The much-anticipated UEFA Euro 2024 tournament is drawing closer, and with the final draw concluded, the stage is set for thrilling group stage battles in Germany. Fans across the globe are eager to see how the Euro 2024 Groups will unfold and which teams will emerge as contenders. This breakdown provides an expert look at each of the Euro 2024 groups, analyzing the composition, key matchups, and predicting potential outcomes as teams vie for European glory.
Alexi Lalas Euro 2024 and Copa America Favorites
Group A: Germany, Scotland, Hungary, Switzerland
Group A presents an intriguing mix, headlined by the host nation, Germany. Despite recent fluctuations in form, Germany, playing on home turf, are always a force to be reckoned with and enter as group favorites. Scotland, after a strong qualifying campaign, will be aiming to prove their mettle and secure a knockout stage berth. Hungary, consistent participants in recent Euros, bring stability and tactical discipline to the group. Switzerland, consistently ranked higher than both Scotland and Hungary by FIFA, are dark horses with the potential to upset the established order. This group is poised for tight contests, with every match crucial for progression.
Group B: Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania
Dubbed the “Group of Death,” Group B is undoubtedly the most challenging of the Euro 2024 groups. Featuring three European powerhouses – Spain, Croatia, and Italy – alongside a resilient Albania, this group promises high-stakes drama from the outset. Spain, fresh from their UEFA Nations League victory against Croatia, bring their possession-based style and youthful energy. Croatia, led by seasoned veterans, consistently punch above their weight in major tournaments. Defending champions Italy, known for their tactical flexibility and defensive solidity, will be determined to retain their crown. Albania, after topping their qualifying group, are the underdogs but possess the potential to cause upsets and will be eager to make their mark on the European stage. Expect intense battles and tactical masterclasses in this group.
Group C: England, Denmark, Serbia, Slovenia
England, considered by many bookmakers as frontrunners for the title, find themselves in a relatively favorable Group C. The Three Lions will be expected to dominate and secure top spot. Denmark, semi-finalists in the last Euro, represent the biggest threat to England’s dominance and are strong contenders for second place. Serbia, boasting formidable attacking talent in Aleksandar Mitrović and Dušan Vlahović, have the firepower to trouble any defense but need to overcome consistency issues in major tournaments. Slovenia, while the second lowest-ranked team to qualify outright, will be aiming to capitalize on any slip-ups from their higher-ranked opponents. While England are clear favorites, the battle for second place and best third-placed qualification will be fiercely contested in this group.
Group D: France, Netherlands, Austria, Poland
Group D pits two tournament favorites, France and the Netherlands, against each other, promising captivating encounters. France, consistently among the top contenders in global football, are eager to add another European Championship to their trophy cabinet. The Netherlands, resurgent under Ronald Koeman, will be keen to challenge France for group supremacy and demonstrate their return to elite status. Austria, an improving side with tactical discipline, will be aiming to disrupt the expected top two and potentially qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. Poland, emerging as playoff winners, bring major tournament experience and the individual brilliance of Robert Lewandowski, making them a dangerous prospect. Group D is set to be a group of high quality matches and strategic battles.
Group E: Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine
Belgium, like England in Group C, are heavily favored to top Group E. The Red Devils, despite questions about their golden generation, possess enough quality to navigate this group comfortably. Slovakia and Romania, both aiming to improve on their previous Euro group stage exits, will be vying for second place and a chance to progress. Ukraine, securing qualification through the playoffs, demonstrated resilience and fighting spirit and will be a tough opponent for any team in this group. While Belgium are expected to lead the way, the race for the second spot and potential third-place qualification remains open and competitive.
Group F: Portugal, Czechia, Turkey, Georgia
Group F sees Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo in what is potentially his international swansong, as the clear favorites. Portugal showcased imperious form in qualifying, boasting a perfect record. Czechia, quarter-finalists in the previous Euro, bring tournament pedigree and experience. Turkey, aiming to finally progress beyond the group stage after recent disappointments, have the talent to challenge for qualification. Georgia, making their debut in a major international tournament, are the underdogs but will be eager to make a positive impression. While Portugal are expected to dominate, the battle for second place and beyond will be a fascinating subplot in this group.
