Euro 2024: One Week to Go – Comprehensive Overview

Euro 2024 will be hosted by Germany, marking the first time the unified nation has held the tournament since West Germany hosted it in 1988. The competition spans from June 14 to July 14, with matches occurring across various iconic German cities. The competition will commence with Germany facing Scotland in Munich and conclude with the final in Berlin a month later. Ahead of next Friday’s start, Luke Andrews shares all you need to know about Euro 2024.

Stadium filled with fans at sunset with the UEFA Euro 2024 Germany logo in the center, highlighting the upcoming football tournament.

Hopefully, by now, you will have downloaded our Euro 2024 Sweepstake Kit – The Perfect Template, and you now know the identity of the team you will be cheering on in the hope of winning the office sweepstake.

There will be no better feeling than taking that smug smile off Alan from HR’s face or collecting your winnings from the boss!

If you are new to the best Euros Betting sites, to ensure you know your bratwurst from your lederhosen, this quick guide will tell you all you need to know before the action starts on the 14th.

Euro 2024 Group Stage Draw and Teams

Twenty-four teams are divided into six groups, each aiming to secure a spot in the knockout stages:

Group A: Germany, Scotland, Hungary, Switzerland

Group B: Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania

Group C: Slovenia, Denmark, Serbia, England

Group D: Poland, Netherlands, Austria, France

Group E: Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine

Group F: Türkiye, Georgia, Portugal, Czechia

Each group will see the top two teams advance to the round of 16, along with the four best third-placed teams.

Euro 2024 England & Scotland Key Fixtures

Opening Match: Germany vs. Scotland on June 14 in Munich.

England’s Group Matches: England will play against Serbia on June 16 in Gelsenkirchen, Denmark on June 20 in Frankfurt, and Slovenia on June 25 in Cologne.

Scotland’s Matches: Scotland will face Germany on June 14, followed by Switzerland and Hungary in the subsequent group stage matches.

Knockout Rounds – The knockout phase will commence on June 29 with the round of 16, progressing through to the quarter-finals on July 5 and 6, and the semi-finals on July 9 and 10. The grand finale is scheduled for July 14 in Berlin, promising a thrilling climax to the month-long football festival.

Euro 2024 is committed to sustainability, with efforts to reduce the environmental impact. Matches are organized in regional clusters to minimise travel distances, reducing flights by 75% compared to previous tournaments. This initiative supports environmental goals and makes it easier for fans to travel between venues.

Euro 2024 promises to be an exciting event with competitive matches and a strong emphasis on sustainability. Fans can look forward to a month of top-tier football across Germany, culminating in a highly anticipated final in Berlin. As it will be a busy month at the best Euro 2024 betting sites, let’s have a look at the latest Euros betting odds.

Euro 2024 Winner Odds – E/W Terms: 1/2 odds first 2 (correct on 07/06/2024)
Team Odds Team Odds Team Odds
England 3/1 France 7/2 Germany 5/1
Portugal 8/1 Spain 8/1 Belgium 16/1
Italy 16/1 Netherlands 16/1 Croatia 40/1
Denmark 40/1 Türkiye 50/1 Austria 80/1
Hungary 80/1 Serbia 80/1 Switzerland 80/1
Poland 100/1 Scotland 100/1 Ukraine 100/1
Romania 125/1 Czechia 150/1 Slovenia 200/1
Albania 250/1 Georgia 500/1 Slovakia 500/1

Bookie’s Favourites to Win Euro 2024

One of the most popular markets at the best Euros Betting sites is predicting which country will lift the trophy after a month of football action. England is expected to do well but never underestimate the Germans, especially on home soil.

England (3/1)

England is among the top favourites to win Euro 2024, with odds of 3/1. Known globally for their passionate fan base and rich football history, England’s recent performances have been strong. They reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and were runners-up in Euro 2020, where they narrowly lost to Italy in a penalty shootout. The team, managed by Gareth Southgate, boasts a blend of experienced players like Harry Kane and young talents such as Phil Foden and Champions League winner Jude Bellingham, making them a formidable contender in the tournament.

