EURO 2024: The Round of 16

The Group phase is done and the business end of the tournament is here with us. The Round of 16 involves one-leg ties in which if there’s no winner in 90 minutes, the tie goes to extra time and penalties if it’s still in a draw.

The first round of 16 tie is between defending champions Italy and Switzerland. The Italians have been far from convincing this time out, getting only one win in the group stage. Goalkeeper Donnarumma has been instrumental for them as he was in 2020 and the Italians can rely on him if they get to penalties. Switzerland on the other hand has been decent enough and can cause an upset.

Hosts Germany will take on Denmark in what could be an interesting watch. Germany has been convincing under Nagelsmann finishing the group stage unbeaten. Jamal Musiala has been a shining star and it looks like it's clicking for the German machine. Denmark has also been unbeaten with impressive performances, especially against England. Germany has a high likelihood of winning.

England plays Slovakia and English fans will hope to get going after frustrating performances in the group stage. Southgate has struggled to balance his first 11 and must make serious decisions for the knock-outs. Slovakia shocked Belgium and will hope that the script repeats itself on Sunday.

Spain will face Georgia on Sunday who qualified yesterday after outplaying a strong Portugal side. Spain’s young stars have been a joy to watch and dominant in all games. Georgia will hope their story doesn’t come to an end but Spain may be too strong a side for them.

In what could be the match of the round, France will play Belgium on Monday. France has been without their scoring boots scoring only twice via a penalty and an own goal while Belgium has been on and off. Both heavyweights have been below par and the knock-outs provide a good platform for both of them to show their prowess.

Portugal is set to play Slovenia and Roberto Martinez’s charges want to put their loss to Georgia behind. They are one of the tournament favorites and will want to make a statement. Slovenia has been underdogs and has relied heavily on Atletico Madrid’s goalie Jan Oblak. Portugal are favorite in this tie.

Romania will play the Dutch who have also misfired finishing third in their group. Ronald Koeman will want his side to show their individual brilliance in the knock-outs. In the final game, dark horses Austria will play Turkey hoping their fairytale continues under manager Ralf Ragnick.