Best UEFA EURO Moments: Thrills, Triumphs, Iconic Goals
The Journey to Euro 2024 is all set to begin as we have a look at some of the best memorable moments in the previous editions.
From the first European Nations Cup in 1960 to the latest Euros each tournament has penned its own epic tale.
Imagine breathtaking goals, unforgettable matches, and moments that had us all on the edge of our seats.
We’ve seen surprise winners who defied the odds and iconic celebrations that are etched in football history. And let’s not forget the controversies that sparked endless debates among fans.
The European Championship has given us drama, excitement, and those rare, era-defining moments that make football more than just a game. Let’s take a nostalgic trip through the top five best moments from the Euros over the years.
Top 5 Best UEFA Euro Moments
Turkey’s Thrilling Comeback vs. Czech Republic at Euro 2008
Euro 2008 served up one of the greatest comebacks in football history. Turkey in their final Group A game were 2-0 down against the Czech Republic and looked set to pack their bags.
But then the magic happened in the last 15 minutes.
Arda Turan sparked hope with a goal with just 15 minutes to go. The real drama unfolded when Nihat Kahveci scored not once but twice in the 87th and 89th
minutes.
Talk about a nail-biter! This stunning turnaround punched Turkey’s ticket to the knockout stages. Thus, leaving the Czechs stunned and out of the competition.
Under the guidance of Fatih Terim Turkey’s rollercoaster ride didn’t stop there. They charged all the way to the semi-finals but only to be edged out by Germany in a heart-pounding 3-2 defeat. What a ride!
Fans Rally for Eriksen: A Heartfelt Moment at Euro 2020
The world of football was united in shock and sadness when Denmark’s Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest during a match against Finland at Euro 2020.
In a moment that reminded us all of the fragility of life. Team-mate Simon Kjær acted swiftly placing Eriksen in the recovery position as medical staff rushed in.
Eriksen was swiftly taken to the hospital where he underwent an operation and was discharged a few days later.
The response from fans was nothing short of heartwarming. Support and affection poured in from around the globe. Thus, showing the true spirit of the football
community.
With their star midfielder on the mend, Denmark went on an incredible run to the semi-finals. And the best news? Eriksen made a full recovery and was able to return to the pitch reminding us all that some comebacks are bigger than the game itself.
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Ricardo’s Gloveless Heroics: Portugal’s Triumph Over England at Euro 2004
Euro 2004 served up a moment for the ages when Ricardo became Portugal’s unlikely hero in their quarter-final clash against England.
In a plot twist straight out of a football fairy tale, the goalkeeper ditched his gloves to save Darius Vassell’s penalty with his bare hands.
But Ricardo wasn’t done there. He then coolly stepped up and fired the winning penalty himself. Talk about hands-on heroics!
The match ended 1-1 in regular time and 2-2 after extra time and was decided by Ricardo’s gloveless gamble and a firing spot kick leading Portugal to a thrilling 6-5
victory in the shootout.
It’s not every day you see a keeper score the winning penalty—Ricardo’s audacious move ensured his place in football folklore.
Injured Ronaldo Rallies Portugal to Euro 2016 Glory
The Euro 2016 final saw Portugal’s hopes dim when their talisman Cristiano Ronaldo was stretchered off early after a tough collision with Dimitri Payet. It looked like a crushing blow.
Ronaldo tried to soldier on but had to bow out as his leg strapped up. But did he disappear? No way! He was right there on the sidelines practically becoming
assistant coach yelling instructions alongside Fernando Santos.
When Eder scored the extra-time winner sealing Portugal’s first-ever major title, Ronaldo was back in the spotlight lifting the trophy and leading the celebrations.
Even sidelined Ronaldo proved he’s a true captain, showing that sometimes the heart of the team beats loudest from the sidelines.
Greece’s Mythical Euro 2004 Triumph
Euro 2004 kicked off with Greece sitting at a lowly 35th in the FIFA rankings. Only Latvia had slimmer odds of winning the title.
But the football gods had other plans. Greece battled through a tough group ousting Spain and then went on a giant-killing spree.
They took down France, the Czech Republic, and host nation Portugal, each with a 1-0 victory—all thanks to header goals.
In what was arguably the biggest upset in Euro history, Greece’s unlikely heroes etched their names into football folklore.
From underdogs to top dogs, Greece’s 2004 victory is a real-life myth we fans will never forget!
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