Excitement is running high as Euro 2016 prepares to kick off with the opening match of hosts France against Romania.
There is a clear dynamic of competition favourite against the underdog, but with great expectations for France in this tournament the stakes are higher than ever. There are a few key points to consider before going into the opening match.
France needs a statement of intent
With one of the most diverse and world class squads in the competition, a strong qualifying phase and excellent performances from their players in the domestic season, France have some mighty expectations on them to perform well, all of which will be amplified due to their role as hosts. Players like Antoine Griezmann and Paul Pogba are just a few big names in their incredible lineup and with assets like that, there is no excuse for Les Bleus to perform poorly in this competition. Romania will not be the toughest opposition they face, but it is imperative for France to use this match to send a message to the other contenders. A strong display will not only bring confidence to their fans, but make other big teams like Spain and Germany wary.
POPULAR ARTICLES
Euro 2016 – Spain star player – David de Gea
Euro 2016 – Spain coach spotlight – Vincente Del Bosque
Euro 2016 – Iceland team preview
Euro 2016 – Portugal team preview
Take the Paddy power quiz ahead of Euro 2016
A big opportunity for Romania
France are the toughest team that Romania will be facing in the group stage, but it would be unwise to write them off. The Tricolorii are the underdogs in this group and will need to pick up points wherever they can, so aiming for even a scrappy draw would be excellent. The away side will be hoping to prey on any opening night jitters that France may have and a strong display from the get go could be enough to shock the hosts. Obviously a win for Romania is leaning towards the unlikely side, but a point collected here could go a long way for qualifying for the knockout rounds.
A stepping stone for safety in football
Jerome Boateng said recently in an interview that he would not be bringing his family with him to the Euros in France for fear of another terror attack. The world has been shocked by the atrocities that have occurred in the country recently, including the football world after explosions could be heard during a friendly between France and Germany. There were many questions about whether the competition would even go ahead, but French authorities have assured the public that they are safe. This opening match needs to set the tone for the rest of the competition, creating a safe and healthy environment to enjoy football. A smooth opening night will ease the fears of the French public and viewers around the world while also helping to get rid of the unwanted stigma of an unsafe football environment.
What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.
