Italy’s prospects at Euro 2024 appear uncertain as their indifferent qualifying form places them in Pot 4 for the finals draw next month. In the previous tournament, Italy emerged as the champions, defeating England on penalties in the final of Euro 2020. However, their lackluster performance leading up to Euro 2024 raises doubts about their ability to replicate their success.
The draw for Euro 2024 will see teams divided into 6 groups of 4 teams each. Each group will consist of one team from each pot, with Italy finding themselves in Pot 4. To add to their challenges, there is a possibility that Italy could be drawn alongside the Netherlands from Pot 3, a team that finished behind France in their group. Additionally, Italy might also face one of the powerhouse nations seeded in Pot 1.
The confirmed draw pots for Euro 2024 are as follows:
Pot 1:
– Germany
– Portugal
– France
– Belgium
– Spain
– England
Pot 2:
– Hungary
– Turkey
– Denmark
– Albania
– Romania
– Austria
Pot 3:
– Netherlands
– Scotland
– Croatia
– Slovenia
– Slovakia
– Czechia
Pot 4:
– Italy
– Serbia
– Switzerland
– Playoff A
– Playoff B
– Playoff C
Notably, the winners of the three playoff paths, which are scheduled to be played in March, will also be placed in Pot 4. Adding to the uncertainty, UEFA will hold a draw to determine one of the three Playoff B teams (Finland, Iceland, or Ukraine) to participate in Playoff A, affecting the final fixtures based on rankings.
Italy’s path to Euro 2024 is shrouded in uncertainty. The team’s lackluster performance during qualifying, winning only four out of eight matches, has led to their lower seeding. However, as the reigning champions, Italy cannot be discounted. They have historically demonstrated their resilience and ability to rise to the occasion.
As the Euro 2024 finals draw approaches, Italy faces an uphill battle. Placed in Pot 4 due to their indifferent qualifying form, they will potentially be drawn against strong opponents from the higher-seeded pots. However, Italy’s history of success and their status as the holders of the Euro 2020 title may give them the confidence and determination necessary to overcome these challenges. Only time will tell if Italy can prove their worth once again on the Euro stage.