The Euro 2024 qualifying rounds have concluded, with Poland, Ukraine, and Georgia securing their spots through the play-offs on Tuesday night. With the completion of the qualifiers, the 24 teams competing in Germany this summer have been determined, and it’s evident that some nations had a more impressive journey than others.
France displayed formidable strength throughout the qualifiers, while England showcased their talent, raising hopes of ending their trophy drought since 1966. Portugal, under the guidance of new coach Roberto Martinez, have been in exceptional form. Additionally, Spain and Belgium possess quality squads and are considered strong contenders. As for the host nation, Germany, they are showing promising signs of improvement under new manager Julian Nagelsmann.
Below, The Footy Club evaluates and ranks the top contenders for victory at Euro 2024, set to commence on June 14 in Munich.
24. Georgia
Georgia’s qualification for Euro 2024 came as a surprise to many, given their modest performance in Group A. Winning just two games and finishing fourth with eight points from eight matches didn’t initially inspire confidence. However, their path through the Nations League play-offs showcased their determination. With standout players like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, they might surprise some, though expectations remain tempered.
23. Albania
The Albanian team emerged as a revelation during the qualifiers, securing their spot in the European Championship finals for only the second time in history. Despite an initial setback, they rallied impressively, going on a historic seven-match unbeaten run. However, their draw, pitting them against Spain, Italy, and Croatia, presents a formidable challenge. Yet, with players like Elseid Hysaj and Berat Gjimshiti, they could still pose a threat.
22. Poland
Poland’s qualification journey was marked by both struggle and redemption. Despite a challenging start, including losses to Albania and Moldova, they found their way through the playoffs. Led by stalwarts like Robert Lewandowski and Wojciech Szczesny, Poland hopes to break past their pattern of group-stage exits. However, facing tough opponents like France and the Netherlands poses a daunting task.
21. Serbia
Serbia’s qualification was secured amidst mixed performances, highlighted by late-game heroics and moments of concern. While their attacking prowess with players like Aleksandar Mitrovic offers promise, doubts persist, amplified by a humbling loss to Russia. Navigating a competitive group will be challenging, but Serbia aims to capitalize on its historic achievement of securing a spot in Germany.
20. Scotland
Scotland’s road to Euro 2024 was marked by resilience, bouncing back from disappointment to secure qualification. Standout performances from Scott McTominay and John McGinn fueled their success, yet concerns loom over squad depth and Andy Robertson’s fitness. While capable of causing trouble, their recent form raises questions about their ability to progress past a competitive group stage.
19. Romania
Romania’s resurgence under Edward Iordanescu fueled their qualification, marked by a late surge in form. While lacking star power, their collective strength, especially in defense, proved crucial. Yet, facing stiff competition in Group E, Romania faces an uphill battle. With players like Nicolae Stanciu leading the charge, they aim to defy expectations and make their mark.
18. Slovenia
Slovenia’s qualification campaign showcased resilience, securing a spot in Germany with a vital victory on the final matchday. Benjamin Sesko’s goal-scoring prowess offers hope, complemented by Jan Oblak’s steadfast presence in goal. Yet, navigating a tough group presents challenges, but Slovenia aims to capitalize on recent successes, buoyed by a significant win over Portugal.
17. Czech Republic
Czech Republic’s qualification journey was not without drama, marked by a managerial change and decisive victories. Despite a rocky start, they found stability under Ivan Hasek, showcasing resilience and tactical discipline. Facing a competitive group, the Czechs aim to leverage their strengths, with players like Jaroslav Silhavy providing leadership on the field.
16. Switzerland
Switzerland’s qualification was characterized by consistency, albeit with some struggles towards the end. While veterans like Yann Sommer provide stability, questions linger over their ability to convert draws into wins. However, their solid defensive unit and experienced midfield offer hope of progression, especially in a balanced group.
15. Slovakia
Slovakia’s journey to Euro 2024 was marked by efficient performances, securing qualification with notable results against top teams. Led by Milan Skriniar and Stanislav Lobotka, Slovakia aims to capitalize on their defensive solidity. However, navigating a challenging group presents a stern test, with Slovakia aiming to defy expectations once again.
