If you’re a football fan, Euro 2024 is already on your radar. The tournament kicks off next summer, but the buzz starts today with qualifiers wrapping up and squads taking shape. Below we break down the biggest storylines, key dates and how to snag tickets without breaking the bank.
The last round of qualifying matches ended last month, confirming 24 teams for Germany’s host‑nation tournament. Traditional powerhouses like Spain, Italy and France topped their groups, while dark horses such as Poland and Croatia earned surprise spots after dramatic playoff wins. Keep an eye on England – they clinched a perfect record and look ready to go deep.
Every edition of the Euros has a few stars who steal the show, and 2024 is no different. Germany’s young striker Jamal Musiala burst onto the scene with ten goals in qualifying, while Portugal still leans on Cristiano Ronaldo for leadership despite his age. England will likely feature Bukayo Saka as their creative spark, and Belgium hopes that Kevin De Bruyne can finally add a major trophy to his cabinet.
Beyond the big names, keep your eye on emerging talents from smaller nations. Croatia’s Luka Modrić‑style midfielder Mateo Kovačić is set for a breakout, and Slovakia’s forward Marek Hamšík Jr. could surprise many with his finishing.
The opening match pits host Germany against Scotland on June 14, a game that promises fireworks at the Allianz Arena. The group stage follows a tight calendar: each team plays three matches in ten days, so recovery will be crucial. Key knockout dates include the quarter‑finals on July 6 and the final on July 14 at Berlin’s Olympiastadion.
For fans planning to watch live, most games will be broadcast on major networks across Europe, with streaming options available in North America via ESPN+ and Peacock. Time zones vary, so set your reminders early – a 9 pm CET kickoff means an afternoon start for US viewers.
Ticket demand will skyrocket once the official sales open in March. The best strategy is to register on UEFA’s ticket portal as soon as registration opens, then apply for both match‑day tickets and hospitality packages if your budget allows.
If you miss the first round, don’t panic. Resale platforms like Viagogo and StubHub often list seats at reasonable prices a few weeks before the game. Just make sure the seller is verified to avoid scams.
Germany’s transport network makes hopping between host cities easy. Book your train tickets early – Deutsche Bahn offers discounts for groups and early birds. For those flying in, major airports like Frankfurt and Munich have direct connections to most European capitals.
Accommodation fills up fast during match weeks. Consider staying a bit outside the city center and using local trains or buses; you’ll save money and still be close enough to soak up the stadium atmosphere.
Euro 2024 promises drama, goals and plenty of storylines that will keep fans glued to their screens. Whether you’re tracking squad announcements, planning a trip to Berlin, or just looking for quick ticket hacks, this guide gives you the basics to stay ahead of the game. Keep checking our site for real‑time updates as the tournament approaches – we’ll have the latest news right here.
