The UEFA Euro 2024 is kicking off today with Germany facing off against Scotland. The favorites, England, Germany, Portugal, Italy, and Germany are the hosts. There are also teams that seem like underdogs and yes, they are not really known in this competitions. Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia are surprisingly generating excitement as they can deliver blows to the big teams and are also not just participants but contenders.
These teams are the dark horses capable of disrupting the established teams. By the way, these three countries used to be one (Yugoslavia), and they were good at football, as their president, Josip Broz Tito, united the country using sports, especially football. Back then, Yugoslavia used to be one of the favorites in the UEFA Euro competition.
Here is a random fun fact Dejan Stankovic, who played in Serie A for Inter Milan (he is a legendary defender for the club), is the only football player to have played in three different world cups with three different countries. Yugoslavia, Serbia Montenegro, and Serbia. Let us dive in and see why these three countries are among the favorites and should not be underestimated.
Croatia: The Silent Euro 2024 Contenders
Croatia is a team that has always been underrated, but they have displayed consistency and came out on top when the odds were against them. In the past two World Cups, they defied the odds and delivered performances that led them to reach heights that no one expected of them. They are surely a team to watch in the competition, as their squad has the potential to challenge the very best.
From veterans like Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, and Ivan Perisic, to young prospects like Josko Gvardiol and Luka Sacic, who are ready to shine on the international scene. Their head coach, Zlatko Dalic, has the experience to lead this team to glory. Croatia has the strength and determination to make it in this competition.
Serbia: Rising to the Challenge
Serbia is another team coming into Euro 2024 as an underdog. They are rising stars and will surely be among the teams to watch in Germany. They boost a squad that has the potential to finish among the top four teams of the Euros. Their biggest strength lies in their attack. Players like Aleksandar Mitrovic, Dusan Tadic, and Luka Jovic.
Their first match is against England, and they will surely perform at their best. Although they go to this game as odds are against them, they might hurt England. A strong performance against the Three Lions and a potential win against Slovenia will surely propel them to the knockout stage.
Slovenia
Slovenia is back in the Euros after a 14-year absence, and they have firepower with them. Led by manager Matjaz Kek, the squad has the talent and experience to make a run in the competition. With young players like Benjamin Sesko, who is ready to shine on the international stage, and world-class goalkeeper Jan Oblak, whose shot-stopping abilities are renowned around the globe, this team can make it to the top eight teams of the competition.
They can rise to the occasion and hurt teams like Denmark and even England in the group stages.
These three teams have the potential to surprise everyone. They have squads and a determined spirit, and they are ready to challenge the big favourites. Euro 2024 is going to be an exciting tournament.
Also Read: Thiago Motta Announced as New Juventus Manager: Contract Deal Until 2027
About Author
From Mbale, Uganda, Wopicho Tony is a rising star in the world of football punditry. This self-proclaimed football fanatic bleeds passion for the beautiful game. With an eye for talent and a deep understanding of the sport’s intricacies, Tony’s analysis is both insightful and engaging. Check out the blog about African football on Footy Africa.
