Intriguing matches lined up as European giants enter knockout stage
PANAJI
The UEFA Euro 2024 group stage has garnered attention from fans worldwide with its blockbuster matches and thrilling goals, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats and delivering some of the finest drama in the sport.
Anticipation is mounting for the Round of 16, where eight adrenaline-charged games are set to unfold. From Saturday, June 29, 9.30 pm onwards, fans can expect an unparalleled level of high-voltage drama and breathtaking goals.
In the first match-up of the knockout stage, Switzerland -- known for causing upsets -- will face the defending champions Italy. The Azzurri clinched their Round of 16 spot scoring a dramatic equaliser in the stoppage-time against Croatia. Next up, the host nation Germany, having scored the most goals in the group stage, will go head-to-head against Euro 2020 semifinalists Denmark. Later, England -- one of the favourites of the tournament -- will face Slovakia, who upset Belgium in their campaign opener.
Spain, the only team to have won all their matches in Euro 2024 will face debutants Georgia, who defeated Portugal in the final game of the group stage to secure their Round of 16 qualification. In a high-stakes encounter, Kylian Mbappe-led France will square off against Belgium, a battle of the heavyweights making it a must-watch for football fans. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal will face a stern test against a stubborn Slovenia.
Romania topped a difficult group comprising the likes of Belgium and Slovakia and will look to continue their dream run against the Netherlands. Finally, Austria under the tutelage of Ralf Rangnick also topped their group and will look to face Turkey in the Round of 16.
ROUND OF 16 FIXTURES
June 29: Switzerland vs Italy, 9.30 pm
June 30: Germany vs Denmark, 12.30 am; England vs Slovakia, 9.30 pm
July 1: Spain vs Georgia, 12.30 am; France vs Belgium, 9.30 pm
June 2: Portugal vs Slovenia, 12.30 am; Romania vs Netherlands, 9.30 pm
June 3: Austria vs Turkiye, 12.30 am
Matches live on Sony Sports Network & SonyLiv
