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      Who is BBC Euro 2024 commentator Pien Meulensteen?

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      PIEN MEULENSTEEN will join the BBC panel to commentate at the Euro 2024 this summer in Germany.The Dutch-born journalist has worked for some of football’s biggest broadcasters since graduating from the University of Salford.Commentator Pien Meulensteen has been announced on the BBC panel for Euro 2024Credit: APThe Dutch-born commentator has worked for some of football’s biggest broadcastersCredit: Instagram @pienmeulensteenThe BBC, along with ITV have the rights to show Euro 2024 games in the UK.And while some might recognise some of the all-star cast of presenters, pundits and commentators.Fans have heard of Meulensteen after being the first female to commentate on a live Premier League match in Britain for Sky Sports.Who has Meulensteen worked for?With an impressive resume that includes work with top broadcasters such as Ziggo Sport, MUTV, DAZN, BBC Radio 5 Live, and Sky Sports. One of Pien’s career highlights was becoming the first female commentator for a live Premier League match for Sky Sports in 2023. Along with Sky Sports, Pien also works for ITV and the Premier League, as well as being part of DAZN’s Women’s Champions League coverage.She has also covered major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup and the FIFA Women’s World Cup. She has also appeared as a reporter on Soccer Saturday.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPien has already provided coverage of matches from Anfield and the King Power Stadium so far this season.How did Meulensteen get into commentary?Having studied broadcast journalism at university, she began her career on MUTV, covering the Red Devils’ women’s team.Pien later joined the club’s Premier League matchday team both on location and in studio.Earlier this summer, she was part of ITV’s coverage of the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, commentating on matches at the tournament.Her work has also seen Pien attend other major events even when she is not commentating on them, including last season’s Europa League final in Budapest.Is she related to Rene Meulensteen?Yes!As the daughter of former Fulham manager Rene Meulensteen, Pien has football in her blood. Pien was born in the Netherlands before moving to England in 2001As a result, she is fluent in both English and Dutch, allowing her to work for Dutch broadcaster Ziggo Sport in the past.She has quickly established herself as a knowledgeable and insightful sports pundit, earning her a place on some of the biggest platforms in sports broadcasting.Pien is the daughter of ex-Fulham boss Rene MeulensteenCredit: Instagram @pienmeulensteenRene’s time at Man UtdRene Meulensteen has had two spells with United, first working as their reserve team boss between 2001 and 2006.He later returned to Old Trafford as a coach before becoming Sir Alex Ferguson’s right-hand man, remaining in the role until Fergie’s retirement in 2013.A decade on from leaving United, Meulensteen is currently the Australia assistant manager, a role he has held since 2018.READ MORE SUN STORIESHow many followers does Meulensteen have?With 19,600 followers on Instagram, she regularly treats her fans to selfies and snaps from around the grounds.Pien also documents her travels around the globe on social media, both from her career and when enjoying a holiday.Born in the Netherlands, Pien is fluent in both English and DutchCredit: Instagram @pienmeulensteen More

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      Who is BBC Euro 2024 pundit Izzy Christiansen?

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      EURO 2024 is around the corner and big broadcasters have assembled their teams for this summer’s tournament in Germany.And TV pundit and ex-Everton star Izzy Christiansen will join the BBC 5 Live Team for the European Championships.Former Everton star Izzy Christiansen will join the BBC 5 Live Team for Euro 2024Credit: GettyThe BBC, along with ITV have the rights to show Euro 2024 games in the UK.And while some fans might recognise some of the all-star cast of presenters, pundits and commentators.Former Manchester City star Christiansen is a name everyone needs to know.As the two-time FA Cup winner is now a regular on BBC and Sky Sports and will lead the way on the Euro 2024 radio coverage this summer.What teams did Christiansen play for?Christiansen played as a midfielder or forward. The 32-year-old is known for her time with Manchester City Women between 2014 and 2018, and Everton (2019–2023). She has also played for Birmingham City and Lyon.The Chesire-born star made a total of 134 club appearances and scored 30 goals.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhen did Christiansen retire?On 25 May 2023, Christiansen announced she would hang up her boots after a 15-year-long career at the end of the 2022/23 season.She announced her decision to retire from football on the podcast “Three Players and a Podcast”.Career achievementsChristiansen made her senior international debut for England in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2017 qualifying match against Estonia in 2015.The ex-forward earned a total 31 England caps.The TV pundit also won the 2016 Women’s Super League title and FA Cup with Manchester City – having previously lifted the Women’s FA Cup with Birmingham City.In her first season with Lyonin 2018-19, she won the treble with the French side winning Division 1 Feminine, Coupe de France and Champions League.Christiansen earned 31 caps for EnglandCredit: PA:Press AssociationPunditry careerChristiansen has made several appearances as a football pundit and commentator since 2019.She began working with BBC Radio 5 Live in 2019, later getting work as a pundit and commentator for Sky Sports.Then the ex-Birmingham star provided co-commentary for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup for the Seven Network in Australia. More

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      Where are England and Scotland based for Euro 2024?

