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Sports / Football

Euro 2024 groups E and F set to determine last 16 lineups

Published: 26 Jun 2024 - 01:37 pm | Last Updated: 26 Jun 2024 - 01:54 pm
Photos by AFP.

Photos by AFP.

Doha, Qatar: Today's matches will conclude Group E and Group F, with games kicking off today at 7pm & 10pm Qatar time, respectively.

Tight Race in Group E, Romania vs Slovakia:

Both teams are on 3 points, with a draw benefiting both sides. 

Romania would finish in the top two, while Slovakia would likely progress as one of the best third-place teams. 

However, coaches have dismissed speculation about a mutually beneficial draw. 

All four teams in the group have 3 points, separated only by goal difference. 

A win could secure the top spot, offering advantages like an extra rest day and a potentially easier round of 16 opponent.

Belgium vs Ukraine:

This first-ever meeting between the nations is crucial, as both teams have 3 points. 

A win guarantees a place in the round of 16. 

Third-ranked Belgium rebounded from an opening loss to beat Romania 2-0, while Ukraine recovered from their opener defeat with a 2-1 win against Slovakia. 

Belgium's all-time top scorer, Romelu Lukaku, is yet to score in this tournament after having three goals disallowed by VAR.

Group F Deciders, Portugal vs Georgia:

Already qualified Portugal aims for a perfect group stage against tournament debutants Georgia. 

Coach Roberto Martínez confirmed Cristiano Ronaldo will start, despite hints at rotation. 

At 39, Ronaldo could break the record for the oldest Euro goal-scorer. 

Georgia needs a win to guarantee advancement but might qualify with a draw, depending on other results.

Czech Republic vs Turkey:

This is a must-win game for the Czech Republic, who have only 1 point. 

Turkey, with 3 points, needs only a draw to secure progression. 

The Czechs also require a favorable result from the Portugal-Georgia match to advance. 

Turkey has won the last three meetings between these teams, including encounters at Euro 2008 and 2016.

Security Concerns:

Recent matches have seen multiple pitch invader incidents, particularly targeting Cristiano Ronaldo. 

Despite UEFA increasing security measures, concerns persist about fan behavior and player safety.

Today's matches will determine the final standings in Groups E and F, setting the stage for the round of 16. 

With multiple scenarios possible, it promises to be an exciting day of football at Euro 2024.