The 17th edition of the European Championship has begun with a bang, as host nation Germany emphatically defeated Scotland 5-1 in the opening match. With three games already played, Euro 2024 is proving to be a tournament full of high-quality football.
Today, June 16th, brings a trio of intriguing matches that will significantly impact the group stages. Romania, returning to the European Championship finals after an eight-year absence, faces a tough test against Ukraine. Having topped their qualifying group, Romania will need to overcome an experienced and motivated Ukrainian side. Ukraine, making their fourth consecutive Euros appearance, boasts a talented squad featuring Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk and a strong desire to perform well for their supporters facing a challenging situation at home. This match, taking place at the Munich Football Arena, holds special significance for Ukraine, appearing in their first major tournament since Russia’s invasion in 2022. Manager Serhiy Rebrov has emphasized the importance of this opening Group E clash, and many pundits have identified Ukraine as a potential dark horse with the potential to go far in the tournament.
Belgium, seeking to erase the memory of a disappointing 2022 World Cup campaign, aims to extend their 15-match unbeaten streak in their European Championship Group E opener against Slovakia. While their golden generation was tarnished by a first-round exit in Qatar, the team has undergone a transformation with the introduction of fresh faces and a renewed energy under coach Domenico Tedesco, who took over in February 2023. Despite not being considered among the favorites, Belgium possesses a wealth of talent and could achieve significant success if they can maintain composure and avoid injuries to key players. Under Tedesco’s guidance, Belgium has displayed defensive solidity, recording clean sheets in 10 of their last 15 matches, and has also scored a formidable 33 goals, with a blend of experienced players like Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne, and Jan Vertonghen alongside exciting young talents such as Jeremy Doku, Johan Bakayoko, and Amadou Onana.
France, having suffered a shock last 16 exit from Euro 2020 and finished runner-up as hosts in 2016, has a chance to make a strong statement early on against an in-form Austria. Les Bleus have achieved success on the international stage, but the European Championship has eluded them for over two decades. Manager Didier Deschamps, aiming to become the first individual to win the World Cup and Euros as both player and coach, will be determined to secure victory. While Austria might seem like a straightforward opponent, their transformation under German manager Ralf Rangnick has instilled confidence in the team. Having lost only once in their last 16 matches, Austria presents a formidable challenge. France’s top goalscorer Olivier Giroud, at the age of 37, is playing in his final Euros and acknowledges that a strong start in Duesseldorf on Monday could alleviate some pressure in a tournament filled with tough opponents. Austria has a poor record against France, winning only one of their last 10 matches.
All of the Euro 2024 matches will be broadcast live on various platforms, including the app and website of the official broadcaster.
