Low confidence of UK players in England's Euro 2024 squad: Entain data
Date: 2024-07-01 Author: Alex Crawford Categories: SPORTS BETTING
Data from Entain shows interesting trends among British players at Euro 2024. Despite a significant increase in the total number of bets, support for the England national team remains low. This phenomenon highlights the complex relationship between fan expectations and actual team performance.
Increase in betting activity
The number of direct bets placed by UK customers on Euro 2024 has more than doubled (up 121%) compared to the same period in 2021. This indicates the increased activity and involvement of football fans in the tournament. However, despite the increase in general interest, confidence in the success of the England team leaves much to be desired.
Analysis of data from Entain-owned bookmakers Ladbrokes and Coral shows just 20% of UK bets are backing England despite finishing top of Group C. This figure has fallen significantly from 21% in 2021 to 13% in 2024 . This decline indicates a loss of faith in the British players in their team after poor performances in the group stage.
Patriotism of fans of other countries
Unlike British players, fans from other countries are much more patriotic. The highest level of support for their team was demonstrated by Portuguese fans, who placed 60% of bets on their team. Next come Spain (49%), Germany (44%) and France (30%). This highlights the contrast in how fans view their national teams.
The most watched match so far was England's first match against Serbia, in which Jude Bellingham's goal gave the Three Lions their only victory. The match attracted significant attention and bets, highlighting the importance of key moments in the tournament for fans and players.
Expert comments
Jamie McDonald, head of sports betting analytics at Entain, said: “There is no denying that the Three Lions have made a poor start to Euro 2024. This is exactly what we see in the betting data - a huge contrast to the most patriotic countries - Portugal, Spain and Germany, where fans actively support their teams."
He added: “Can England turn their country around and bring it home? All this can be done as England progress to the last 16 this weekend and look to set the pitch on fire. We love seeing our customers get excited, have fun and be entertained – that’s what this tournament is all about.”
Despite increased activity among British players, confidence in England's Euro 2024 squad remains low. While fans in other countries show high levels of support for their teams, British players are skeptical. The 1/8 finals await England ahead, and many hope that the team will be able to regain the trust of its fans and demonstrate decent results at the tournament.
