Euro 2020 – Round Of 16

After some firing group stage games with brilliant performances, heartbreak, and upsets – all that makes the game beautiful. We are now set with our top 16 teams to challenge in a knockout feature while looking towards an even further exciting set of encounters of some of the greatest football-playing nations. So, let’s take a look into the fixture and how the teams match up.

Game 1: Wales vs Denmark

After one of the most heartbreaking football events, the Danish Football team made an inspiring comeback playing top-quality football in the last group-stage game against Russia to finish group C as the second. Wales too finished second in Group A, and with a better record of winning one and drawing one while losing only to Italy, however, judging on the last game performance by Denmark I would place my money on Denmark as they look more than capable to advance to the quarters. Furthermore, I believe the game will be closely matched and both teams are equal on most terms so the match might go to extra time.
prediction: Denmark wins the game on extra time.

Game 2: Italy vs Austria

Italy is in the greatest form of their football history, being unbeaten in 30 past games while not conceding a single goal for the last 11. On the other hand, Austria lead by David Alaba, finished second in Group C, winning two and losing only to the Netherlands. Austria has had mixed performance in the recent past, knowing Italy’s defense and I don’t believe Austria poses a much-attacking threat. Thus, in-form strikers, Immobile and Insigne should see it through for Italy within the initial 90 minutes.
prediction: Italy wins comfortably within 90 minutes.

Game 3: Netherlands vs Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has been one of the most impressive teams of this year’s Euro, so far. They already outperformed their potential while winning against Scotland and drawing against Croatia by playing beautiful football and finishing Group D in the third spot. On the other hand, Netherlands continues to play top-quality football as they finish Group C on top after winning all of the three games. For this game as well, Netherlands should win it within the due time even though it will not be a walk in the park for them.
prediction: Netherlands win within 90 minutes.

Game 4: Belgium vs Portugal

As the first big game of the round of 16, Belgium, the topper of Group B takes on Portugal who finished third of the most exciting and difficult, Group F. Both teams are evenly matched in many sectors, but Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, who already has 5 goals to his name and Belgium’s Kevin de Bruyne will be two players to look out for. I personally believe the teams will hold back each other through the 90 minutes and maybe the game will advance till penalties, but if I have to pick a winner, I will put my money on Belgium since I believe they are the overall better team in this encounter.
prediction: Belgium wins the game on extra time.

Game 5: Croatia vs Spain

Both teams had equally disappointing group stage games, only reminiscing themselves in their last games to qualify for the round of 16 being second of their respective groups. Spain has had an off time finding the game, up until their most recent against Slovakia where they scored 5. However, Spain only played in their own backyard till now, and on their first game away in a different condition and lacking supporters will be a whole new challenge. Nevertheless, I still bet on Spain to win the game and within due time as their squad has more potential than that of current Croatia.
prediction: Spain wins within the due time.

Game 6: France vs Switzerland

The current World champions France, topped the most dangerous group of the tournament, Group F. After a hiccup against Hungary and a heated game against Portugal, they will now face a relatively easier opponent in knockouts. Switzerland had a very mixed group stage where they finished third in Group A. The game should be very easy for France especially with Paul Pogba in brilliant form.
prediction: France wins comfortably within 90 minutes.

Game 7: England vs Germany

Another very big clash among teams that went through similar disappointments. The English having a much worse summer made doubt of advancing after a humiliating draw against Scotland. Germany, however, stepped up against Portugal big time, and coming from the toughest group of the tournament, they will now be prepared to take on any challenge. Even though the game will be played on England’s own ground, in front of their own crowd. A result is very unlikely within the initial 90 minutes. However, I feel Germany has better tactical plays to get them through to the next round eventually.
prediction: Germany wins closely in extra time.

Game 8: Sweden vs Ukraine

The last game of the round of 16 is no blunder. Both teams are very passionate on their own terms where Sweden already raised eyebrows as they finished above Spain in Group E. Ukraine however, has had a mixed summer, and altogether I believe Sweden shall win the game but not the most comfortable.
prediction: Sweden wins within 90 minutes.

My picks for Quarter-Finals:

Denmark Italy Netherlands Belgium Spain France Germany Sweden