Euro 2024 Semi-Finals Predictions: The finishing line is in sight, but which of the four teams left in Euro 2024 will make it to the final in Berlin on 14 July?
Chris Sutton’s Quarter-Final Success
Football expert Chris Sutton did not put a foot wrong with his predictions for the quarter-finals, getting all four results correct. The majority of fans were spot-on each time, too. Of more than 160,000 votes, 57% thought England would beat the Swiss, the lowest proportion of the teams correctly backed. It means that both Sutton and the fans have a success rate of 54% overall after getting 26 predictions from the 48 games played in Germany so far.
Predicting the Semi-Finals
France vs Spain
Before a ball was kicked, Sutton picked France to win Euro 2024. Broadcasting from Allianz Arena for Radio 5 Live, he can’t ignore Didier Deschamps’ team. Sutton and Deschamps share a history from their Chelsea days 1999, and Sutton recalls their cautious card games together.
France’s current squad, however, needs more flair. Defensively, William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano have been outstanding, with Mike Maignan superb in goal. Yet, their attack has been lackluster, with Kylian Mbappe failing to shine and Ousmane Dembele making a difference only briefly against Portugal.
In contrast, Spain has been the tournament’s standout team. Their win over Germany showcased their prowess. Manager Luis de la Fuente will have to make changes due to suspensions and injuries, but players like Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, Rodri, and Fabian Ruiz continue to impress. Despite this, Sutton feels France will edge through, predicting a 2-1 win for Les Bleus.
England vs Netherlands
Unlike Ronald Koeman of the Netherlands, England manager Gareth Southgate has faced criticism for his substitutions. Wout Weghorst’s physicality changed the game against Turkey, and while he might not start against England, he remains a crucial option.
England must also watch out for Cody Gakpo, who has been pivotal for the Netherlands in this tournament despite mixed performances for Liverpool. Koeman might switch to a three-at-the-back formation, a strategy he employs against stronger teams.
England’s midfield looks more potent than the Dutch duo of Jerdy Schouten and Tijjani Reijnders. However, England’s attack has been underwhelming, relying on individual brilliance for crucial goals.
Sutton predicts a close match, with England relying on magic moments to edge through to their second successive Euros final.
Final Thoughts
With Sutton’s detailed insights and predictions, the semi-finals of Euro 2024 promise to be thrilling encounters. Fans can only wait and see if his foresight remains spot on. Will England make it to the final? Only time will tell.
