swiss prove me wrong and had an outstanding showing easily defeating Hungary.

Spain jumped off to a fast start putting away Croatia in the first half. Will be interesting to see if Spain can maintain and if Croatia can bounce back.

Italy starts shaky but quickly recovers for the win.

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8. Day 3

Poland v Netherlands

Netherlands is a top side and could go deep into the tournament. Poland has Lewandowski, but that’s not enough. Holland wins.


Slovenia v Denmark

Slovenia isn’t very good. Denmark should win.


Serbia v England

England has probably the best side on paper in the Euros, but they can never seem to string it together for the trophy. Still, this side should easily handle their group. England win.

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9. Results

Unsurprisingly, Holland beats Poland.

The Danes controlled the game, but the Slovenians get a goal towards the close and Draw.

England score a win, but with what they have up front, more goals should have happened.

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10. Day 4

Romania v Ukraine

They both suck. Ukraine slightly better


Belgium v Slovakia

Belgium has aging talent. Should win.


Austria v France

Austria has potential to put up a fight, but France loaded with talent. France wins.

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11. Results

Surprise!! Romania sucks less than Ukraine.

Belgium is in trouble. The golden age players just don’t have it anymore. Even if they make the knockout stage, they are ripe for the picking’.

France slips by on an Austrian own goal.

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12. Day 5

Turkey v Georgia

Georgia sucks. Turkey will win.


Portugal v Czech Republic

Portugal has a team that could make the final game. The Czech Rep just isn’t very good.

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13. Results

Turkey overcomes a slow start and gets the win.

Portugal scores in a.e.t. to gain 3 pts.

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14. Day 6

Last edited Tue Jun 18, 2024, 08:30 PM - Edit history (1)

Croatia v Albania

Croatia gets a chance to rebound off their poor opening game. Chances are they will. Croatia wins.


Germany v Hungary

In an intriguing game, the host country takes on a surprising Hungarian side which showed some life in a 3-1 defeat in their first game. Germany should win.


Scotland v Switzerland

Given their opening games, the Swiss should decimate the Scots. And that’s probably gonna be the case.

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15. Results

Croatia is in trouble. They had a draw against the one team everyone in the group should beat, and really were quite fortunate to get that. Even if they go through to the knockout stage, they won’t scare anyone the way they’ve played in the last two games.

Germany secures their place in the knockout rounds. They’re looking like the real deal again. Hungary is out.

The Scots woke up and played much better this time out. The Swiss looked solid and the goal by Shaqiri was brilliant! Absolutely brilliant! Great game played to a Draw. Swiss have likely secured a place in the knockouts. Scots still have some work to do.

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16. Day 7

Slovenia v Serbia

I view Serbia as being slightly better than Slovenia, but this game could go either way.


Denmark v England

Matchup of two sides that should advance. England has the better talent and should win.


Spain v Italy

The game of the day. Early matchup of two powerhouse sides where neither want to lose, but they still want to keep building momentum and would be happy with a draw. Spain should posses the ball more, but Italy can kill you on the quick counter. I’ll say a Draw.

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18. Results

In a game that was better than I anticipated, Slovenia and Serbia play to a Draw with Serbia nipping a goal at the very end. Slovenia is in a slightly better position to advance.

A very inept looking England get a Draw with Denmark which keeps their hopes alive. England, with 4 pts., should advance, but with their front line they should be scoring 3+ goals a game. They need to get on the front foot.

Spain advances on an Italian own goal in a sometimes tight, sometimes sloppy match. Italy still in good shape with 3 pts., but they really need a win to recapture the momentum.

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17. Day 8

Slovakia v Ukraine

If Ukraine is going to advance, they badly need a win here. Slovakia was surprising in their first game. Really depends on who shows up and who doesn’t.


Poland v Austria

Both need to get the win. Loser can forget about it. Draw keeps them both alive, but barely. I’ll pick Austria.


Netherlands v France

Another early matchup that should be electric made slightly less so by a missing Mbappe. This one is a tough call, so I’ll flake out and call it a Draw.

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19. Results

Ukraine decides to wake up and gets a win over Slovakia. Both teams stay in the running to go to the next round.

Austria keeps their hopes alive with a win. Minus a win and a lot of help, Poland is out.

France and Holland play to a tie, which is just fine with both of them as they’ll make the knockout stage.