14. Ukraine
Ukraine’s qualification against the backdrop of adversity resonated deeply, showcasing resilience amidst challenging circumstances. With players like Mykhailo Mudryk and Andriy Lunin stepping up, Ukraine aims to carry the momentum into the tournament. Despite a tough group, they aspire to make their mark, buoyed by the nation’s unwavering support.
13. Turkey
Turkey’s qualification was marked by a resurgence under Vincenzo Montella, overcoming early setbacks to secure a spot in Germany. While inconsistencies persist, Turkey boasts attacking threats like Cengiz Under, offering hope of progression. However, a tough group presents challenges, but Turkey aims to build on recent successes and make a statement on the European stage.
12. Denmark
Denmark’s journey to Euro 2024 was tempered by inconsistency but secured with key performances when it mattered most. Rasmus Hojlund’s emergence offers hope, complemented by experienced figures like Kasper Schmeichel. Despite challenges, Denmark aims to leverage their strengths and navigate a competitive group.
11. Croatia
Croatia’s qualification journey was marked by resilience, overcoming early setbacks to secure their spot in Germany. With Luka Modric leading the charge, Croatia aims to recapture their tournament magic. However, doubts persist over squad depth, facing a tough group with aspirations of defying the odds once again.
10. Netherlands
Netherlands’ qualification was punctuated by ups and downs, highlighting both potential and areas for improvement. With Virgil van Dijk leading from the back and emerging talents like Xavi Simons, Netherlands aims to make their mark. Yet, facing strong opponents presents a formidable challenge, but Netherlands aims to rise to the occasion.
9. Austria
Austria’s resurgence under Ralf Rangnick fueled their qualification, marked by a shift in approach and exciting performances. Despite losing David Alaba to injury, Austria aims to maintain momentum with Marcel Sabitzer leading the charge. Navigating a challenging group presents obstacles, but Austria aims to capitalize on newfound optimism.
8. Hungary
Hungary’s qualification was marked by resilience, overcoming adversity to secure a spot in Germany. Dominik Szoboszlai’s standout performances offer hope, complemented by a determined squad. Despite challenges, Hungary aims to capitalize on recent successes, facing a competitive group with aspirations of defying expectations.
7. Italy
Italy’s qualification journey was marked by determination, overcoming challenges to secure their spot in Germany. With Luciano Spalletti at the helm, Italy aims to recapture their tournament form. Despite facing strong opposition, Italy boasts a talented squad led by Nicolo Barella. With hopes of making a deep run, Italy aims to make their presence felt.
6. Spain
Spain’s qualification was marked by resilience and tactical acumen, securing their spot in Germany with key performances. Despite facing challenges, Spain boasts a talented squad led by Alvaro Morata. With Luis de la Fuente guiding the team, Spain aims to overcome obstacles and compete at the highest level.
5. Germany
Germany’s journey to Euro 2024 was marked by ups and downs, showcasing both promise and areas for improvement. With Julian Nagelsmann leading the charge, Germany aims to build momentum with Joshua Kimmich anchoring the midfield. Despite facing a challenging group, Germany aims to capitalize on home advantage and make a statement on the European stage.
4. England
England’s qualification journey was marked by determination and resilience, securing their spot in Germany with key performances. With Gareth Southgate at the helm, England aims to leverage their attacking prowess, led by Harry Kane. Despite facing strong opposition, England boasts a talented squad with aspirations of making a deep run.
3. Belgium
Belgium’s qualification campaign was marked by resilience and tactical flexibility, securing their spot in Germany with impressive performances. With Roberto Martinez guiding the team, Belgium aims to capitalize on their attacking firepower, led by Romelu Lukaku. Despite facing tough opponents, Belgium boasts a talented squad with aspirations of challenging for the title.
2. Portugal
Portugal’s qualification journey was characterized by dominance and tactical prowess, securing their spot in Germany with convincing performances. With Fernando Santos at the helm, Portugal aims to build on their past successes, led by Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite facing stiff competition, Portugal boasts a talented squad with aspirations of adding another trophy to their collection.
1. France
France enters Euro 2024 as the highest-ranked team, boasting a blend of youth and experience under Didier Deschamps’ guidance. With Kylian Mbappe leading the attack, France aims to reclaim the title. Despite facing formidable opponents, France boasts a talented squad with aspirations of asserting their dominance on the European stage once again.
