As excitement builds for Euro 2024, fans and pundits alike look forward to another thrilling chapter in the storied history of the continental competition. Let’s look into the upsets in the history of the UEFA European Championship.
The 2024 European Championship will be held in Germany from June 14 to July 14, with 24 nations dreaming of lifting the trophy.
The first Euros tournament was held in 1960, and over the 16 tournaments since, there have been numerous shocking results. The European Championship has provided plenty of drama through the years, with moments of sheer underdog triumphs that have left fans in awe.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on some of the most astonishing upsets in the history of the UEFA European Championship. These moments have not only thrilled fans but also showcased the unpredictable nature of football.
1.The Soviet Union’s Triumph in 1960
The first European Championship in 1960 was a modest affair compared to today’s event, but it still had a big surprise. Under coach Gavriil Kachalin, the Soviet Union became champions during a time of political tension. In the final match in Paris, they played against Yugoslavia. Yugoslavia took the lead twice, but the Soviet Union equalized both times. According to UEFA, the game went into extra time, and Viktor Ponedelnik scored the winning goal, giving the Soviet Union a 2-1 victory and the championship.
2. Iceland’s Heroic Run in 2016
Making their debut in a major tournament, Iceland won everyone’s heart at Euro 2016 with their fearless performances. As the smallest nation to compete, with a population of just over 330,000, they drew against Portugal and Hungary and defeated Austria in the group stage to advance to the knockout rounds.
In the Round of 16, Iceland faced England and, against expectations, secured an upset victory. Although their journey ended in the quarter-finals against France, Iceland’s exploits and their iconic Viking chant left an unforgettable impression.
Iceland’s unexpected journey to the quarter-finals captivated the world, proving that determination and teamwork can overcome any odds.
3. The Netherlands’ Golden Moment in 1988
The Netherlands’ victory in the 1988 European Championship was a turning point for a team with a history of international disappointments. Coached by Rinus Michels and featuring stars like Ruud Gullit and Marco van Basten, the Dutch team showed their talent. After losing their opening match to the Soviet Union, they bounced back with wins over England and the Republic of Ireland to reach the semi-finals.
In the semi-finals, they defeated hosts and favorites West Germany 2-1. In the final, they faced the Soviet Union again, winning 2-0, with Gullit scoring first and Van Basten sealing the victory with a legendary volley.
The Dutch team’s stunning performance remains one of the most memorable upsets, with their flair and skill leaving a lasting impression.
4. Portugal’s Unlikely Victory Over France in 2016
Starting in 2016, the tournament expanded to include 24 teams.
At Euro 2016, Portugal finished third in their group but still made it to the final. They defeated the host and favorite, France, 1-0 to win their first major trophy. Even though Cristiano Ronaldo got injured in the first half, Eder scored in extra time to secure the win.
5. 2020 round of 16: Netherlands 0-2 Czechia
Reflecting on Czechia’s unexpected success at Euro 2020, forward Patrick Schick said, “It couldn’t have gone any better. Nobody expected us to make it so far.” Schick scored Czechia’s second goal after Tomáš Holeš’ powerful opening header. Jaroslav Šilhavý’s team, having reached the knockouts as one of the best third-placed teams, ended the Netherlands’ winning streak in Budapest.
6. Romania beat England 3-2 to send them out of the competition in 2000
At Euro 2000, England aimed to do better on their semi-final finish from 1996 and reach the final in Rotterdam, but their hopes were dashed by a poor group stage performance.
The previous competition’s semi-finalists lost their first game 3-2 to Portugal but managed to beat reigning champions Germany 1-0 in their second game. This meant that a win against Romania in their third game would secure a spot in the quarter-finals.
Unfortunately for Kevin Keegan and his team, Romania played exceptionally well in that final group game, and an 89th-minute penalty allowed them to advance to the knockouts at England’s expense.
7. Romania’s Upset Victory Over England in 2000
Romania’s triumph over England sent shockwaves through the tournament, showcasing their underdog spirit.
8. Wale’s Unexpected Victory Over Belgium in 2016
Wales’ greatest moment in tournament football likely came at Euro 2016 when they defeated Belgium, ranked second in the world, to reach the semi-finals.
Radja Nainggolan put Belgium ahead after 13 minutes, but Ashley Williams equalized for Wales. Hal Robson-Kanu then scored a brilliant second goal, skillfully getting past Belgium’s defenders, and Sam Vokes added a late third goal.
Chris Coleman’s team was then beaten by the eventual winners, Portugal, in the semi-finals.
9. Denmark’s Fairy Tale in 1992
Denmark wasn’t originally supposed to be in Euro 1992 but went on to win it. The Danes replaced Yugoslavia, who had to withdraw from the tournament due to ongoing conflicts in the country.
Denmark finished above France and England in the group stage, then defeated the Netherlands on penalties in the semi-final. Goals from John Jensen and Kim Vilfort secured a 2-0 win in the final against Germany.
Denmark’s unexpected success continues to inspire, as they claimed victory despite not initially qualifying.
10. Greece’s Unbelievable Triumph in 2004
Euro 2004 began and ended with Greece defeating Portugal, marking one of the biggest surprises in the tournament’s history. The competition took place in Portugal, with Cristiano Ronaldo, then playing for Manchester United, expected to lead his team to victory.
After losing 2-1 to Greece in the opening match, Portugal bounced back by beating Russia and Spain, then eliminating England and the Netherlands to set up a rematch with Greece.
In the final, Angelos Charisteas scored with a header from a corner, making Greece the European champions for the first time.
These upsets remind us that in football, anything is possible. As we look forward to Euro 2024, let’s keep our eyes open for more incredible moments that will be etched in history.