This means that France and the Netherlands will return home following losing in the semi-finals of Euro 2024 to Spain and England respectively, who will face each other in the final this evening, Sunday, at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin.
The third-place match in the European Nations Cup has disappeared for 44 years, specifically since the “Euro” version hosted by Italy in 1980.
In that edition, Czechoslovakia won the last bronze medal in the European Cup, following winning on penalties 9-8 once morest host Italy following their match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Although host Italy was involved in the third-place match, the match did not receive any attention, with low attendance and low television coverage.
Since then, ten European Championships have been played without a third-place match, unlike the FIFA World Cup, and some continental tournaments such as the Copa América.
The rationale for cancelling the third-place match is sound, because following failing to reach the final, the last thing any losing team would think regarding is competing for the bronze medal.
On reflection, third place would probably be seen as a success, but just days following losing a semi-final to reach a major final, players and fans alike are losing their enthusiasm and passion.
On this basis, the European Football Association “UEFA” attributed its decision to cancel the “losers” match in the “Euro” semi-finals to the fact that it is unattractive and does not receive attention, in addition to the pressure of the matches.
Source: talksport + RT
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2024-07-14 17:46:45
