The Euro 2024 tournament has been a whirlwind of drama, controversy, and stunning upsets as the group stages concluded and the knockout rounds commenced. From dramatic comebacks and controversial VAR decisions to pitch invasions and a lightning-struck stadium, the tournament has delivered an abundance of excitement for fans worldwide.
One of the most remarkable moments came in Albania’s 2-2 draw against Croatia, where substitute Klaus Gjasula scored on both ends of the pitch. After Albania took the lead, coach Sylvinho brought on Gjasula, who eventually scored an equaliser for his side. However, the VAR system was at the centre of controversy again in Netherlands’ match against France. Xavi Simons had his goal disallowed after an unusually long review by the referee, who ultimately decided that Denzel Dumfries was offside and impeding the goalkeeper’s ability to make a save.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s star power was on full display during Portugal’s 3-0 win over Turkey. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was interrupted by numerous pitch invaders eager for a selfie. While Ronaldo initially entertained one young boy, he became visibly unimpressed as the interruptions continued, refusing to pose with further intruders. The incident prompted coach Roberto Martinez to express concerns about player safety.
In a match filled with drama, Hungary’s Barnabas Varga was stretchered off the field following a terrifying collision with Scotland’s goalkeeper Angus Gunn. After being struck in the face by Gunn’s shoulder, Varga lay motionless on the pitch, sparking concerns similar to Denmark’s Christian Eriksen’s collapse in the previous edition. Despite the traumatic incident, Hungary’s Kevin Csoboth scored a late winner to secure victory, with the players paying tribute to Varga by holding his jersey aloft.
France’s Kylian Mbappe scored his first-ever European Championship goal from the penalty spot in his side’s final group stage match against Poland. Meanwhile, Polish talisman Robert Lewandowski scored an equaliser after a penalty retake, as VAR confirmed that the goalkeeper had moved off his line early during the initial save. France ended the group stage with a mixed record, finishing one point behind group winner Austria.
Austria’s victory over the Netherlands was notable for two reasons. Firstly, Dutchman Donyell Malen added his name to the long list of own-goal scorers in the tournament, directing the ball past his own goalkeeper. Secondly, Marcel Sabitzer’s 80th-minute winner secured Austria’s top spot in the group, a testament to Ralf Rangnick’s high-tempo approach.
The final group stage match between Turkey and Czechia set a new record for most cards dished out in a single Euros match. The encounter saw 18 cards, including two red cards, and ended with a stoppage-time winner for Turkey, sending them into the knockout stages. However, the celebrations were cut short by a brawl on the pitch, leading to further red cards and cautions.
The knockout clash between Germany and Denmark was halted due to lightning striking the stadium. After a delay of around 25 minutes, the match resumed, with Germany securing a comfortable victory thanks to goals from Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala.
Georgia, ranked 74th in the world, pulled off a monumental upset by defeating sixth-ranked Portugal. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s early goal and Georges Mikautadze’s penalty ensured Georgia’s historic victory and progression to the round of 16 in their debut appearance.
England’s Jude Bellingham rescued his side from the brink of elimination with a stunning bicycle kick equaliser against Slovakia in their knockout clash. The goal forced extra time, where England captain Harry Kane scored the winner, sending the Three Lions into the final eight of a major tournament for the fourth consecutive time.
Euro 2024 continues to deliver thrilling matches and unexpected twists as the tournament enters its most crucial stages. The remaining knockout games promise to be filled with high-stakes encounters and nail-biting moments, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