France (7/2)

France, with odds of 7/2, is another leading favourite for the Euro 2024 title. The French national team has a storied history, having won the European Championship twice (1984 and 2000) and the World Cup twice (1998 and 2018). Managed by Didier Deschamps, the team is known for its depth of talent and tactical prowess. Key players like Kylian Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann are expected to play pivotal roles. France’s recent history in major tournaments, including their World Cup victory in 2018, underscores their potential to succeed.

Germany (5/1)

With odds of 5/1, Germany is always a strong contender in any international tournament. They have won the European Championship three times (in 1972, 1980, and 1996) and have a reputation for consistent performances in major competitions. As the host nation for Euro 2024, Germany will benefit from home support, which could provide an extra edge. The team, known for its disciplined and strategic play, will be looking to redeem itself after a disappointing performance in the last two European Championships.

Portugal (8/1)

Portugal, at 8/1, is another team to watch closely. They are the defending champions, having won their first European Championship in 2016. Under the leadership of Fernando Santos, Portugal has a squad filled with experienced veterans like Cristiano Ronaldo and emerging stars such as João Félix. Their ability to blend youth and experience makes them a dangerous opponent for any team.

Spain (8/1)

Spain, also at 8/1, is known for its technical and possession-based style of play. They dominated international football in the late 2000s and early 2010s, winning back-to-back European Championships in 2008 and 2012 and the World Cup in 2010. With a mix of seasoned players and new talents, Spain aims to reclaim its position at the top of European football under the guidance of manager Luis Enrique.

These teams are among the favourites due to their historical successes, current squad strengths, and recent performances in international competitions. Each of them has the potential to lift the Euro 2024 trophy, making the tournament an exciting and unpredictable event.

Potential Dark Horses for Euro 2024 Betting

Knock-out football tournaments are notoriously challenging to predict, and shock results are almost guaranteed. These teams are considered potential dark horses, and with luck on their side, they could surprise a few teams in the Euros.

Belgium (16/1)

Belgium, with odds of 16/1, is often considered a dark horse despite their ranking and talent. Known as the “Golden Generation,” Belgium boasts world-class players like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Thibaut Courtois. Although they have consistently performed well in recent tournaments, reaching the quarter-finals in Euro 2016 and the semi-finals in the 2018 World Cup, they have yet to secure a major international trophy. Belgium could surprise many if their key players can stay fit and perform by finally converting their potential into silverware.

Italy (16/1)

Italy, also with odds of 16/1, cannot be overlooked. The reigning champions from Euro 2020, Italy has a storied football history with four World Cup titles and two European Championship victories. Under Roberto Mancini, the Azzurri have revitalized their squad with a mix of experienced stalwarts and promising young talents. Despite a disappointing World Cup qualification campaign, Italy’s tactical acumen and defensive solidity make them a formidable opponent capable of producing a deep run in the tournament.

Netherlands (16/1)

The Netherlands, at 16/1, is another team that could defy expectations. The Dutch have a rich footballing heritage, having reached the finals of major tournaments multiple times and winning the European Championship in 1988. With a squad featuring players like Virgil van Dijk, Frenkie de Jong, and Memphis Depay, they possess the quality to challenge any team. Their recent performances under manager Ronald Koeman suggest they are rebuilding effectively and could pose a significant threat in Euro 2024.

Croatia (40/1)

Croatia, with longer odds of 40/1, is a team with the potential to surprise. The runners-up in the 2018 World Cup, Croatia has consistently punched above its weight in international competitions. Led by experienced midfielder Luka Modrić, the Croatian team combines veteran leadership with emerging talents. Their ability to perform on the big stage and their tactical versatility make them a team to watch.

Denmark (40/1)

Denmark, also at 40/1, has shown they can compete with Europe’s elite. Their memorable run to the semi-finals in Euro 2020, where England narrowly defeated them, highlighted their resilience and team spirit. With key players like Christian Eriksen returning to form and a solid defensive unit, Denmark could again be a formidable opponent and surprise many by advancing deep into the tournament.

