IT'S the clash of the titans in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals, and Croatian Bojan Hodak, who coached Kuala Lumpur to the 2021 Malaysia Cup title, predicts who will reach the semi-finals.
SPAIN v GERMANY (TOMORROW)
Spain remain the only nation at Euro 2024 with a perfect record from four matches as they head into the blockbuster clash against hosts Germany.
However, Die Mannschaft have reason to be optimistic, as they are unbeaten in their last eight games against La Roja on home soil (five wins and three draws). Furthermore, no host nation has ever been eliminated at the quarter-final stage of a European Championship.
"It's the final before the final. Germany are the hosts, but Spain have shown the most in the tournament. It will be a tough match, I think it will somehow go to Spain. It will be a 50-50 match, but if I have to pick one, I will take Spain to win."
PORTUGAL v FRANCE (TOMORROW)
France have yet to score a goal from open play, but Didier Deschamps's men are quarter-finalists and still have the firepower to reach the semi-finals.
The Seleçao have demonstrated they can win even without Cristiano Ronaldo's goals. Their defence, led by goalkeeper Diogo Costa, is expected to hold out against the timid Les Bleus attack.
"Both teams have a lot of individual quality. Neither showed dominance in the early stages, but as the tournament progresses, they are getting better. It will be another tough match that could go either way, but I pick Portugal to win."
ENGLAND v SWITZERLAND (SATURDAY)
England's performance has been hugely frustrating throughout the tournament, but their win over Slovakia may have given them a much-needed confidence boost.
Switzerland are a much stronger team than Slovakia and will be eager for another upset after knocking out the holders, Italy, with ruthless efficiency.
"England have a lot of individual quality, but they have not played as a team in this tournament. They have won matches through individual brilliance and some good moments, but they were on the verge of being knocked out. Switzerland played well as a team, and I believe this match will have a surprise. I'll go with Switzerland because they have played well."
NETHERLANDS v TURKIYE (SATURDAY)
The Dutch made relatively easy work of Romania, winning 3-0 to advance to the last eight, but they have been inconsistent throughout the tournament in Germany.
Turkiye have also been inconsistent but will welcome back influential skipper Hakan Çalhanoglu after suspension. Youngster Arda Guler is expected to continue playing a key role against the Netherlands.
"The Netherlands were really powerful against Romania in their last game. If they can continue playing like that, they could be the surprise of the tournament. Turkiye had a good game and won over Austria, but you cannot compare their strength with the Netherlands. I think the Netherlands will advance to the semi-finals."