The UEFA EURO 2024 tournament has been a thrilling journey from start to its current climactic stage. As we reach the semi-finals, four teams (England, Spain, Netherlands, France) remain in the hunt for the prestigious Henri Delaunay Cup. Here’s an in-depth look at the semi-finalists and their paths to this pivotal moment.
England: The Unyielding Contenders
Road to the Semi-Finals
Group C Performance:
- 1-0 vs Serbia (Gelsenkirchen, 16 June)
- 1-1 vs Denmark (Frankfurt, 20 June)
- 0-0 vs Slovenia (Cologne, 25 June)
Knockout Stage:
- Round of 16: 2-1 aet vs Slovakia (Gelsenkirchen, 30 June)
- Quarter-final: 1-1 aet 5-3p vs Switzerland (Düsseldorf, 6 July)
- Semi-final: vs Netherlands (Dortmund, 10 July, 21:00)
Pedigree
- EURO Best: Runners-up (2020)
- EURO 2020: Runners-up, lost 3-2 on penalties to Italy (1-1 aet)
Story So Far
England has demonstrated resilience and tactical flexibility, remaining unbeaten through the group stage despite not always playing their best football. They showcased their offensive capabilities through the talents of Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, and Phil Foden. Notably, Bellingham’s spectacular overhead kick was a tournament highlight, forcing extra time against Slovakia. In the quarter-finals, Bukayo Saka’s equalizer and flawless penalties highlighted England’s composure under pressure.
Key Figures
- Coach: Gareth Southgate
Southgate’s tenure has seen England reach a EURO final and a World Cup semi-final. His experience and calm demeanor will be crucial as he aims for success in the semi-finals. - Key Player: Jude Bellingham
Bellingham has been instrumental, with his decisive goals and ability to rise to the occasion marking him as a crucial player for England. - One to Watch: Cole Palmer
Palmer’s creative prowess and penalty-taking skills have been vital. Known for his composure, he is poised to make a significant impact.
Interesting Fact
England has topped their group in both EURO campaigns under Southgate, a feat they managed only twice in their previous eight tournament appearances.
France: The Persistent Pursuers
Road to the Semi-Finals
Group D Performance:
- 1-0 vs Austria (Düsseldorf, 17 June)
- 0-0 vs Netherlands (Leipzig, 21 June)
- 1-1 vs Poland (Dortmund, 25 June)
Knockout Stage:
- Round of 16: 1-0 vs Belgium (Düsseldorf, 1 July)
- Quarter-final: 0-0 aet 5-3p vs Portugal (Hamburg, 5 July)
- Semi-final: vs Spain (Munich, 9 July, 21:00)
Pedigree
- EURO Best: Winners (1984, 2000)
- EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 5-4 on penalties to Switzerland (3-3 aet)
Story So Far
France’s journey has been characterized by strong defensive performances and crucial victories, despite not winning their group. Kylian Mbappé’s leadership and scoring ability have been pivotal, particularly in the knockout stages where his penalty secured a crucial victory.
Key Figures
- Coach: Didier Deschamps
Deschamps, a world-renowned figure in football, seeks to add the EURO trophy to his collection as a coach. His strategic acumen and calm leadership are invaluable assets. - Key Player: Kylian Mbappé
Mbappé’s impact is undeniable. His speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability make him a constant threat to any defense. - One to Watch: Bradley Barcola
Barcola’s agility and tactical intelligence have made him a standout player. His direct runs and defensive contributions are crucial to France’s success.
Interesting Fact
Antoine Griezmann holds the record for most consecutive appearances in international football, with 84 games from August 2017 to November 2023.
Netherlands: The Resilient Challengers
Road to the Semi-Finals
Group D Performance:
- 2-1 vs Poland (Hamburg, 16 June)
- 0-0 vs France (Leipzig, 21 June)
- 2-3 vs Austria (Berlin, 25 June)
Knockout Stage:
- Round of 16: 3-0 vs Romania (Munich, 2 July)
- Quarter-final: 2-1 vs Türkiye (Berlin, 6 July)
- Semi-final: vs England (Dortmund, 10 July, 21:00)
Pedigree
- EURO Best: Winners (1988)
- EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 2-0 to Czechia
Story So Far
The Netherlands had a mixed group stage but showed their potential in the knockout rounds with a dominant win over Romania and a hard-fought victory against Türkiye. Cody Gakpo’s scoring prowess has been crucial to their progress.
Key Figures
- Coach: Ronald Koeman
Koeman’s second stint as coach has seen ups and downs, but his experience and tactical knowledge have been instrumental in guiding the Netherlands to the semi-finals. - Key Player: Memphis Depay
Despite injury setbacks, Depay remains the focal point of the Dutch attack, contributing both goals and assists. - One to Watch: Xavi Simons
Simons has emerged as a key creative force, with his vision and ability to exploit spaces between the lines adding a new dimension to the Dutch offense.
Interesting Fact
The Netherlands’ first headed goal in a major finals came from Wim Kieft during EURO 1988, their victorious campaign.
Spain: The Strategic Masters
Road to the Semi-Finals
Group B Performance:
- 3-0 vs Croatia (Berlin, 15 June)
- 1-0 vs Italy (Gelsenkirchen, 20 June)
- 1-0 vs Albania (Düsseldorf, 24 June)
Knockout Stage:
- Round of 16: 4-1 vs Georgia (Cologne, 30 June)
- Quarter-final: 2-1 aet vs Germany (Stuttgart, 5 July)
- Semi-final: vs France (Munich, 9 July, 21:00)
Pedigree
- EURO Best: Winners (1964, 2008, 2012)
- EURO 2020: Semi-finals, lost 4-2 on penalties to Italy (1-1 aet)
Story So Far
Spain has displayed dominant form, winning all their matches and showcasing their offensive and defensive strengths. Lamine Yamal’s emergence as a record-breaking young talent has added excitement to their campaign. Their extra-time victory over Germany demonstrated their resilience and depth.
Key Figures
- Coach: Luis de la Fuente
De la Fuente has brought a winning mentality and cohesive team spirit to the Spanish squad, drawing on his successful experience with Spain’s youth teams. - Key Player: Rodri
Rodri’s midfield mastery has been central to Spain’s success. His balance of defensive solidity and creative playmaking makes him indispensable. - One to Watch: Lamine Yamal
The young winger has been a revelation, breaking records and delivering key performances. His flair and creativity make him a joy to watch.
Interesting Fact
Spain is the only national team to have won three consecutive major titles: EURO 2008, the 2010 World Cup, and EURO 2012.
EURO 2024 Semi-Finals Matchups
England vs Netherlands (Wednesday 10 July, Dortmund, 21:00)
This clash promises to be a tactical chess match between Southgate and Koeman. England’s solid defensive structure will be tested by the fluid Dutch attack. The midfield battle between Bellingham and Simons could be decisive.
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France vs Spain (Tuesday 9 July, Munich, 21:00)
A classic encounter between two footballing giants. Spain’s possession-based approach will face its sternest test against France’s lightning-fast counterattacks. The duel between Mbappé and Spain’s defense will be crucial.
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Potential EURO 2024 Final Scenarios
As we approach the climax of EURO 2024, the stage is set for drama, heroics, and potentially, the crowning of a new European champion. Each team brings its unique strengths and narratives to the table, ensuring that football fans around the world are in for a treat.
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Whether it’s England seeking to end their long wait for a major trophy, France aiming to add another title to their impressive collection, the Netherlands dreaming of reliving their 1988 glory, or Spain looking to cement their status as the most successful team in EURO history, the next few days promise to deliver unforgettable moments in football history.
