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Euro 2024 is set to be one of the most exciting tournaments in recent memory. As Europe's finest football teams prepare to compete, the stage is set for a dramatic showdown between seasoned champions and emerging contenders.
Interestingly, 10 of the previous 16 Euro Championships have been won by either Spain, Germany, Italy, or France. Who among these previous Champions has all it takes to win the tournament once again, let's explore the chances of each team. Before we do, ensure you visit the EaglePredict website for the best UEFA Euro betting bonuses.
France enters Euro 2024 as a favourite, though past performances, injuries, and inconsistent player form bring uncertainties. Their last Euro triumph was 24 years ago. They boast a promising roster, featuring talents like Camavinga, Tchouameni, Mbappe, Dembele, and Griezmann.
The World Cup runner-ups find themselves in a comfortable Group D, alongside Netherlands, Poland, and Austria. Yet, coach Didier Deschamps faces a defensive challenge due to Lucas Hernandez's knee injury. Similarly, Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konate are experiencing a dip in form.
Despite these issues, Deschamps still has a solid roster of players at his disposal. His wealth of experience, combined with the squad's exceptional talent make Les Bleus a clear favourite for Euro 2024.
Spain
La Roja is set to face Italy, Croatia, and Albania in a challenging Group B. The three-time champions are favoured by many pundits to vie for the title. Álvaro Morata is expected to lead Spain’s attack.
He trails only Cristiano Ronaldo (8) and teammate Griezmann (7) in scoring records for those editions. Other key figures, like Rodri, Pedri, and Dani Olmo, are also poised to drive Spain's title pursuit.
Excluding penalty shootouts, Spain has only been defeated twice in their last 22 Euro matches. However, these losses were to group rivals Croatia and Italy in 2016.
While not currently at their past heights, Spain remains a formidable opponent. Their last five major tournament knockouts all went into extra time, with four ending in penalties. In three of these, Spain was eliminated, suggesting that their World Cup and Euro records could have been better with some penalty luck. Overcoming this penalty hurdle could position Spain favourably for the Euro 2024 title.
Germany is considered a strong competitor despite a challenging decade in major tournaments post their 2014 World Cup victory. Die Mannschaft are in Group A with Scotland, Hungary, and Switzerland.
Recent history hasn't been kind, with early exits at the 2018, and 2022 World Cups. They also crashed out early from Euro 2020. The pressure is on for young coach Julian Nagelsmann, especially since no host nation has lifted the trophy in four decades.
Veteran stars like Neuer, Kroos, Gündogan, and Müller could be the difference. Young stars like Musiala, Writz, and Havertz will also be crucial for the Germans. Die Mannschaft boasts an incredible record of reaching the semi-finals when hosting major tournaments.
Remember the 1974 World Cup win, the Euro 88 heroics and the 2006 World Cup podium finish? With a bold new manager and a team brimming with talent, Euro 2024 could witness a glorious return for German football.
Portugal
Portugal's impressive track record makes it unwise to dismiss their chances before Euro 2024 kicks off. They qualified flawlessly, winning all their matches, scoring the most goals (36), and conceding the fewest (2).
Grouped with Turkey, Georgia, and the Czech Republic, Portugal should progress easily. In their last eight attempts, they've always advanced to the knockout stage.
Similarly to other teams in this contest, A Seleção has a world-class squad. Rúben Dias anchors the defence, supported by creative midfielders Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes. In attack, Ronaldo remains a potent threat, with Diogo Jota and Rafael Leão adding firepower.
Portugal's exceptional talent pool gives them a strong shot at winning the championship. This tournament could be the perfect stage for Ronaldo to end his illustrious career on a high note. After their disappointing World Cup exit, Ronaldo will be motivated to close the chapter on his international career with another trophy.
Italy
Reigning champions are another team in contention to win this title. Italy's recent form hasn't been stellar. Notably, they missed out on a spot in the 2022 World Cup. Their participation in Euro 2024 was confirmed through a nervy draw with Ukraine, indicating their ongoing challenges.
Grouped in the tough Group B alongside Spain, Croatia, and Albania. They are led by the experienced Luciano Spalletti. The brilliant Italian was the architect behind Napoli's first Serie A triumph in three decades.
Now he is tasked with leading Italy back to its storied heights. Italy's track record, with just a single defeat in their recent 10 matches, hints at a resurgence under Spalletti's guidance.
The Spalletti effect has reignited the Italian squad's offensive prowess, a key factor in their runner-up status during the qualifiers. The team recalled only nine veterans from the victorious Euro 2020 team. These experienced stars will combine with a crop of hungry talents like Matteo Darmian, Davide Frattesi, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Euro 2024 is shaping up to be a landmark tournament, with past victors striving for victory. Football fans worldwide are anticipating a thrilling display of skill, strategy, and passion. Who among these teams is capable of winning the championship once again? It will be the team with the right strategy and a bit of luck
