England’s Heartbreak Despite Reaching the Final
Despite reaching the final of Euro 2024, no England players were named in the tournament’s Team of the Tournament. Spain ultimately lifted the trophy after Mikel Oyarzabal scored a late winner, adding to the disappointment for Gareth Southgate’s side, who were also losing finalists at Euro 2020.
Team of the Tournament Highlights
The team, compiled by WhoScored based on player ratings throughout the tournament, features three Spaniards, two Germans, and two Portuguese stars. Here’s a breakdown of the selected players:
Goalkeeper and Defenders
- Goalkeeper: Giorgi Mamardashvili (Georgia)
Despite keeping only one clean sheet in four games, Mamardashvili made crucial saves to help his side reach the Last 16, including a notable performance against Portugal. - Right-Back: Joshua Kimmich (Germany)
Kimmich provided two assists in five games and helped Germany maintain two clean sheets, playing a pivotal role in their journey to the quarter-finals. - Centre-Back: Jaka Bijol (Slovenia)
Bijol was instrumental in Slovenia’s defense, especially against Portugal, helping his team reach the Last 16 before losing on penalties. - Centre-Back: Pepe (Portugal)
The 41-year-old veteran delivered key performances, making crucial tackles against Slovenia and France as Portugal reached the quarter-finals. - Left-Back: Nuno Mendes (Portugal)
Although Mendes didn’t score or assist, his dynamic play on the left wing was vital for Portugal’s sturdy defense and attack.
Midfielders and Forwards
- Right Wing: Lamine Yamal (Spain)
The Young Player of the Tournament scored once and provided four assists, significantly contributing to Spain’s fourth European Championship title. - Central Midfield: Dani Olmo (Spain)
Olmo, one of the Golden Boot winners, stepped up in Pedri’s absence, playing a crucial role in Spain’s victories over Germany and France. - Central Midfield: Fabian Ruiz (Spain)
Ruiz impressed alongside Rodri, providing stability and creativity in Spain’s midfield. - Left Wing: Cody Gakpo (Netherlands)
Gakpo scored three goals and notched one assist, helping the Netherlands reach the semi-finals. - Forward: Kylian Mbappe (France)
Despite a challenging tournament and a broken nose, Mbappe scored one goal (a penalty against Poland) and maintained his spot in the team. - Forward: Kai Havertz (Germany)
Havertz, Germany’s first-choice striker, played a crucial role in their tournament campaign.
Full Team of the Tournament
- Goalkeeper: Giorgi Mamardashvili (Georgia)
- Defenders: Joshua Kimmich (Germany), Jaka Bijol (Slovenia), Pepe (Portugal), Nuno Mendes (Portugal)
- Midfielders: Lamine Yamal (Spain), Dani Olmo (Spain), Fabian Ruiz (Spain), Cody Gakpo (Netherlands)
- Forwards: Kai Havertz (Germany), Kylian Mbappe (France)