Regarding the 2024 Euro Championship, France is considered a heavy frontrunner in bringing home the prestigious trophy. Will Les Bleus be able to rebound from their heartbreaking loss to Argentina in the 2022 World Cup Final in Qatar and claim a European Championship for the first time since 2000?
Join us in reviewing the Euro 2024 competition as we evaluate Les Bleu’s potential to bring the prestigious trophy home.
Euro 2024 Group Stage taking shape
The Euro 2024 playoffs have yet to occur; however, the group stage of the qualifying campaign has concluded. As a result, 21 of the 24 teams that will compete in Germany next summer have been identified, and certain countries have qualified more emphatically than others.
Unsurprisingly, France again appears formidable, England has the potential to win their first major trophy since 1966, and Portugal, under the leadership of new coach Roberto Martinez, is utterly soaring. Obviously, Belgium and Spain will also be optimistic about their prospects; however, all eyes are on Les Bleus due to their unfortunate end but excellent run during the Qatar World Cup.
Euro 2024 Group D:
- France
- The Netherlands
- Austria
- Playoff Winner A
After advancing through qualifying in the same group, France and the Netherlands will face again in Group D, which they have been assigned alongside Austria and the playoff A victors. France, who topped their qualifying group by defeating the Dutch in both contests, will begin their Euro 2024 campaign in Duesseldorf against Austria.
The Netherlands cannot determine whether Poland, Wales, Finland, or Estonia will be their initial opponents until the playoffs begin in March.
The highest-ranked team in Europe
Les Bleus are the highest-ranked European team globally, and for good reason. France possesses an incredibly vast roster of athletes, comprised of a potent blend of youthful prodigies who are positively bursting with energy and seasoned elders who have witnessed, experienced, and triumphed over every obstacle.
Preferred number nine, Olivier Giroud, despite his advancing age, has no obvious deficiencies. Goalkeeper Mike Maignan is highly skilled, the defence is exceptional to the point that William Saliba’s position as a starter is not guaranteed, and the already strong midfield has been further enhanced by the development of an extraordinary young star – Warren Zaire-Emery. Antoine Griezmann is performing exceptionally well, while Kylian Mbappe is undeniably the most formidable forward in the realm of international football.
Greece’s 2-2 draw against a significantly altered French team in Athens may have dashed France’s aspirations of achieving an unblemished record in the qualifying round. However, the 2022 World Cup runners-up convincingly defeated the Netherlands in both home and away matches, and they will approach their upcoming encounter with the Dutch in Germany without any trepidation.
What do the oddsmakers think?
Currently, while examining the recommended betting platforms in the UK, France is positioned atop the competition, being considered one of the leading contenders to emerge victorious in Euro 2024. They are presently at equal odds with co-favorite England and slightly ahead of Germany, followed by Spain.
Euro 2024 Winners Odds:
France [7/2]
England [7/2]
Germany [6/1]
Spain [7/1]
Following the Euro 2024 group stage draw at the beginning of December, The Three Lions momentarily held the top spot in betting odds due to the simplistic opposition in their group. However, it didn’t take long before punters adjusted those odds to see France level in price with their European neighbours.
It’s easy to see why France is receiving so much faith from the betting public, but let’s discuss why Les Bleus could be untouchable at the Euros 2024.
Star Power: Kylian Mbappe
France qualified for the tournament with a pair of outstanding goals from Kylian Mbappe, and they will turn to him to score the remaining goals as they attempt to win their first Euro title in twenty-four years. His devastating mobility, speed and finishing ability give defenders nightmares.
Last year, Mbappe accomplished a hat-trick in the World Cup final, further demonstrating his prowess in performing at the highest level. Behind the forward line, France is endowed with ingenuity, which grants him permission to dash in behind and wreak devastation. At 24, he is among the most captivating assailants on the planet.
Griezmann is back
Antoine Griezmann emerged as one of the most remarkable performers for France in their defeat to Argentina in the WC final, which was heartbreakingly decided by penalties. Griezmann has transformed from a striker to an offensive midfielder, occasionally assuming a midfield position for his national team.
In the 2022/2023 season, he began to excel in both his club and national team, seeing a remarkable resurgence while playing for the French squad. Currently, his international record stands at 127 appearances and 44 goals. At 32 years old, he has a final opportunity to represent France in a significant competition, and his performance in the Euros might greatly impact Les Bleus’ success.
Managerial Prowess
Throughout his eleven-year tenure, Didier Deschamps has achieved remarkable success with the French national side. He has earned two major trophies: the 2018 World Cup and the 2021 Nations League. In addition, he led France to the final of the 2016 European Championship and the 2022 World Cup, ultimately losing both matches following a tie in regular time.
Dechamps’ contract expires in 2026, allowing the Frenchman two more opportunities to win a significant championship. If he can achieve the optimal equilibrium in his squad selection, he has the potential to culminate in a fruitful final period of his term.
Final Thoughts
Given the current circumstances, it is reasonable to anticipate that France will qualify for the Euro Round of 16 in 2024 and likely perform admirably in Germany. It is premature to ascertain whether France will replicate its 1984 and 2000 victories; however, the rationale for their current classification as the favourite is readily apparent.
