Is there something fishy about the European Cup group draw? Strong teams such as England and Belgium are in the weakest group, and UEFA is questioned.

CCTV5 schedule, January 24, 2024, the result of the European Cup group lottery has caused some disputes and doubts. Some people believe that UEFA is unfair and opaque in the lottery process, resulting in some strong teams in the weakest group, while some weak teams in the strongest group

On January 24, 2024, CCTV5 program list, the result of the European Cup group lottery has caused some disputes and doubts. Some people believe that UEFA is unfair and opaque in the lottery process, resulting in some strong teams in the weakest group, while some weak teams in the strongest group, which has affected the fairness and competitiveness of the game.

The European Cup group draw was held in Zurich, Switzerland, on December 6, 2023. A total of 24 teams participated in the draw, which was divided into six groups, with four teams in each group. The rule of drawing lots is that the first team of each group is determined according to the results of the European Cup qualifiers, and the teams from the second to the fourth teams are determined according to the FIFA world rankings.

However, the result of the draw surprised and dissatisfied many people. Some strong teams, such as England, Belgium, France and Spain, were placed in relatively weak groups, while some weak teams, such as Finland, Northern Macedonia and Hungary, were placed in relatively strong groups. This has led to a great disparity in the strength of some groups, while the strength of some groups is quite close.

For example, the teams in Group A are Italy, Switzerland, Turkey and Wales. The world rankings of these four teams are 7th, 13th, 29th and 18th respectively, which are not different. It can be said that they are a balanced group. The teams in Group B are Belgium, Russia, Denmark and Finland. The world rankings of these four teams are 1st, 38th, 12th and 54th respectively, which are quite different. It can be said that they are an unbalanced group.

Some people question whether UEFA has any artificial intervention and operation in the process of drawing lots, whether it has the drive and consideration of interests, and whether it has the intention to protect some strong teams and suppress some weak teams. Some people believe that UEFA should disclose the whole process and details of the lottery, so that people can understand the truth of the lottery and eliminate people's doubts and distrust.

UEFA denied these doubts and accusations and said that the lottery was completely fair and transparent, without any improper factors and behaviors. UEFA said that the lottery rules were announced in advance, the lottery process was live broadcast, and the lottery results were random, without any doubt. UEFA also said that the European Cup is a high-level event. Any team may be cold or out. No team can despise or relax. Only on the court can the victory be decided.

The European Cup will be held in 12 European cities from June 11 to July 11, 2024. The following is the grouping of the European Cup:

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