As the anticipation for Euro 2024 reaches a fever pitch, football enthusiasts across the globe eagerly await the commencement of Europe’s most prestigious international tournament. Hosted in Germany, this edition promises not only to showcase the continent’s premier footballing talent but also to deliver unforgettable moments on the grand stage. With the group stage fixtures now unveiled, fans are already marking their calendars for the standout clashes that could shape the trajectory of the tournament.
In this article, we delve into the key encounters of the group stages, analyzing matchups that are poised to be decisive in determining who advances to the knockout rounds. From historic rivalries reignited to underdog stories waiting to unfold, each fixture carries significant weight and intrigue. We’ll explore the tactical battles, star players to watch, and potential upsets that could define Euro 2024’s early stages and set the tone for the thrilling path to the final.
You can also read 365Scores’ entire Euro 2024 preview with our comprehensive guide to the tournament here.
Key Matches
Tournament Schedule
Euro 2024 Group Stage – Round 1 Games
| Date | Group | Game | Stadium |
| Friday 14th June | A | Germany vs. Scotland | Allianz Arena |
| Saturday 15th June | A | Hungary vs. Switzerland | RheinEnergieStadion |
| Saturday 15th June | B | Spain vs. Croatia | Olympiastadion |
| Saturday 15th June | B | Italy vs. Albania | Signal Iduna Park |
| Sunday 16th June | C | Serbia vs. England | Arena AufSchalke |
| Sunday 16th June | C | Slovenia vs. Denmark | Stuttgart Arena |
| Sunday 16th June | D | Poland vs. Netherlands | Volksparkstadion |
| Monday 17th June | D | Austria vs. France | Dusseldorf Arena |
| Monday 17th June | E | Belgium vs. Slovakia | Waldstadion |
| Monday 17th June | E | Romania vs. Ukraine | Allianz Arena |
| Tuesday 18th June | F | Turkiye vs. Georgia | Signal Iduna Park |
| Tuesday 18th June | F | Portugal vs. Czech Republic | Red Bull Arena |
Euro 2024 Group Stage – Round 2 Games
| Date | Group | Game | Stadium |
| Wednesday 19th June | A | Scotland vs. Switzerland | RheinEnergieStadion |
| Wednesday 19th June | A | Germany vs. Hungary | Stuttgart Arena |
| Wednesday 19th June | B | Croatia vs. Albania | Volksparkstadion |
| Thursday 20th June | B | Spain vs. Italy | Arena AufSchalke |
| Thursday 20th June | C | Denmark vs. England | Waldstadion |
| Thursday 20th June | C | Slovenia vs. Serbia | Allianz Arena |
| Friday 21st June | D | Netherlands vs. France | Red Bull Arena |
| Friday 21st June | D | Poland vs. Austria | Olympiastadion |
| Friday 21st June | E | Slovakia vs. Ukraine | Dusseldorf Arena |
| Saturday 22nd June | E | Belgium vs. Romania | RheinEnergieStadion |
| Saturday 22nd June | F | Turkiye vs. Portugal | Signal Iduna Park |
| Saturday 22nd June | F | Georgia vs. Czech Republic | Volksparkstadion |
Euro 2024 Group Stage – Round 3 Games
| Date | Group | Game | Stadium |
| Sunday 23rd June | A | Scotland vs. Hungary | Stuttgart Arena |
| Sunday 23rd June | A | Switzerland vs. Germany | Waldstadion |
| Monday 24th June | B | Albania vs. Spain | Dusseldorf Arena |
| Monday 24th June | B | Croatia vs. Italy | Red Bull Arena |
| Tuesday 25th June | C | England vs. Slovenia | RheinEnergieStadion |
| Tuesday 25th June | C | Denmark vs. Serbia | Allianz Arena |
| Tuesday 25th June | D | Netherlands vs. Austria | Olympiastadion |
| Tuesday 25th June | D | France vs. Poland | Signal Iduna Park |
| Wednesday 26th June | E | Slovakia vs. Romania | Waldstadion |
| Wednesday 26th June | E | Ukraine vs. Belgium | Stuttgart Arena |
| Wednesday 26th June | F | Czech Republic vs. Turkiye | Volksparkstadion |
| Wednesday 26th June | F | Georgia vs. Portugal | Arena AufSchalke |
Key Matches to Watch
Group A Clash: Germany vs Switzerland
The showdown between Germany and Switzerland is a highly anticipated clash between neighbors with formidable rosters. Germany, the host nation, is one of the tournament favorites with a squad brimming with talent. Stars like Jamal Musiala, Leroy Sané, and the retiring Toni Kroos are set to light up the tournament for Die Mannschaft. Switzerland, however, is no pushover. They reached the quarterfinals in the last Euros and boast a strong team with key players like Manuel Akanji and Granit Xhaka, who can make life difficult for any opposition. This matchup promises to be a thrilling battle of tactical prowess and individual brilliance.
