The 2024 European Championships is fast approaching and being the epicentre of world football; it is also one of the most keenly followed footballing tournaments. Germany are the hosts for this event and there will be a total of 24 participants. The last edition of the Euros was held in England, where the home side lost out to Italy in the penalties. The buzz surrounding the event also stems from the fact that some of the biggest names in the game will feature. The brand of football on display has always been world-class, and we should expect some quality matches on display. Ahead of the Euros, let us look at the top five contenders for the trophy. On Which TV Channel UEFA Euro 2024 Will Be Telecast Live? How To Watch European Football Championship Matches Free Live Streaming Online?

Germany players in a training session (Photo credit: Twitter @DFB_Team)

Germany – The host nation will enjoy playing in their own backyard and after flopping in consecutive World Cups, they finally look stable. Julian Nagelsmann did struggle initially but now he has been able to establish his style of play. With Toni Kroos playing his last major competition before he hangs up his boots, there is an emotional factor to their campaign.

England Footballer Jude Bellingham in Action (Photo Credits; @MadridXtra/ Twitter)

England –  Gareth Southgate came close to lifting the cup in the previous championships and he brings a quality squad once again. The likes of Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, and Kobbie Mainoo have all had brilliant season at club level and it is time they replicate that for England.

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates Portugal's Euro win (Photo credit: Instagram @cristiano)

Portugal – The 2016 winners registered victories in all their qualifying games under new boss Roberto Martinez. Their brand of fast attacking football is paying rich dividends with the team scoring goals for fun. Pepe and Cristiano Ronaldo are playing their last European championships and this makes it extra special.

Italy football team (Photo credit: Instagram @azzurri)

Italy –  Luciano Spalletti is a no-nonsense manager and he will be focused on getting the best out of the Italian squad to defend the title. The former Napoli boss has already taken some hard decisions by dropping Ciro Immobile and Manuel Locatelli from the provisional squad while the likes of Moise Kean and Gianluca Scamacca now enter the spotlight. UEFA Euro 2024 Draw Results: Defending Champions Italy Drawn With Spain, Croatia; Hosts Germany to Face Scotland In Opening Match.

Spain football team (Photo credit: Instagram @sefutbol)

Spain –  Spain dominated world football during their golden generation that featured players of the capability of Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Sergio Ramos, and Sergio Busquets. While they have seen an extended period of under achieving since then, the recent win in the Nations League does make them one of the genuine favourites under the management of Luis de la Fuente.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 27, 2024 03:54 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).