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Magic6 Predictions: Euro 2024 Lineup 3

June 23, 2024

Magic6 Predictions: Euro 2024 Lineup 3

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The second lineup of Euro 2024 is almost over, signaling the imminent start of the third lineup. As always, you can check out our insights here to make the most informed predictions for these upcoming matches!

Croatia – Italy

Croatia will face off against Italy on June 24 at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig.

Croatia is determined to clinch their first international title at Euro 2024 this year. With Zlatko Dalic at the helm, they have been on the brink of glory. Despite finishing as runners-up and in third place in the last two World Cup tournaments, they were knocked out in the round of 16 in Euro 2020, which was a letdown.

Croatia has never advanced past the quarter-final stage in the top European football competition. They are no longer considered underdogs, and some of their star players from the golden generation are still part of the squad. The big question is which Croatian team will show up in Germany this summer.

Italy is aiming to defend their title and clinch their third European Championships crown this summer. The Azzurri emerged victorious in Euro 2020, despite setbacks like missing out on the World Cup and undergoing a managerial change.

Despite these obstacles, they managed to secure a third-place finish in the Uefa Nations League and a second-place spot in their qualifying group for the upcoming tournament. With a rich history of success in tournaments, such as their World Cup win in 2006, Italy is under immense pressure to perform well at this year’s event in Germany.

Match info

Date: Monday 24 June, 2024
Time: 21:00
Location: Red Bull Arena in Leipzig, Germany

Croatia Team Insights

Zlatko Dalic usually organizes Croatia in a 4-3-3 setup with one midfielder holding. The midfield three consists of Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, and Marcelo Brozovic, although there are other choices as well. Croatia has experimented with a 4-2-3-1 or 4-1-4-1 formation, sometimes even using a back-three. In the Euro qualifiers, Croatia maintained an average possession of 62.5%, with an 88.75% passing accuracy and 39.88 ball recoveries per game during the 2018 World Cup.

Italy Team Insights

Luciano Spalletti has been experimenting with a three-at-the-back formation during recent friendly matches, but it’s doubtful that it will become a permanent fixture. The 4-3-3 formation, which helped Italy qualify for the tournament, appears to be the most well-rounded, enabling them to make the most of their skilled central midfielders. The Azzurri will prioritize keeping possession, but they also have the ability to withstand pressure and launch swift counterattacks with players such as Barella and Davide Frattesi.

Croatia – Italy Comparison

Date	Score	Location
12/06/2015	Croatia 1-1 Italy	Gradski stadion u Poljudu
16/11/2014	Italy 1-1 Croatia	San Siro
14/06/2012	Croatia 1-1 Italy	Stadion Miejski
16/08/2006	Italy 0-2 Croatia	Stadio Armando Picchi
08/06/2002	Croatia 2-1 Italy	Kashima Soccer Stadium
28/04/1999	Croatia 0-0 Italy	Stadion Maksimir

Netherlands – Austria

The Netherlands is determined to end their long wait for an international title at Euro 2024 this summer. In the previous pan-European tournament, the Dutch team was left disheartened after being knocked out soon after progressing from the group stage. Frank de Boer was replaced as the head coach, and Louis van Gaal took charge, leading the Netherlands to a quarter-final exit in the recent World Cup finals. Now, with Ronald Koeman following in Van Gaal’s footsteps, there is a sense of familiarity. Despite having a number of well-known players who can potentially form a formidable team, the Dutch team’s performance remains unpredictable.

Austria is hoping to achieve its first big win in an international tournament as it heads to Germany this summer. With Ralf Rangnick at the helm, also known as the ‘godfather of gegenpressing’, there is a new sense of confidence that Austria could surprise everyone in the competition. This will mark the country’s fourth time participating in the European Championship, and in order to create history, they need to make it through the initial knockout stage.

Match info

Date: Tuesday 25 June, 2024
Time: 18:00
Location: Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany

Netherlands Team Insights

Koeman faces a big decision this summer as he chooses his starting lineup. He has experimented with both a back-four and a back-three, but seems to lean towards the latter. This strategy is logical considering the strong defense of the Dutch team. Frenkie de Jong will anchor the midfield, while Memphis Depay is set to spearhead the Oranje’s attack.

