Why are there no first matches of Euro 2024 today? Fans must wait until 8 p.m. for the action

Fans’ patience will be tested today as the Euro 2024 match schedule changes…

We’ve been treated to tons of football in the first week of this summer’s flagship tournament in Germany.

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However, that luxury comes to an end this weekend with the group stages reaching their climax.

The third day marks the final group matches and also marks the end of three matches per day…

Why are there no first matches on Sunday?

Today, there are only two matches scheduled: Scotland faces Hungary and Germany faces Switzerland.

And they both start at the same time – 8 p.m. – as Group A comes to its conclusion.

This is the first time at Euro 2024 that two matches have clashed and it will force fans to have to choose one to tune into.

The late kick-off also means no afternoon football, which hasn’t happened since the tournament’s opening match, with matches played at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. early.

But why is this the case?

There will be no early kick-off to allow the four participating teams more rest after their second group match.

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They all played on Wednesday night, Scotland v Switzerland at 8pm, so they need at least three full days to rest and recover.

Additionally, in final group matches, all teams in each group must play at the same time.

So no one has the advantage of knowing what output they might need before they start.

The matches were therefore scheduled by UEFA for 8 p.m., leaving fans without any action earlier.

It’s the same plan for Monday’s games, but luckily there’s a treat Tuesday night.

There will be FOUR matches in one day, with Group C and Group D finishing their matches at 5pm and 8pm.

But first, there’s the lack of an early kickoff today, but we’ve got you covered for the evening’s games.

Scotland’s must-win clash against Hungary will be broadcast live on talkSPORT while already-qualified Germany take on Switzerland on talkSPORT 2.

talkSPORT will bring you live commentary of EVERY Euro 2024 match. Tune in via the website or app and follow our Euro 2024 live blog for all the latest news, views and reaction to the big moments .