France will face Belgium this Monday July 1 in the round of 16 of Euro 2024 at 6 p.m. at the Esprit Arena in Düsseldorf. According to Opta’s AI, the Blues are the favorites for this match.
Now that the elimination phases are beginning, mistakes are no longer allowed. Two teams, both second-placed in their respective groups, face each other in this clash. However, Opta predicts a less balanced match than it seems, giving France the winner at 67.91%, while Belgium’s victory is estimated at 32.09%.
These figures are based mainly on the analysis of advanced statistics of Euro matches so far.
Les Bleus finished behind Austria in Group D, with a disappointing performance of just two goals scored and five points earned. Furthermore, reports indicate a divisive mood within the team, with several players unhappy with their playing time. A marked improvement will be needed to overcome the Belgians.
The Red Devils, too, had a difficult group stage, finishing behind Romania. However, they do not fear Didier Deschamps’ men. Kevin De Bruyne even declared before the match: “We are not favourites against France, but we have to beat everyone to win the Euros. We have been at the right end of the draw before and still been knocked out so it doesn’t mean much,” on the RTBF microphone.