Austria Team Insights

Following a lackluster period at Manchester United, Ralf Rangnick took over as the head coach of the Austrian national team. He has had a promising start, winning 12 out of his first 20 matches, with the last five victories coming consecutively. Rangnick’s focus on counter-pressing is expected to shape the team’s playing style. The team’s tactical setup is still up in the air, as Rangnick has been testing out various formations.

Netherlands – Austria Comparison

Date	Score	Location
17/06/2021	Netherlands 2-0 Austria	Johan Cruijff Arena
04/06/2016	Austria 0-2 Netherlands	Ernst Happel Stadion
09/02/2011	Netherlands 3-1 Austria	Philips Stadion
26/03/2008	Austria 3-4 Netherlands	Ernst Happel Stadion
06/09/2003	Netherlands 3-1 Austria	De Kuip
16/10/2002	Austria 0-3 Netherlands	Ernst Happel Stadion

Denmark – Serbia

When it comes to determining who qualifies and in what position, this clash in Group C could be crucial. It’s a showdown between two nations that could be considered as potential ‘dark horses’, each with aspirations of advancing past the knockout rounds.

By the time the match in Munich rolls around, both Denmark and Serbia will have already played against England and Slovenia. Considering the strengths of these teams, failing to secure at least three points by this stage would be quite disappointing.

If this scenario unfolds, the victor of this match will likely secure second place in the group. Even a draw would probably be enough to see both teams progress. However, a loss would mean anxiously waiting to see if they qualify as one of the best third-place finishers.

Match info

Date: Tuesday 25 June, 2024
Time: 21:00
Location: Munich Football Arena in Munich, Germany

Denmark Team Insights

Kasper Hjulmand has a wealth of talent at his disposal, including Christian Eriksen, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, and Rasmus Hojland who can cause trouble for any opponent. Rasmus Hojland, in particular, will play a key role after an impressive performance in Euro 2024 qualifying, scoring seven goals in eight matches, only behind Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappe, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Romelu Lukaku in the goalscoring charts.

Denmark’s threat extends to the wide areas as well, with full-backs Victor Kristiansen and Joakim Maehle always ready to join the attack.

Serbia Team Insights

The Serbian team boasts several well-known players. Aleksander Mitrovic, who currently plays in Saudi Arabia, holds the record for the most goals scored for the country and is still in his twenties. His teammate at Al Hilal, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, is a key player who not only provides assists but also poses a threat in front of goal.

There are other players in the squad who can also score goals. The selection of the front line will depend on the outcome of the opening match and the balance needed. Dusan Vlahovic from Juventus is a reliable goal scorer, while captain Dusan Tadic is more focused on creating opportunities. Luka Jovic has proven himself at the highest level over the past few seasons.

The team is likely to adopt a three-at-the-back system with wing-backs such as Filip Kostic and Andrija Zivkovic. The composition of the three central defenders will be interesting, with experienced players like Nikola Milenkovic and Matija Nastasic competing against the youthful talents of Strahinja Pavlovic and Jan Carlo Simic, who currently plays for AC Milan and is a teenager.

There is also a competition for the goalkeeper position. Vanja Milinkovic-Savic played every minute of the qualifiers, but Djorje Petrovic has emerged as a strong contender due to his performances for Chelsea. It will be intriguing to see who ultimately claims the starting spot based on club form.

Denmark – Serbia Comparison

Date	Score	Location
29/03/2022	Denmark 3-0 Serbia	Parken Stadium
13/06/2015	Denmark 2-0 Serbia	Telia Parken
14/11/14	Serbia 1-3 Denmark	Partizan Stadium, Belgrade

England – Slovenia

Even though this is considered their simplest game, England will definitely want to enter the match with six points and a guaranteed spot in the knockout stage. If that happens, Gareth Southgate will likely take advantage of the situation by rotating players and giving valuable playing time to squad members, as well as resting key players.

