These greats have had conquests at the Euros!
The European Championship, which began in 1960, is held every four years, like the World Cup. Initially called the European Nations' Cup, it featured a four-team tournament after preliminary rounds, with last-16 matches and quarter-finals played home and away across two legs. Rebranded as the European Championship in 1968, it expanded to an eight-team format in 1980. In 1996, the tournament included 16 teams, and in 2016, it was further expanded to 24 teams. Some of the game's greatest players have graced its history. Look at those who shone the brightest in this prestigious continental competition…
Xavi was the heartbeat of Spain's exceptional team during their golden era from 2008 to 2012. Everything flowed through the Barcelona midfielder, who was named Player of the Tournament at Euro 2008. He played a pivotal role once more in 2012, as Spain became the first team to successfully defend the trophy. A two-time champion, Xavi set the standard for midfield excellence with his precise passing and tactical acumen, confirming his place as a pivotal figure in Spain's historic achievements on the European stage.
While Xavi earned the Player of the Tournament accolade at Euro 2008, his Barcelona teammate Andrés Iniesta claimed the individual award in 2012. Iniesta, who had scored the winning goal for Spain in the 2010 World Cup final against the Netherlands, delivered a stellar performance at Euro 2012. A two-time European champion with La Roja, he was a cornerstone of the team during an era of remarkable success, captivating audiences with his skill and creativity on the field. Iniesta's contributions epitomised Spain's dominance in international football, making him not only a key figure but also a joy to watch throughout his illustrious career.
Zinedine Zidane guided France to triumph in the 1998 World Cup, and two years later, the midfielder played a central role in more success for Les Bleus at Euro 2000. Zidane scored two goals and served as the creative catalyst for France, leading the team with grace and flair. Widely considered to be at his peak during the tournament in Belgium and the Netherlands, he was instrumental in France becoming the first team since West Germany in 1974 to clinch both the World Cup and the Euros consecutively.
Cristiano Ronaldo debuted for Portugal in 2003 and played a pivotal role in guiding his nation to the Euro 2004 final on home soil the following year. Twelve years later, he led the team to victory as Portugal defeated hosts France in the final to lift the trophy. Ronaldo holds the record for the most appearances in European Championship games and is the tournament's all-time leading goal scorer. Additionally, he claimed the top scorer title at Euro 2020.
Iker Casillas led Spain through their illustrious era from 2008 to 2012, captaining La Roja to consecutive European Championships and a World Cup victory. He participated in five European Championships, playing in four and winning two. As captain in 2008 and 2012, the legendary former Real Madrid goalkeeper remains the only player to have lifted the trophy twice. He kept clean sheets in both finals, recording five clean sheets in seven matches in 2012. His crucial penalty saves against Italy in the 2008 quarter-finals marked a turning point for Spain, overcoming years of previous disappointments on the international stage.
Michel Platini, Marco van Basten, Fernando Torres, Gerd Muller, and Peter Schmeichel are some of the Euro tournament's greats.
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