Welcome to the anticipation-filled stage of the Euros, arriving this time after a mere three-year gap. As we await the unfolding drama, speculation mounts: who will emerge as the dark horse this year? Could we witness a remarkable narrative akin to Greece’s legendary triumph in 2004?
Yet amidst these ponderings, the perennial question looms: will one of the favoured teams effortlessly claim victory this time? Might we see the coveted trophy “come home” at last? Could this be the year France adds another Euro title to their accolades since their 2000 triumph? And what of the reigning champions Italy? Will they maintain their dominance or face unforeseen challenges?
Adding to the intrigue is the prospect of Germany, the host nation, seeking redemption after their 2014 World Cup glory. With a month of exhilarating football poised to commence on June 14th, fans worldwide are poised for a spectacle of epic proportions. So, sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the thrill of EURO 2024 Group A as the stage is set for unforgettable encounters.
Embark on an in-depth exploration of EURO 2024 Group A as we dissect the teams, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and forecast the unfolding drama of this highly anticipated tournament.
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EURO 2024 Group A – Preview, Analysis, Strengths And Weaknesses
Germany
Will Germany be the host of a summer celebration?
Ranked 16th by FIFA, Germany secured their place in EURO 2024 as the host nation, sparing them from the qualification rounds. With a record of 5 wins, 2 draws, and 6 losses in their 13 friendly matches, they have shown glimpses of promise, scoring 21 goals while conceding 23.
Strengths
Placed in a favourable group, Germany is poised to secure qualification as either winners or runners-up. Buoyed by the recent success of German clubs in European competitions, there’s renewed optimism in the air. The return of midfield maestro Toni Kroos for a final hurrah, coupled with the emergence of rising star Florian Wirtz and the consistent form of Kai Havertz, adds to the team’s confidence, especially considering their historically strong performances on home soil. Additionally, Robert Andrich’s impressive form provides a much-needed defensive presence, addressing a longstanding weakness in countering opposition attacks, a task once handled by retired stalwart Sami Khedira.
Weaknesses
Despite their strengths, concerns linger over the form of Bayern Munich players. However, this may serve as motivation for them to elevate their performance during the tournament. Defensively, there are vulnerabilities, with players like Tah, Mittelstadt/Raum, and Kimmich not renowned for their defensive prowess, leaving only Rudiger as a standout defender in the squad.
Germany Euro 2024 Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
- Forwards: Kai Havertz, Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala
- Midfield: Robert Andrich, Ilkay Gündoğan, Toni Kroos
- Defence: Maximilian Mittelstädt, Antonio Rüdiger, Jonathan Tah, Joshua Kimmich
- Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer
Set Piece Takers
- Penalties – Gundogan
- Free Kicks – Kroos/Sane
- Corners – Kroos/Kimmich
Scotland
Can Scotland defy the odds and make a mark at EURO 2024?
Currently ranked 39th by FIFA, Scotland enters the tournament with the aim of progressing beyond the Group Stage. Their qualification campaign saw them secure 5 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss, netting 17 goals while conceding 8.
Strengths
Scotland’s standout characteristic lies in their unyielding spirit, epitomized by impressive victories over Spain and Norway during qualification. This tenacity, combined with a well-organized midfield, serves as a formidable foundation for the team. Despite their underdog status, Scotland should not be underestimated, particularly given their ability to compete fiercely against stronger opponents.
Weaknesses
However, vulnerabilities in defence, exacerbated by injuries in key positions such as right-back, pose a significant challenge for Scotland. Additionally, their forward line lacks the clinical edge seen in top-tier teams, placing undue pressure on midfielders to create scoring opportunities. Concerns are further compounded by a recent dip in form, casting doubts on their ability to navigate through the tournament’s challenges effectively.
Scotland Euro 2024 Predicted Lineup (3-4-2-1)
Clarke has shown a preference for employing wing-backs, shaping his team in a 5-4-1 formation when not in possession, which transitions into a 3-4-2-1 setup when on the attack.
Dykes is poised to lead the frontline, his industrious off-the-ball contributions outweighing his modest goal-scoring statistics. McGinn and Christie are expected to flank him in the attacking midfield positions, with McTominay enjoying a more liberated role, encouraged to push forward into the box and maintain his impressive scoring form from the qualifying rounds.
