Exciting Start to Euro 2024: France, Germany, and Spain in Early Action
Euro 2024 has begun with a thrilling array of matches showcasing the very best of European football. Didier Deschamps' France, Germany, and Spain are already demonstrating their prowess on the field, promising an exciting tournament for fans around the world.
France's Quest for Glory
The French squad, led by Didier Deschamps, is eyeing the final trophy missing from their collection. With N'Golo Kanté back in action, Olivier Giroud ready for what might be his last hurrah, and the young talents of Barcola and Zaire-Emery making their debut, the French team is a force to be reckoned with. They face Austria in Dusseldorf this Monday at 9 p.m. France, considered one of the favorites, is expected to perform strongly in Group D, which also includes the Netherlands and Poland. Austria, on the other hand, aims to emulate their 2021 success by reaching the round of 16.
Germany's Dominant Debut
Germany started their Euro 2024 campaign with a resounding 5-1 victory over Scotland. The match, held at Allianz Arena in Munich, saw Jamal Musiala and Toni Kroos as standout performers. Kroos, who recently announced his retirement, showcased his legendary skills, completing 101 out of 102 passes. Germany, the host nation, shares Group A with Hungary and Switzerland. They will next face Hungary at the Mercedes Benz Arena in Stuttgart.
Spain vs Croatia: A Battle of Titans
Spain kicks off their Euro 2024 journey against Croatia this Saturday in Group B. Spain aims to repeat their historical success from Euro 2008, World Cup 2010, and Euro 2012. Luis de la Fuente's squad includes rising stars like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, who are set to make their competitive debuts. Croatia, led by Zlatko Dalić, has never won the European Championship but comes armed with high-caliber players like Luka Modric and Andrej Kramaric. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two footballing giants.
- Germany's next matches in Group A include a clash with Hungary on Wednesday at the Mercedes Benz Arena in Stuttgart, followed by a game against Switzerland at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt on June 23.
- Hungary and Switzerland will battle it out this Saturday in Cologne, and other notable matches include Spain vs Croatia at the Berlin Olympics and Italy vs Albania at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund.
- UEFA has introduced a new rule to prevent players from protesting referees' decisions. Only team captains are allowed to approach referees for controversial plays, and if the captain is the goalkeeper, another designated player will take on this role.