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      ENGLAND and Scotland are edging closer to their Euro 2024 date with destiny.The tournament begins on June 14 with the final taking place on July 14.England will stay in a luxury golf resortCredit: GettyMeanwhile, Scotland will be located at a crudely-named ski resortGermany are the hosts of the tournament, with matches being played across ten cities and ten venues.But where will England and Scotland have their respective basecamps during their stay?Where are England and Scotland based?England’s basecamp is located close to the centre of Germany in BlankenhainIt is located in the German state of Thuringia and is roughly an hour and a half’s driver from Leipzig.READ MORE IN EURO 2024England’s three games are over in the mid-west of the country, in Gelsenkirchen (v Serbia June 16), Frankfurt (v Denmark June 20) and Cologne (v Slovenia June 25).Meanwhile, Scotland will set up camp at a ski resort in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Bavaria, located in the far south of Germany.Like England, Scotland have picked a host roughly 90 minutes drive to the nearest big city, Munich.With Steve Clarke’s team facing Germany in Munich for the Euro 2024 curtain raiser on June 14 this makes sense. Most read in Euro 2024However, a game in Cologne against Switzerland on June 19 will carry a long journey time with it.Meanwhile, they will have a shorter trip for their final group stage game against Hungary on June 23 in Stuttgart.Inside England’s campEngland are based on a luxury golf resortCredit: golfweimarerlandLeisure features include a swimming poolCredit: https://twitter.com/golfweimar/mediaThe resort was built in 2021 with the idea of attracting top international teamsCredit: golfweimarerlandSunSport have taken a look inside the Three Lions luxury accommodation for the tournament. The Golfresort Weimarer Land is one of the most spectacular golf resorts in Germany, with 45-holes to play.There are two 18-hole courses, as well as a nine-hole course.While that will give the players something to enjoy during their downtime, the most important aspect is the one and a half football pitches available to train on – making it ideal for training camps.Golfresort Weimarer Land was built in 2021, with the idea of attracting top international teams.The resort also features a state-of-the-art gym, as well as a wellness centre and spa – with seven different treatment rooms.Leisure facilities include snooker, table football and table tennis, with running and e-bike routes.There are several conference rooms Southgate can use for video analysis and to give his side a teamtalk.Seven restaurants on site also give the players plenty of catering options.Golfresort Weimarer Land has 94 rooms, suites and family suites.To book a room it costs around £300-per-night.Inside Scotland’s campThe stunning Mount Wank overlooks the townSign on the side of the Wank-Haus at the top of the wank mountainIt’s a picturesque settingThe Scottish Football Association has picked the 250 Euros-a-night Obermuhle Hotel in the pretty Bavarian town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, so close to the south German border it’s practically in Austria.But it is the name of the dominant Alpine scenery which will amuse the likes of Andy Robertson and joker John McGinn – it’s called Mount Wank.The 1780 metre summit can be reached by the Wankbahn cable car, for which passengers are required to buy a 29 Euros Wank Ticket.While up there, you can pop in to one of the finest restaurants, the Wankstüberl, for some warming Bavarian cuisine.Until now, the greatest footballer’s fear was being picked to play at the Wankdorf Stadium but that is in Bern, Switzerland, so it’s a fate that does not befall our German-bound heroes.Eyebrows will also be raised at the remote location within the host nation. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe SFA Euros base is seven hours away by road from Cologne, where Scotland play Switzerland on June 19.At a distance of 418 miles, you are much closer to the northern Italian city of Milan (167 miles) or the aforementioned Bern (175 miles) in Switzerland.PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament. More

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      Spain vs Croatia – Euro 2024: La Furia Roja face tough opener against Modric and Co – Stream FREE, TV channel, team news

