Euro 2024: Why Scotland and Croatia may not need to worry about goal difference despite Germany and Spain hammerings

Scotland and Croatia, who faced heavy defeats against Germany and Spain respectively in their opening Euro 2024 qualifiers, might not need to worry about goal difference affecting their qualification chances, according to a FourFourTwo analysis. While both teams conceded a total of eight goals in their matches, the article points out the importance of analyzing the group's performance as a whole and not just focusing on the initial results. This is due to the nature of the qualification process, where teams play multiple matches against each other, allowing for a chance to regain ground. The article emphasizes that in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, for instance, both Scotland and Croatia secured their spots despite facing early defeats. The article goes on to explain that the qualification groups are designed to ensure that teams have sufficient opportunities to earn points, and the initial results shouldn't be taken as a decisive indicator of their chances. Furthermore, the article highlights the potential for both Scotland and Croatia to turn their fortunes around in their upcoming matches, as they will have the chance to rack up points against less formidable opponents. The article concludes by stating that while the early results have been discouraging for both teams, their qualification hopes remain intact, and they have the potential to overcome the initial setbacks and secure a place in the Euro 2024 tournament.

Summary

"Despite their disappointing opening matches, Scotland and Croatia are not yet out of the running for Euro 2024 qualification. The article argues that the qualification process offers ample opportunities to make up for early losses, and both teams have the potential to recover and secure their spots in the tournament."