UEFA Euro 2024: Preview, predictions, key players and key matches to watch | Group B

Preview

As we are nearing the end of the 2023–24 season in club football, all eyes will slowly turn towards the upcoming and highly anticipated UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany. It kicks off next month on 14 June, with hosts Germany taking on Scotland in Group A. Italy are the defending champions after winning their second European title at Euro 2020, three years ago.

Teams

Spain – After historic back-to-back Euro cups in 2008 and 2012, interspersed between which was the 2010 FIFA World Cup too, Spain fell off their grace with older generation losing their form, and young ones flattering to deceive. However, there have been signs of a revival, with La Roja winning the UEFA Nations League last year, beating Italy in the finals.

Italy – The defending European champions missed out on the last World Cup, just months after lifting the continental title, marking their second consecutive absence from the competition. However, the Azzurri had no problems securing their place at the Germany showpiece, where they face a tough defense of their crown. It’s also worth noting that Italy won their fourth and last World Cup trophy on German soil in 2006. Could they win another trophy here?

Croatia – The Vatreni boast spectacular record at the last two World Cups – runners up in 2018 and bronze medal winners in 2022 – but are yet to produce a similar run at the Euros. In the last two editions, the Balkan outfit lost out in the round of 16, and will be hoping for better fortunes this time around.

Albania – Completing the ‘group of death’ are minnows Albania, who are set to make only their second appearance at the Euros. In the 2016 edition, the side went out in the group stages on their debut after winning just once in three matches. This time around, it looks like a tougher prospect, with three major European powerhouses competing alongside them in the group.

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Key Players To Watch At UEFA Euro 2024 Group B

Alvaro Morata (Spain)

Spain haven’t produced many prolific goalscorers since David Villa, but Alvaro Morata has been close enough. The Atletico Madrid striker was their top scorer at Euro 2020 with three goals, and will be coming off the back of a spectacular club season. In 46 games this season, Morata has scored 20 goals, and will be relied upon to produce the goods once again. (Fun fact: Morata scored against Italy in the semi finals of Euro 2020, but Spain ultimately lost 4-2 on penalties).

Davide Frattesi (Italy)

Not the biggest name in Italy’s roster, but could end up being the most crucial. Davide Frattesi is a bag of talent, possessing excellent ball control, exceptional passing range, and elegant style. He played a key role in Inter Milan’s Serie A title glory this season with six goals and three assists. His record with Italy has been encouraging so far, with Frattesi netting four goals and making one assist in 13 games, despite only being a midfielder.

Croatia (Luka Modric)

The Vatreni has quite a few young talents, but Luka Modric will obviously be their headline player at the Euros. Even at 38 years of age, the Real Madrid star continues to shine with his telling performances for the side. He remains as graceful on the ball as ever, creating chances out of nowhere with his speed and movements, while slicing open defenses with his silky passes.

Berat Djimsiti (Albania)

Albania won Group E of the Euro 2024 qualifiers primarily on the back of their stoic defense, which conceded only four times in 10 games. Atalanta star Berat Djimsiti was at the heart of their backline, captaining the side with aplomb. He has a knack for reading the game well and doesn’t hesitate to jump into tackles when required.

Key Game To Watch In Group B – Spain vs Italy

Traditional rivals Spain and Italy have met in every European championship since 2008, including the 2012 finals. Now, they are set to meet again, but unlike in the previous four editions, this time in the group stages. Both sides comprise of talented young players, some of whom are coming off the back of a strong club season too. The fixture has become a European royalty, and it will be interesting to see what’s in store this time around.

UEFA Euro 2024 Group B Matches

UEFA Euro 2024 Prediction

• Spain to win Group B
• Croatia to come in at second
• Holders Italy to finish third, but may still qualify for the knockouts on goal-difference
• Albania to come last in the group of death

Also Read: UEFA Euro 2024: Group A – Preview and Predictions