Slovenia is making a comeback to the big tournament stage after their last appearance in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Despite being eliminated in the group stage, their only defeat was a 1-0 loss to England. This will be their second-ever appearance at the European Championships, with their last participation being in 2000. Slovenia is eager to reach the knockout rounds for the first time in a major tournament, and they have good reason to feel confident. They finished their qualifying campaign with 22 points from 10 games, including a 1-1 draw against Denmark, who they will face in their opening match at this tournament.

Heading to Germany as one of the top contenders before the tournament, England will aim to maintain their high standards, regardless of their position when this match takes place. Fans will definitely be restless if they don’t secure a convincing victory.

Match info

Date: Tuesday 25 June, 2024
Time: 21:00
Location: Cologne Stadium in Cologne , Germany

England Team Insights

Southgate will definitely be keeping a close eye on several fitness concerns regarding his important players, particularly in defense, where he might have limited choices. However, the Three Lions have an abundance of talent in the attacking department, with players like Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka, who are just a small portion of the exceptional talents they possess. Previously, Southgate has relied on pragmatism to guide England through the group stages, but considering the potential defensive issues, we might witness a more liberated approach this time.

Slovenia Team Insights

Euro 2024 will witness a handful of teams that will heavily rely on a small group of players. Among them, Jan Oblak from Atletico Madrid stands out as one of the top-notch goalkeepers in the tournament. As Slovenia faces three formidable attacking teams, Oblak will have to showcase his exceptional skills to the fullest. Nevertheless, Slovenia also possesses their own threats, including Benjamin Sesko, who has recently completed a remarkable 18-goal season with RB Leipzig and has attracted interest from Arsenal. To succeed, Slovenia will need to capitalize on counter-attacks and take full advantage of set pieces.

England – Slovenia Comparison

Date	Score	Location
05/10/07	England 1-0 Slovenia	Wembley Stadium, London
11/10/16	Slovenia 0-0 England	Stozice Stadium, Ljubljana
14/07/15	Slovenia 2-3 England	Stozice Stadium, Ljubljana
15/11/14	England 3-1 Slovenia	Wembley Stadium, London
23/06/10	Slovenia 0-1 England	Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth
05/09/09	England 2-1 Slovenia	Wembley Stadium, London

Ukraine – Belgium

With this being the final match of Group E, it holds great importance for both nations in this summer’s European Championships.

Belgium, having already faced Romania and Slovakia, will be aiming to secure six points and establish themselves as the favorites of the group. This will also provide an opportunity for Domenico Tedesco to rest key players and give some lesser-known players a chance to shine.

However, Belgium should not underestimate the challenge. If there are any doubts about their qualification for the knockout rounds, they need to bring their A-game against Ukraine. It’s important to remember that Belgium exited the 2022 World Cup at the group stage. Ukraine, on the other hand, not only reached the quarter-finals in the last Euros but also performed well in a tough qualifying group that included Italy and England.

Despite being drawn against strong opponents, Ukraine finished third with 14 points during qualifying. They have shown their ability to compete with the best and will be confident in their chances of securing six points in this match, just like Belgium.

Match info

Date: Wednesday 26 June, 2024
Time: 18:00
Location: Cologne Stadium in Cologne , Germany

Ukraine Team Insights

Ukraine boasts a dynamic group of attacking talents, many of whom are young and in excellent form. Several players have gained popularity in the UK by showcasing their skills in the Premier League. Oleksandr Zinchenko has been a stalwart on the left side of the Premier League for quite some time, but he takes on a midfield role for his national team, allowing Everton’s Vitaly Mykolenko to make marauding runs down the left flank.

Mykailo Mudryk poses a significant goal-scoring threat with his speed, while Viktor Tsygankov has been a standout playmaker for Girona in their surprising La Liga title challenge, forming a strong partnership with Artem Dovbyk, who currently leads the Pichichi standings in Spain.

Georgiy Sudakov and Illya Zabarnyi have also made impressive starts to their careers, showing promise for the future of the team at just 21 years old. The Ukraine squad boasts a good balance of experienced players and exciting young talents. Even in the goalkeeping department, there is depth with Bushchan stepping aside for the likes of Andriy Lunin, who is shining at Real Madrid, and Benfica’s No.1 Anatoliy Trubin.

