As the UEFA Euro 2024 enters the decisive knockout rounds, sixteen teams prepare for high-stakes clashes that promise to captivate football fans around the world. With the group stage behind them, each team is just a few victories away from potential glory. The Round of 16 is set to feature a mix of seasoned powerhouses and ambitious newcomers, all vying for a place in the annals of European football history.
The group stage of UEFA Euro 2024 ended with a stunning turn of events, as Georgia triumphed over Portugal with a score of 2-0.
This unexpected victory elevated Georgia to third place in their group, ensuring their progression to the knockout phase, while Hungary faced elimination. Prior to this,
notable teams such as Croatia had already been ousted from the competition.
As the group stage wrapped up, four teams were vying for advancement to the knockout rounds as the best third-placed teams.
Out of all six groups, the top four teams have secured their places in the last 16. In a tightly contested Group E, Belgium, Romania, Slovakia, and Ukraine each concluded with 4 points. However, Ukraine was left behind on goal difference.
Among the prominent teams, France is up against the most formidable challenge in the last 16. They unexpectedly finished behind Austria in the group stage and are now set to confront Belgium, who holds the third spot in the FIFA rankings. The French team must now face formidable opponents like De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku.
Conversely, Spain and England are paired with seemingly less daunting adversaries. England's acclaimed 'Golden Generation' is matched against Slovakia, while Spain is set to compete with Georgia, who are marking their debut in the Euro tournament.
The match between Italy and Switzerland is anticipated to be intensely competitive. A similar level of rivalry is expected between Romania and the Netherlands. The host nation, Germany, will compete against Denmark, the victors of the 1992 championship, in the last 16. Portugal, too, has a favorable draw, as they are slated to play against Slovenia, who have also made it to the Euro knockout stage for the
first time.
The remaining matches include Austria versus Turkey, both of which are considered this year's unexpected contenders in the Euro. Austria, under the guidance of Ralf Rangnick, has exemplified the gegenpressing strategy and could emerge as the tournament's dark horse.
Turkey, boasting talents like Arda Guler and Hakan Çalhanoglu, is poised to deliver a surprise.