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      SPAIN and Croatia are set for a tough Euro 2024 opener that will feature two of the tournament’s favourites.The two European giants face off on Saturday at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.Spain are among the favourites to win Euro 2024Credit: AFPCroatia have impressed in their last two World Cup outingsCredit: GettyEuro 2024 FREE bets and offersThe Furia Roja and the Croats have been drawn in a gruelling group that also includes fellow favourites Italy and minnows Albania.And whoever wins this match could set the tone for the top spot in Group B.Spain are one of the main contenders to lift the trophy next month after their back-to-back triumphs in 2008 and 2012.The Spanish national team also made it to the semi-finals of Euro 2020.Croatia, on the other hand, have been taking football by storm ever since the 2018 World Cup when they reached the final.The Croats also finished third in the 2022 World Cup, but only made it to the Last 16 of Euro 2020 and 2016.Both teams will get to call on a number of stars in their bid for glory in Germany.Most read in Euro 2024And all of them are planning to leave it all on the pitch in what promises to be an entertaining encounter.EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSPath to the EurosSpain breezed their way to the Euro 2024 finals by topping Group A in undefeated fashion with seven wins along the way.The Furia Roja bested runners-up Scotland, Norway, Georgia and Cyprus.How France can win Euro 2024Croatia, on the other hand, finished second in Group D behind leaders Turkey.The Croats overcame Wales, Armenia and Latvia as they won five out of eight matches, of which they lost two.Team NewsSpain manager Luis de la Fuente may have to wait on Barcelona star Pedri’s fitness as he struggled with injury throughout the season.De La Fuente, though, has a number of Premier League stars to choose from, such as Brentford’s David Raya who was on loan at Arsenal, Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella and Manchester City’s Rodri.The Furia Roja will also get to call upon Athletic Bilbao’s Unai Simon, his team-mate Nico Williams, Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, Atletico Madrid’s Alvaro Morata, Barcelona’s Ferran Torres, his team-mate Lamine Yamal and RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo.Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic, on the other hand, will have departed Tottenham star Ivan Perisic back in action after he spent last season on the sidelines with a knee injury.Dalic will also have Fenerbahce’s Dominik Livakovic, City’s Josko Gvardiol, his team-mate Mateo Kovacic and of course Real Madrid legend Luka Modric available.Ones to watchSpain will need Rodri to emulate his Manchester City form during Euro 2024.The midfield maestro stood out for City once more and helped them win a record fourth successive Premier League title.The 27-year-old amassed nine goals and 14 assists in 50 appearances with the Citizens, who only lost one game within 90 minutes all season with the Spaniard in their starting line-up.Croatia will look up to their national hero Luka Modric who has been instrumental during the last two World Cup campaigns.Real Madrid legend Modric is now 38 years old but set for a new deal at the Santiago Bernabeu and will be donning his country’s armband to add to his 175 caps.Head-to-HeadSpain and Croatia have faced off a total of 10 times across all competitions.The Spaniards have won a majority of six games, compared to the Croats’ three victories.In fact, the Furia Roja have won six of their last nine matches, of which they lost two.The two sides have met three times in the Euros with Spain winning twice in 2012 and 2020, while Croatia emerged victorious in 2016.SunSport PredictionSpain pose as the favourites against Croatia’s ageing golden generation but not by much. This could be a close one between the two tournament favourites.Prediction: 1-0 PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      When is Spain vs Croatia?
      Spain’s clash with Croatia will take place on Saturday, June 15.
      The game will kick off at 5pm BST.
      The Olympiastadion in Germany’s capital Berlin will play host to the match.
      What channel is it on and can it be live streamed?Spain vs Croatia will be shown live on ITV 1 and ITV 1 HD in the UK. You can live stream all the action from the ITV X app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device. Can I watch for FREE?Yes, you can watch all the action for free on ITV 1 so long as you have a valid TV licence. READ MORE SUN STORIESOdds
      Spain – 3/4
      Draw – 27/10
      Croatia – 15/4
      *Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication.EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT More

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      Who is hosting Euro 2028 and will they gain automatic qualification to the tournament?