Belgium Team Insights

It’s hard to deny that Belgium’s Golden Generation hasn’t quite lived up to expectations. Despite being ranked in the top five by Fifa for a whole decade, their only achievement is a third-place finish in the World Cup.

However, there are still some standout players from this generation who continue to shine. Kevin De Bruyne has once again shown his class for Manchester City, while Romelu Lukaku has been dominating the European Championships Qualification with an impressive goal-scoring record. But it’s not just the established stars that are making a difference for Belgium.

The addition of some promising young talents is helping Belgium maintain their high standards. Jeremy Doku, De Bruyne’s teammate, and Leandro Trossard from Arsenal are vying for the wide left spot, while Johan Bakayoko is likely to join Lukaku and De Bruyne on the other side. In midfield, there will be plenty of energy and tough tackling with Nottm Forest’s Mangala and potentially Aster Vranckx or Everton’s Amadou Onana.

Jan Vertonghen, with 154 caps and counting, still leads the Belgian defense. However, he now has younger legs around him in Leicester’s Wout Faes, Fulham’s Timothy Castagne, and Arthur Theate. The injury to Thibault Courtois leaves a question mark in goal, but Forest’s Mats Sels is in good shape to step in, although Koen Casteels could also be given the opportunity. Luton’s Thomas Kaminski has also made his senior Belgian debut this season.

Ukraine – Belgium Comparison

This marks the inaugural competitive encounter between these two countries.

Czech Republic – Turkey

In Group F’s final match, this encounter holds significant importance for both nations. By the time they face off in Hamburg, the Czech Republic and Turkey will have already played against group favorites Portugal and underdogs Georgia. They’ll be aiming for a minimum of three points at this point, giving them a good chance to advance as one of the top third-place teams, at the very least.

However, a lack of victory before this stage will add immense pressure on these teams, leaving no room for errors.

Both the Czech Republic and Turkey have their eyes on securing second place in Group F from the get-go, and this match could be the deciding factor in that race.

Match info

Date: Wednesday 26 June, 2024
Time: 21:00
Location: Volksparkstadion in Hamburg, Germany

Czech Republic Team Insights

In contrast to previous championships, the Czech Republic doesn’t have many well-known players, except for the Hammers duo Vladimír Coufal and Tomáš Souček. Patrik Schick comes in as a close third. Schick played a crucial role in Bayer Leverkusen’s first Bundesliga title win. There are also a few regulars from the ‘Big 5’ leagues, such as midfielder Antonín Barák from Fiorentina and defender David Jurásek from Hoffenheim.

However, it’s still uncertain how the newly-appointed head coach Hašek will shape his team. The 60-year-old tactician has already led the team to victory in two friendly matches against Norway (2-1) and Armenia (2-1). Despite that, the team’s attacking force will rely on prominent hitters like Schick, who leads the attack, and Soucek, who wears the captain’s armband.

Turkey Team Insights

Turkey’s success at Euro 2024 will heavily rely on the exceptional midfield skills of Hakan Calhanoglou from Inter and Orkun Kokcu from Benfica. With these two players, Real Madrid’s Arda Guler will have a solid foundation to showcase his talent. This team seems to have a more energetic and vibrant vibe compared to the disappointing performance in the previous European Championships. They might just surprise everyone with a few unexpected victories in Germany.

Czech Republic – Turkey Comparison

Date	Score	Location
19/11/22	Turkey 2-1 Czech Republic	Kalyon Stadyumu, Gaziantep
21/06/16	Czech Republic 0-2 Turkey	Stade Bollaert-Delelis, Lens
10/10/15	Czech Republic 0-2 Turkey	Stadion Maksimir, Zagreb
10/10/14	Turkey 1-2 Czech Republic	Şükrü Saracoğlu, Istanbul
06/02/13	Turkey 0-2 Czech Republic	19 Mayis Stadi, Manisa