Euro 2024 Betting Odds – The Long Shots

Who doesn’t love an underdog story? I know I certainly do, but if any of these teams win Euro 2024, it will be a talking point for years to come. Scotland is included in this group and is priced at 100/1. I’m not sure I will recommend backing them to win the tournament, but it wouldn’t be a massive surprise if they don’t sneak a draw to frustrate the hosts, Germany, next Friday. 9/2 with betTarget seems good value.

Türkiye (50/1)

Türkiye, at 50/1, is a true dark horse. Known for their passionate play and ability to produce surprising results, Türkiyehas a history of exceeding expectations, as seen in their semi-final run in Euro 2008. With a squad that includes a mix of experienced internationals and exciting young talents, Turkey has the potential to upset more favoured teams and make a significant impact in Euro 2024.

Switzerland (80/1)

With odds of 80/1, Switzerland is another team that could spring a surprise. They reached the quarter-finals of Euro 2020, eliminating France in a dramatic penalty shootout. With a solid defensive setup and key players like Granit Xhaka and Xherdan Shaqiri, Switzerland has the capability to frustrate and overcome stronger opponents. Their consistent presence in the knockout stages of major tournaments makes them a dark horse to keep an eye on.

Poland (100/1)

Poland, with odds of 100/1, is considered a rank outsider. Despite having one of the world’s top strikers, Robert Lewandowski, Poland has struggled to impact major tournaments significantly. Their best performance in recent history was reaching the quarter-finals in Euro 2016, but they will need a collective effort to surpass expectations in Euro 2024.

Scotland (100/1)

Scotland, also at 100/1, is another team not expected to advance far in Euro 2024. Historically, Scotland has struggled in international competitions, with their last major tournament appearance before Euro 2020 being the 1998 World Cup. However, their passionate fan base and recent qualification efforts could provide the motivation needed to cause an upset.

Ukraine (100/1)

Ukraine, with odds of 100/1, faces long odds in the tournament. Their best achievement came in Euro 2020 when they reached the quarter-finals. Led by a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, Ukraine hopes to build on its recent performances and surprise critics.

Romania (125/1)

Romania, at 125/1, is seen as a rank outsider. The Romanian team has had limited success in major tournaments, with their best performance being in the quarter-finals in Euro 2000. To defy the odds in Euro 2024, Romania will need to find a new generation of players capable of rising to the occasion.

Czechia (150/1)

The Czech Republic, with odds of 150/1, is another team with a slim chance of winning. Historically, they reached the final in Euro 1996 and the semi-finals in Euro 2004 but have been unable to replicate such success in recent years. They will need a strong team effort to make an impact in Euro 2024.

Slovenia (200/1)

Slovenia, at 200/1, is considered a major underdog. Their only previous appearances in the European Championships were in 2000 and 2016, both ending in the group stage. Any significant progress in Euro 2024 would be a major surprise.

Albania (250/1)

Albania, with odds of 250/1, is one of the biggest outsiders. Their first and only European Championship appearance was in 2016, where they failed to progress beyond the group stage. A deep run in Euro 2024 would be a monumental achievement for them.

Georgia and Slovakia (500/1)

Georgia and Slovakia, both at 500/1, are seen as having virtually no chance of winning the tournament. Georgia has never qualified for a European Championship, while Slovakia’s best performance was reaching the round of 16 in Euro 2016. Their participation alone is a success, and any further advancement would be a shock.

However, you never know in football. Adventurous bettors might think it’s worth a £5 long shot with bet365.

Historical Surprises in the Euros

The European Championship has a history of surprising victories. Notably:

Denmark (1992): Denmark famously won Euro 1992 despite initially failing to qualify. They were called up at the last minute to replace Yugoslavia. They went on to win the tournament, defeating reigning champions Netherlands in the semi-finals and Germany in the final.

Greece (2004): Greece’s victory in Euro 2004 remains one of the biggest shocks in football history. Entering the tournament as rank outsiders, Greece employed a disciplined and defensive strategy to overcome favourites like France and the Czech Republic before defeating Portugal in the final.

These historic upsets serve as a reminder that in football, anything is possible, and rank outsiders can sometimes achieve the unimaginable.

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