Five of the Biggest Flops of EURO 2024 So Far

EURO 2024 has delivered some thrilling games and remarkable performances so far, but determining a clear frontrunner for the player of the tournament remains challenging.

The best teams in this tournament have been characterised by a strong lineup from 1 to 11. For instance, despite Jamal Musiala and Nico Williams shining for Germany and Spain, one could argue that Toni Kroos and Lamine Yamal have outperformed them within their own squads, not to mention the tournament as a whole.

While it’s difficult to single out one player as the standout, identifying the underperformers has been much more straightforward. Here are five notable flops of EURO 2024, encompassing three teams and two players.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo has been a shadow of his former self, hindering his team’s overall play, breaking down in tears mid-game, and failing to score despite numerous attempts. With 20 shots on goal, five more than any other player in the tournament, Ronaldo has yet to find the back of the net.

The missed penalty against Slovenia marked the lowest point for the 39-year-old in this EURO. It was as if the world witnessed a legend realise his glory days are definitively behind him. Sadly, it’s hard to imagine Ronaldo scoring for Portugal again if this form continues.

Italy

Italy started strong in their first two group games and showed resilience in their last-minute comeback against Croatia. However, their lack of creativity became glaringly apparent ahead of the last 16.

Their performance against Switzerland in Berlin was one of the most dismal displays from a defending champion in recent memory. Lacking any innovative play, Italy seemed resigned to a 2-0 loss, effectively relinquishing their hold on the Henri Delaunay trophy. A remarkably disappointing title defence.

Croatia

Despite being just seconds away from advancing to the last 16, Croatia’s performance was hugely disappointing, especially given their recent pedigree in tournaments. With weaker opponents like Italy and Albania, a first-round exit was unexpected.

Although the 3-0 loss to Spain was misleadingly harsh, the Croatians only had themselves to blame for what followed. They conceded a 95th-minute equaliser against Albania and a 98th-minute equaliser against Italy, leading to their early exit. It was a heartbreaking end for Luka Modric and his fellow veterans, likely marking their last major tournament.

Gareth Southgate

Gareth Southgate’s inclusion might spark debate, but his track record of leading England deep into major tournaments is undeniable. England entered EURO 2024 as one of the favourites, yet their lack of creativity under Southgate has been glaring.

Despite being on the “easier” side of the draw, England’s performances have been lacklustre, with their three group games being some of the toughest to watch. They barely progressed past Slovakia, and it’s hard to see them surviving against top-level opposition. If England manage to win, it will likely be despite Southgate’s tactics.

Belgium

Oh, Belgium.

Failing to score against Ukraine, arguably the weakest team in the tournament, placed Belgium on the tougher side of the draw. A 0-0 draw against Ukraine led them to face France in the last 16, where they created little and exited due to an unfortunate own goal.

Belgium’s tournament was marred by an embarrassing defeat to Slovakia, internal conflicts, feuds with journalists, and a frosty relationship with fans. A spat between the manager and Thibaut Courtois meant one of the world’s best goalkeepers stayed at home out of pride. Belgium’s performance was a complete disaster.