The Euro 2020 tournament is set for the round of 16. What started on June 11 with 24 national teams has been whittled down to 16.
On Saturday, June 26, the last 16 will begin with Wales playing Denmark and Italy versus Austria. Today, on the blog, we will look at the two matches being played on Sunday, June 27, and Monday, June 28. If you want more picks and an in-depth look at the games, be sure to watch our YouTube video.
Sunday, June 27
Netherlands vs. Czech Republic
The Netherlands went through Group C with little trouble. They combined topped the group defeated Ukraine 3-2, Austria 2-0, and North Macedonia 3-0. Frank de Boer’s side are flying high and the Czech Republic will be a mere speed bump.
The Czechs finished third in Group D defeating Scotland 2-0, drawing with Croatia 1-1, and losing to England 1-0. They are weak in the final third and all three goals at the tournament have been scored by one player, Patrick Schick. The Dutch should claim a win with Memphis Depay or Georginio Wijnaldum getting on the scoresheet.
While Soccer Buddy predicts a 2-1 win for the Netherlands, I believe this game could be 2-0 to the Dutch. Their defense has been very good conceding just two goals in three games thus far.
Result: Netherlands win
Belgium vs. Portugal
It is unfortunate that this game will be played in the round of 16 because it could really be the final. Belgium topped Group A with a perfect nine points from nine. Portugal, on the other hand, struggled to get through the group stage.
The Portuguese defeated Hungary 3-0 but lost 4-2 to Germany. A 2-2 draw was just enough to get through to the round of 16. Portugal disappointed by Group D was a group of death.
Belgium are No. 1 in the world and have a variety of ways to hurt opponents. Portugal are reliant on Cristiano Ronaldo, who has scored five of the team’s eight goals in the group stage. This game could finish in a 2-1 win for Belgium just as the Soccer Buddy predicts. Ronaldo may get a goal for the Portuguese.
Result: Belgium win
Monday, June 28
Croatia vs Spain
Croatia progressed to the round of 16 following a 1-0 loss to England, 1-1 draw with Czech Republic and a 3-1 win over Scotland. Spain, on the other hand, limped through the group stage with draws against Sweden and Poland before thrashing Slovakia 5-0.
Which Spain team will show up? The team that struggled to create goals in the first two group games or the one that thrashed Slovakia? It is difficult to say.
Spain should come out on top versus Croatia, but it all depends on how strong the Croatians play in attack. Croatia scored just four goals in the group stage. This game should be close with Spain winning in the end.
Result: Spain to win
France vs. Switzerland
France are favourites to win the Euro 2020 tournament. One of the storylines to keep your eye on is the team’s injury issues. Several players have come up with injuries and more French players are dropping.
The good news is that Didier Deschamps’ team is loaded with fantastic players. There are players to take those injured stars’ places. France stuttered at times in the group stage, but should get past Switzerland with ease. This could be a 2-0 or 3-0 win for the French,
The Swiss just don’t have much in the way of attacking talent. Forget their 3-1 win over Turkey. They struggled to create and score in the other two group games.
Result France to win
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