Will Portugal defend their crown at Euro 2020? Or will France go one better after their heartbreak five years ago? And how far will England go this summer? Sportsmail’s pundits give their predictions ahead of the tournament
Euro 2020 is just around the corner and 24 nations will hope it is their turn to lift the trophy this time around.
Portugal will be out to defend the crown they won in Paris five years ago, while France and England will be among the leading European countries hoping to taste success this summer too.
But who will get to claim success at the tournament? And how well can Gareth Southgate’s men do? Sportsmail‘s pundits and columnists give their opinions…
Portugal will be out to defend the crown they won in Paris five years ago at Euro 2020
Peter Crouch
Who’s going to win it?
France. They’ve got so many fantastic players.
How will England do?
I’m very optimistic about a good run deep into the competition. We will win our group and beat Germany or Portugal.
We’ve got some wonderful players but my one concern is how our defence will cope with an outstanding striker.
Crouch’s main concern with England is how the defence will cope with an outstanding striker
Micah Richards
Who’s going to win it?
Portugal. They have outstanding players and are in the habit of winning tournaments. The team to beat.
How will England do?
I’m really excited about our prospects. I love that we have so many young, fearless players. I don’t think we will win it but they are going to give us some fun along the way.
Micah Richards like England having so many young, fearless players like Phil Foden (right) and Jude Bellingham (left)
Chris Sutton
Who’s going to win it?
France. A who’s who of superstars and Kylian Mbappe is capable of treating this tournament like it’s his playground.
How will England do?
I can see England getting to the semis but then sadly missing out on making it to the Wembley final, just like in 1996. I hope I’m proven wrong, though!
Chris Sutton believes Kylian Mbappe is capable of treating the Euros like it’s his playground
Martin Keown
Who’s going to win it?
France. It’s going to be a mouthwatering battle with so many top sides at these Euros — all four of the World Cup semi-finalists — plus Holland and Italy!
How will England do?
They can go far, but it won’t be easy. Win the group and England immediately face the runner-up from the ‘group of death’.
Martin Keown says it is going to be a mouthwatering battle with sides like Holland involved
Steph Houghton
Who’s going to win it?
Portugal. Mainly because of Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes and Ruben Dias — they will each play pivotal roles.
How will England do?
With the attacking players — Grealish, Kane, Foden, Mount — they’re a threat to anyone. If they get some confidence they can go all the way.
Steph Houghton believes Portugal will win, mainly because of Cristiano Ronaldo (left) and Bruno Fernandes (right)
Jamie Redknapp
Who’s going to win it?
Portugal. With Ruben Dias, Bruno Fernandes and, of course, Cristiano Ronaldo they have what it takes to retain their title.
How will England do?
They’ve got a great chance! I really hope the players can enjoy it and make some happy memories at Wembley. They can certainly make it to the semis.
Jamie Redknapp and Houghton also believe Ruben Dias’ presence could see them retain it
Gordon Strachan
Who’s going to win it?
Portugal. They have good attacking players and the best central defender in England in Ruben Dias.
How will England do?
They’ll be disappointed if they don’t reach the semis. They are essentially at home and will not have much travelling to do. That is a huge advantage for Gareth and his players.
