Euro 2024 kicks off on Friday in Germany, marking the start of a month-long battle among Europe’s football giants to dethrone reigning champions Italy. The opening match will feature Germany against Scotland in Munich, with hopes high for the host nation to reach the final in Berlin on July 14.

This tournament is the first major men's international competition hosted by Germany since the 2006 World Cup, offering an exciting contrast to the pandemic-affected Euro 2020, which was held across multiple cities with limited crowds. Euro 2024 will see all matches played in 10 German stadiums, from Hamburg to Munich.

The event aims to recreate the unifying spirit seen in Germany during the 2006 World Cup. Philipp Lahm, the director of Euro 2024 and captain of Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning team, hopes the tournament will foster unity amidst Europe's current political and social divisions. The tournament kicks off shortly after far-right gains in EU parliament elections and ongoing tensions from the war in Ukraine. Lahm emphasizes the potential for the Euros to bring Germany together again.

Germany's prospects on the field have improved under Julian Nagelsmann, with a squad that includes seasoned players like Toni Kroos and emerging talents such as Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala. Their group also includes Hungary and Switzerland, presenting a manageable challenge given Germany’s quality.

France and England are seen as strong contenders for the Henri Delaunay trophy. France, led by Kylian Mbappe, are the top-ranked team in Europe and have appeared in the last two World Cup finals. Mbappe, now with Real Madrid, is driven to compensate for his last Euros' penalty miss that led to France's early exit. England, though historically without a European title, are optimistic, with key players Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham well-acquainted with playing in Germany.

England’s campaign starts against Serbia on Sunday in Gelsenkirchen, while France and England could potentially meet in the semi-finals if they both top their groups.

Despite being in the same group as Spain, Italy's chances of defending their title seem slim but shouldn't be discounted. Portugal, the 2016 champions, remain strong contenders, even with Cristiano Ronaldo now 39 and playing in Saudi Arabia.

Euro 2024 will feature 24 teams, continuing the expanded format that allows smaller nations like debutants Georgia to participate. However, injuries to key players like Frenkie de Jong of the Netherlands and Robert Lewandowski of Poland, who will miss the opening match, are concerns.

The stage is set for a thrilling tournament as Europe’s best teams compete for continental glory.