Power rankings for Euro 2024: a look at the 24 teams traveling to Germany
Despite their inconsistent recent performances, France and England remain the favorites for Euro 2024. Spain and Portugal have promise, while Germany has become better. Work is needed in Belgium, Italy, and the Netherlands. Croatia and Austria are formidable competitors. Switzerland, Denmark, and Hungary are doing well. Serbia, Poland, and Romania confront difficulties. While Slovakia, Albania, and Georgia are struggling, the Czech Republic and Ukraine remain a formidable threat.
1) France
Despite a challenging window with a home defeat against Germany and a narrow win over Chile, France remains the team to beat. The absence of Antoine Griezmann was notable, but Warren Zaïre-Emery's performance against Germany and Randal Kolo Muani's contributions against Chile were positive signs. Deschamps made significant changes in the second game, giving William Saliba a rare start.
2) England
England's friendlies saw a loss to Brazil and a draw with Belgium, with Jude Bellingham's late equalizer highlighting their resilience. Kobbie Mainoo stood out against Belgium, but Harry Kane's fitness remains crucial for their success in Germany.
3) Germany
Germany, the hosts, bounced back with impressive wins against France and the Netherlands. Toni Kroos' return bolstered the midfield, and Julian Nagelsmann's consistent lineup suggests a settled squad. Maximilian Mittelstädt's emergence at left-back is promising.
4) Spain
Spain's thrilling 3-3 draw with Brazil showcased their attacking potential, with young star Lamine Yamal shining. Despite a disappointing loss to Colombia, Spain's high-intensity play and Dani Olmo's leadership are positive signs.
5) Portugal
Portugal experienced their first defeat under Roberto Martínez against Slovenia but showed their quality in a 5-2 win over Sweden. The absence of key players in the loss highlighted their depth issues, but Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva remain vital.
6) Netherlands
The Netherlands displayed attacking prowess in a 4-0 win over Scotland but struggled defensively in a 2-1 loss to Germany. Ronald Koeman's side needs to tighten up at the back to be a serious contender.
7) Belgium
Belgium extended their unbeaten run to 12 games under Domenico Tedesco but showed vulnerabilities in draws against Ireland and England. Kevin De Bruyne's return is crucial for their chances at the Euros.
8) Italy
Italy's tour in the United States yielded two wins and solid performances from Nicolò Barella and Lorenzo Pellegrini. However, concerns remain over the lack of depth at the No 9 position.
9) Croatia
Croatia won the ACUD Cup in Egypt, with Luka Modric lifting his first international trophy. The team's adaptability in formation and standout performances from Josko Gvardiol are encouraging.
10) Austria
Austria's attacking football, highlighted by Christoph Baumgartner's record goal and Michael Gregoritsch's hat-trick, has them in fine form. Even without key players, Ralf Rangnick's side is on a winning streak.
11) Denmark
Denmark's draw with Switzerland and win over the Faroe Islands showed mixed results. Criticism of coach Kasper Hjulmand is growing, but Christian Eriksen's inclusion is seen as a positive.
12) Hungary
Hungary's unbeaten run continues, with Dominik Szoboszlai leading the way. Wins over Turkey and Kosovo have boosted their confidence ahead of the Euros.
13) Switzerland
Switzerland's win over Ireland, led by Xherdan Shaqiri, ended a five-game winless streak. Newcomers Vincent Sierro and Dereck Kutesa impressed, providing hope for the team's future.
14) Romania
Romania's performances against Northern Ireland and Colombia were average, highlighting defensive and attacking weaknesses. Ianis Hagi's goal offers a glimpse of potential.
15) Poland
Poland secured their Euro 2024 spot with playoff wins over Estonia and Wales. Robert Lewandowski will likely play in his last major tournament, leading a unified team under Michal Probierz.
16) Serbia
Serbia's mixed results included a loss to Russia and a win over Cyprus. Early red cards and political distractions have hindered their preparations.
17) Czech Republic
Two wins against Norway and Armenia have extended Czech Republic's unbeaten run under Ivan Hasek. Key players like Tomas Soucek and Patrik Schick are performing well.
18) Scotland
Scotland's form is concerning after losses to the Netherlands and Northern Ireland. Steve Clarke's side looks shaky defensively and lacks creativity in attack.
19) Slovenia
Slovenia's win over Portugal highlighted their potential, with a solid defense and energetic attack. Assistant coach Bostjan Cesar praised the team's response to adversity.
20) Turkey
Turkey's heavy defeat to Austria raised questions about their readiness. Vincenzo Montella's side needs to improve their finishing and defensive organization.
21) Ukraine
Ukraine's victory over Iceland secured their Euro 2024 spot. With talents like Mykhailo Mudryk and solid goalkeepers, they could be a dark horse.
22) Slovakia
Slovakia's draw with Norway showed improvement after a loss to Austria. Coach Francesco Calzona has work to do but can take heart from young talents like Adam Obert.
23) Albania
Albania's defeat to Chile and narrow loss to Sweden exposed their limitations. Coach Sylvinho remains optimistic but acknowledges the need for improvement.
24) Georgia
Georgia qualified for their first major tournament after beating Luxembourg and Greece. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's leadership and fan support have been crucial to their success.
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