Absence only makes the heart grow fonder. Football might be back in full swing across Europe, but a certain tournament failed to take place this past summer. The good news: Euro 2020 has been rescheduled for 2021.
The world also finally knows every team that has qualified for the prestigious 24-team competition. Hungary, Slovakia, Scotland, and North Macedonia all qualified for Euro 2020 just last month.
While those aforementioned teams might not be in the running for actually holding the Euro 2020 trophy at the end of the day aloft, this still begs the question: Who will win the tournament? Even though it’s impossible to say for certain, this article will explore the favourites and dark horses for Euro 2020.
Belgium
As the current #1 ranked national team in the world right now, it makes sense that Belgium is viewed as one of the tournament favourites with online sports betting platforms.
Belgium is arguably the best all-round team going to Euro 2020. With Romelu Lukaku leading the line and arguably the world’s best playmaker, Kevin De Bruyne, providing the service, the team is going to bag plenty of goals. If captain Eden Hazard can get fit and firing on all cylinders, the chances of Belgium going all the way is even more realistic.
England
England hasn’t won a major football trophy since 1966. Surely they’re due another one soon? Despite their shaky form in past tournaments, England is seen as another top contender for Euro 2020.
This is thanks in part to their blend of youth and experience. Harry Kane is one of the most in-form strikers on the planet, while exciting youngsters like Jadon Sancho, Mason Greenwood, Bukayo Saka, and Mason Mount show the future is bright.
France
The 2018 World Cup winners have to be in the discussion for coming out on top at Euro 2020. Kylian Mbappé, perhaps the best young striker in the world, will be looking to shine on the biggest stage again. He’s supported by Raphael Varane, Paul Pogba, Antoine Griezmann, and other world-class talents, who will all be looking to show they’re still the kings of international football.
Portugal
Portugal is not viewed as one of the favourites by experts, but any team with Cristiano Ronaldo has to be provided with the right level of respect. The legendary striker might be in his late 30’s by the time the tournament starts, but he is showing no signs of slowing down. Add in talents like Bruno Fernandes and João Félix, and you cannot underestimate the current Euro champions from defending their crown.
Darkhorse: Croatia
You have to be optimistic about your home nation, right? Even though Croatia reached the 2018 World Cup final and topped Group E during Euro 2020 qualifying, you can get long odds on the team right now. Along with being behind the aforementioned teams for bookmakers, other teams like the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Germany are favoured above Croatia.
Despite shaky form in 2020, it wouldn’t be wise to underestimate Croatia. While age might be catching up to captain and talisman Luka Modric, the team has a strong attack that will cause any team issues.