After a short break following a frenetic group stage of Euro 2024, the action resumes with the first knock-out round in the early hours of Sunday morning (AEST).
Spain were the only team to win all three group matches, while Germany, Portugal and France also flexed their muscles. England stank the place out but remain unbeaten, with Austria emerging as a serious dark horse.
Form is temporary. But Robotinho’s power of prediction remains a constant (correctly picking 12 of the teams to progress). Our AI tool has now run the numbers and crunched the data to predict the outcome of each of the next eight matches.
Switzerland vs Italy
Prediction: Switzerland 1-2 Italy
Switzerland showed resilience in their group, especially with a draw against Germany. However, Italy, with their tactical discipline and strong defensive record, should prevail in this encounter. Italy’s narrow victories against Albania and Croatia indicate they can handle tight matches, making them the likely winners.
Germany vs Denmark
Prediction: Germany 3-1 Denmark
Germany has been dominant in the group stages, especially with their commanding win over Scotland. Under [coach Julian] Nagelsmann they have shown attacking prowess. Denmark, despite solid draws against Slovenia and England, lacks the firepower to withstand Germany’s aggressive play.
England vs Slovakia
Prediction: England 2-0 Slovakia
England’s strong defence and disciplined play, highlighted by their draws and a win against Serbia, make them favourites. Slovakia, with their unexpected win over Belgium, will put up a fight, but England’s superior squad depth and organisation should secure them a comfortable victory.
Spain vs Georgia
Prediction: Spain 2-0 Georgia
Spain has been efficient, winning all their group matches without conceding. Georgia, despite their impressive win against Portugal, is likely to struggle against Spain’s possession-based game and tactical discipline. Spain’s control in midfield and solid defence will likely see them through.
France vs Belgium
Prediction: France 2-1 Belgium
France, with their star-studded squad and consistent performance, including a draw against the Netherlands, are favourites. Belgium, despite their struggles, showed resilience in drawing with Ukraine. France’s superior individual talent, particularly in attack, should help them narrowly win.
Portugal vs Slovenia
Prediction: Portugal 3-1 Slovenia
Portugal’s strong attacking display, particularly in their win against Turkey, makes them clear favourites. Slovenia, with their series of draws, has shown they can compete, but Portugal’s attacking trio, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, should secure a comfortable win.
Romania vs Netherlands
Prediction: Romania 1-2 Netherlands
Romania’s unexpected thrashing of Ukraine shows they are capable of surprises. However, the Netherlands, with their quality and recent win against Austria, should prevail. The Dutch have shown they can adapt to different challenges and have the attacking quality to edge out Romania.
Austria vs Turkey
Prediction: Austria 2-1 Turkey
Austria’s strong performance, including a win over the Netherlands, indicates their ability to compete at a high level. Turkey, despite their mixed results, can challenge them. However, Austria’s solid squad and tactical organisation under Ralf Rangnick should see them through in a close match.