June 11, 2021 – July 11, 2021 – The UEFA European Championships — delayed for one year due to the coronavirus pandemic, but retaining the UEFA Euro 2020 title — takes place across Europe. The tournament marks 60 years of agony and ecstasy, individual brilliance and triumphant teamwork, stunning goals and impossible saves, creating a showpiece of the very best footballing talent on the continent.
1960: Milan Galić of Yugoslavia scores first goal in Championship history, stunning hosts France in remarkable comeback with 3 goals in 4 minutes. Remains highest ever scoring game.
1968: Italy reach final in fortuitous fashion after coin toss decides semi-final following 0-0 draw with USSR.
1972: Prolific striker Gerd Müller inspires West Germany to first title. Star-studded team includes legendary captain Franz Beckenbauer
1984: Dramatic semi-final as both teams score in extra time before talismanic captain Michel Platini hits last gasp winner to send “Les Bleus” into final.
1988: Marco van Basten’s famous finish is arguably among greatest ever goals. Dutch master connects to Arnold Mühren’s high cross and volleys just inside far post from near impossible angle.
1992: Denmark scrape through group stage to beat holders Netherlands in semi-finals, and go on to shock world champions Germany in final.
1996: England face Germany in repeat of 1990 World Cup semi-final. Three Lions come agonisingly close to final but lose 6-5 on penalties — fate is sealed when Gareth Southgate fails to score.
2000: David Trezeguet’s golden goal makes France first World and European champions.
2004: Greece produce brilliant team display, firing only goal to beat host favourites Portugal — arguably biggest shock in tournament’s history.
2008: David Villa hits Championships’ eighth, and most recent, hat-trick, as undefeated Spain go on to end 44-year wait for trophy.
2016: Underdogs Wales — inspired by Gareth Bale — spring surprise to reach first ever semi-final at any major tournament, surpassing their previous best at 1958 World Cup.
2020: Tournament staged in 11 cities across Europe for first time in its 60-year history — but delayed by one year due to coronavirus pandemic.
