Euro 2024 has reached its knockout phase after an exhilarating group stage, setting the stage for intense battles as teams vie for European football glory. Here’s a look at the upcoming fixtures and how each team made it through to the last 16.
Exciting Last-16 Fixtures
The Euro 2024 last-16 stage promises thrilling encounters with teams across Europe battling for supremacy. Here are the matchups scheduled to commence this weekend:
- Switzerland vs Italy – Saturday, 29 June (17:00 BST)
- Germany vs Denmark – Saturday, 29 June (20:00 BST)
- England vs Slovakia – Sunday, 30 June (17:00 BST)
- Spain vs Georgia – Sunday, 30 June (20:00 BST)
- France vs Belgium – Monday, 1 July (17:00 BST)
- Portugal vs Slovenia – Monday, 1 July (20:00 BST)
- Romania vs Netherlands – Tuesday, 2 July (17:00 BST)
- Austria vs Turkey – Tuesday, 2 July (20:00 BST)
Group Stage Recap
The group stage concluded with drama and excitement as teams battled for qualification to the knockout rounds.
Group A – Germany and Switzerland Progress
Germany topped Group A, overcoming Scotland with a last-gasp defeat, while Switzerland secured second place, sending Hungary home despite their late victory.
Group B – Spain and Italy Advance
Spain sailed through as group winners, with Italy securing the runner-up spot after a dramatic late equalizer against Croatia, ending Croatia’s hopes of advancing.
Group C – England Tops Despite Draw
England secured first place despite a goalless draw against Slovenia, with Denmark advancing automatically in second place and Slovenia progressing as one of the best third-placed teams.
Group D – Austria Surges to First Place
Austria stunned the Netherlands to top Group D, leaving France in second place. The Dutch also progressed as one of the best third-placed teams.
Group E – Historic Four-Way Tie
Group E made history with all teams finishing on four points. Romania clinched top spot, Belgium secured second, and Slovakia advanced as one of the best third-placed teams, while Ukraine’s impressive performance ended in elimination.
Group F – Portugal Leads the Way
Portugal emerged as group winners despite a defeat to Georgia, who made history by progressing as one of the best third-placed teams. Turkey’s victory over the Czech Republic secured their spot in second place.
Third-Placed Teams and Tie-Breaking Criteria
The four best third-placed teams from the group stage also advanced to the last 16. Teams were separated based on the following criteria:
- Head-to-head results
- Head-to-head goal difference
- Head-to-head goals scored
- Overall goal difference
- Overall goals scored
- Lowest disciplinary points total
- Ranking in qualifiers
This meticulous process ensured that the most deserving teams progressed to the knockout stage, setting the scene for high-stakes clashes in the upcoming matches.
What to Expect in the Knockout Stage
As Euro 2024 moves into the knockout stage, the competition intensifies with every match. Teams will need to showcase tactical prowess, mental resilience, and individual brilliance to navigate through the challenges and advance towards the coveted trophy. Expectations are high, with fans eagerly anticipating more memorable moments and thrilling performances from Europe’s top footballing nations.
In conclusion, Euro 2024 has delivered excitement and unpredictability in equal measure during the group stage. With the last-16 matchups confirmed, football enthusiasts are in for a treat as the tournament progresses to its decisive phase, where champions will emerge amidst fierce competition and passionate displays on the field.
