The expansion of the European Championship finals to 24 teams has opened doors for footballing minnows to dream big. As we approach the decisive phase of Euro 2024 qualifiers, several nations stand on the brink of making history. On Baji Live, we analyze five underdog teams following in the footsteps of Wales and Northern Ireland’s 2016 fairytales – Iceland, Israel, Cyprus, Slovakia, and Albania – who could secure their maiden Euro appearances.
Iceland: Viking Spirit Meets Tactical Brilliance
Iceland’s current squad continues their nation’s remarkable footballing journey
The Qualification Journey
Drawn in a tough Group A alongside football powerhouses, Iceland have defied expectations with their signature organized play. Their campaign highlights include:
- A stunning 2-0 victory over the Netherlands in Reykjavik
- Five wins from their first six qualifiers
- Only three goals conceded in six matches
Former Sweden manager Lars Lagerback’s influence remains evident in Iceland’s disciplined 4-4-2 system, though co-manager Heimir Hallgrímsson has added creative flair to their pragmatic foundation.
Key Players to Watch
- Gylfi Sigurdsson: The creative heartbeat with four crucial goals
- Kolbeinn Sigthórsson: Target man providing physical presence
- Aron Gunnarsson: Cardiff City veteran anchoring midfield
“Stability has been our strength,” notes Icelandic football analyst Jón Ólafsson. “The same core group has grown together through multiple campaigns.”
Israel: Middle Eastern Dark Horses
Israel’s national team showing their fighting spirit in current qualifiers
The Qualification Story
Despite being overshadowed by Wales’ Group B heroics, Israel have quietly assembled an impressive campaign:
- Started with three consecutive wins
- Currently sit third, just two points behind Belgium
- Must navigate tricky away fixtures to Wales and Belgium
The loss of star striker Omer Damari (5 goals) to injury presents a significant challenge for manager Eli Guttman’s tactical flexibility.
Tactical Approach
Guttman has alternated between:
- Defensive 4-5-1 for tough away matches
- Attacking 4-3-3 in must-win home games
Brighton duo Beram Kayal and Tomer Hemed provide Premier League quality, while Nir Bitton offers midfield stability.
Cyprus: Mediterranean Surprise Package
Cyprus celebrating a crucial goal in their Euro 2024 campaign
The Underdog Story
Pambos Christodoulou’s side have shown remarkable resilience:
- Shock 2-1 win in Bosnia
- 5-0 demolition of Andorra
- Currently level with Israel in Group B
Demetris Christofi’s record-breaking transfer to Omonia reflects his importance to Cyprus’ attack, with 3 goals and 3 assists so far.
UK Connection
Walsall’s Jason Demetriou anchors the defense, while former Arsenal academy product Georgios Efrem provides width and creativity.
Slovakia: Group C Leaders Defying Expectations
Slovakia’s historic victory over Spain in current qualifiers
The Perfect Campaign
Jan Kozak’s side boast a 100% record after six matches, including:
- Sensational 2-1 win over Spain
- Only three goals conceded
- Marek Hamsik leading with 3 goals
Tactical Masterclass
Kozak’s 4-5-1 system maximizes:
- Hamsik’s creativity in advanced midfield
- Martin Škrtel’s defensive leadership
- Compact defensive shape against stronger opponents
Albania: Balkan Surprise Package
Albania’s national team in their memorable win over Portugal
The Unbeaten Run
Gianni De Biasi’s men remain undefeated in Group I:
- Historic 1-0 win in Portugal
- Currently third with game in hand
- Only two goals conceded in four matches
Italian Influence
De Biasi has implemented:
- Disciplined 4-5-1 structure
- Swiss-born talent integration
- Perfect balance between defense and attack
Road to Euro 2024: What Next?
As qualifying reaches its climax, these five nations face crucial fixtures:
| Team | Key Matches Remaining |
| Iceland | Netherlands (A), Kazakhstan (H) |
| Israel | Wales (A), Belgium (A) |
| Cyprus | Wales (H), Bosnia (H) |
| Slovakia | Spain (A), Ukraine (H) |
| Albania | Denmark (A), Portugal (H) |
Baji Live football analyst Mark Thompson notes: “The expanded format gives these teams real hope. Slovakia look strongest for automatic qualification, while Iceland and Albania have favorable run-ins for playoff spots.”
Will 2024 see new names grace the European Championship stage? Follow all the drama on Baji Live as these underdogs chase history. Which of these teams do you think will make their tournament debut? Share your predictions below!
