The UEFA EURO 2024 semi-finals are set, featuring four powerhouses of European football. The remaining contenders are three-time champions Spain, who edged out hosts Germany with a dramatic late header from Mikel Merino, two-time winners France, 1988 champions the Netherlands, and England, who endured a heart-breaking penalty shootout loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final.
Spain vs France in Euro 2024 Semifinal
Spain will face France in the first semi-final. After their thrilling victory against Germany, Spain faces a formidable challenge against France, who last won the title in 2000. Luis de la Fuente’s squad will miss Dani Carvajal due to his late red card against Germany, but midfielders Rodri and Fabián Ruiz have been exceptional. Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams will add pace and flair to the wings.
France has struggled to find their best form, needing an own goal to overcome Belgium in the last 16 and a penalty shootout to defeat Portugal after a goalless 120 minutes. Coach Didier Deschamps is hopeful that star forward Kylian Mbappe, who has been playing with a protective mask since breaking his nose, will deliver a standout performance. The last time these two sides met in the Euros, Spain won 2-0 in the 2012 quarter-finals en route to retaining their title.
England vs Netherlands in Euro Cup Semifinal
England will look to recreate the magic of 1996 as they face the Netherlands. During Euro 1996, England’s highlight was a stunning 4-1 group stage victory over the Dutch, only to lose to Germany in the semi-finals on penalties. Current England manager Gareth Southgate missed the decisive penalty in that match. Since then, England has beaten the Netherlands just once in nine meetings. Southgate’s side has been solid if unspectacular, with Harry Kane struggling for form. However, Bukayo Saka emerged as the hero against Switzerland, scoring a brilliant equalizer and converting his penalty in the shootout.
The Dutch, led by Cody Gakpo, who tops the Golden Boot standings, recovered from a group stage loss to Austria to defeat Romania 3-0 in the last 16 and came from behind to beat Turkey in the quarter-finals. Ronald Koeman, who played in the Netherlands’ victorious 1988 team, will hope to lead his team to another final. This match will determine who advances to the final in Berlin.
Euro 2024 Semifinal fixtures
| Date | Time (CEST) | Time (IST) | Match | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 9 | 9 p.m. | 12:30 a.m. (July 10) | SF 1: Spain vs. France | Munich (Allianz Arena) |
| July 10 | 9 p.m. | 12:30 a.m. (July 11) | SF 2: England vs. Netherlands | Dortmund (Westfalenstadion) |
How to watch Euro 2024 Semifinal in India?
Sony Sports Network has the broadcast rights to UEFA Euro 2024 in India and the Indian subcontinent, including Sony Sports Ten 2 SD & HD in English, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD in Hindi, Sony Sports Ten 4 SD & HD in Tamil & Telugu, and Sony Sports Ten 5 SD & HD in Bengali & Malayalam. All UEFA Euro 2024 matches will be live-streamed on the SonyLIV app and website.