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20. Day 9

Georgia v Czech Rep

Two teams that aren’t very good with the Czechs being slightly better.


Turkey v Portugal

Top teams in their group in which both will probably advance. Portugal has more talent and should be better.


Belgium v Romania

An aging Belgium team that looked flat in their opener against a surprisingly good Romanian team. Depends on which Belgium teams shows up, but a loss or Draw will severely hamper their chances.

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21. Results

Georgia and the Czech Rep play to a Draw which is a result neither team needed. Not looking promising for either to advance.

Portugal looks like a real threat as they manhandle Turkey.

Belgium wakes up and beats Romania. All 4 teams in the group sitting on 3 pts.

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22. Day 10

Two games down for each team in the Euros with one to go in Group. The only sure way to advance is to place in the top 2 spots. Otherwise, four 3rd place teams will go through.


Scotland - Hungary

Scotland needs a win to have a chance of advancing. Hungary has a very slim chance with a win. A Draw likely ends both sides in this Euro.


Germany - Switzerland

Germany has advanced as well as the Swiss. Question is will they rest players or do they want to keep momentum going.

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23. Results

Germany finishes top of the Group with a Draw vs Switzerland. Both teams advance.

Hungary nips a goal in extra time to beat Scotland. Hungary, with 3 pts and (-3) goal difference is hanging by a thread and would need lots of help to advance. Scotland is out.

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24. Day 11

Last edited Mon Jun 24, 2024, 06:15 PM - Edit history (1)

Albania v Spain

Spain looks to top the Group. Albania needs a win to have any hope of advancing. Spain should easily win, but they may choose to rest some players.


Croatia v Italy

Croatia is playing like time has passed them by, but you never know with this veteran team. Croatia must win to advance. Italy would advance with a win or draw. Neither can choose to rest players.

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25. Results

As expected, Spain takes care of business and comes in top of the Group.

In a tight game, Italy gets a goal with the last possession of the game and finishes second.

Albania is out and, minus a miracle, Croatia is out.

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26. Day 12

France v Poland

France is through the Group, it’s just a matter of where they place. Poland needs a big win and a lot of help from other teams to advance. Don’t see that happening.


Netherlands v Austria

Both teams should advance, but again it’s just a matter of where they place.


Denmark v Serbia

A must win game for Serbia to advance. Denmark could Draw and advance, but that’s taking a risk. They really need to win, too.


England v Slovenia

England will advance, it’s just a matter of where they place. This is a side that should be terrorizing other teams, but they’re playing rather uninspired football. Slovenia could slip in with a Draw, but they would also be taking a risk. They need the win.

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28. Results

In a boring game, France and Poland Draw. France places 2nd in the group. Poland is out.

Netherlands and Austria play a goal filled game with Austria getting the win and topping the Group. Holland places 3rd and moves to the next round.

In a game that excited no one, Denmark and Serbia play to a goalless Draw. Denmark places 2nd. Serbia is out.

Not wanting to be outdone, England and Slovenia also play to a goalless Draw. England finishes top of the Group and Slovenia finishes 3rd with 3 pts and 0 goal difference, so they’re hanging on by a thread. Tomorrow’s results will clear things up.

The one thing that is clear is that the English press and supporters will be crucifying the team for their play. Stay away unless you enjoy listening to them cry.

[Enoki33]

27. While I agree with your statement that

euro24 is of a higher standard, as is evident even at the club level, l view the WC through a slightly different lens. If the world can come together in 90 min increments to forget our geopolitical threats, our petty differences, skin color and religion, then surely there might still be some hope that mankind will intellectually mature and planet Earth may have a better chance of survival. Such is the power of the WC.
Note: l think Pele once said much the same.

[Baggies]

29. Day 13

Slovakia v Romania

This group is wide open with everyone sitting on 3 pts. Winners advance, losers roll the dice, and Draws might sneak through. Romania is +1 on goal difference so a Draw will advance them. Slovakia is at 0 goal difference so they really need a win, but if they Draw they still could advance.


Ukraine v Belgium

Ukraine is -2 goal difference which means they really need a win. A Draw and chances are they’re out. Belgium is +1 so a Draw will likely advance them, but a win is certain advancement.


Georgia v Portugal

Portugal is through to the next round. Georgia is a must win or they’re out. Portugal could rest players, but even then they’re loaded with talent.


