Euro 2024 Update: Quarterfinals Preview, What Next?

The UEFA European Championship 2024 in Germany has seen several notable developments, exciting, disappointing performances and results since it started last month.

Moving past the exciting round-of-16 matches, the UEFA Euro 2024 stepped into its quarterfinal phase in Germany.

Here is what is new and what to expect in the coming days.

Most rounds of 16 were exciting, with Germany edging past Denmark 2-0 as hosts, while defending champions at that time, Italy, bowed out following a 0-2 defeat to Switzerland in Berlin. Georgia was dominated by Spain 4-1, but England needed extra time to edge Slovakian resistance 2-1, thanks to Jude Bellingham’s stoppage-time leveller and Harry Kane’s headed winner in extra time.

France edged out Belgium 1-0, while Portugal overcame Slovenia on a penalty shoot-out following a goal-less game.

Today, Romania will play the Netherlands, while Austria will go up against Turkey, with both results deciding the rest of the quarterfinal pairings.

Soaking up the vibes 😀
#EURO2024 | #ROUNED pic.twitter.com/XRcIFb1BNo

— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) July 2, 2024

Quarterfinal Matchups
Spain vs Germany: This long-awaited rivalry between the two powerhouses is slated to be a reality in Stuttgart on July 5. Both have been performing very well, so this becomes a must-see encounter.

Portugal vs France: On July 5, two European heavyweights will face each other in Hamburg. France, being the 2022 World Cup runner-up, is one of the leading title contenders, while the grit of Portugal cannot be taken lightly.

England will face Switzerland in Düsseldorf the following day, July 6, looking to an even more bruising battle than they experienced against Slovakia.

Big Talking Points

England’s Tactical Calls: Following a pretty uninspiring performance against Slovakia, there has been much speculation regarding tactical changes by manager Gareth Southgate.

The critical decisions revolve around whether Ivan Toney will get his first start and adaptations to their defensive lineup.

The tournament has gone off big time in Germany, with full houses out west and trendy vibes that hearken back to the 2006 World Cup.

The host country’s team will be banking on riding this wave of support all the way to the final in Munich.

Will the Germans have their way all through the final?

Follow West Africa Weekly for more updates.

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Oluwasegun Sanusi

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