- Goalkeeper: Gunn
- Defence: Porteous, Hendry, Tierney, Ralston, Robertson
- Midfielders: McGregor, Gilmour, McGinn, McTominay
- Striker: Dykes
Set Piece Takers
- Penalties – McGinn
- Free Kicks – McGinn/Christie/Robertson
- Corners – McGinn/Christie/Robertson
Switzerland
Will Switzerland replicate their previous Euro heroics and secure a spot in the quarterfinals once more?
Ranked 19th by FIFA, Switzerland faces the challenge of matching their past achievements at EURO 2024. Their qualification journey comprised 4 wins, 5 draws, and 1 loss, with 22 goals scored and 11 conceded.
Strengths
Switzerland is renowned for its defensive solidity, making it a tough nut to crack for any opposition. Their track record of few losses underscores their resilience and difficulty in defeat.
Weaknesses
However, the team grapples with inconsistency and sporadic form, hindering their progress. Disappointingly finishing second in a relatively straightforward group behind Romania raises concerns about their readiness for the Euros. Moreover, an ageing squad adds another layer of challenge for Switzerland as they aim to navigate through the tournament.
Switzerland Euro 2024 Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Coach Yakin is anticipated to deploy his team in a 3-4-1-2 formation, entrusting the experienced Sommer with the goalkeeper duties. However, given his frequent use of a 4-2-3-1 setup, slight adjustments may occur.
Akanji, Elvedi, and Rodriguez are poised to anchor the defense, with the possibility of Schar stepping in for Rodriguez if necessary. In midfield, the impactful quartet of Xhaka, Freuler, Vargas, and Zakaria is expected to dictate play.
In the attacking third, Shaqiri, Amdouni, and Okafor are likely to adopt an inverted triangle formation, aiming to unlock opposing defenses with their creativity and movement.
- Goalkeeper: Sommer
- Defenders: Akanji, Elvedi, Rodriguez, Xhaka
- Midfielders: Freuler, Vargas, Zakaria
- Forwards: Shaqiri, Amdouni, Okafor
Set Piece Takers
- Penalties – Shaqiri
- Free Kicks – Shaqiri/Xhaka
- Corners – Shaqiri/Xhaka
Hungary
Can the Magyars revive their former glory with their exhilarating attacking prowess?
Ranked 26th by FIFA, Hungary heads into EURO 2024 with hopes of recapturing their former footballing prowess. During their qualification campaign, they notched an impressive record of 5 wins, 3 draws, and 0 losses, scoring 16 goals while conceding just 7.
Strengths
In stark contrast to Switzerland, Hungary embraces an aggressive attacking style of play, averaging two goals per game. Their rising confidence, coupled with a commendable record against Germany in recent encounters, instils optimism within the squad. Positioned in a group alongside defensively vulnerable teams like Germany and Scotland, Hungary’s attacking prowess could propel them to success in the tournament.
Weaknesses
However, defensive frailties pose a significant concern for Hungary. Their heavy reliance on Szoboszlai leaves them vulnerable if opposing teams manage to neutralize his impact.
Hungary Euro 2024 Predicted Lineup (3-4-3)
The expected lineup for Hungary in Euro 2024 sees head coach Marco Rossi likely opting for a 3-4-3 formation, with Gulacsi guarding the goal.
In defense, the trio of Botka/Orban, Lang, and Szalai is expected to provide solidity. In midfield, Nego, Nagy, Szoboszlai, and potentially Kleinheisler/Styles are anticipated to play crucial roles.
Upfront, Adam, Sallai, and Varga are poised to lead the attacking charge.
- Goalkeeper: Gulacsi
- Defenders: Orban, Lang, Szalai
- Midfielders: Nego, Nagy, Szoboszlai, Kleinheisler
- Forwards: Adam, Sallai, Varga
Set Piece Takers
- Penalties – Szoboszlai
- Free Kicks – Szoboszlai
- Corners – Szoboszlai
Our Predictions for Euro 2024 Group A
- Germany
- Hungary
- Switzerland
- Scotland
