Euro 2024 champions and runners-up forecast
Spain, France, the Netherlands, and England, four traditional football powerhouses, will fiercely compete in the upcoming semifinals to grab the precious tickets to the final! Which two teams can make it to the finals?
Spain vs France: Prediction: France Advances
Undoubtedly, Spain is one of the most eye-catching teams in this Euro 2024. Through a flawless group stage campaign with three consecutive wins, a resounding 4-1 victory over Georgia in the round of 16, and a triumph over host Germany in the quarterfinals, Spain has showcased its formidable overall strength and precise ball control.
Renowned for its tiki-taka style, the Spanish team boasts numerous technically skilled and well-synchronized players such as midfielders Sergio Busquets, Pedri, and forwards Álvaro Morata and Ferran Torres, who are formidable scoring weapons.
However, Spain is not flawless. Facing a defensively strong France, enhancing offensive efficiency while maintaining a high possession rate will be a significant challenge. Historical data reveals that Spain and France have met five times in Euro competitions, with three being knockout stages and an even record, making the outcome of this clash unpredictable.
Despite a rocky road to the semifinals, France's resilience as the "Roosters of Gaul" is admirable. Although failing to score a single tactical goal in regulation time, France advanced thanks to own goals, penalties, and exceptional defensive prowess. Kylian Mbappé, the team's talisman, though underwhelming in attack, scored a crucial penalty in a decisive moment, underscoring his indispensable importance.
France's defensive setup is formidable, with standout performances from defenders like Lucas Hernández and Jules Koundé fortifying an unbreakable backline. Nevertheless, finding an offensive breakthrough and enhancing scoring prowess will be crucial for France in the semifinals.
Overall, France has a higher probability of advancing to the final in its matchup against Spain.
Netherlands vs England: Prediction - Netherlands Advances
The Netherlands is renowned for its comprehensive tactical approach and flamboyant attacking style. According to statistics from the last five Euros, the Dutch maintain an average possession rate of over 60% and a passing accuracy consistently above 85%, reflecting their absolute dominance in midfield control.
Defensively, a solid backline led by Virgil van Dijk provides a sturdy shield, while attackers like Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo strike from multiple angles, averaging over two goals per game. Historical records show a 6-4-4 win-draw-loss record against Turkey in Euros, but with a 60% home win rate, the Netherlands holds a distinct advantage.
England, as one of the birthplaces of modern football, boasts a rich history and formidable strength. With 18 top-eight finishes in World Cups and European Championships, including a 1966 World Cup victory on home soil, England's pedigree speaks for itself.
At this Euro, England has demonstrated impressive competitiveness, remaining undefeated in the group stage and advancing smoothly to the knockout rounds. However, facing Slovakia in the round of 16, England encountered stern resistance and would have struggled to progress without Jude Bellingham's last-gasp winner.
In the Netherlands-England clash, the Dutch have a higher likelihood of victory. For England to emerge victorious, tactical adjustments are necessary to ensure that its star-studded lineup finds their roles and performs optimally on the pitch.
