As Gareth Southgate and his players faced obscenities and plastic cups being thrown at them in Cologne on Tuesday, all leading UK bookmakers were cutting the odds on England winning Euro 2024.
The odds were adjusted not because of increased optimism or betting activity, but due to the tournament’s unfolding dynamics. England, along with Italy, Austria, and Switzerland, saw their odds shorten, while the odds on France, Spain, Germany, and Portugal drifted.
If the tournament had a free draw post-group stage, top contenders would include Spain, Germany, Portugal, and France. However, the predetermined path and the unbalanced nature of the knockout bracket favored certain teams.
Southgate emphasized the need to focus on each game and not be swayed by the draw’s implications after a 0-0 draw with Slovenia. The bracket’s lopsidedness has historically benefited teams like England, Austria, and others.
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The competition’s format, with a pre-determined structure post-group stage, has often seen underperforming teams progress deep into the tournament. England, Switzerland, and Italy have found themselves in a favorable position after a challenging group stage.
Knockout football’s unpredictability means that a team that struggled initially could have a shot at the semi-finals or even the final. The tournament’s structure has often led to surprising outcomes and provided a platform for teams to excel.
(Top photo: Andreas Gora/Picture Alliance via Getty Images)