Fun Facts
Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the beautiful game, these fascinating tidbits will enhance your appreciation of the drama, skill, and excitement that have defined the Euros since its inception in 1960.
The Birth of the Euros
The inaugural UEFA European Championship, initially known as the European Nations' Cup, was held in 1960. Four teams participated in the final tournament, held in France. The Soviet Union emerged as the first champions, defeating Yugoslavia 2-1 in the final match in Paris. The tournament was the brainchild of Henri Delaunay, the first General Secretary of UEFA, who had proposed the idea as early as 1927.
Germany and Spain's Dominance
Germany and Spain are the most successful nations in the history of the Euros, each winning the championship three times. Germany clinched their titles in 1972, 1980, and 1996, while Spain triumphed in 1964, 2008, and 2012. Spain's consecutive victories in 2008 and 2012 made them the first team to successfully defend their title, showcasing their dominance in European football.
Denmark’s Fairytale Win in 1992
Denmark's unexpected victory in the 1992 European Championship is one of football's greatest underdog stories. The Danes were not initially qualified but were invited to participate after Yugoslavia was disqualified due to political turmoil. With minimal preparation, Denmark shocked the football world by defeating reigning champions the Netherlands in the semifinals and Germany in the final, clinching their first major international trophy.
Greece's 2004 Miracle
Greece's triumph in Euro 2004 is another Cinderella story in football history. Entering the tournament as underdogs, Greece employed a disciplined defensive strategy under coach Otto Rehhagel. They stunned the football world by defeating hosts Portugal in both the opening match and the final, as well as eliminating France and the Czech Republic along the way. This remarkable achievement highlighted the unpredictability of the Euros.
Platini's Record-Breaking Performance
Michel Platini holds the record for the most goals scored in a single European Championship tournament. During Euro 1984, held in France, Platini scored nine goals in just five matches, leading his team to their first Euro title. His exceptional performance included two hat-tricks and a decisive goal in the final against Spain, cementing his place as one of the tournament's greatest players.
Spain's Historic Streak
Spain's national team made history by winning three consecutive major tournaments: Euro 2008, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and Euro 2012. Their back-to-back Euro victories made them the first team to win consecutive European Championships, and their World Cup win in between showcased their dominance in international football. This era of Spanish football is often attributed to their "tiki-taka" style of play, characterized by short passing and maintaining possession.
The Euro 2020 Unique Format
Euro 2020 was unique in several ways, primarily because it was held across multiple countries to celebrate the tournament's 60th anniversary. Matches were played in 11 cities across Europe, including London, Rome, and Budapest. The tournament also faced unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a one-year postponement. Despite these hurdles, Italy emerged victorious, defeating England in a dramatic penalty shootout in the final at Wembley Stadium.
The Youngest Goal Scorer
The record for the youngest goal scorer in the history of the European Championship is held by Swiss player Johan Vonlanthen. He scored at the age of 18 years and 141 days during Euro 2004 against France. Vonlanthen’s record-breaking goal briefly put Switzerland ahead, showcasing the talent and potential of young players on the big stage.
First Golden Goal Winner
The "golden goal" rule, where the first team to score in extra time wins the match, was first implemented in Euro 1996. Germany's Oliver Bierhoff scored the first-ever golden goal in a major international tournament, leading his team to victory over the Czech Republic in the final. This dramatic rule was used to encourage attacking play but was eventually abolished after Euro 2004.
Northern Ireland's Historic Win
Northern Ireland made their European Championship debut in 2016 and made history with their first-ever win in the tournament. They defeated Ukraine 2-0 in a group stage match, with goals from Gareth McAuley and Niall McGinn. This victory was a significant achievement for Northern Ireland, showcasing their competitive spirit on the international stage.
Zidane’s Memorable Euro 2000
Zinedine Zidane delivered one of the most memorable performances in Euro 2000, leading France to their second European Championship title. His exceptional playmaking and vision were crucial throughout the tournament, particularly in the semifinal against Portugal, where he scored the winning goal in extra time with a penalty. Zidane’s leadership and skill were instrumental in France’s triumph.
