France drew 2-2 with Portugal on Wednesday to finish top of Group F above Germany in second, and Portugal in third, and they progress to the knock-out stage of Euro 2021. They will now play Switzerland on Monday 28th June in Round 16, which is as good as a walkover into the quarter-finals.

Germany and Portugal also go through to the knock-outs where they will play England and Belgium, respectively. The odds on England and Germany are 13:2 and 7:1, favouring England slightly. But with Harry Kane having failed to score so far, and the team’s temperament still somewhat unproven, the Germans could well win the tie.

The odds on Portugal and Belgium are 10:1 and 8:1, respectively, and despite the brilliance of Cristiano Ronaldo, Belgium looks too good and are likely to pull through.

Italy is probably the dark horse, and their team’s odds for winning the tournament have lessened to 6:1. They, too, have what looks like, to all intents and purposes, a walkover, as they have been drawn against Austria in their next match.

But with odds of 4:1, current favourites, France, seem to be getting stronger, with Manchester United’s Paul Pogba, now finding his best form. One year ago, speculation was rife about a summer transfer for Pogba. Rumours have started again after the Frenchman was seen sporting his new Juventus, black and white haircut. Juventus were his former club.

28-year-old Pogba is entering the final year of his contract with The Red Devils. Unless it is renewed, he will be available for a free transfer next season. His time at Old Trafford has been one of ups and downs, and to date, he has not shown the sort of scintillating form he produced against Portugal the other night.

His brilliant assist for Karim Benzema’s goal was something to behold. The vision he showed with a magnificent pass that sliced through Portugal’s defence was incredible.

Karim Benzema scored both goals for France as they drew with Portugal. These were the first goals the 33-year-old Real Madrid player has scored for his country for 5 years, 8 months, and 15 days, and they couldn’t have come at a better time. He, too, seems to be finding his best form.

Of course, the French team also includes players like Antoine Griezmann and Kylian Mbappé. They are world-class players in anyone’s language and with Pogba playing as well as he is, France is looking almost certain to win the competition.

IWMBuzz