Serbia Faces Tough Odds in Euro 2024 with Just 1% Chance of Victory

Serbia finds itself ranked 14th with a mere 1% chance of winning, according to Opta's sports analytics, with the Euro 2024 tournament approaching. The tournament, scheduled to take place in Germany from June 14 to July 14, will see Serbia competing in Group C against formidable opponents like England, Denmark, and Slovenia.

The Opta Supercomputer has simulated the tournament 10,000 times, providing pre-tournament predictions that place England the favorite with a 19.9% chance of winning. France follows closely with a 19.1% chance. Despite their low odds, Serbia's squad boasts several talented players who could make an impact.

Key players for Serbia include Aleksandar Mitrovic, who has been in superb form with five goals from seven games in Euro 2024 qualifying, and Dusan Vlahovic, who has scored 33 goals in 75 matches for Juventus in Serie A. Veteran captain Dusan Tadic will play a crucial role as an attacking midfielder, while Fulham's Sasa Lukic, AC Milan's Luka Jovic, and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic add depth to the squad.

However, Serbia's defensive frailty is a concern. They leaked eight goals in three games during the 2022 World Cup and have kept clean sheets in only two Euro 2024 qualifying matches. This defensive weakness could prove disastrous in a group that includes England, a team with a 95.4% chance of progressing to the last 16.

Serbia's coach, Dragan Stojkovic, acknowledges the challenges ahead. He sees Group C as a significant test, especially with an opener against England. "Game by game we will go to make a result as best as possible... the games against Slovenia and Denmark will be really, really important for us," Stojkovic said. "We need to be ready to fight against all three teams. But these two games, Slovenia and Denmark, will be decisive."

Serbia's recent performances have been inconsistent. They have not advanced beyond the group stages in their last three World Cups and have not made a significant impact in the European Championship since becoming an independent nation in 2006. Despite their talent, these inconsistencies raise concerns about their chances in Euro 2024.

The Euro 2024 tournament will feature 24 teams, with the group stage determining which teams advance to the knockout rounds. The format allows the top two teams from each group and the four best third-placed teams to progress to the Round of 16. This structure provides every team with a fighting chance of advancing, but Serbia will need to address their defensive issues to make a significant impact.

The tournament kicks off, all eyes will be on Serbia's performance in Group C. With a challenging opener against England and key matches against Slovenia and Denmark, Serbia's path in Euro 2024 will be closely watched. The team's ability to overcome their defensive weaknesses and leverage their attacking talent will be key to their success.

Despite their low odds, Serbia's participation in Euro 2024 offers an opportunity to defy expectations and make history. With a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, the team has the potential to surprise fans and opponents alike.

Serbia's campaign in Euro 2024 will be a test of their resilience and tactical prowess. As they face off against some of Europe's strongest teams, their performance will be a demonstration of their growth and potential on the international stage.

Key Takeaways

• Serbia has a 1% chance of winning Euro 2024, according to Opta's sports analytics.
• England is the favorite to win with a 19.9% chance, followed by France with 19.1%.
• Serbia's key players include Aleksandar Mitrovic, Dusan Vlahovic, and Dusan Tadic.
• Serbia's defensive frailty is a concern, having leaked 8 goals in 3 World Cup games.
• Serbia must address defensive issues to make an impact in Euro 2024.