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      FOOTBALL enthusiasts rightly have their attention on this summer’s European Championships.After there were multiple host nations to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Euros for the 2020 tournament, Germany is the sole host for this year’s event.The host nations for Euro 2028 have been revealedCredit: GettyThe tournament will run between June 14 and July 14.But what about the next tournament?Who is hosting Euro 2028?Fans in the home nations and Ireland can rejoice for Euro 2028 as they will not need to travel to mainland Europe for the tournament.That is because England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland will all be joint hosts of the tournament.READ MORE IN EURO 2024Turkey were the main rival for the hosting rights in four years time, but withdrew from the race, leaving the British Isles as the only option to host.Ten host venues have already been selected across the five nations.England have a selection of six stadiums, with two in London, one in Birmingham, one in Manchester, one in Liverpool and one in Newcastle.Meanwhile, Glasgow, Cardiff, Belfast and Dublin will also host games to ensure all five nations have games. Most read in FootballThe host cities and their stadiums can be seen below:
      England, London – Wembley Stadium
      England, London – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
      England, Birmingham – Villa Park
      England, Manchester – Etihad Stadium
      England, Liverpool – Everton Stadium (under construction)
      England, Newcastle – St James’ Park
      Scotland, Glasgow – Hampden Park
      Wales, Cardiff – Principality Stadium
      Ireland, Dublin – Aviva Stadium
      Northern Ireland, Belfast – Casement Park (under construction)
      It is understood that Cardiff will host the opening match, while the final will be held at Wembley.Will all host nations gain automatic qualification to Euro 2028?Uefa rules state that no more than two host nations can be granted an automatic qualification for tournament finals.This means it will be impossible for all five host nations to agree on which of them should take the guaranteed spots, meaning that all five nations will enter the competition in the qualifying rounds.So with that being said, it means that it’s a possibility that any of the five countries could fail to qualify for Euro 2028.However, it’s still possible that the two automatic qualification places are held in reserve and could be used by any of the five nations that fail to secure a place through qualification.But it has been reported that many within Uefa are “uncomfortable” with the idea of countries who have failed in qualifying to be handed a spot in the finals regardless.Should more than two teams fail to secure spots at Euro 2028 through qualifying, that would present a messy process to determine which teams are left out. More

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      How many penalties are taken in a shootout at Euro 2024?

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      EURO 2024 promises such high-octane drama that penalty shootouts sound almost inevitable.Who can ever forget England missing out on another major trophy during the final of Euro 2020 when they lost an intense shootout to Italy at Wembley?A penalty shootout still consists of five spot-kicks for each teamCredit: AlamyEngland will prefer to avoid another dramatic penalty shootoutCredit: GettyThe Three Lions never liked penalties as they have lost a staggering six out of nine attempts throughout their long World Cup, Euro and Nations League history.No one promises Gareth Southgate’s side won’t have to go through their 10th shootout in Germany, which is the country that has caused them a lot of hurt throughout the years.If England or any other side at Euro 2024 find themselves in a penalty shootout – SunSport has all the details you need…How many penalties are taken in a shootout at Euro 2024?Each team will get five spot-kicks against their opponent’s goalkeeper.Read More on FootballIf the procedure ends in a draw then both teams move on to sudden death.Sudden death rules dictate that every player from each team will have to take a shot until a victor emerges.The five players who took on a penalty kick can’t shoot again during sudden death unless all their other teammates have a go and a winner is still not crowned.Of course, no penalty shootouts will occur during the group stages of the European tournament.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat is something that is reserved for the knockout stages, starting in the Last 16.England’s fiercest penalty rivals Germany, Portugal and Italy have all made it to the Euro 2024 finals.Scotland given boost ahead of Euro 2024 as major rule change takes step forwardThe Three Lions have lost twice to each one of them throughout the years.The national team has only beaten Colombia, Spain and Switzerland.PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament. More

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      Is VAR being used at Euro 2024?

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      EURO 2024 will begin THIS WEEK as hosts Germany open the tournament against Scotland.The Germans are one of the favourites to lift the trophy this summer as they eye their first international title since their World Cup triumph in 2013/14.VAR has been used in the Premier League since 2019Credit: GETTYMeanwhile, England are hoping to put an end to their near 58-year wait for a major honour.The Three Lions begin their tournament against Serbia on Sunday, June 16.Fans are eagerly anticipating the start of Euro 2024 – but will VAR be in use in Germany?Is VAR being used at Euro 2024?Yes! VAR will be used at Euro 2024 in Germany this summer.READ MORE IN EURO 2024A VAR will be assigned to every game in the tournament and they will have the opportunity to call on two assistant VARs, plus three video operators.The VAR hub will be based in Leipzig this summer.The rules for VAR will be deployed like they are in the Premier League; they will check for any clear and obvious errors relating to goals, penalty incidents, red cards and mistaken identity.Will any other technology be in use at Euro 2024?Uefa have confirmed that semi-automated offside technology will also be in use at Euro 2024.Most read in Euro 2024Fans first saw the use of the groundbreaking innovation at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar – and it has since been used in the Champions League.The high-tech feature will use 12 tracking cameras that will create three-dimensional models of players to determine if any part of the player’s body is in an offside position.A 3D animation will be displayed on the big screens in the stadium.Additionally, the Euro 2024 match ball will include a chip designed to improve the technology’s accuracy.The more familiar goal-line technology will also be used for Euro 2024. More

