The first semifinal match of Euro 2024 will take place: A clash of European titans is scheduled at the Allianz Arena in Munich

Published on 9. July 2024 9. July 2024

Text: Rok Vodišek. Photo: EXPA / SM

Today, the first semifinal match of Euro 2024 will take place in Munich. We’re in for a real treat as the national teams of Spain and France face each other. This match will also have a Slovenian touch, as the crucial role of the main referee in this encounter has been entrusted to our Slavko Vinčić and his team.

In the Bavarian capital, two teams will clash that have left different impressions at this championship. One has impressed, while the other may have slightly disappointed. Before the tournament, many believed the main favorites for the title were the French, but they haven’t quite lived up to expectations so far. Despite a tough group, they finished second behind Austria, whom they defeated in the opening match, but then drew against Netherlands and Poland. In the round of 16, they faced Belgium and, with a bit of luck, won with an own goal by Jan Vertonghen.

In the quarterfinals, they faced our rivals Portugal, advancing after a penalty shootout and demonstrating their quality in this aspect of the game. Despite not the most convincing performances, France possesses a team capable of going all the way and lifting the trophy. However, today in the Bavarian capital, they face a very tough opponent. On the other hand, Spain has positively surprised, impressing with their game and efficiency. They were convincing in the group stage, easily advancing to the round of 16 where they defeated Georgia, and then in the quarterfinals, they defeated a strong Germany team, a difficult opponent on home turf.

🇪🇸🆚🇫🇷 Two titans meet in Munich 😤@bookingcom | #EUROfixtures pic.twitter.com/395UrjAax4
— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) July 9, 2024

Facing each other will be two teams with very solid defenses. France has conceded only one goal in five matches, and that too from a penalty. Spain, on the other hand, has only conceded two goals so far in the tournament. Spain has been much more effective, scoring 11 goals. France, in contrast, has only scored three times, two of which were own goals, and they have plenty of room for improvement in attack. Expect a tactical battle, at least in the first half or until the first goal, as a lot is at stake – a place in the European Championship final. Neither team is likely to push too hard initially, as that would provide the opponent more space on their half.

Both teams are aware of the quality in the opposition that could be effectively utilized in such moments. If the first goal falls quickly, the dynamics could change drastically. It’s entirely possible that today we will enjoy more than just 90 minutes of football, as due to the competitiveness of both teams, the match could go into extra time and perhaps even penalties. In their match against Portugal, the French proved they are well-prepared for this aspect of the game, as even the excellent Diogo Costa, who saved three consecutive penalties against us, couldn’t stop any of their shots.

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Also, two excellent goalkeepers will be in action, Mike Maignan for France and Unai Simon for Spain. Both have shown outstanding performances in this championship and are leading candidates for the title of the tournament’s best goalkeeper. I hope they will have a lot to do and can showcase all their qualities. It will also be interesting to see which starting eleven the coaches decide on. Both have a sea of excellent players at their disposal, and it will be crucial which coach tactically prepares their team better for the opponent. Every detail counts in such matches, and even the smallest mistake or lapse could be decisive.

This text was automatically translated using AI.

Author: editorial Football Planet