Group A: A Surprise Draw Made Things Interesting
Matchday 1
Italy put on a great performance and got the win, as expected. The fresh Italian team took advantage of Turkey’s mistakes. Turkey had some nice attacking glimpses but failed to convert.
The “surprise” came with the draw between Wales and Switzerland. Embolo’s opener in the 49th minute was matched by Kieffer Moore’s goal 15 minutes later. Switzerland dominated possession but were inefficient upfront. Ward made some great saves and Wales should thank him.
Outlook
Turkey desperately needs the win against Wales and they are the match favorites. They will need to improve their performance though. The probabilities show that it will be a close match. Can Wales pull off another result?
Italy will be looking to clinch the group’s top spot. It is 61% likely that they will achieve that win a win over Switzerland. The Swiss team has an uphill battle in this match. Their most important fixture though is against Turkey in Matchday 3.
Group B: Nothing but Respect for Denmark
Matchday 1
The world was shocked following Eriksen’s collapse at the 42nd minute of Denmark’s clash against Finland. Honestly, we were surprised that the match was continued after such an incident. Football officials should put people and players above profit.
Denmark seemed severely affected by their teammate and friend’s health and ended up losing to Finland.
The Belgian Red Devils beat Russia with ease and confirmed that they are in great shape. Lukaku put on a great performance and dedicated his goal to his friend Christian Eriksen.
Outlook
Finland will look to get a result against Russia. A single point would do for them so we expect another game of slow pace and defensive tactics. Will Russia manage to score and get the win they need?
Denmark faces Belgium and we do not know how the morale on the Danish team is. We know how capable they are of doing damage. Can their defense stop Lukaku and the lot?
Belgium will most likely finish the group on top. It will be great battle for 2nd and 3rd place and chances are there will be a 3-way tie.
Group C: Matchday Played Out as Expected
Matchday 1
North Macedonia’s first Euro appearance was exciting. Pandev managed to score a goal, tying the game. The Austrian attack proved too much though and scored two more goals to get the expected win, 3-1.
The Netherlands started off strong with a fast pace but could not score in the 1st half. Two goals came early in the second, before Ukraine scored two goals themselves to light the Amsterdam ArenA on fire. Dumfries’ great performance was sealed with the winning goal in the 85th minute. Netherlands got the win, as match favorites.
Outlook
Ukraine will seek a clear win against North Macedonia in Matchday 2. Judging by their performance, they should get the 3 points. Their matchup against Austria in Matchday 3 will define their tournament progress.
Austria have a tough battle against the Netherlands and their chances are slim. Will Netherlands continue their strong attacking mentality?