Euro 2024 will not feature a third-place play-off after UEFA decided to remove it from the schedule.
Often seen as a game nobody wants to participate in, players, coaches, and fans all prefer to aim for the final. While winning does earn a bronze medal, the match holds little additional significance.
This year, losing semi-finalists will skip the contest in Germany. UEFA first removed the third-place play-off after the 1980 tournament due to declining television ratings and attendance.
Spain secured their place in the final on Tuesday night with a thrilling 2-1 victory over France, ending Les Bleus’ run in the tournament.
In the other semi-final, England will face the Netherlands, with the winner going on to meet Spain in Sunday’s final.
The third-place match hasn’t been part of the Euros since 1980, when Czechoslovakia defeated hosts Italy 9-8 on penalties following a 1-1 draw.
