The Euro 2024 semis are set, and the path to glory is becoming clearer. Four teams have fallen by the wayside, including heavyweights Germany and Portugal. This leaves the remaining four nations – each with a fervent fanbase and a legitimate shot at the title, although Spain's dominant displays thus far make them slight favorites. Euro 2000 champions France face a youthful Spain side reminiscent of their triumphant 2008 and 2012 squads. Meanwhile, England reaches another semifinal under Gareth Southgate, where they'll face a formidable Dutch opponent. With these enticing matchups, fantasy managers have one more chance to showcase their tactical brilliance and claim ultimate bragging rights.
Key Takeaways from the Quarter Finals
Euro 2024's quarterfinals were a rollercoaster of emotions! Spain edged out host Germany in a dramatic 2-1 victory. The Germans fought back with a late equalizer in normal time, but Spain's substitute Mikel Merino emerged as the hero with a winning goal deep in extra time (119th minute). Penalties were needed to settle the other two ties. France edged Portugal 5-3 after a tense encounter, while England mirrored that scoreline to overcome Switzerland. The Netherlands completed a stunning comeback against Turkey. Despite trailing for most of the match, they emerged victorious 2-1, securing their place in the semifinals.
Players to watch out for the Semi-Final
Players are cautioned with yellow cards throughout the tournament, with two cautions in separate matches resulting in a one-match suspension. However, these cautions are wiped clean before the semifinals, giving players a fresh start. Only a red card in the semifinals can lead to a suspension for the final. Before helping fantasy managers make their pick for the semifinal, let’s look into players who may miss the action:
Notable Absences
Spain faces a double blow heading into their Euro 2024 semi-final clash against France. Defenders Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand are both suspended due to yellow card accumulation, leaving them unavailable for selection. Adding to their woes, midfielder Pedri has been ruled out for the rest of the tournament after suffering a left knee injury from a challenge by Toni Kroos during Spain's quarter-final win over Germany.
Forwards
Spain's 16-year-old wonderkid, Lamine Yamal, has taken Euro 2024 by storm. Just days before his 17th birthday, the Barcelona forward has already notched 3 assists, including the crucial opener against Germany in his senior international debut. His talent is undeniable, and Spain will undoubtedly be relying on his creativity and spark for the remainder of the tournament and beyond.
After the heartbreak of his missed penalty in the Euro 2020 final, Bukayo Saka has exorcised those demons in style. The young Arsenal forward not only scored a crucial goal in normal time against Switzerland but also calmly converted his penalty in the shootout. With Harry Kane's goal-scoring struggles, Gareth Southgate will be heavily reliant on Saka to carry the attacking torch for England in the semifinal and hence, he could prove to be a valuable option for Fantasy managers betting on England’s win.
Midfielders
The burden of replicating Paul Pogba's playmaking magic falls on young Aurélien Tchouaméni's shoulders. While the Real Madrid midfielder has been efficient, leading France in completed passes (323), he hasn't yet dominated the competition. With Spain's strong midfield presence including Rodri, France needs Tchouaméni to step up and control the centre of the park.
Dani Olmo (Spain) has been magnificent for Spain particularly in the Quarterfinal against Germany where he contributed with a goal and an assist. The attacking midfielder for RB Leipzig could again help his selectors in the game of Krida fans to win huge point rewards in a match that features many superstars like Mbappe, Rodri, etc.
Defenders
Despite being 34, Kyle Walker remains one of the Premier League's fastest players. His pace will be a crucial weapon for England as they aim to contain the attacking threats of Gakpo and Xavi Simons. A trusted lieutenant under Southgate, Walker is hungry to help his manager finally deliver a major trophy for England, ending the drought since 1966.
Inter Milan's Stefan de Vrij has emerged as a defensive rock for the Netherlands. Not only has he marshaled the backline, but his crucial equalizer against Turkey in the quarter-final showcased his attacking threat. With Virgil van Dijk beside him, this formidable partnership could be a nightmare for England's misfiring attack, making de Vrij a tempting pick for fantasy football managers.
Goalkeepers
Though not yet Brighton's undisputed starter, Bart Verbruggen has firmly grasped the Netherlands' number one jersey. His heroic saves against Turkey sparked their comeback, and he'll be brimming with confidence to replicate those heroics against England in the semi-finals.
France's goalkeeper Mike Maignan has only conceded one goal in the Euros so far, Robert Lewandowski's penalty in the group stage. His heroics, especially during the penalty shootout against Portugal, showcased his immense talent. Fantasy managers considering goalkeepers should definitely take note of Maignan's impressive performances.
What Next?
Compete for a share of the 25,250 USDT prize pool in the Euro 2024 on KridaFans. So far, users have won over 100k USDT worth of rewards. Keep an eye out for the exciting poll of the semifinals. Sign up for free and experience the thrill of winning big on KridaFans.
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