Poland was defeated by the Netherlands with a score of 1-2 at Euro 2024 in Hamburg, as Wout Weghorst scored a late goal to secure the victory for his team and prevent the determined Polish team from achieving a win.

In the world of international football, it is refreshing to witness a competition that involves 24 nations. The essence of international football lies in its inclusivity, and this tournament certainly embodies that spirit.

However, when it comes to the sport itself, football is a meritocracy, not a democracy. With a staggering 36 games required to eliminate just eight teams, one cannot help but feel that this is an excessive number. The path to the knockout stages seems relatively straightforward, as a single victory can propel a team to the brink of progression. Additionally, the absence of draws in the initial five games makes it rather predictable which teams will advance from the groups we have witnessed thus far.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that the favorites have emerged victorious in every match, with some triumphs being particularly convincing. This raises questions about the true sporting significance of this tournament. While it is undeniable that the event will still provide ample entertainment, we must remember that competitions of this magnitude should epitomize quality and fierce competition. Unfortunately, this seems to be lacking in the current scenario.

Ultimately, football always manages to captivate and enthral its audience, and this tournament will undoubtedly have its moments. However, it is crucial to reflect on whether the inclusion of 24 teams dilutes the overall standard of the competition. As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen if changes will be made to strike a better balance between inclusivity and maintaining the pinnacle of quality and competition.