And on June 19, the first participants of the playoffs may already be determined. Specifically, two teams: Germany and Switzerland. If, of course, they can win
Let’s start with the matches of the last group under the letter F. With the same score of 2:1, Turkey defeated Georgia, and Portugal overcame Czech Republic.
In the first match, there was a celebration of attacking football, such matches are like gold dust nowadays. Not many people are lucky enough to see them in person. It’s no wonder that it turned out to be the most vibrant battle of the tournament. Georgian star from Napoli, Kvaratskhelia, missed numerous chances, otherwise, we might have had a sensation to celebrate. And the Turks scored goals that are rarely seen even in the Champions League and World Cups. The Portuguese faced a superb Czech defense with no free zones or spaces, and even conceded first. But they showed class and secured a determined victory. A determined victory is when you have to come from behind first. Just like that – and with the same result of 2:1 – a little earlier, Italy triumphed over Albania, and the Netherlands over Poland.
After the first round in group F, Turkey and Portugal have three points each, while Georgia and Czech Republic have no points, yet all four teams are excellent. And Portuguese player Pepe set a record for the oldest player in Euro – he turned 41 in February.
But the first joys will not belong to them. By the calendar’s will, on Wednesday, June 19, we will be able to identify the qualifiers for the playoffs. Germany and Switzerland need to win for this. The Germans will be the first ones on the field. A description of Julian Nagelsmann’s team by bronze medalist of Euro 2008 Andrey Arshavin on the TV channel “Match Premier”:
The opening match of the second round in group A – Germany – Hungary – at 7:00 PM. At ten at night, the second meeting of this group: Switzerland – Scotland. Both Germany and Switzerland have three points, and victories will bring them both an early ticket to the playoffs. But only victories. And only for them. Otherwise, congratulations will be postponed until the last, third round.
The day will start with the match between Croatia and Albania. This is group B, a meeting of the losers in the first round. And those who defeated them – Spain and Italy – will take the field on June 20. The main thing here is to avoid injuries and losses of the most irreplaceable players. To avoid what happened to Mbappe: the leader of the French team will return to action no earlier than the knockout matches, where the tricolors have not yet qualified. And even then, at best in a special mask protecting his broken nose.