Euro 2024: Thrilling group stage sets up exciting knockout rounds

The group stage of Euro 2024 has concluded, delivering a plethora of goals, drama, and standout performances. As we gear up for the Round of 16, let's recap the group stage highlights and preview the upcoming fixtures.

Group Stage Highlights

Group A saw host nation Germany stamp their authority with a resounding 5-1 victory over Scotland in the opening match. Germany continued their dominant form, defeating Hungary 2-0 before a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Switzerland. Switzerland also had an impressive run, securing a 3-1 victory over Hungary and a 1-1 draw against Scotland.

Group B featured Spain and Italy showcasing their prowess. Spain opened with a 3-0 thrashing of Croatia and secured their place in the knockout stage with narrow victories over Italy (1-0) and Albania (1-0). Italy, meanwhile, edged out Albania 2-1 and played to a 1-1 draw with Croatia, securing their progression.

Group C was a tightly contested affair. England emerged as group winners with a 1-0 victory over Serbia and two goalless draws against Slovenia and Denmark. Slovenia and Denmark both managed 1-1 draws against each other and Serbia, highlighting the balanced nature of this group.

Group D witnessed some exciting encounters, with Austria making a statement by defeating Poland 3-1 and the Netherlands 3-2. France, after a 1-0 victory over Austria and a 1-1 draw with Poland, played out a goalless draw against the Netherlands, securing their advancement.

Group E was uniquely competitive, with all four teams finishing on four points. Romania started strong with a 3-0 win over Ukraine, while Belgium secured a 2-0 victory over Romania. Slovakia and Ukraine, despite their efforts, couldn't outpace the leaders, resulting in a tense and balanced group outcome.

Group F was marked by Portugal's strong performance, securing victories over Czechia (2-1) and Turkey (3-0) before falling to Georgia 2-0 in their final group match. Turkey's win over Georgia and Czechia's draw with Georgia were notable moments in this competitive group.

Round of 16 Fixtures

As we move into the knockout stages, the matchups promise thrilling encounters:

Saturday, June 29

Switzerland vs. Italy (Berlin; 6 p.m. local / 9 p.m. PST)

Germany vs. Denmark (Dortmund; 9 p.m. local / 12 a.m. PST)

Sunday, June 30

England vs. Slovakia (Gelsenkirchen; 6 p.m. local / 9 p.m. PST)

Spain vs. Georgia (Cologne; 9 p.m. local / 12 a.m. PST)

Monday, July 1

France vs. Belgium (Düsseldorf; 6 p.m. local / 9 p.m. PST)

Portugal vs. Slovenia (Frankfurt; 9 p.m. local / 12 a.m. PST)

Tuesday, July 2

Romania vs. Netherlands (Munich; 6 p.m. local / 9 p.m. PST)

Austria vs. Turkey (Leipzig; 9 p.m. local / 12 a.m. PST)

Quarterfinals and Beyond

The quarterfinals are set for Friday, July 5, and Saturday, July 6, with the potential for mouth-watering clashes. Spain or Georgia will face Germany or Denmark, while Portugal or Slovenia will take on France or Belgium. Winners from the England vs. Slovakia match will meet Switzerland or Italy, and Romania or Netherlands will challenge Austria or Turkey.

The semifinals will take place on Tuesday, July 9, and Wednesday, July 10, culminating in the grand final on Sunday, July 14, in Berlin.