Games set for Friday and Saturday
After an enthralling 2-1 victory for Türkiye over Austria brought the UEFA Euro 2024 round of 16 to a close, the quarterfinal matchups have been set. Host nation Germany kicks off the round on Friday with a much-anticipated battle with Spain. The Germans beat a plucky Denmark side last week, after the Danes had a goal ruled offside by a toe. Spain, meanwhile, has looked like the best team in the tournament so far. This match features an exciting individual battle as well, as German prodigy Jamal Musiala squares off against 21-year-old Nico Williams of Spain.
Christiano Ronaldo and Portugal then face off against France in what could be a cagey affair. Both teams have struggled to score from open play. Ronaldo is still looking for his first goal of the tournament in what could be his last game at a European Championship. France phenom Kylian Mbappé is yet to find top form after breaking his nose in the opener.
Saturday’s action begins with England taking on Switzerland. England superstar Jude Bellingham saved the day in the round of 16 with a last-second bicycle kick to send the match into extra time, where they prevailed over Slovakia. Switzerland is the underdog, but looked excellent against traditional powerhouse Italy, and played to a creditable draw against Germany in the group stage. In the last of the four quarterfinals, upstart Türkiye plays Holland. This should be a pleasing contrast of styles, with the counter-attacking Turkish side looking to upset a skillful Dutch team.
The semifinal matches will take place on July 9 and 10. The championship will be played on July 14.