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      Hungary vs Switzerland – Euro 2024: Szoboszlai and Xhaka go head-to-head in Group A clash – stream FREE, TV, team news

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      EURO 2024 is upon us and promises some stunning encounters from the start of the group stage.Hungary and Switzerland lock horns this Saturday at the RheinEnergieStadion in Cologne just a day after hosts Germany kick the tournament off against Scotland.Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai will lead Hungary at Euro 2024Credit: GettyArsenal hero Granit Xhaka will captain Switzerland after his Bayer Leverkusen successCredit: RexThe Hungarians and the Swiss may have a tough act to follow, but their own match will include a strong Premier League presence.Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai will be competing for Marco Rossi’s side and will be joined by Sunderland’s Callum Styles.Switzerland, on the other hand, will be represented by Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji and Newcastle’s Fabian Schar.Akanji and Shar will be joined by ex-Liverpool star Xherdan Shaqiri, former Arsenal ace Granit Xhaka, ex-Nottingham Forest player Remo Freuler, former Chelsea midfielder Denis Zakaria and Burnley’s Zeki Amdouni.Hungary have proven to be quite the dark horses in major competitions.The Magyars proved it against England whom they beat twice across both legs in the Nations League two years ago.However, the Hungarian national team hasn’t made it past the Last 16 since 1972.Switzerland, on the other hand, made the Round of 16 in 2016 and the quarter-finals in 2020.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPath to the EurosHungary made it to Euro 2024 after winning Group G in undefeated fashion after five victories.Is it coming home? Football legends discuss England’s chances for Euro 2024 at The Sun’s preview nightMarco Rossi’s side bested Serbia, Montenegro, Lithuania and Bulgaria along the way.Switzerland, on the other hand, finished second in Group I behind Romania.The Swiss overcame Israel, Belarus, Kosovo and Andorra in the qualifying stage.Team newsThe two teams don’t seem to be dealing with any late injury concerns ahead of their Euro 2024 opener in Germany.Hungary will get to call upon the likes of RB Leipzig’s Peter Gulacsi, his team-mate Willi Orban, Freiburg’s Roland Sallai, Ferencvaros’ Barnabas Varga and Hajduk Split’s Laszlo Kleinheisler.Switzerland manager Murat Yakin has quite the golden generation at his disposal which includes the likes of Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel, Inter Milan’s Yann Sommer and Monaco’s Breel Embolo.Ones to watchHungary captain Dominik Szoboszlai enjoyed an impressive campaign with Liverpool.Szoboszlai, 23, joined the Reds last summer from RB Leipzig following a £60million deal.The midfielder amassed a total of seven goals and four assists in 45 appearances in his maiden campaign at Anfield.The Hungarian star has also registered 12 goals in 42 caps with his national team.Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka also enjoyed a stunning debut campaign at Bayer Leverkusen whom he led to their first ever Bundesliga title.Xhaka helped Leverkusen win their maiden domestic Double following an incredible undefeated run that saw Xabi Alonso’s side only losing once in the Europa League final against Atalanta.The midfielder registered four goals and two assist in 50 appearances this season.This comes after the Arsenal hero’s 14 goals in 125 caps with the Swiss team. Liverpool star Szoboslai enjoyed a stunning debut campaign at AnfieldBayer Leverkusen star Xhaka will play a key role for Switzerland at Euro 2024Head-to-HeadHungary and Switzerland have faced off a total of 46 times across all competitions.The Hungarians have won a majority of 30 games while the Swiss count 11 victories.Switzerland have won all three of their most recent meetings as well as six of their last nine games, of which they only lost one.This will be the first ever time the two countries face off in the Euros.SunSport predictionThis really feels like the kind of game that could go either way as they two teams are quite evenly matched, therefore a draw might be the safest bet.Prediction: 1-1PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      When is Hungary vs Switzerland?
      Hungary’s group stage opener against Switzerland will take place on Saturday, June 15.
      The game kicks off at 2pm BST.
      Cologne Stadium in Cologne, Germany will play host to the fixture.
      What channel is it on and can it be live streamed?
      Hungary vs Switzerland will be shown live on ITV 1 and ITV 1 HD in the UK.
      You can live stream all the action from the ITV X app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
      Can I watch for FREE?
      Yes, the game is available for FREE on ITV 1, so long as you have a TV licence.
      READ MORE SUN STORIESOdds
      Hungary – 5/2
      Draw – 9/4
      Switzerland – 6/5
      *Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication.EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT More