Austria’s Rise to FOX Sports Euro 2024 Power Rankings: From Interim United to Top Four Contenders

Austria has risen steadily up the FOX Sports Euro 2024 power rankings, thanks in part to their relentless, pressing soccer style that helped them overcome the Netherlands and secure first place in Group D on Tuesday. Fair to say that they have restored their reputation after leaving their interim position at Manchester United two years ago with a dip. Martin Rogers is a columnist for FOX Sports who tweets about the tournament and subscribes to the daily newsletter.

Spain remains untouched at the top of the rankings, while England failed to make any progress on both the field and on the rankings. Portugal is now in top form, Germany has continued its momentum from earlier in the tournament, France had a mixed day with Mbappe’s return being highlighted, and Austria sits neatly at No. 5, eyeing more impact and big scalps in the round of 16 and beyond.

Italy had a plot twist as they rose from sixth place to third, Switzerland made it close to upsetting Germany but fell short, Romania had a big drop in performance but Slovenia qualified with sparkling celebrations. Slovakia needs to regain their opening game fire after losing ground, Ukraine made a superb resurgence despite being written off early on, Czechia struggled with too many mistakes costing them dearly and Hungary survived late drama thanks to last-minute goals. Georgia needs a last-game miracle but Croatia suffered heartbreak for Modric and company as they missed out on qualification by just one point. Serbia had a disappointing end to their campaign after failing to live up to expectations while Poland fought hard despite already being out of contention. Scotland was not good enough from the start and Albania couldn’t survive the Group of Death despite making some improvements throughout the tournament.