European Championships Greatest Moments
European Championships 2024 are just about to kick off in Germany! Over the coming weeks, we are going to be treated to a fantastic feast of football with top class footballers, and many memorable moments. In recent years, this magical competition has created many iconic moments and has forged heroes. There has been many goals and shocks; players that have given us many reasons to love The Euros.
From underdog triumphs to individual brilliance, The Euros have carved out a legacy of unforgettable highlights – and believe me, there are plenty! Let’s look at look some standout moments from this glittering tournament in th European Championships Greatest Moments.
Greece upsets Portugal
The Gods were truly watching when Greece stunned the Portuguese at Euro 2004. It was the one nobody saw coming when The Greeks grinded through the tournament. They came from nowhere in the rankings to battle their way out of the toughest group and saw off top teams like Spain, France, and a Czech Republic team who were nailed on favourites for the tournament. However, it was a Header from a corner by Angelos Charisteas in the 57th minute of the final that broke Portuguese hearts in Lisbon and crowned Greece champions.
Pirlo Helps Italy with Ice Cold Panenka
Andrea Pirlo served up a brilliant piece of skill when he unleashed his Panenka penalty to send England goalkeeper Joe Hart the wrong way and drag his team Italy back into the high stake’s penalty shootout at Euro 2012. Pirlo had been imperious throughout the game, however it ended up going to penalties. He was able to produce the moment of magic during the tense shootout, which then saw England go on to miss two penalties which allowed Italy to gain momentum. Italy then went on to win on penalties and progress to the next round.
Spain’s Gold Age Begins
Spain had always been the almost team of European and World football coming into Euro 2008. It had always been a nation that had a bottomless pit of talent and produced top players. However, when it came to competition time they always came up short and failed to reach expectations. This all changed at Euro 2008 when they defeated Germany in the final of Euro 2008. Fernando Torres scored the only goal of the game to win the game and give The Spanish their first European title since 1964. They then went on to win the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012 with their now legendary team. No wonder this part of the European Championships Greatest Moments!
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Portugal beat France in Paris to Win Euro 2016
France went into this game as huge favourites to get the job done. They had seen off Germany in the Semis and boasted a massively talented squad. Portugal limped to the final by grinding out results in the group and knockout stages – so on paper, it was a France win. Then Portugal lost Cristiano Ronaldo to injury 25 minutes into the first half. Portugal dug in and continued to frustrate France until 19 minutes into Extra Time when substitute Eder scored from outside the box. The Stade de France was stunned, and the French team pushed for an equaliser. It ended 1-0 and Portugal had their first ever title.
England is Sent Home by the Icemen
It is a game that still baffles many football fans to this day. England was no stranger to the European Championships, whereas Iceland – a nation with one of the smallest populations were making their first appearance in the competition. England looked on course for a routine win when they got an early penalty which Wayne Rooney scored. However, the celebrations didn’t last long as Iceland scored thanks to Ragnar Sigurðsson. The game was now level; minutes later Iceland scored another important goal to make it 2-1. The Icelandic’s held on to win the tie and send England home. England are one of the favourites in 2024, have a look at our Who are the favourites to win the Euro 2024?
A Touch of Zidane Magic
Another European Championships Greatest Moments is one of the highlights of Euro 2000 with the French team. At the centre of this truly amazing team there was Zinedine Zidane. One of the greatest of his era, if not of all time, Zidane took the pitch for France against a tough and talented Portugal side. The Portuguese could only look on as Zidane dominated the midfield with a majestic display of skill and power. The crowning moment is when a wild pass heads Zidane’s way, and he jumps and controls the ball with his chest and turns quickly to drive the ball into the box. Unfortunately, no one connected with it – otherwise it could have been the greatest assist ever.
Euro Bookie promos
Hollywoodbets as always offer some excellent promotions surrounding big sports events. Thus we are not surprised to find another epic promo! You stand a chance to win a share of R200 000 in cash between 14 June 2024 – 16 July 2024. Simply bet R25 or more on any European and South American Championships fixtures and opt-in on the romo page to enter. Don’t miss out and join the purple team by opening and account.
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Euro Greatest Hits
And there you have it, a thrilling trip down memory lane packed with the most memorable scenes from The European Championships. As the echoes of past glories fade, we find ourselves brimming with anticipation for what Euro 2024 will bring. Will new heroes rise? Can old champions reclaim their throne? One thing is certain – football will continue to write its own spellbinding narrative. With fans around the world waiting to add fresh chapters to this beautiful game’s rich history. Here’s to hoping for more moments that will leave us speechless, hearts racing, and craving for the next round of epic showdowns. Bring on Euro 2024 – we’re ready for more of The Greatest Moments!
