As pleasure for Euro 2024 builds, the highlight is usually on the highest groups. Nevertheless, right here’s a have a look at 5 under-the-radar groups to observe:
Austria’s potential upset
Austria has certified for the previous two Euros, reaching the knockout stage in 2020 earlier than dropping to Italy, the eventual champions. Beneath Ralf Rangnick, Austria misplaced just one qualifier in an in depth 3-2 match towards Belgium.
Regardless of being in a troublesome group, Austria may shock the Netherlands and safe a second-place end behind France. Key gamers embrace Michael Gregoritsch, who scored three objectives in six qualifiers, and Christoph Baumgartner, a younger midfielder who additionally netted 3 times. The midfield, anchored defensively by Marcel Sabitzer and Konrad Laimer, affords depth and freedom for attackers to take dangers.
Accidents to David Alaba, Xaver Schlager, and goalkeeper Alexander Schlager are setbacks. But, Austria’s capacity to attain freely throughout qualifiers and their Champions League-level expertise make them a staff to observe in the event that they keep away from additional accidents.
