As the dust settles on Italy’s triumph at Euro 2020, football fans across Europe are eagerly eyeing the upcoming European Championships in Germany. Qualification is in full swing, and the drama is building up as nations battle it out for a coveted spot in the finals.
Scotland’s Remarkable Run
Leading the charge in Group A is Scotland, with a perfect record of five wins out of five matches, accumulating a healthy 15 points. Their latest conquest, a 3-0 victory over Cyprus, showcased their dominance. Steve Clarke’s side now stands on the cusp of qualification, and an intriguing scenario looms.
If Norway and Georgia play to a draw in Oslo on the same day, Scotland will secure an automatic spot in the Euro 2024 finals without even kicking a ball in anger. Talk about drama! But that’s not all; Scotland’s Tuesday night clash with England adds an extra layer of excitement, marking the 150th anniversary of the world’s oldest international fixture.
However, if fate doesn’t favor them in Oslo, Scotland’s next challenge is a formidable one – an away game against second-placed Spain on October 12th. A tough road lies ahead, but the Scots are determined to continue their European adventure.
England’s Quest for Glory
Meanwhile, England finds itself in a favorable position atop their group, despite a recent hiccup – a 1-1 draw against Ukraine in Poland, ending their 100% winning record. Gareth Southgate’s squad still boasts an impressive 13 points from five matches, holding a six-point lead over Ukraine and a nine-point cushion over Italy, who face each other in a crucial showdown.
In Group C, the only immediate outcome is that Malta will be out of contention for the top two spots if they lose to North Macedonia at home and Ukraine secures a victory. The race is far from over, and England aims to maintain their lead on the path to Germany.
Wales, Croatia, and Northern Ireland’s Hopes
Wales, Croatia, and Northern Ireland have their work cut out for them. Wales gained a crucial 2-0 victory over Latvia but remains three points off second place in a fierce four-way battle for qualification. Croatia leads the group but faces a challenging fixture against second-placed Turkey in the next international break, opening the door for Wales.
For Northern Ireland, the situation is dire with just three points from six Group H games. Hopes hang by a thread, and they must beat Group H strugglers San Marino to stay in contention. The odds are against them, as both Denmark and Slovenia hold commanding leads.
Ireland’s Uphill Battle
The Republic of Ireland faces an uphill battle in Group B. With only one win from five games, their qualification hopes are fading. Losses to France and the Netherlands during the September break have left them in a precarious position. They must secure a win against Greece or pray for a favorable result between the Netherlands and France on October 13th to stay alive.
Italy’s Quest for Redemption
Italy, the reigning European champions, is engaged in another intense battle to qualify for the finals. Currently third in the group led by England, they are seeking redemption after missing out on the World Cup in 2022. With Luciano Spalletti at the helm, Italy’s fate hangs in the balance. A pivotal game against second-placed Ukraine could determine their future. A victory will propel them into second place, putting them on course for Euro 2024.
Belgium and Portugal’s Strong Performances
Belgium leads Group F, level on points with Austria, after defeating Azerbaijan 1-0. While they can’t seal qualification just yet, a win against Estonia would solidify their position. Austria and Sweden, however, pose a significant threat in the race.
Portugal, on the other hand, has been unstoppable in Group J, winning all six of their games with an astonishing goal difference. They are on the verge of qualification and will secure their spot if they beat Slovakia in the October break, or if they draw while Luxembourg loses to Iceland.
Remaining Battles in Groups E, G, and I
Groups E, G, and I promise intense battles. Switzerland faced a minor setback with a 2-2 draw in Kosovo but remains at the top. Romania and Israel failed to capitalize, drawing 1-1. The upcoming fixtures will determine the fate of these teams, with Switzerland facing Andorra, Romania taking on Kosovo, and Israel hosting Belarus.
Group G showcases Hungary and Serbia as standout contenders, both on 10 points. Hungary has the upper hand with a game in hand and superior goal difference. Montenegro remains in the mix, with crucial fixtures ahead, including a game against Serbia.
Group E presents a tight race, with leaders Albania facing the Czech Republic, and Poland hosting Moldova in a pivotal clash during the October break.
The road to Euro 2024 is paved with excitement and uncertainty. Football fans can expect more thrilling moments as nations vie for their place in the finals in Germany. Stay tuned for the action and follow your favorite teams closely. The drama is far from over!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about European Championship Qualification
Q: How is Scotland performing in the Euro 2024 qualification?
A: Scotland is impressively dominating Group A with a perfect winning record, sitting at the top with 15 points. They have a real chance of securing a spot in the Euro 2024 finals.
Q: What about England’s qualification prospects?
A: England is also performing well, leading their group with 13 points from five matches. Despite a recent draw, they maintain a comfortable lead and are on track for Euro 2024.
Q: How are Wales, Croatia, and Northern Ireland faring in their qualification journeys?
A: Wales, Croatia, and Northern Ireland face varying challenges. Wales remains in a four-way tussle for qualification, Croatia leads their group but faces tough fixtures, while Northern Ireland’s hopes hang by a thread.
Q: What’s Italy’s situation after winning Euro 2020?
A: Italy, the reigning European champions, is engaged in another intense battle to qualify for Euro 2024. They are currently third in their group and striving for redemption.
Q: Who is performing exceptionally in the qualification rounds?
A: Belgium is leading their group, while Portugal is dominating with six wins out of six matches. Both teams are on the verge of qualification for Euro 2024.
Q: What can we expect from the upcoming fixtures?
A: Groups E, G, and I promise intense battles as teams vie for qualification. Switzerland, Hungary, Serbia, and others are in contention, and the next fixtures will be crucial.
Q: Is there a standout match to watch?
A: The clash between Scotland and England, marking the 150th anniversary of their historic rivalry, promises to be a highlight. Additionally, pivotal games like Italy vs. Ukraine and Albania vs. the Czech Republic await in the upcoming fixtures.
More about European Championship Qualification
- Euro 2024 Qualification Standings – Check the latest standings and updates for Euro 2024 qualification.
- Scotland National Football Team – Official website for Scotland’s national football team, offering news and updates on their qualification journey.
- England National Football Team – Stay updated with England’s progress in the Euro 2024 qualification.
- Wales National Football Team – Follow Wales’ qualification efforts on their official website.
- Croatia National Football Team – Official site for Croatia’s national football team with information on their qualification campaign.
- Northern Ireland National Football Team – Get the latest news on Northern Ireland’s qualification challenges.
- Belgium National Football Team – Stay informed about Belgium’s qualification journey.
- Portugal National Football Team – Official site for Portugal’s national football team, tracking their impressive performance in qualification.
- UEFA Euro 2024 – UEFA’s official page for Euro 2024, providing comprehensive tournament information.
- UEFA – The official website of the Union of European Football Associations, offering news, fixtures, and more.
2 comments
we’re hangin’ by a thread, but miracles happen in football, right?
Italy needs redemption, but england’s still strong. nail-biting stuff!