Old Juve’s Euro 2020 Predictions

James Cormack

Winner: Portugal

Balance and harmonious dynamics are crucial in international football and they’re two things Fernando Santos’ Portugal have in abundance. This Portuguese side are far superior to the unit that claimed almost unthinkable glory in this competition last time out; Ruben Dias and Pepe anchor a stern defence, one complemented by a balanced midfield and an array of talent in attacking areas. I expect them to top the Group of Death before edging their way to back-to-back Euro triumphs thanks to Santos’ pragmatism and the sprinkling of individual brilliance from their many stars.

Golden Boot: Romelu Lukaku

This is a Belgium side approaching the end of their cycle and they’re perhaps the weakest they’ve been since 2014 with Kevin De Bruyne an injury doubt and Eden Hazard woefully out of sorts. Nevertheless, in Romelu Lukaku they have one of the world’s premier strikers. Belgium’s all-time leading goalscorer will be the Red Devils’ protagonist this summer in this golden generations final push for glory.

Surprise Early Exit: Netherlands

The Dutch boast a superbly talented spine and will certainly be aided by what – on paper – appears a fairly weak Group C. Nevertheless, their results have been patchy as of late with Frank De Boer struggling to build on the foundations laid by Ronald Koeman.

Underdog: Austria

Perennial underachievers Austria will raise an eyebrow or two this summer and qualify for their first knockout phase at a major tournament since 1982. You heard it here first! They’ll also be looking to secure their first win at the European Championships in, well, ever. David Alaba has a strong, Bundesliga-laden supporting cast alongside him this time around, with RB Leipzig tandem Marcel Sabitzer and Konrad Laimer, Wolfsburg’s Xaver Schlager and Hoffenheim’s Christoph Baumgartner all keen to shine. Their talent is complemented by rugged old-timers in defence and a smart coach in Franco Foda. Overall, this is Austria’s best chance in years to enjoy success at a major tournament.

Player to Watch: Ruslan Malinovskiy

Serie A lovers will be well aware of Ruslan Malinovskiy’s brilliance but the majestic Ukrainian is a player yet to intrigue a worldwide audience. In Andriy Shevchenko’s dynamic Ukraine outfit, Malinovskiy is poised to star from a box-to-box midfield role and should his ability manifest at this summer’s tournament, Atalanta will surely be subject to plenty of calls from Europe’s elite.

Player of the Tournament: Joao Felix

This was really tough to call but I’ve got a good feeling about Joao Felix this summer. His season at Atletico Madrid somewhat petered out after a scintillating start and his spot in Santos’ XI certainly isn’t guaranteed with the likes of Diogo Jota and Bernardo Silva competing for places. Nevertheless, Felix has the potential to enjoy a monster tournament and I’m backing him to do so for the eventual champions.

Juventus’ Star of the Tournament: Federico Chiesa

Federico Chiesa has enjoyed a stellar 2021 and thrives on the big stage. This seemed like a no-brainer.

How Far Will Italy Progress? Semi-Finals

Expectations are high for Roberto Mancini’s Azzurri as they head into the tournament 27 games unbeaten. However, I expect them to fall short on this occasion with this exciting generation at the mere start of their cycle. Their time will arrive a little further down the line. Nevertheless, Italy’s potential should be teased this summer.