The Fastest Goal
The fastest goal in European Championship history was scored by Dmitri Kirichenko of Russia, just 67 seconds into the match against Greece during Euro 2004. Despite Kirichenko's quick start, Russia did not advance past the group stage. Nonetheless, this record-setting goal remains a highlight of Euro 2004, showcasing the potential for unexpected moments in football.
The Debut of the Panenka Penalty
The 1976 European Championship final is famous for introducing the world to the "Panenka" penalty. Czechoslovakian player Antonín Panenka scored the winning penalty against West Germany by delicately chipping the ball down the center of the goal, deceiving the goalkeeper. This audacious and skillful move has since been emulated by many players in high-stakes matches.
Netherlands’ First and Only Title
The Netherlands won their first and only European Championship in 1988. Led by legendary players like Ruud Gullit and Marco van Basten, the Dutch team triumphed over the Soviet Union in the final. Van Basten’s stunning volley from a tight angle, often considered one of the greatest goals in tournament history, secured their 2-0 victory and the championship.
First Goalkeeper Captain to Win the Euros
Dino Zoff, the legendary Italian goalkeeper, became the first and only goalkeeper captain to lift the European Championship trophy. He led Italy to victory in Euro 1968, the second edition of the tournament. Zoff's leadership and remarkable goalkeeping skills were pivotal in Italy's success, making him a national hero.
David Villa’s Scoring Prowess
Spanish striker David Villa was the top scorer of Euro 2008, netting four goals in the tournament. His hat-trick against Russia in the group stage was the first hat-trick in a European Championship since 2000. Villa's clinical finishing and movement off the ball played a crucial role in Spain’s journey to their first Euro title in 44 years.
Record Attendance
The highest recorded attendance for a European Championship match was during the 1964 final between Spain and the Soviet Union. Held at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, the match drew an impressive crowd of 79,115 spectators. Spain emerged victorious, winning 2-1, with goals from Chus Pereda and Marcelino Martínez.
First Goal of the European Championship
The first-ever goal in European Championship history was scored by Anatoli Ilyin of the Soviet Union in the 1960 semifinals. The Soviet Union faced Czechoslovakia in Marseille, and Ilyin’s goal helped his team secure a 3-0 victory, paving the way to their first title.
Smallest Host Nation
Belgium holds the distinction of being the smallest country by population to host the European Championship. Belgium co-hosted Euro 2000 with the Netherlands, showcasing their passion for football and ability to organize a major international event. The tournament featured exciting matches and culminated in France winning their second Euro title.
England’s Memorable Euro 96
Euro 1996, held in England, is fondly remembered for its slogan "Football Comes Home." England reached the semifinals, their best performance in a European Championship, before losing to Germany in a penalty shootout. The tournament also saw the emergence of the iconic Three Lions song, which became an anthem for English football fans.
Fernando Torres’ Decisive Goals
Fernando Torres is the only player to have scored in two different Euro finals. He netted the winning goal for Spain in the 2008 final against Germany and scored in the 2012 final against Italy. Torres’ contributions were crucial in both tournaments, highlighting his knack for performing on the biggest stages.
Record Number of Goals in a Single Match
The record for the most goals in a single European Championship match was set during the 1960 semifinals, where France faced Yugoslavia. The thrilling match ended with a 5-4 victory for Yugoslavia. This high-scoring game remains one of the most exciting in the history of the tournament.
Eder’s Stunning Goal in 2016
Portugal’s Eder scored one of the most memorable goals in Euro history during the 2016 final against France. Coming on as a substitute, Eder netted the only goal of the match in extra time, securing Portugal’s first major international trophy. His long-range strike stunned the hosts and became a defining moment for Portuguese football.
Oldest Player to Score
The oldest player to score in a European Championship match is Ivica Vastic of Austria. He was 38 years and 257 days old when he scored a penalty against Poland in Euro 2008. Vastic’s late equalizer was celebrated by Austrian fans, marking a historic moment for the host nation during their debut in the tournament.