The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat are on full display at major soccer tournaments like Euro 2024. But for the teams who fall short of the final, there’s usually a chance to salvage some pride by competing for third place. This wasn’t the case for France and the Netherlands this year. Here’s why Euro 2024 didn’t feature a third-place playoff match, with insights from UEFA.

Believe it or not, third-place matches were a staple of the European Championship for two decades. From 1960 to 1980, the losing semifinalists battled it out for bronze medals. The last team to claim that honour was Czechoslovakia in 1980, defeating Italy in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw.

Euro 2024 3rd/4th Position: What Changed?

So, what changed? UEFA decided to scrap the third-place match in 1984. The reasons behind this move are likely a combination of factors:

Reduced Tournament Length: With an expanding number of teams participating in the Euros (24 in 2024), adding an extra match would lengthen the overall tournament. This could lead to player fatigue and scheduling conflicts with domestic leagues, impacting a player’s ability to perform at their best upon returning to club competition.
Focus on the Final: A single, decisive final match arguably generates more excitement and drama compared to a consolation prize contest. Lower attendance and television ratings for the third-place match in the early 1980s may have supported this view.
Player Welfare: The additional match could put extra strain on players who have already competed in a gruelling knockout stage. With the increasing physical demands of the sport, UEFA may have prioritized player health by eliminating a potentially unnecessary match.

Third Place Still Holds Value:

While there’s no official recognition for finishing fourth, reaching the semifinals is still a significant achievement for any team. It signifies a deep run in the tournament and a chance to compete against the best in Europe. Teams that make it this far often gain valuable experience and momentum for future international competitions.

Looking Ahead:

The decision to forego the third-place match remains a part of the Euros format, with no indication from UEFA of revisiting it in the near future. Whether it’s reintroduced will likely depend on factors like player fatigue concerns, tournament length considerations, and potential changes in fan and media interest. In the meantime, the focus for fans and players alike will be on the much-anticipated final between Spain and England.