As Euro 2024 enters its final round of group matches, the tournament has already given us a feast of goals, shock results, and edge of your seat drama. With the knockout stages just around the corner, lets take a look at some of the key moments of the competition so far.
Group Stage Drama
Hosts Germany set the tone for the tournament with a commanding 5-1 victory over Scotland in the opening match. Jamal Musiala stole the show with a brace, silencing critics who questioned the team’s form leading up to the tournament.
England, tipped by many as potential champions, have had a mixed start to their campaign. A hard-fought 1-0 win against Serbia was followed by a frustrating 1-1 draw with Denmark. Gareth Southgate’s men now face a crucial clash with Slovenia, knowing a win will secure top spot in Group C.
“We’re in a good position, but we know we need to step it up,” said England captain Harry Kane.
“Slovenia will be tough, but we’re confident we can get the job done.”
One of the tournament’s biggest shocks came in Frankfurt, where Slovakia stunned Belgium with a 1-0 victory. The result has left the Red Devils’ ‘golden generation’ teetering on the brink of an early exit.
Qualification Picture
With the final round of group matches upon us, several teams have already booked their place in the last 16. Spain and France have both qualified with a game to spare, showcasing the form that makes them tournament favourites.
Germany need just a point against Hungary to secure their passage. Defending champions Italy face a trickier task. Their 1-1 draw with Croatia means they must avoid defeat against Spain to guarantee progression.
In Group E, all four teams still have a chance of qualifying. Belgium, in particular, face a must-win clash with Romania. Roberto Martinez’s side will be desperate to avoid an embarrassing early exit.
Emerging Stars
The tournament has seen several young players announce themselves on the international stage. Spain’s 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal became the youngest player ever to feature in a European Championship when he came off the bench against Croatia.
England’s Jude Bellingham has been a standout performer, with his dynamic midfield displays drawing comparisons to Steven Gerrard.
“He’s got everything,” said former England striker Alan Shearer. “He could be the difference-maker for England in the knockout stages.”
VAR Controversy
As with recent major tournaments, VAR has been a talking point. A contentious offside decision in the Netherlands’ match against Austria sparked debate, with Dutch coach Ronald Koeman calling for “more clarity” on the technology’s implementation.
Looking Ahead
As the group stage reaches its climax, attention is already turning to the knockout rounds. The prospect of heavyweight clashes in the last 16 has fans salivating, with potential match-ups including England vs Germany and Spain vs Italy on the cards.
With the final set for Berlin’s Olympiastadion on July 14th, the road to glory is becoming clearer. But as this tournament has already shown, expect the unexpected. Euro 2024 is far from over, and the drama is only just beginning.
