From the first few days, most fans and observers agreed that Euro 2024 is unfolding as one of the most exciting summer tournaments in recent memory. Between back-and-forth action and last-gasp dramatic goals, the supporters have been kept on the very edge of their seats.
Therefore, we can only imagine what sort of fireworks the European Championship will have in store now that we have reached the main course, otherwise known as the knockout stages.
With all the traditional big plays still in the running, this is set to be an electrifying Round of 16. So let’s try to predict the identities of the nations that will prevail in the next stage and book their places in the quarter-finals.
Switzerland vs Italy
After snatching their ticket to the Round of 16 in dramatic fashion thanks to Mattia Zaccagni’s last-second winner, it would be an anti-climatic exit for Italy were they to be eliminated at the hands of Switzerland.
The Red Crosses proved to be a force to be reckoned with as they remain undefeated in Euro 2024. However, the Azzurri’s experience and Grinta could guide them through the next stage, while a certain Jorginho will be seeking vengeance for himself against the same opponent that witnessed his lowest lows at the international stage with his infamous penalty-kick misses in the World Cup qualifiers.
Prediction: Italy to skip past Switzerland
Germany vs Denmark
On the back of a comfortable group-stage campaign, Germany will be expected to breeze past Denmark who are yet to taste victory or defeat in the tournament, but instead settled for three draws.
Nevertheless, the Scandinavians are seldom an easy fish to fry, and they’ll surely leave it out on the pitch as they look to thwart their neighbors in their own backyard in Dortmund, even though it remains a daunting task.
Prediction: Germany will prevail but it won’t be a walk in the park.
England vs Slovakia
Despite finishing on top of their group, the English remain displeased with the performances of their national team, and continue to chastise Gareth Southgate for his tactical approach.
But at the end of the day, England should have enough quality among their ranks to see off Slovakia, even though Francesco Colzona’s men will try their best to overturn what appears to be an inevitable scenario.
Predictions: The Three Lions will finally roar in a convincing display.
Spain vs Georgia
What’s a summer tournament without a surprise package? Absolutely meaningless.
So thankfully, Georgia is proving to be the most exciting feel-good story of the competition, as they managed to reach the Round of 16 in their maiden participation in a major tournament. Some would note that Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and company took advantage of Portugal’s low guard to secure their place in the Round of 16, but they deserve all the credit for pouncing on the occasion.
Nevertheless, replicating this incredible feat against a game Spain side remains unlikely. The Georgians will likely struggle to cope with La Furia Roja’s incredible pace and suffocating pressure.
Prediction: Spain to maintain their perfect run.
France vs Belgium
This is obviously the most high-profile clash of the Round of 16, pitting together two gigantic underachievers in a rematch for the 2018 World Cup semi-final.
But while neither side has been able to deliver the goods thus far, France have been more convincing than Belgium who have been consistently failing to inflict the damage upfront, especially with the misfiring Romelu Lukaku.
For their part, Les Bleus have never truly played Champagne Football under the guidance of Didier Deschamps, so their slow start could be part of the process. With so much talent to choose from, the World Cup finalists should have the upper hand over their neighbors.
Prediction: France with a slim win.
Portugal vs Slovenia
Kudos to Slovenia for doing just about enough to earn their ticket to the next stage, simply by collecting three draws. But will they be able to contain the juggernaut attack of Portugal that contains the likes of Rafael Leao, Bernardo Silva, Bruna Fernandes and a certain Cristiano Ronaldo who’s still itching to open his account in the tournament?
The Slovenians will certainly try their past to drag the Iberians to deep waters and hope they panic and commit some blunders to pounce on.
One could almost sense that an upset is on the cards in at least one fixture from this round, and perhaps it will ensue in this one.
Prediction: Slovenia to stun the world.
Romania vs Netherlands
Despite finishing third in their group, the Netherlands were still lucky enough to avoid a major showdown in the Round of 16. Instead, they have a date with Romania who finished on top of a chaotic Group E thanks to their superior goal difference.
So after being handed a lifeline, the Oranje must not squander the opportunity. Perhaps it won’t be a masterclass display by any means, but the Dutch’s quality and depth should be enough to put down a humble Romanian side that lacks star power.
Prediction: The Netherlands prevail with a late showing.
Austria vs Turkiye
In the final fixture of the Round of 16, Austria and Turkiye will lock horns in what could be a razor-tight affair between two sides that have thus far enjoyed impressive runs. The Turks have already two victories in the bag, while their foes have topped their group at the expense of France and the Netherlands.
While this could be anyone’s match, Turkiye’s tenacity and fighting spirit often make the difference at this stage. Their ranks also include Hakan Calhanoglu who might just be the finest deep-lying playmaker in the world right now, as well as two teenage sensations in Arda Guler and Kenan Yildiz.
Prediction: Turkiye emerge victorious from merciless battle.
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