The Euro 2024 group stage has concluded, and the excitement is building as we head into the knockout rounds. The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, have been decided, setting the stage for thrilling encounters in the round of 16. Here’s a breakdown of the matchups to look forward to in the Euro 2024 live knockout stage.
The Euro 2024 knockout stage kicks off with Switzerland facing Italy in Berlin on June 29th at 11 PM CEST. Following this, Germany will clash with Denmark in Dortmund on June 30th at 2 AM CEST. Later that day, England will take on Slovakia in Gelsenkirchen at 11 PM CEST. The action continues into July with Spain playing against Georgia in Cologne on July 1st at 2 AM CEST, and a high-profile match between France and Belgium in Düsseldorf on July 1st at 11 PM CEST. Portugal will then face Slovenia in Frankfurt on July 2nd at 2 AM CEST, followed by Romania against the Netherlands in Munich on July 2nd at 11 PM CEST. The round of 16 concludes with Austria versus Turkey in Leipzig on July 3rd at 2 AM CEST.
EURO 2024 Round of 16 Fixtures
Euro 2024 Round of 16 Matchups
Austria’s surprising journey to the top of Group D has been a major talking point. Despite an initial 1-0 defeat to France, Ralf Rangnick’s dynamic team bounced back with impressive attacking displays, scoring six goals in victories against Poland and the Netherlands. Austria has never progressed beyond the round of 16 in the Euros, but this talented squad has a genuine opportunity to make history in Germany.
Austrian players celebrate after their win against the Netherlands. Image: Getty Images
Another notable team reaching the round of 16 is Georgia, one of the four best third-placed teams. In their debut major international tournament, Georgia has lit up the competition with their exciting attacking football. A highlight was their 2-0 victory against powerhouse Portugal, where star player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored and shone throughout the match. Willy Sagnol’s team is proving to be a captivating side to watch at Euro 2024.
Reigning champions Italy aim to become only the second team to successfully defend their Euro title, following Spain’s triumphs in 2008 and 2012. However, their group stage performance was not entirely convincing, with one win, one draw, and one loss. They secured their runner-up spot in Group B thanks to a dramatic 98th-minute equalizer by Mattia Zaccagni against Croatia.
Ferran Torres celebrates a goal for Spain against Albania
Forward Ferran Torres celebrates scoring for Spain against Albania. Image: Getty Images
Leading Group B was Spain, who won all three of their group matches and scored five goals, remarkably yet to concede a goal in the tournament. Winger Lamine Yamal made history by becoming the youngest player ever to feature in a Euro match when he played against Croatia. Meanwhile, striker Álvaro Morata is now the joint third-highest scorer in Euros history, having scored his seventh goal in the competition. If Spain wins Euro 2024, they will become the first nation to win four European Championship titles.
Host nation Germany began their campaign impressively, thrilling fans in Munich with a dominant 5-1 victory over Scotland, followed by a hard-fought 2-0 win against Hungary in Stuttgart. In their final Group A match against Switzerland in Frankfurt, despite falling behind, Niclas Füllkrug’s late equalizer secured Julian Nagelsmann’s team top spot in Group A. Forward Jamal Musiala has been particularly impressive, scoring two goals in three appearances.
The knockout stage promises a heightened level of tactical awareness from coaches, with no room for error. Fans can anticipate more captivating matches and potentially new records being set as the Euro 2024 live tournament progresses.