Germany’s midfield depth going into EURO 2024! #Kroos #Wirtz #Kimmich #Andrich #Gundogan #Musiala #Mittelstadt #365Scores pic.twitter.com/YERy4ZRKWs
— 365Scores (@365Scores) March 26, 2024
Group B Heavyweights: Spain vs Italy
A repeat of the thrilling Euro 2020 semi-finals, the clash between Spain and Italy is one for the ages. Italy emerged victorious in that encounter and went on to win the competition, showcasing their resilience and tactical acumen. This time, La Furia Roja will be eager to avenge that defeat and prove their mettle against the reigning champions. With both teams known for their rich footballing traditions and tactical prowess, this match is set to be a tactical masterclass. Expect fireworks as Spain’s youthful exuberance faces off against Italy’s experienced and battle-hardened squad.
Group C Battle: England vs Denmark
England’s toughest group stage challenge comes in the form of Denmark, a team brimming with Premier League stars. The likes of Manchester United’s Rasmus Højlund and Christian Eriksen, along with Joachim Andersen and other talents, ensure that Denmark is no easy opponent. This fixture is also a repeat of the Euro 2020 semi-final, where England narrowly edged through. The Three Lions will be wary of Denmark’s threat, as both teams look to assert their dominance early in the tournament. This match promises to be a high-stakes encounter with plenty of familiar faces on both sides.
Group D Showdown: Netherlands vs France
The clash between the Netherlands and France is a tantalizing prospect, featuring some of the world’s best players. The world’s best attacker, Kylian Mbappé, goes head-to-head with arguably the world’s best defender, Virgil van Dijk. This fixture has a history of providing entertainment, with past encounters delivering thrilling football. With the Oranje and Les Bleues both possessing a blend of experienced stars and exciting young talents, this match is likely to be another classic. Expect a high-octane battle with plenty of goals and moments of individual brilliance.
Group E Decider: Belgium vs Ukraine
Belgium faces off against Ukraine in a match that could decide the group. Belgium, with their golden generation of players, remains one of the strongest teams in the tournament. However, Ukraine is seen as one of the dark horses, with Artem Dovbyk, La Liga’s top scorer with 24 goals, leading their attack. This encounter promises to be a test of Belgium’s mettle against a resolute Ukrainian side. Both teams have the potential to progress far in the tournament, making this fixture crucial in determining the group standings.
Group F Highlight: Turkey vs Portugal
Turkey vs. Portugal is the highlight of Group F, with Portugal expected to be the favorites despite the challenge posed by Turkey. The Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo combination is lethal, and with a supporting cast including Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leão, and João Félix, Portugal is set to score plenty of goals. Turkey, however, is no slouch and will look to cause an upset in what is likely their hardest game of the group.
Predictions for the Knockout Stages
As we look ahead to the knockout stages of Euro 2024, the expectation is that powerhouses such as Portugal, England, Germany, and France will navigate their way to the semi-finals. These teams, boasting some of the tournament’s most talented rosters, are favorites to make deep runs. However, if football history has taught us anything, it’s to expect the unexpected. With the inherent unpredictability of the beautiful game, surprises and upsets are almost certain. Dark horses, breakout performances, and dramatic twists can redefine the tournament’s trajectory, making it impossible to predict with certainty who will ultimately reach the final four.
Winner Predictions and Odds
As Euro 2024 gears up, betting odds offer a fascinating glimpse into the expected dynamics of the tournament. Traditionally, teams like Germany, Spain, and France have been at the forefront, given their rich history and depth of talent. For this edition, France and England are currently favored by many bookmakers, reflecting their strong squads and recent performances. Spain and Italy, with their tactical prowess, are also seen as strong contenders. For those looking for a potential dark horse, teams like Ukraine and Portugal offer intriguing odds.
England are the favourites to win Euro 2024, priced at 3/1 on bet365. France doesn’t follow far behind, at 4/1. Germany are 11/2 whilst Portugal is priced at 8/1. My dark horse prediction is Ukraine is priced at 100/1.
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter (X)
