Numerous captivating matchups await fans to anticipate ahead of the start of UEFA EURO 2024 on 14 June.
UEFA.com presents an overview of six captivating group stage fixtures that have emerged following the draw for UEFA EURO 2024. The excitement is building as we approach the highly anticipated kick-off in June.
Group A: Germany vs Scotland, 14 June (Munich, 21:00)
The competition commences in a grand manner as the host nation, Germany, faces off against Scotland in the inaugural match. Germany, the three-time champions of EURO, are participating in their unprecedented 14th edition of the tournament and are eager to secure another victory in front of their devoted fans.
However, Julian Nagelsmann’s team will face a formidable challenge from Scotland, who only suffered a single defeat during the qualifying stage and achieved remarkable victories against renowned teams like Spain and Norway. Despite Scotland’s previous inability to defeat Germany in eight competitive encounters, the outcome in Munich remains uncertain, leaving room for unexpected possibilities.
Group B: Spain vs Italy, 20 June (Gelsenkirchen, 21:00)
These two heavyweight teams will face each other for the fifth consecutive EURO tournament on Matchday 2. This highly anticipated match has all the ingredients to become a classic encounter.
Spain, the reigning champions who last lifted the trophy in 2012 by defeating Italy 4-0 in the final, are considered strong contenders to go all the way once again. With a talented squad that includes star players like Rodri, Pedri, and the promising young winger Lamine Yamal, Spain possesses the necessary firepower to make a significant impact in the tournament.
On the other hand, Italy, the current title holders, narrowly avoided the qualifying play-offs with a hard-fought draw against Ukraine on the final day. Under the guidance of their new coach Luciano Spalletti, the Azzurri will undoubtedly be a team to watch closely throughout the competition.
Group C: Denmark vs England, 20 June (Frankfurt, 18:00)
Denmark will be aiming for a different result against the Three Lions after their 2-1 defeat in extra time during the semi-finals of EURO 2020 at Wembley Stadium. Both teams excelled in their qualifying groups, with England maintaining an unbeaten record in Group C. As they prepare to travel to Germany, both sides will be filled with optimism and aspirations of making a deep run in the knockout rounds. The match scheduled before Spain’s showdown with Italy on 20 June is definitely one to watch out for.
Group D: Netherlands vs France, 21 June (Leipzig, 21:00)
The Netherlands, who were crowned champions in 1988, are set to face France, winners in 1984 and 2000, in an enticing clash between two previous EURO titleholders.
Despite not progressing beyond the quarter-finals since 2004, the Dutch team boasts talented players such as Virgil van Dijk, Xavi Simons, and Cody Gakpo, who possess the necessary skills to advance further in this tournament.
France, who suffered a shocking defeat to Switzerland in the round of 16 at EURO 2020, finished as runners-up in 2016 and will rely on their star player Kylian Mbappé to guide them towards another final appearance. Having defeated the Netherlands twice during the qualifying stage, it will be intriguing to observe whether Didier Deschamps’ squad holds a psychological advantage in this Matchday 2 encounter.
Group E: Belgium vs Romania, 22 June (Cologne, 21:00)
Belgium can approach their upcoming match in Germany with confidence, especially with Romelu Lukaku’s impressive 14-goal record in the European Championship qualifying campaign. On the other hand, Romania is making a return to the tournament after missing out on EURO 2020, with their best performance dating back to 2000. The two teams have a history of competitive encounters, each securing a victory during the 1994 World Cup qualification. It will be interesting to see who will come out on top this time.
Group F: Türkiye vs Portugal, 22 June (Dortmund, 18:00)
This tournament could potentially be the final chapter in the illustrious career of Cristiano Ronaldo, widely regarded as the greatest men’s international goalscorer of all time. The Portuguese star is determined to secure one last major trophy to add to his already impressive collection.
Ronaldo’s team displayed an impeccable performance during the qualifying campaign, winning all ten matches in Group J. The veteran striker himself scored ten goals, finishing second in the top scorer rankings behind Lukaku.
However, Portugal might face a tougher challenge against the Group D winners, Türkiye. Many experts believe that Vincenzo Montella’s young and exciting team has the potential to make a deep run in the knockout stages. The upcoming Matchday 2 clash between these two teams will provide valuable insights into their capabilities and what we can expect from them moving forward.
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