The Beautiful Game is Back
2024 has been laden with wars and politics. This has caused a lot of grief and debate across the world owing to the pressing needs they demand of the human brain. Midway into 2024 and some respite is going to come from the constant disappointments or rage expressed at war and world politics. It is football season once again and it’s a double whammy this year with an international tournament coming up as well. No, it’s not the FIFA world cup but the Euro Championship.
European football and the world are in for an exciting 60–70 days as the football fanatics can come together to celebrate club glory followed by international glory. We have the UEFA Champions League Final in a month’s time followed by Euro 2024, where 24 teams will compete for the coveted trophy. With barely one moth left for Champions League final and Euros to start, I will cover my predictions for the victors in these two precious tournaments of Europe.
UEFA Champions League
This is already heading into the 2nd leg of the semifinals, but it looks like normalcy will return this year with Real Madrid expected to go all the way to the silverware. Borussia Dortmund could sprint a surprise, but Real Madrid with their firepower and grit for big matches seems to be set for a another UCL trophy.
Euro 2024
This is a tough one as there are many favorites who could clinch the European crown. The hosts, Germany always pose a threat on the international stage, and it is never too late to write them off. England has their superstars plying trade in better leagues versus English Premier League with the likes of Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane on goal scoring sprees across the season. Then, there is France which is still hurting from the loss in a World Cup final but possess a once in a generation squad which can go all the way in international competitions in the years to come.
The pundits would be placing their bet on England, but one team which will go all the way in this year’s Euro will be France. Kylian Mbappe is at the peak of his powers and the gameplay by France is unmatched for. France may struggle initially to get the momentum, but they will be the team to beat once they are in the groove. It could very well be an England France final with France taking the final honors.
Dark Horses like Spain and Netherlands can spring a surprise, but this season is going to be the flavor of French domination at the international stage while club glory will belong to the Spaniards. The beautiful game is back, and the summer of 2024 is going to be football laden with new heroes being born or legends being secured in the form of Jude, Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo (yes, he is still playing).
Till then Hala Madrid and Vive La France!
