The quarter finals of the 2024 UEFA European Championships kick off on 5th July 2024. Here's a breakdown of the matches and analysis:
The Matches
- Spain vs Germany - 5th July, 18:00 CEST, Stuttgart Arena
- Portugal vs France - 5th July, 21:00 CEST, Volksparkstadion, Hamburg
- England vs Switzerland - 6th July, 18:00 CEST, Dusseldorf Arena
- Netherlands vs Turkey - 6th July, 21:00 CEST, Olympiastadion, Berlin
The Breakdown
Spain vs Germany
Spain's Results:
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- Group Stage: Won all 3 matches
- Round of 16: Beat Georgia 4-1
Germany's Results:
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- Group Stage: 2 wins, 1 draw
- Round of 16: Beat Denmark 2-0
Spain have been the most impressive team in the tournament so far, with a perfect record and nine goals scored. Their young wingers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams have been standout performers, causing problems for opposing defences with their pace and creativity. Midfielder Fabian Ruiz has been directing play and is their top scorer with two goals.
Germany, as hosts, have also been strong, scoring the most goals in the tournament (10). Jamal Musiala is joint top-scorer with three goals, while Niclas Fullkrug has two. The return of Jonathan Tah from suspension strengthens their defence.
Both teams are likely to stick with their preferred formations. Spain's possession-based style will clash with Germany's direct attacking approach. This match could be decided by which team controls the midfield.
Prediction: Spain to win in a close match
Portugal vs France
Portugal's Results:
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- Group Stage: 2 wins, 1 loss
- Round of 16: Beat Slovenia on penalties after 0-0 draw
France's Results:
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- Group Stage: 2 wins, 1 draw
- Round of 16: Beat Belgium 1-0
Portugal struggled in their round of 16 match, needing penalties to overcome Slovenia. Cristiano Ronaldo has yet to score in the tournament but is expected to lead the line alongside Rafael Leão. Their midfield, led by Bruno Fernandes, will be crucial in creating chances.
France have been solid if unspectacular. They'll be without Adrien Rabiot due to suspension, which may lead to a formation change to 4-2-3-1. Kylian Mbappé remains their key player, with his pace and skill capable of unlocking any defence.
This match could be decided by which team's star players perform on the day. France's more balanced squad gives them a slight edge.
Prediction: France to win in extra time
England vs Switzerland
England's Results:
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- Group Stage: 2 wins, 1 draw
- Round of 16: Beat Slovakia 2-1 after extra time
Switzerland's Results:
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- Group Stage: 2 wins, 1 loss
- Round of 16: Beat Italy 2-0
England have yet to hit top form but have found ways to win. Jude Bellingham's last-minute equaliser against Slovakia showcased their fighting spirit. They'll be without Marc Guéhi due to suspension, which may lead to a formation change to three at the back.
Switzerland have been the surprise package of the tournament, with their dynamic attacking play impressing many. Their 2-0 win over Italy in the round of 16 was particularly noteworthy. Xherdan Shaqiri's experience and creativity will be key to their chances.
This match could be tight, with England's individual quality up against Switzerland's well-drilled team approach.
Prediction: England to win on penalties
Netherlands vs Turkey
Netherlands' Results:
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- Group Stage: 1 win, 1 draw, 1 loss
- Round of 16: Beat Romania 3-0
Turkey's Results:
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- Group Stage: 2 wins, 1 loss
- Round of 16: Beat Austria 2-1
The Netherlands found form at the right time with a convincing win over Romania. Their attack, led by Cody Gakpo, looks potent when on form. They have no major injury concerns heading into this match.
Turkey have been resilient throughout the tournament. Merih Demiral's performance against Austria was particularly impressive, scoring twice and marshalling the defence. However, they face some selection issues due to suspensions.
This match could be decided by which team's defence holds up better against the opposing attack.
Prediction: Netherlands to win
The Semi-Finals
Based on these predictions, the semi-final match-ups would be:
- Spain vs France - 9th July, 21:00 CEST, Munich Football Arena
- England vs Netherlands - 10th July, 21:00 CEST, BVB Stadion, Dortmund
Resources:
- Euro 2024 Quarter-finals - https://www.uefa.com/euro2024/news/028f-1b46332aef80-e0c337f261d4-1000--euro-2024-quarter-final-fixtures-confirmed/
- Spain vs Germany Preview - https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/spain-vs-germany-prediction-kick-off-time-latest-team-news-tv-live-stream-h2h-results-odds-euro-2024-preview-today-b1167722.html
- Portugal vs France Preview - https://www.sportsgambler.com/betting-tips/football/portugal-vs-france-prediction-lineups-odds-2024-07-05/
- England vs Switzerland Preview - https://www.nbcsports.com/soccer/news/england-vs-switzerland-how-to-watch-live-stream-link-team-news-prediction
- Euro 2024 Overview - https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2024/7/3/uefa-euro-2024-quarterfinals-teams-schedule-matches-head-to-head-date-germany-spain-portugal-france-england
Other Information:
- UEFA - https://www.uefa.com/
- FIFA - https://www.fifa.com/