Previewing some key Euro 2024 qualification games in October break

Euro 2024 is around the corner, with teams from across the continent vying for a spot in the tournament which will be hosted by Germany.

As we enter the October international break, here’s a preview of some of the best qualifying matches to look out for:

SPAIN VS SCOTLAND

Spain are set to face Scotland in a Euro 2024 qualifier at Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville, where they’ll be aiming for revenge following a surprising 2-0 defeat at the hands of the Tartan Army earlier this year in Glasgow. The goals came from Scott McTominay, making it their first defeat under new head coach Luis de la Fuente in just his second game in charge.

Since that defeat, Spain have responded well, putting together a four-game winning streak across different competitions, including securing their first-ever UEFA Nations League trophy. Currently, Spain is six points behind Scotland, but with a game in hand. A win on Thursday would bring them within three points of Scotland with three more qualification fixtures to go.

Scotland, on the other hand, are still enjoying the glory of their historic victory over Spain seven months ago, ending a 39-year winless streak against La Roja. They’ve maintained a perfect start in Group A with wins against Norway, Georgia, and Cyprus. While spirits are high within the Scotland camp, they’ll be looking to recover from a 3-1 defeat to England in a friendly fixture last month as they aim for their first-ever victory in Seville on Thursday. Fans can still buy UEFA Euro 2024 tickets at reputable reseller sites such as seatsnet, be quick though as Spain vs Scotland is expected to be sold out.

CROATIA VS TURKEY

Croatia are set to host Turkey in a crucial Euro 2024 qualifier. These two nations find themselves tied on 10 points as they enter this international period, with Croatia holding a game in hand and a psychological advantage due to their earlier win in Turkey.

Croatia currently lead Group D, and although they’ve played one match less because they participated in this summer’s UEFA Nations League finals, they have yet to experience defeat in their pursuit of a sixth consecutive Euros appearance.

The Croatian team, which reached the World Cup final in 2018 and was more recently a Nations League finalist, aim to achieve success in Germany next year, just before some of their seasoned aging players retire.

Turkey have struggled to make an impact on the World stage for the past two decades and have not had a significant presence in the European Championship since their impressive semifinal run in 2008. They are now determined to change this narrative. Nonetheless, facing Croatia on their home turf in Osijek is a stern challenge, as the hosts have never lost a European qualifier at home, boasting 13 wins in their last 15 such matches.

AUSTRIA VS BELGIUM

Austria and Belgium are set to clash at Ernst Happel Stadion in a pivotal Group F match. The top spot in the standings is up for grabs, but both teams are anticipated to take a cautious approach in Friday’s contest.

Marko Arnautovic, who recently scored a brace in a 3-1 victory against Sweden will be a key player for Ralf Rangnick’s team against Belgium. Austria will miss the services of Real Madrid defender David Alaba, who is sidelined due to injury.

As for the Red Devils, they continue to miss Kevin De Bruyne, who remains sidelined with a long-term injury. The spotlight will be on Roma’s Romelu Lukaku, who has regained his goal-scoring form. Nevertheless, it appears that a closely contested match is in store in Vienna, as these two teams appear evenly matched for this contest.

PORTUGAL VS SLOVAKIA

Portugal are determined to maintain their perfect record in Group J when they host Slovakia at Estadio do Dragao on Friday. A Selecao are having a highly successful qualifying campaign, and their impressive 9-0 victory over Luxembourg is undoubtedly boosting optimism among fans as they prepare to face Slovakia. With Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva back from injury, Roberto Martinez will have a full squad at his disposal.

The Slovakian team, on the other hand, are looking to build on their 3-0 win against Liechtenstein. However, considering Portugal’s formidable strength at home, it’s unlikely that the visitors can secure a positive result.

NETHERLANDS VS FRANCE

France and the Netherlands previously met in this qualifying campaign, with France securing a dominant 4-0 victory. Ronald Koeman will be eager for his team to put on a better performance in front of their home crowd at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam.

The Dutch team won their last two group games, setting themselves up well for this important clash. However, their upcoming match against Greece could be even more crucial if things don’t go their way here.

Despite one loss in this qualifying phase, the Netherlands remain confident about securing the second spot for Euro 2024. There’s a sense of seeking revenge in this match, and Koeman must ensure his players remain focused.

France, while theoretically assured of a Euro 2024 berth, have won all five of their games in Group B, scoring 11 goals and conceding none. Les Bleus are likely to secure their finals spot comfortably.

Coach Didier Deschamps needs to ensure his players stay committed and not become complacent. With great squad depth, even with some changes to the starting lineup, France is expected to leave with a victory.

Kylian Mbappé might be among the players rested, but he’s likely to start as captain, making him a strong candidate to score the opening goal in Amsterdam.

ENGLAND VS ITALY

England currently lead Group C with 13 points from five games, positioning themselves well for European Championship qualification as they prepare to face Italy on October 18.

Italy were disappointed to miss out on all three points against North Macedonia, but they channeled their frustration into motivation against Ukraine and came out 2:1 winners.

The match will take place at London’s Wembley Stadium, the same venue where Italy defeated England in the Euro 2021 final with a 3-2 victory in a penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw in extra time.

Under Gareth Southgate’s management since 2016, the England National Team have witnessed a resurgence. They previously defeated Italy 2-1 in a closely contested match in Naples on March 23.

Three Lions currently lead the group with four wins and one draw, totaling 13 points. Italy hold the second spot with a record of two wins, one draw, and one loss. Ukraine and North Macedonia closely trail, with similar win-draw-loss records, differing primarily in goal difference.

Harry Kane leads England with five goals, while Davide Frattesi and Mateo Rettegui each have two goals for Italy.

In head-to-head competition, Italy have the upper hand with 13 wins, compared to England’s nine, along with nine draws. Recent history favors Italy, as England have managed to secure three wins in their last 18 encounters.

Italy aim to earn a second consecutive victory in Euro qualifiers when they visit Wembley, hoping to close the gap in the group standings with a win.