Italy’s abysmal run and Germany’s exit in the quarterfinals were just a few of the unforgettable moments of Euro 2024, not to mention Croatia’s group-stage exit.
New records were set, fabulous goals were scored, and memorable moments were created. Join us as we relive the events that unfolded in Spain’s journey to European conquest for a record fourth time.
The group stage.
Twenty-four nations gathered at the gates of Euro 2024, knowing only one winner would emerge after a one-month-long contest which took place across 10 locations in Germany.
While fans across Europe were united by football, 24 participating countries were divided into six groups from A to F.
As expected, Spain had little difficulty reaching the last 16, but some, such as Italy, were lucky to reach the knockout phase. Italy managed thanks to a stoppage-time equalizer resulting in a 1-1 draw against Croatia.
Meanwhile, in Group A, host nation Germany established themselves as tournament favourites after a 5-1 win over Scotland before Spain snatched the baton following a 100% winning record in the group stage. Germany were joined by Switzerland in the next round.
In Group B, Spain and Italy went through to the next round, while Group C winners England were joined by Denmark and Slovenia.
In Group D, Austria and France got themselves a place in the knockout stage along with the Netherlands, who finished as one of the best-placed third teams. Polish skipper Robert Lewandowski could only lead his side to the next flight home as the first nation to be eliminated at Euro 2024.
Meanwhile, despite failing to produce his best, Kevin De Bruyne, along with an unlucky Romelu Lukaku, were able to get Belgium into the knockout phase from Group E. Romania and Slovakia joined Belgium in the next round.
Ronaldo helped Portugal to the top of Group F, while Turkey and surprise package Georgia finished close behind in second and third place, respectively.
Memorable Matches.
The Group stage produced many of the memorable games of Euro 2024.
Germany vs. Scotland, Match Day 1.
The opener was certainly one of the games to watch as Germany picked Scotland apart in a 5-1 win.
Die Mannschaft slipped into European Championship history as the first team to score five goals in an opening match since the maiden edition in 1960, when Yugoslavia defeated France 5-4.
In addition, Antonio Rüdiger became the first player to score an own goal at Euro 2024 after helping Scotland with a consolation goal.
Turkey vs. Georgia, Match Day 1.
This blockbuster contest between Turkey and Georgia, which ended in a 3-1 win for Turkey, on Match Day 1 made history after featuring the youngest player to score on his Euro debut.
Arda Güler’s wonder goal not only finished in 5th place on the rankings for Goal of the Tournament but also left him as the youngest player to score on his Euro debut at the age of 19 years and 114 days.
Croatia vs. Albania, Match Day 2
We saw Ronaldo cut a frustrated figure after failing to score from open play at the Euros. While goals are great, atoning for one’s error after putting the ball into the wrong net is even more satisfying.
Albania’s Klaus Gjasula was left basking in euphoria after a stoppage-time goal against Croatia helped him salvage a point for his side following an own goal in the 76th minute. His goal forced the game to a 2-2 draw at full-time.
Croatia 1-1 Italy, Matchday 3.
This Match Day 3 thriller finished in remarkable fashion after a solo run from Riccardo Calafiori made Mattia Zaccagni’s stoppage-time goal possible.
The wonder goal not only finished in 9th place on the Euro 2024 Goal Rankings but also helped Italy sneak into the knockout phase while sending Croatia out of the tournament.
What’s more?! This fixture features the oldest goal scorer in European championship history, after Luka Modrić’, aged 38 years and 289 days, redeemed himself moments after missing from the penalty spot.
Netherlands 2-3 Austria, Matchday 3.
Arguably one of the most exciting games of the just concluded Euro 2024. This five-goal thriller between the Netherlands and Austria not only featured wonder goals at both ends of the pitch but also left Austria as the winners of Group D.
While Memphis Depay came up with a remarkable goal, it was Marcel Sabitzer’s goal from an impossible angle that eventually won the game for Austria.
Spain are champions!
Highest Assists.
Clean Sheets.
Most Saves.
Most Tackles.
