With the start of EURO 2024 around the corner, a group of teams are quietly positioning themselves as potential dark horses to upset the established powers in the tournament.
From one-tournament overachievers to the rising contenders, these nations could pleasantly surprise everyone and outperform expectations in Germany:
1. Croatia
Croatia has for long been the epitome of a “tournament team.” They were finalists in the 2018 World cup despite being the underdogs, and also performed so well in the 2022 World Cup, finishing third at the tournament, to the surprise of many.
Croatia is a team capable of causing upsets to the ‘big dogs’ of the tournament. However, they will be looking to improve on their recent European Championship performances, where they haven’t qualified past the Round of 16.
Drawn in a challenging group with Italy, Spain, and Albania, Croatia’s ability to perform well in knockout situations could give them an advantage. They also have the ability to handle high-pressure situations, and this makes them a potential dark horse in the tournament.
2. Austria
Coached by Ralf Rangnick, Austria’s potential to cause an upset at EURO 2024 lies in their tactician. The newly-appointed coach’s aggressive approach, coupled with a generation of players poised to make their mark, is the reason why Austria is considered one of the dark horses at the Euros.
After a respectable round of 16 exit at the previous Euros, Austria is aiming to go further, with Rangnick instilling a more confident and aggressive approach based on high-intensity football and counter-pressing.
Despite being in a challenging Group D, alongside France, the Netherlands and Poland, Austria’s strong transition play and collective athleticism could make them a tough opponent for their more fancied rivals and cause some surprises.
3. Denmark
Denmark’s journey at the previous Euros was marked by the traumatic events of their opening game, with Eriksen’s unfortunate incident. However, the incident didn’t deter them, as they ultimately reached the semifinals, only losing to England in extra time.
Their early exit from the 2022 World Cup was a disappointment, but the calmer climate in Germany should suit them better. Although the draw has not been kind, with them being likely to face the hosts in the round of 16, head coach Kasper Hjulmand has been working to integrate younger players, and this fresh energy could expose some of the more established teams.
4. Turkey
Turkey was viewed as a dark horse ahead of the previous EURO 2020, but they ultimately underperformed, failing to win a single game. However, given their successful qualification campaign, where they topped a group that included Croatia and Wales, they deserve recognition.
The inclusion of several players from the Turkish Super Lig adds an element of unpredictability to their squad, and they will be well-supported by their numerous fans, Turkish nationals who live in Germany.
While Portugal are the clear favorites in their group, which also includes Georgia and Czech Republic, Turkey should be able to secure at least a second-place finish. They have a history of performing well in major tournaments, having reached the semifinals of EURO 2008, and will be hoping to do the same in the upcoming campaign.
5. Ukraine
Drawn in Group E alongside Belgium, Slovakia, and Romania, Ukraine will be confident in their ability to progress from the group stage.
With talent across their squad, including the likes of Aleksandr Zinchenko, Illia Zabarnyi, Mykola Matviyenko, and Vitaliy Mykolenko, Ukraine has the potential to emulate or even surpass their quarter-final appearance at the previous Euros.
Their forward line, featuring Viktor Tsyhankov and Artem Dovbyk, who have impressed for their club Girona, could be the key to Ukraine’s success. Their improved performances in the EURO qualifiers suggest they have the quality to progress further in the tournament.
