Euro 2020 Quarterfinals: Team News, Predictions & Key Players

The Euro 2020 quarterfinals are set to deliver high-stakes football as top teams clash for a spot in the semi-finals. Here’s a detailed look at the team news, key players, and predictions for each match.

Switzerland vs. Spain—Friday, 5 PM (BST)

Switzerland pulled off a stunning comeback against France, overcoming a two-goal deficit before winning on penalties. However, they will be without their captain, Granit Xhaka, who is suspended. Denis Zakaria is expected to replace him in midfield. Manager Vladimir Petković may also consider changes in defense, with Kevin Mbabu and Silvan Widmer competing for the right wingback position.

Spain enters this game with a fully fit squad. Jordi Alba is likely to return at left-back, while manager Luis Enrique faces a selection dilemma in attack. Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo are both vying for a starting spot alongside Álvaro Morata and Pablo Sarabia.

Prediction: Switzerland 1-2 Spain

Watch Highlights: Switzerland 1-2 Spain

Switzerland 1-2 Spain - Euro 2020 quarterfinals

Belgium vs. Italy—Friday, 8 PM (BST)

Arguably the most anticipated match of the round, Belgium faces an injury crisis. Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard are doubtful after sustaining injuries against Portugal. If they miss out, Dries Mertens and Yannick Carrasco will likely start alongside Romelu Lukaku in attack. Timothy Castagne is out for the tournament, meaning Thomas Meunier will continue at right-back.

Italy hopes to welcome back Giorgio Chiellini to bolster their defense, while Alessandro Florenzi remains a doubt. Federico Chiesa and Matteo Pessina, who scored in the win over Austria, are pushing for starts, with Chiesa likely replacing Domenico Berardi in the attack.

Prediction: Belgium 1-2 Italy

Watch Highlights: Belgium 1-2 Italy

Czech Republic vs. Denmark—Saturday, 5 PM (BST)

After stunning the Netherlands, the Czech Republic faces another tough challenge. Jan Bořil returns from suspension, likely replacing Pavel Kadeřábek at left-back. Antonín Barák and Petr Ševčík may retain their places after impressive performances against the Dutch. Patrik Schick remains the key attacking threat with four goals in the tournament.

Denmark has found form after a slow start. Mikkel Damsgaard has filled the void left by Christian Eriksen and will likely support Kasper Dolberg, who scored twice against Wales. Captain Simon Kjær is a doubt, while Yussuf Poulsen will be assessed before the game.

Prediction: Czech Republic 1-3 Denmark

Watch Highlights: Czech Republic 1-3 Denmark

England vs. Ukraine—Saturday, 8 PM (BST)

Ukraine switched to a three-man defense in their dramatic extra-time win over Sweden. They may stick with this system, although Ruslan Malinovskyi could start on the bench again. Andriy Yarmolenko picked up a knock and faced a late fitness test. Artem Dovbyk, who scored the winner against Sweden, is on standby.

England faces minor injury concerns. Ryan Trippier and Declan Rice were struggling at the end of the 2-0 win over Germany, and their availability will be assessed. Jack Grealish made an impact off the bench but may not start. Harry Maguire, Kalvin Phillips, Phil Foden, and Rice must avoid bookings to be eligible for the semifinals.