European soccer titans will clash again at the UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany. Italy will look to defend its crown against the giants of the continent including France, England, and Portugal. However, several exciting teams that harbor the potential to cause major upsets are lying under the radar. These “dark horses” possess a unique blend of talent and experience that can help them make a deep run into the tournament. Here are five such contenders.
Hungary: The Magyars Return
Hungary is a nation steeped in soccer history. Led by the midfield maestro Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai, they boast an unbeaten qualifying run and a resolute defense. Manager Marco Rossi has instilled a dynamic counter-attacking style of soccer.
In Euro 2020, Hungary was unlucky to get the absolute group of death which had France, Germany, and Portugal. This time out, they have Germany, Scotland, and Switzerland. Getting out of the group is an achievable task and they should aim for a deep run.
Denmark: Dynamite in Red and White
The Danes are no strangers to exceeding expectations. They reached the Euro 2020 semi-finals with a blend of youth and veteran leadership. Now, a new generation continued to be led by the mercurial playmaker Christian Eriksen, reborn after his well-documented health scare, is ready to take center stage.
– Christian Eriksen almost losing his life
– Two losses in first two games
– Getting to the semifinals anyway
– Losing to England after a debatable penalty
They may have lost, but this Denmark team has won the hearts of football fans around the world 🇩🇰#ENGDEN #EURO2020 pic.twitter.com/0i1UwStYaQ
— DW Sports (@dw_sports) July 7, 2021
Eriksen’s vision and creativity, coupled with the pace of wingers Andreas Skov Olsen and Jonas Wind, make Denmark a dangerous attacking force. Not to forget Manchester United’s #9 Rasmus Hojlund will lead the line for the Danes.
Denmark had a disappointing FIFA World Cup 2022 where they ended bottom of the group. They will be hoping to change their fortunes at UEFA Euro 2024 with a group consisting of Slovenia, Serbia, and England.
Serbia: Rising Stars on the Offensive
Serbia boasts a young, exciting generation brimming with potential. Dusan Vlahovic, already a star at Juventus, is a lethal finisher in the box. Filip Kostic and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic will provide Vlahovic with much-needed support.
🚨🚨| EURO’s Group C:
– England
– Denmark
– Slovenia
– Serbia pic.twitter.com/tA970K9hag— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) December 2, 2023
Serbia also ended at the bottom of their FIFA World Cup group stage but they had a decent UEFA Euro qualifiers. They came second in their group consisting of Hungary. In their UEFA Euro 2024 group, they are packed with Denmark, England, and Slovenia. A good start off the blocks could see them make the much-desired deep run in the competition.
Austria: Back on the Rise
Austria is back to challenge the big boys. Young stars like Florian Wirtz and Konrad Laimer provide dynamism in midfield, while the experienced Marko Arnautovic remains a constant goal threat. Manager Ralf Rangnick, known for his high-pressing, attacking style, has instilled a winning mentality in this group.
🚨🚨| EURO’s Group D:
– France
– Austria
– Netherlands
– Play Off Winner A (Poland, Estland, Wales or Finland). pic.twitter.com/2l89Ookv0l— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) December 2, 2023
Austria is in a tough group consisting of France, the Netherlands, and Wales or Poland. However, Austria and Ragnick cannot be underestimated. They have the potential and quality to fight deep into the knockouts.
Turkey: A Young Force to be Reckoned With at the UEFA Euro 2024
Although the Turkish league is facing a lot of problems, Turkish national soccer is brimming with young talent. Players like Cengiz Under and Yusuf Demir offer flair and creativity on the flanks, while the towering presence of Caglar Soyuncu anchors a solid defense. Manager Vincenzo Montella emphasizes a disciplined approach with quick counter-attacks, making them a dangerous proposition.
Turkey’s future is in safe hands. All born in 2005 and have started to show their dominance in Europe. Will not be shocked if Turkey becomes the dark horse this euro. pic.twitter.com/6D5mjHFeYb
— Muhammed-Fatih (@MFatihCetin02) March 19, 2024
Turkey’s experience in major tournaments makes them a team on the rise. They are in a group that consists of Euro 2016 winners Portugal, the Czech Republic, and Georgia or Greece. This is not the toughest of groups and Turkey should be looking to get out of it unscathed.
These five dark horses offer a glimpse into the unpredictable nature of international soccer. Their hunger, talent, and tactical flexibility make them genuine threats to the top contenders. UEFA Euro 2024 promises some unforgettable moments. So, keep an eye out for these underdogs – they might just steal the show.