ClapAfter a blockbuster group stage of this year’s Euro 2020, we’re now gearing up for eight enticing Round of 16 affairs as we reach the knockout stage of the tournament.
It’s already been a pretty crazy few weeks but now that we’re really into the thick of things, we expect it’ll only get crazier from here.
With that being said, it’s time to take a quick glance at what we’ll be seeing over the course of the next few days.
Wales vs Denmark
Wales weren’t exactly expected to shine in this tournament but instead of cowering away, they’ve come out fighting with a really impressive three games behind them during the group stage.
Denmark, on the other hand, had to deal with a devastating injury to Christian Eriksen, and yet they’ve come back with the kind of vigour and determination that most teams can only dream of.
Prediction: Wales 1-1 Denmark (Wales win on penalties)
Italy vs Austria
Few could’ve imagined the Azzurri would thrive and flourish quite as much as they have done in this tournament but here we are. They’re now one of the clear favourites to win the whole thing and that, in itself, is a testament to the job Roberto Mancini has done.
Austria didn’t look great against the Dutch but aside from that they’ve been solid, and with David Alaba leading from the back, they have every chance of causing Italy problems.
Prediction: Italy 1-0 Austria
Netherlands vs Czech Republic
The Netherlands weren’t tipped as one of the favourites heading into the tournament but you can bet that’s going to be the case now after what they’ve been able to produce thus far.
The Czechs started off in some nice form before really falling away in Group D but with Schick leading the line, anything is possible.
Prediction: Netherlands 2-0 Czech Republic
Belgium vs Portugal
It’s probably the best game of the last 16 and we absolutely cannot wait to see it. The Belgians looked pretty much flawless in the group stage whereas Portugal, despite all the hype, showed a few holes.
We think that’ll manifest into a back and forth war between two nations that should be aiming for the final if they can get through this one.
Prediction: Belgium 3-1 Portugal
Croatia vs Spain
Croatia were able to dig deep against Scotland and pull a really fun win out of the bag against the underdogs, proving that there’s still life in the old dog yet.
This is going to be a really fun clash of styles but after what they did to Slovakia, Spain should be cruising through here.
Prediction: Croatia 0-2 Spain
France vs Switzerland
Les Bleus are the reigning world champions and because of that reputation alone, we feel very confident in saying they are still the favourites to win the whole thing – because their performances have somewhat suggested otherwise.
The Swiss are probably just happy to be here after an unconvincing group stage and if they can put up a fight against their neighbours, that’ll probably be seen as “good enough”.
Prediction: France 2-1 Switzerland
England vs Germany
England have been efficient under Gareth Southgate and in more ways than one, that’s the best thing that can be said for them. They haven’t quite hit that next gear yet but if they do, there’s a solid chance they could make a run all the way to the final.
The Germans have been pretty inconsistent with a win, draw and loss to their name but they have excitement within their ranks – and that’ll be huge against their bitter rivals.
Prediction: England 1-0 Germany
Sweden vs Ukraine
Even without Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Sweden managed to come through a competitive group having earned a lot of respect from those who expected them to really struggle.
Ukraine, on the other hand, are pretty much here by default thanks to their win over North Macedonia, which we don’t think bodes particularly well for their overall chances.
Prediction: Sweden 1-0 Ukraine
