The Euros are almost upon us and that means the ups and downs of the group stages will soon be on-hand to fill our days.
From shock wins to unknown players becoming heroes, the platform is set once more and when the first ball is kicked, all pre-tournament predictions can quickly go out the window.
There are already some tantalising fixtures pencilled in for the competition’s early stages, meaning we won’t have to wait long to see some of the world’s best talent pitted against each other.
Turkey vs. Italy – June 11
The opening game of a tournament is always a little unpredictable and brings with it that extra appeal. That’s precisely what we’re expecting from Turkey vs Italy. The Azzurri are coming in hot with a string of impressive wins under their belt, but many feel that Turkey really are a dark horse heading into the Euros.
France vs. Germany – June 15
The German national side has endured a strange time following the 2018 World Cup debacle, whereas Les Bleus were quite literally the opposite there. That should make for a pretty interesting dynamic in what has, correctly, been dubbed the Group of Death alongside Portugal and Hungary.
Denmark vs. Belgium – June 17
Usually Belgium would be the obvious favourites for this one and while they still are among the bookmakers, Denmark do have home advantage with the match being staged in Copenhagen. Goals have been aplenty during qualifying for the Danes, pit that against Belgium’s attacking prowess and it could be a thriller.
England vs. Scotland – June 18
England vs Scotland on a Friday night at the Euros? Yes please.
England vs Scotland is a rivalry for the ages and for the first time in more than two decades, they’ll meet in a major tournament. The Three Lions are expected to do pretty well this summer but the spirit and renewed quality of the Scots could pose a major problem for them at Wembley.
Spain vs. Poland – June 19
The depth and experience of Spain versus the grit and passion of Poland – and, more importantly, Robert Lewandowski.
This could serve as the last major opportunity for the Poles to take advantage of their own so-called golden generation, with the Spaniards hoping the Euros will mark their return to the top of the mountain.
Featured image credit: Getty