The UEFA EURO 2024 has reached its thrilling end game, narrowing the field from 24 teams to just three. England, the Netherlands and Spain have emerged as the top survivors. Here’s a detailed look at each team’s journey, key players, and what to watch for as they vie for the championship.
Spain
Pedigree: Spain has won the EURO three times (1964, 2008, 2012) and reached the semi-finals in 2020.
Story so far: Spain has been in excellent form, winning all their matches and conceding only two goals. They defeated Germany in extra time in the quarter-finals. They took on France in the semi-finals and went past the line 2-1.
Key player: Rodri, possibly the best midfielder in the world right now, is crucial to Spain’s success.
One to watch: Lamine Yamal, at just 16 years old, has made history as the youngest player at a EURO and has impressed with his performances.
Did you know?
Spain is the only team to have won three consecutive major international titles: EURO 2008, the 2010 World Cup, and EURO 2012.
Netherlands
Pedigree: The Netherlands won the EURO back in 1988. They reached the round of 16 in 2020.
Story so far: The Netherlands had a mixed group stage but advanced as one of the best third-placed teams. They comfortably defeated Romania in the round of 16 and fought back to beat Türkiye in the quarter-finals. They now face England in the semi-finals.
Key player: Memphis Depay, despite injury setbacks, remains the leading force in the Dutch attack.
One to watch: Xavi Simons has emerged as a creative powerhouse, contributing significantly in the knockout stages.
Did you know?
Wim Kieft’s goal in EURO ’88 was the Netherlands’ first headed goal in a major finals, with Marco van Basten contributing to most of their goals.
England
Pedigree: England’s best EURO performance was as runners-up in 2020, losing to Italy on penalties.
Story so far: England topped Group C despite not being at their free-flowing best. Key players like Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, and Phil Foden showed glimpses of brilliance. England overcame Slovakia in extra time in the round of 16 and won a penalty shootout against Switzerland in the quarter-finals. They now face the Netherlands in the semi-finals.
Key player: Jude Bellingham has been an asset, scoring two goals, including a spectacular bicycle kick against Slovakia.
One to watch: Cole Palmer showed his composure by scoring the first penalty in the shootout against Switzerland.
Did you know?
Under Southgate, England have topped their group in both EURO campaigns, matching their record from their previous eight tournaments combined.
With Spain already booking their place in the finals of EURO 2024 by knocking France out by 2-1, it would be interesting to see who amongst Netherlands and England book their date with Spain in the finals of the EURO 2024.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
