Comprehensive Candidates at EURO 2024

Germany’s Offensive Brilliance under Nagelsmann
Throughout the group stage matches, Julian Nagelsmann’s squad showcased an impressive attacking style. What sets this German “tank” apart at this EURO is their home-field dominance and diverse offensive strategies. Their cohesive attacking plays have transformed Die Mannschaft’s game into a graceful spectacle, complemented by a solid defensive setup.

Spain’s Dominance and Defensive Prowess
Meanwhile, Spain continues to demonstrate their strength at this year’s EURO as the only team to achieve a perfect record in the group stage. Especially notable was their triumph in a tough group, defeating powerhouse teams like Italy (current EURO champions) and Croatia (third place in the 2022 World Cup).

Under Luis de la Fuente, Spain has also maintained a clean sheet since the start of the tournament, marking the first time since 1980 that La Roja has not conceded a goal in the group stage of a major tournament.

Spain is now showing glimpses of championship material, echoing Italy’s performance at EURO 2020. La Roja becomes only the second team after Azzurri to win all three group stage matches at EURO 2020, while also keeping a clean sheet.

The tactical repertoire of the EURO 2008 and 2012 champions spans various strategies, achieving high efficiency in wide and central attacking situations. La Furia Roja put both Croatia’s and Italy’s defenses to the test, highlighting their roster of young talents. While Germany boasts the 21-year-old duo of Musiala and Wirtz, La Roja flies on the wings of 16-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal and 21-year-old Nico Williams. Spain’s squad remains formidable with players like Unai Simon, Dani Carvajal, Nacho, Alvaro Morata, Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, Aymeric Laporte, Rodri, and Pedri.

Under Fuente’s tenure, Spain has undergone significant tactical revolutions, departing from Luis Enrique’s era. Fuente’s philosophy has redefined the squad, shifting away from strict ball possession dominance.

England and France Gaining Momentum?
England and France are highly regarded contenders at EURO 2024, both advancing to the Round of 16. However, their performances have yet to impress.

England secured one victory and two draws, topping Group C, while Les Bleus achieved similar results, finishing second in Group D.

Despite being representatives of two top European competitions, both teams possess exceptional strikers and world-class experience with players like Harry Kane, Saka, Foden, Bellingham, Mbappé, Dembele, Giroud, and Griezmann. Yet, after three group stage matches, both England and France have shown poor goal-scoring efficiency, each tallying only two goals at this EURO.

Notably, Gareth Southgate’s star-studded squad is one of the least prolific in creating scoring opportunities in the tournament.

At this EURO, England tends to take an early attacking stance and often scores first. However, they frequently switch to a cautious defensive posture after taking the lead, rather than pressing high to dominate opponents—an overly conservative approach that has drawn criticism.

With their first-place finish in the group stage, England fortuitously avoids facing hosts Germany, France, Spain, and Portugal in the direct elimination rounds. This puts Southgate’s squad in a favorable position to reach the EURO 2024 final.

England’s top attacking stars, Harry Kane and Bellingham, have both scored their first goals of EURO 2024, whereas France has only seen Kylian Mbappé convert from the penalty spot.

France’s lackluster performances under Didier Deschamps have raised doubts about their chances at this EURO, especially as they face a challenging path that could potentially include Portugal in the quarter-finals and a showdown against Germany or Spain in the semi-finals.

France’s highlight lies in their comprehensive support from midfielders, notably N’Golo Kanté.

It can be said that both France and England’s top-tier European squads are not in peak form after enduring grueling club seasons.

Despite lackluster performances in the group stage, England remains highly favored for the championship, boasting a squad filled with world-class stars. Moreover, their draw is relatively favorable.

In the Round of 16, England will face Slovakia. A victory would see them meet the winner of Italy vs Switzerland in the quarter-finals. Should they advance to the semi-finals, England would only need to contend with one of the Netherlands, Romania, Turkey, or Austria.

Italy and the Netherlands pose the most formidable challenges in their bracket. Italy, despite their shaky form, narrowly avoided elimination in the group stage. Meanwhile, the Netherlands has adopted a pragmatic style of play lacking in attacking vigor.

This blog-style piece captures the essence of the EURO 2024 contenders, highlighting their strengths, challenges, and paths to potential glory.