The Euro 2024 Round of 16 continues over Monday and Tuesday, with one half of the draw already confirmed.
On Saturday, underdogs Switzerland beat Italy 2 – 0 with what was, in truth, a minimum of fuss. Later on Germany beat Denmark 2 – 0, but it could have been 5 – 0.
On Sunday, England laboured to a 2 – 1 win over Slovakia, a 95th minute equaliser from Bellingham saving them. In the evening game, Georgia were the same Georgia they’ve been for the whole tournament. They took the lead as well, but went on to lose 4 – 1.
Below we preview the remaining Euro 2024 Round of 16 ties.
France VS Belgium
France have been boring so far, but they’re still the world champions and they still have Kylian Mbappe. Kevin de Bryune thought Belgium were ‘too old’ to win World Cup 2022, so he probably doesn’t rate their Euro 2024 chances either. France should have too much for a Belgium team at the end of its cycle.
Portugal VS Slovenia
As their game against Georgia showed, Portugal are vulnerable. However, they have arguably the best squad in the tournament. Portugal should have too much quality for Slovenia who are competitive but technically inferior.
Austria VS Turkey
A clash between the two exciting, underdog teams in the knockout rounds. Ralph Ragnick has turned Austria into a team any opponent would be wary of. Turkey, meanwhile, has a side full of talented players like Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Arda Güler.
Romania VS Netherlands
Romania have done well to progress to the Round of 16, and probably won’t get any further. This is not the Netherlands of the past, but they still have good players. Holland could easily make their way to a semi final or final quietly, and then they have as good a shot as anyone.
With the elimination of Italy, the tournament is taking shape interestingly. Spain and Germany play each other next, meaning one of the favourites will be out by the semi finals. Switzerland will like their chances against an underwhelming England. Apart from that, it’s up to France or Portugal to start playing well and stake a claim for tournament favourites.
