Frank Christian
The ongoing 2024 European Championship in Germany features 24 teams divided into groups of four, aiming to secure a spot in the knockout phase.
The group stage, drawn in December 2023, involves each team playing three matches within their group to earn points.
The top two teams from each group advance directly to the Round of 16, while the four best third-placed teams also qualify for the knockout rounds, creating intense competition early on.
Here’s a breakdown of how the “best” third-place teams are determined to progress to the knockouts.
Qualification of Third-Place Teams in Euro 2024: Number of Teams Advancing
At Euro 2024, six groups with four teams each were drawn, leading to a total of 16 nations progressing to the first knockout round.
Four spots are reserved for the top third-placed teams, adding to the drama of the competition.
But how are these best third-place teams identified?
Euro 2024 Best Third-Place Teams Standings: Updated Standings
The current standings for the top third-placed teams in the tournament will evolve as we approach the end of the group stage.
Information accurate as of June 25
| Position | Team | Games Played | Points | Wins-Draws-Losses | Goal Difference |
| 1. | Netherlands | 3 | 4 | 1-1-1 | 0 |
| 2. | Slovakia | 2 | 3 | 1-0-1 | 0 |
| 3. | Hungary | 3 | 3 | 1-0-2 | -3 |
| 4. | Slovenia | 2 | 2 | 0-2-0 | 0 |
| Top four teams will qualify | |||||
| 5. | Czechia | 2 | 2 | 0-1-1 | -1 |
| 6. | Croatia | 3 | 2 | 0-2-1 | -3 |
It was confirmed on June 24 that England, France, and the Netherlands have secured their spots in the next round. These three teams, each with four points, are guaranteed a place among the top four third-place teams.
France has advanced to the Round of 16 as the runners-up from Group D.
Points Requirement for Euro 2024 Round of 16 Third-Placed Teams
UEFA implemented the current format for Euro 2016 and kept it for the recent Euros.
Teams accumulating four points can secure qualification to the knockouts if they miss the top two in their group, highlighting the competitiveness of the tournament.
Occasionally, even three points have been sufficient for progression, as seen in previous Euros.
Tie-Breakers for Third-Place Teams at Euro 2024: Ranking Criteria
The standings of the third-placed teams will be determined by a set of criteria given that they do not directly compete against each other:
- Points
- Goal Difference
- Goals Scored
- Wins
- Disciplinary Points
- European Qualifiers Ranking
Commencement of Euro 2024 Knockout Phase
The Round of 16 for Euro 2024 is scheduled to begin on Saturday, June 29. The tournament will progress in a single-elimination format until the final on July 14.
Quarterfinals
Semifinals
Final
