UEFA European Championship
Euro 2024: The Best Moments
Euro 2024 was a spectacular showcase of football at its finest, filled with unforgettable moments that will be remembered for years to come.
From dramatic matches to individual brilliance, here are our top moments that defined the tournament.
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Spain’s victory and Rodri’s dominance
Spain emerged as the champions of Euro 2024, defeating England in a thrilling final. Their tactical prowess and teamwork were on full display, culminating in a well-deserved victory.
Central to Spain’s success was Rodri, who was named Player of the Tournament. His exceptional performances not only anchored Spain’s midfield but also earned him the status of second favourite for the Ballon d’Or. His impact was undeniable, and his leadership on the field was a key factor in Spain’s victory.
Spain’s young stars, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, stole the show in Germany, consistently proving too formidable for any defence they faced. Their exceptional performances and undeniable talent demonstrated that they are poised to be at the top of the game for many years to come. These emerging talents dazzled on the field, showcasing skill, speed, and a maturity beyond their years, making it clear that the future of Spanish football is in incredibly capable hands.
Jude Bellingham’s overhead kick
England were on the brink of an embarrassing elimination at the hands of Slovakia, a scenario eerily reminiscent of their shocking defeat to Iceland in 2016. The players were visibly exhausted, and all hope seemed to be lost. That was until Jude Bellingham delivered a moment of sheer brilliance.
In the 95th minute, as a long throw was flicked on, the Real Madrid star executed a sensational bicycle kick, sending the game into extra-time. This extraordinary goal not only revitalized the team but also kept their hopes alive, ultimately paving the way for their final showdown in Berlin. Without Bellingham’s miraculous intervention, England’s dream of reaching the final would have ended in heartbreak.
Jude Bellingham is 13/2 to win the BBC Sports Personality of the Year – which would not be a surprise considering this special moment he provided for his country.
Tantalising Turkey
Turkey, boasting the second-youngest squad at the tournament, delivered numerous memorable moments. One of the standout performances came from defender Merih Demiral, who etched his name into the European Championship record books with a historic goal in the last-16 clash against Austria. In what was anticipated to be a frenetic knockout contest, Demiral needed just 57 seconds to break the deadlock at the Red Bull Arena. An Arda Güler corner caused chaos inside the box, allowing Demiral to score. He went on to secure a brace in the game.
However, it was goalkeeper Mert Günok’s last-gasp save, keeping out Christoph Baumgartner’s goal-bound header, that clinched their passage into the quarter-finals. His save will remain etched in the memories of many football fans as a truly great moment.
Turkey’s next competitive football will come in September, where they will play in the Nations League – in Group 4 of League B, accompanied by Wales, Montenegro and Iceland. Turkey are 11/10 to top their Nations League group.
Underdog Triumph
Georgia achieved a historic victory over Portugal, propelling Willy Sagnol’s team into the last-16 at Euro 2024 in their first ever appearance in a major international competition. This monumental win marked a significant milestone for the eastern European nation, which boasts a population of just four million and was participating in a major tournament for the first time. Goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze, one in each half, secured Georgia’s biggest triumph to date, ensuring they finished third in Group F.
Georgia’s next competitive football will come in September, where they will play in the Nations League – in Group 1 of League B, accompanied by Czech Republic, Ukraine and Albania. Georgia are 5/1 to top their Nations League group.