Czech Rep v Turkey

Czech Rep needs a win or they’re out. Turkey advances with a Draw. Turkey has a slightly better team.

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30. Results

In a somewhat exciting game, Romain and Slovakia Draw. Romania wins the group and Slovakia gets 3rd and goes to the next round.

Belgium and Ukraine play to a Draw. Belgium gets 2nd, Ukraine is out.

Portugal takes the day off and rests 8 starters allowing Georgia to win and place 3rd with enough pts to continue on. Portugal places 1st.

In a good game with some controversial calls, Turkey wins and places 2nd, and the Czechs are out.

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31. Knockout Stages Begin - Round of 16

Following are the matches for the Round of 16 Knockout Stage

Switzerland v Italy
Germany v Denmark
England v Slovakia
Spain v Georgia
France v Belgium
Portugal v Slovenia
Romania v Netherlands
Austria v Turkey

I guessed 11 of the 16 finalist which is fair. These games are so hard to predict, but it’s fun to try. Some of these games seem to have obvious winners, but you never know.

The tournament really gets interesting when we get to the final 8.

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32. Switzerland v Italy

Last edited Fri Jun 28, 2024, 10:01 PM - Edit history (1)

The Swiss performed beautifully during the group stage. There’s a lot of football lovers who hope they can go deep into the tournament. They are very solid from front to back.

Italy squeezed in on a last second goal in their last game. But Italy is a traditional slow starting team who has the reputation of turning it up when it matters. Will they this time? That’s the question. Their weakness this time, compared to other times, is they don’t really have a #9. In times past, they had two or more. This time, they really don’t. And that could be the difference.

Too close to predict.

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34. Result

Swiss make easy work of an Italy that has no attack.

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33. Germany v Denmark

Germany performed well during Group play. And they’re the home team.

Denmark went through on 3 Draws. That doesn’t spell confidence.

Expect a Germany win.

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35. Result

After a rain delay in the first half, Germany comes out in the second and takes the game.

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36. England v Slovakia

Oh England, are you going to show up or not? This is normally an easy pick, but this England side is unpredictable. Still, they have the talent. England win, but given how they’ve been playing, not by much.

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38. Result

England eeks out a win in extra time.

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37. Spain v Georgia

Spain is looking strong. Georgia is here because Portugal took the day off. Spain win and should be routine.

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39. Result

Spain turns up the heat in the 2nd half and wins big against a hapless Georgia.

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40. France v Belgium

France has looked less than stellar so far, but that shouldn’t matter against a Belgium side that has played poorly and is showing its age. France wins.

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42. Result

France, who is not looking particularly threatening, win late on a deflected mis-hit.

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41. Portugal v Slovenia

Portugal is hitting on all cylinders while Slovenia muddled through on 3 Draws against weak and/or underachieving opponents. Portugal wins.

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43. Result

A very stubborn Slovenia takes the game to PK’s, but it ends there. Portugal wins.

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44. Romania v Netherlands

Odds makers have this going to Holland pretty easily, but I’m not so sure. Romania topped their group while the Netherlands skipped in with a 3rd place group finish and not looking terrific. I’m going with this game being a toss up only because the Netherlands have the stronger talent.

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46. Result

Holland gets a goal at 20’ then gets busy at the end to send Romania out of the tournament.

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45. Austria v Turkey

Both teams are coming in looking good. Slight edge to Austria, but could go either way.

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47. Result

Turkey gets a goal in the first minute and Austria is never able to catch up. Turkey advances.

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48. Quarterfinals - The Tournament Begins!!

This is when things really start to heat up as the top countries have advanced. There’s no more easy games, they’re all tough, and they’re all unpredictable. It’s either go strong or go home.

Spain v Germany
Portugal v France
England v Switzerland
Netherlands v Turkey

If you love international football at its highest level, this is your time to be alive. Sit back and enjoy what should be terrific games!

[Baggies]

49. Spain v Germany

This will be a great game! The host country, Germany, is looking to reestablish itself after the last few tournaments of being mediocre. Spain has come in and really surprised everyone with their upbeat style of play. A real don’t miss event. Germany is slightly favored.

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52. Result

What a contest! The game goes down to the wire in extra time with Spain pulling out the W. They are everything they appeared to be throughout this tournament.

