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As UEFA Euro 2024 approaches, football fans and bettors worldwide are gearing up for one of the most exciting tournaments in sports. While the spotlight often shines on powerhouses like France, England, Germany, and Spain, the true thrill often lies in the unexpected victories of underdog teams. These dark horses, often overlooked by the mainstream, can offer not only great entertainment but also lucrative betting opportunities.
In this article, we will explore four potential underdogs and why they could be the best bets in UEFA Euro 2024.
Denmark: The Nordic Warriors
Denmark has a rich history in European football, with their most memorable moment being the miraculous victory at Euro 1992. Despite not being among the top favorites for Euro 2024, Denmark has shown they can punch above their weight.
Strengths
Denmark boasts a squad with a strong sense of unity and teamwork. Many of their players have been together for several years, fostering a deep understanding on the pitch.
With key players like Christian Eriksen, who has made a remarkable comeback after his cardiac arrest at Euro 2020, Denmark has the individual talent capable of changing games. Additionally, Rasmus Hojlund is all set to fire up in the Euro following his decent season with Manchester United.
Denmark’s defense, led by Simon Kjær and Kasper Schmeichel, is known for its resilience and organization. This can be crucial in tight tournament matches.
Recent Performance
Denmark’s performance in recent tournaments has been impressive. They reached the semi-finals in Euro 2020, showcasing their ability to compete against top teams. This performance underlines their potential to cause upsets in Euro 2024.
Betting Insight
Betting on Denmark can be highly rewarding given their potential to progress deep into the tournament. Their odds are likely to be more favorable compared to the traditional favorites, making them an attractive underdog bet.
Scotland: The Bravehearts
Scotland, with its passionate fan base and rich football history, is another team that could surprise many at Euro 2024. After a long absence from major tournaments, Scotland’s recent revival is a testament to their growing strength.
Strengths
Scotland plays with immense passion and intensity, often making up for any technical deficiencies with sheer determination and grit. Players like Kieran Tierney and Scott McTominay have been pivotal in Scotland’s recent success. Their influence can drive Scotland to new heights.
The Scottish midfield, known for its physicality and work rate, can disrupt the play of more technically gifted teams, creating opportunities for counter-attacks.
Recent Performance
Scotland’s qualification for Euro 2020 and their competitive performances in the World Cup qualifiers have animated the team’s spirit. Their ability to hold their own against stronger teams indicates they can be a formidable underdog.
Betting Insight
Scotland’s odds will likely be long, reflecting their status as underdogs. However, their potential to cause upsets makes them a valuable bet, especially in group-stage matches and knockout rounds.
Switzerland: The Alpine Fortress
Switzerland, often overshadowed by larger European nations, has consistently proven to be a tough competitor in international tournaments. Their tactical discipline and defensive solidity make them a formidable underdog.
Strengths
Switzerland is renowned for its disciplined and well-organized defense. Players like Manuel Akanji and Yann Sommer provide a strong backbone to the team.
The Swiss midfield, led by Granit Xhaka, can control the pace of the game and disrupt the opposition’s rhythm. In additrion, Switzerland’s consistent participation in major tournaments gives them the experience needed to handle high-pressure situations effectively.
Recent Performance
Switzerland’s recent performances have been impressive, including their quarter-final run in Euro 2020, where they knocked out favorites France. This ability to perform under pressure makes them a dangerous underdog.
Betting Insight
Switzerland offers great value for bettors looking for a team with the potential to progress beyond the group stages and into the latter rounds. Their tactical discipline and experience can lead to surprising results.
Poland: The Eastern European Contender
Poland, led by world-class striker Robert Lewandowski, has the potential to be a major disruptor in Euro 2024. Despite not being among the favorites, Poland’s blend of talent and determination makes them a team to watch.
Strengths
Robert Lewandowski, one of the best strikers in the world, can turn any game on its head. His presence alone makes Poland a threat to any defense.
Many of Poland’s key players have significant international experience, which can be crucial in high-stakes matches. Players like Piotr Zieliński provide creativity and stability in midfield, enabling Poland to both defend and attack effectively.
Recent Performance
Poland’s performance in recent qualifiers and tournaments has shown their potential. They consistently qualify for major tournaments and have the ability to advance to the knockout stages.
Betting Insight
With Lewandowski leading the line, Poland is always capable of an upset. Their odds will reflect their underdog status, offering bettors a high potential return, especially in matches against higher-ranked opponents.
Betting on the Underdogs
In the high-stakes world of UEFA Euro 2024, betting on underdogs like Denmark, Scotland, Switzerland, and Poland can be a savvy strategy. These teams, while not the top favorites, possess the qualities needed to challenge and potentially defeat stronger opponents. Here are a few final tips for bettors considering these underdogs:
Analyze Group Stages: Look at the group stage matchups carefully. Underdogs can often capitalize on favorable group dynamics to advance to the knockout rounds.
Watch for Key Players: Keep an eye on the form and fitness of key players, especially those who can make a significant impact, like Lewandowski for Poland or Eriksen for Denmark.
Consider Defensive Strengths: Teams with strong defenses, like Switzerland, can often hold out against stronger teams and snatch a win on the counter-attack or through set pieces.
Momentum and Morale: Teams that build momentum through the tournament, even as underdogs, can ride a wave of confidence to unexpected success.
Bet Responsibly: While betting on underdogs can be profitable, it’s important to bet responsibly and consider all factors, including the odds and the potential risks involved.
UEFA Euro 2024 promises to be a thrilling tournament with plenty of surprises. By placing informed bets on underdogs, bettors can not only enjoy the excitement of the matches but also potentially reap significant rewards.
