The UEFA EURO 2024 tournament has reached its thrilling quarter-final stage, where eight nations remain in contention for the prestigious Henri Delaunay Cup. From the initial 24 teams that embarked on this journey, these quarter-finalists have navigated through intense group stages and knockout matches, showcasing skill, determination, and strategic prowess. Let’s delve into the profiles of each team, their journey so far, key players, and what lies ahead as they aim to etch their names into European football history.
The Quarter Finalists
England
England, managed by Gareth Southgate, enters the quarter-finals after topping Group C and overcoming Slovakia in the round of 16. Led by the prolific Harry Kane, England’s journey has been marked by moments of brilliance from talents like Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden. Despite not hitting top gear consistently, Southgate’s side remains a formidable force, aiming to improve upon their runner-up finish in EURO 2020.
Key Player: Harry Kane
Harry Kane’s goal-scoring prowess and leadership make him pivotal to England’s ambitions. With a penchant for decisive moments, Kane embodies England’s attacking threat and will be crucial in their clash against Switzerland.
One to Watch: Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer’s emergence as a dynamic playmaker adds depth to England’s attacking options. His composure and creativity could be decisive in breaking down defences in the upcoming matches.
France
France, under the guidance of Didier Deschamps, progressed from Group D with a win over Austria and draws against the Netherlands and Poland. Kylian Mbappé leads Les Bleus’ attack, supported by a talented squad aiming to add to their EURO titles in 1984 and 2000.
Key Player: Kylian Mbappé
Mbappé’s electrifying pace and goal-scoring ability make him a constant threat. As France faces Portugal in the quarter-finals, Mbappé’s performance will be crucial to their success.
One to Watch: Bradley Barcola
Bradley Barcola’s breakout season and direct style of play add a new dimension to France’s forward line. His ability to unsettle defences could provide the edge in tight matches.
Germany
Germany, the hosts, topped Group A with impressive wins over Scotland and Hungary, followed by a draw against Switzerland. Under Julian Nagelsmann’s astute management, Germany remains unbeaten, with players like İlkay Gündoğan and Jamal Musiala excelling in midfield.
Key Player: İlkay Gündoğan
Gündoğan’s experience and vision in midfield provide stability and creativity for Germany. His leadership and tactical awareness will be vital as they face Spain in the quarter-finals.
One to Watch: Maximilian Mittelstädt
Maximilian Mittelstädt’s rise from Hertha Berlin to a key role in Germany’s defence highlights his resilience and tactical acumen. His contributions in defence and attacking overlaps could be pivotal in tight matches.
Netherlands
The Netherlands navigated a challenging Group D, securing a crucial win against Poland and drawing with France before defeating Romania in the round of 16. Coach Ronald Koeman relies on Memphis Depay’s attacking prowess and Cody Gakpo’s emerging talent to lead the Oranje’s charge.
Key Player: Memphis Depay
Depay’s goal-scoring ability and creative flair make him the focal point of Netherlands’ attack. As they face Turkey in the quarter-finals, Depay’s leadership will be vital in unlocking defences.
One to Watch: Jeremie Frimpong
Jeremie Frimpong’s explosive pace and defensive solidity make him a valuable asset for the Netherlands. His ability to contribute in both attack and defence adds versatility to Koeman’s tactical setup.
Portugal
Portugal, led by Roberto Martínez, progressed from Group F with wins over Czechia, Turkey, and Georgia. Despite relying on penalties to overcome Slovenia in the round of 16, Portugal boasts a formidable squad featuring Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva.
Key Player: Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes’ playmaking ability and goal-scoring threat make him indispensable for Portugal. His partnership with Silva will be crucial as they face France in the quarter-finals.
One to Watch: João Neves
João Neves’ rapid rise and maturity in midfield highlight his potential as Portugal’s future star. His ability to dictate play and adaptability in high-pressure situations make him a player to watch in EURO 2024.
Spain
Spain, under Luis de la Fuente, emerged as group winners from Group B with wins over Croatia, Italy, and Albania. Álvaro Morata’s goal-scoring form and Rodri’s midfield dominance have been pivotal as Spain aims to add to their EURO titles.
Key Player: Rodri
Rodri’s tactical awareness and midfield control provide a solid foundation for Spain’s play. His ability to dictate tempo and break down opposition attacks will be crucial against Germany in the quarter-finals.
One to Watch: Lamine Yamal
Lamine Yamal’s record-breaking debut and dynamic playmaking abilities highlight his potential for Spain. As one of EURO 2024’s wonderkids, his impact in midfield could be decisive in Spain’s quest for another EURO title.
Switzerland
Switzerland, managed by Murat Yakin, progressed from Group A as runners-up with impressive performances against Hungary, Scotland, and Germany. Granit Xhaka’s leadership and Ruben Vargas’ attacking flair have been instrumental for the Nati as they aim to surpass their EURO 2020 quarter-final finish.
Key Player: Granit Xhaka
Granit Xhaka’s experience and defensive solidity provide a backbone for Switzerland’s midfield. His leadership and tactical awareness will be crucial against England in the quarter-finals.
One to Watch: Ruben Vargas
Ruben Vargas’ emergence as a key player in Switzerland’s midfield highlights his versatility and goal-scoring ability. His performance against Italy showcased his potential to influence crucial matches.
Turkey
Turkey, coached by Vincenzo Montella, progressed as runners-up from Group F with wins over Georgia and Czechia. Hakan Çalhanoğlu’s leadership and Arda Güler’s dynamic playmaking have been vital for Türkiye as they aim to replicate their EURO 2008 semi-final run.
Key Player: Hakan Çalhanoğlu
Hakan Çalhanoğlu’s set-piece expertise and attacking prowess make him a key figure for Türkiye. His experience and leadership will be crucial against Netherlands in the quarter-finals.
One to Watch: Arda Güler
Arda Güler’s debut and goal-scoring exploits highlight his potential as Türkiye’s rising star. His creativity and composure under pressure make him a player to watch in EURO 2024.
Conclusion | Quarter Finalists
As EURO 2024 reaches its quarter-final stage, these eight nations showcase the best of European football. With star players, tactical ingenuity, and a quest for glory, each team brings a unique blend of skill and determination to the tournament. As the competition intensifies, football fans around the world eagerly anticipate the drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments that will unfold as these quarter-finalists vie for a place in the semi-finals and, ultimately, the chance to lift the Henri Delaunay Cup in Berlin.
