So here we go. For the first time in European Championship finals history, a last 16 to determine our quarter-final line-up for Euro 2024.
With two games a day staggered over Saturday to Tuesday, its business time in Germany.
Eight fixtures, each with their own dash of intrigue and for BestofBets’ angle to begin the knockouts, we’re picking three teams to advance as an acca.
Switzerland to qualify – 6/5 (BetUK)
The opening game sees a fascinating style clash between alpine neighbours Switzerland and Italy in Berlin.
With both sides having avoided the far tougher side of the draw, hopes will be high of going deep into the tournament, not least the holders, Italy.
The Azzurri are the bookies’ favourite to make the quarter-finals, however they face Murat Yakin’s mobile Swiss outfit, who last time out came within 90 seconds of topping Group A.
Denied by Germany at the death last time out, it could yet prove a blessing in disguise in the long-term.
This could be a drawn-out affair, and we can see it going past 90 mins, perhaps to spot-kicks.
The Italians’ last shootout saw them lift the European Championship Trophy, but the Swiss seem to have mettle in droves this summer, not least a plethora of front men options, in Embolo, Okafor and Duah.
There may not be much in it, but we are edging Switzerland to reach the last eight for the second Euros on the bounce.
France to win (90 mins) – 19/20 (888sport)
A handful of teams have flattered to deceive so far this tournament, and two of them meet in a tantalising clash in Dusseldorf on Monday, as France play Belgium.
The two neighbouring nations last met in the Nations League during October 2021, when five goals were shared.
In terms of tournament competition however, the duo played out a tense World Cup semi-final affair in Russia six years ago.
That was in the midst of the Golden Generation for Belgium, alas in 2024, Domenico Tedesco has overseen laboured efforts in the three Group games so far.
Struggling badly in front of goal, a wildly out-of-nick Romelu Lukaku is yet to score this summer, whilst talisman Kevin De Bruyne is battling losing the fans.
That is not to say the French have been glowing either, far from it.
It has often be suggested France would struggle without Kylian Mbappe, and so it has proven – now a reduced threat with his facial injuries.
In many ways, as the underdog here after below-pars showings so far this tournament, it would be typical of Belgium to rise to the occasion and stun the French – they certainly have the ammunition.
However, France continue to do just enough to get by and will very likely hobble through again, with the masked avenger, Mbappe ready to make the difference.
Austria to win (90 mins) – 10/11 (Betfred)
The Austrians have been one of the stories of the Euros, and the fans Ralf Rangnick may have lost as Manchester United boss, have been returned ten-fold as Austria national team coach.
Finishing surprise winners of Group B, the Austrian energy and press has won many over and in turn, overwhelmed both the Dutch and Poles.
Now comes the real test however, as Austria look to win a Euro knockout game for the very first time against an unpredictable Turkey.
The key to this game will likely be in the middle of the park, and with Christoph Baumgartner back in the starting XI to avoid been banned here, Austria are at full strength.
Turkey will be no pushovers whatsoever, but they in turn will be bereft of suspended skipper Hakan Calhanoglu and that could make the difference.
Expect goals, but for Austria to finally end their Euro knockout hoodoo.
Combined acca treble 7/1 with QuinnBet.
The last 16 of Euro 2024 begins on Saturday.