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50. Portugal v France

The favorite to win it all, France, has not been playing very well. But this is crunch time and they know how to turn it up at the right time. Portugal has as solid of a side as any of the top countries and have played well to this point. Another game that could go either way with France being slightly favored.

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54. Result

In another exciting game that goes to PK’s, France gets the victory.

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55. England v Switzerland

The question remains: Which England team will show up? So far, it been a very underwhelming side that is still getting the job done. For all the negatives, they are in the Quarterfinals. Will they play to their potential? Will they squeak by? Will they get beat? Stay tuned.

The Swiss side is very impressive. There is every reason to believe they can win this game. But traditionally this is about the time the Swiss choke.

Should be a good game. Slight edge to England

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57. Result

In what is becoming the normal occurrence, this game goes to PK’s. England comes out on top.

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56. Netherlands v Turkey

Of all the games, this is the ones the bookies are laying odds for a big win for Holland. On paper, they are the much better side. And they have improved as the tourney has advanced.

However, Turkey is playing tough and are solid from front to back. They remind me of how Morocco played in the WC and surprised everyone.

Once again, should be a close game. Slight edge to Holland.

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58. Result

What an exciting game with plenty of attacking football! Holland gets the win.

[3catwoman3]

51. We have watched every game that we've been at home for...

...which is most of them.

Also watching Copa America. Lots of pushing and shoving in tonight's Argentina vs Ecuador match.

And, we recently binge-watched all 3 seasons of Welcome To Wrexham - delightful!

[3catwoman3]

53. What a SPECTACULAR header goal Spain had...

...right in the last minutes of the second OT period - WOW!

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59. Semi-Finals

What a great Quarterfinal!! All the games were great which sets up the semi-finals which should be equally or more explosive. These are can’t miss games.

Spain v France
Netherlands v England

Games are on Tuesday and Wednesday at 3p EST.

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60. Spain v France

This game should be incredible!! Spain has played great and everyone is still waiting for France to play to their potential. France can’t sit back and absorb the attack and try to counter. They’re going to have to get on the front foot. Spain just needs to keep doing what got them here. This game is a toss-up.

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61. Result

Outstanding game!! France takes the lead early only to have Spain score twice in rapid succession. Following was a second half of attacks and counter attacks with both sides playing some beautiful football. Spain hangs on to win and move on to the final.

If you get a chance, check out Spain’s first goal made by 16 year old phenom Lamine Yamal. Terrific! El Classico will have several years that should be truly wonderful with him and Mbappe facing off for their respective clubs.

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62. Netherlands v England

Both of these teams have me scratching my head. England has the personnel to dominate any team, but they still aren’t playing well, yet they’re in the semi-finals. Holland is no slouch, either. And truth be told they haven’t really lived up to how good they could be. I’ll give a slight edge to England, but I could almost as easily say the same for Holland. Should be a good game.

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63. Result

England are the new cardiac kids. Holland played very good, but it wasn’t enough. This game was not as exciting as yesterday’s, but it had its moments. After being down, England nips one at the end to advance. Second year in a row they have made it to the final.

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64. Final - Spain v England

The team that has been playing the best, Spain, meets the team the bookies gave odds on winning, England. These sides are much the same, yet very different. Spain has been on the front foot this whole tournament with a multitude of good players who take calculated chances and create some outstanding chances. England has the talent from top to bottom over virtually everyone, but their play hasn’t been great, and yet here they are.

It’s a final so who can say what will happen. Given their performances up until this point, Spain needs to take an early lead and then keep the pressure on an England side who has convinced themselves they can and will win, even in the closing seconds of the game.

I’m really looking forward to this one!!

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65. Result

After an exciting, but scoreless, first half, Spain opens the second half with an early goal. Spain continues to have the better chances, but England ties it up again with 18 minutes left. But 14 minutes later, Spain finishes again to take the lead and then hangs on for the victory.

Congrats Spain!!

They really had the best side the whole tournament winning every game they played. And this is a young team. This could be the genesis of several good years to come for Spain.

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66. Spain Wins!!

For any who watched Euro 2024, I hope you enjoyed the competition as much as I have. The time from late June forward, once the final teams were known and the knockout stages began, have been especially fun and fulfilling. The events of the past 2 weeks have been wonderful in so many ways and I hope for more of the same in the near future. I was hoping for more participation on this thread, but that’s OK. For those who followed along, Thank You!!