Euro 2024 has been an electrifying tournament, showcasing some of the best talents in European football. With only three games left—Spain vs. France and Netherlands vs. England in the semi-finals, followed by the final—the battle for the Golden Boot and standout performances from key players have become focal points. This article looks at the top goal scorers and standout players who have made a significant impact and those expected to shine in the remaining matches, building anticipation for the exciting games ahead.
Current Standings and Key Players
As of the latest matches, the tournament has reached the semi-final stage. Spain, France, Netherlands, and England have advanced, showcasing stellar performances from their key players. Spain’s tactical prowess, France’s attacking flair, Netherlands’ solid defense, and England’s resilience have been evident throughout the competition.
Key players from these teams include:
- Spain’s dynamic midfielder Pedri.
- France’s lethal forward Kylian Mbappe.
- Nederland’s versatile defender Matthijs de Ligt.
- England’s reliable striker, Harry Kane.
These players have contributed significantly to their teams’ successes and captivated fans with their performances.
Recent Match Performances
The quarter-final saw Spain overcome Germany by 2-1. Spain dominated the midfield and had better finishing. France got into the semi-finals after beating Portugal 1-0 in the penalties, with the standout help of Kylian Mbappe. England beat Switzerland in another penalty shootout; Harry Kane scored the final penalty. And the Netherlands won 2-1 against Türkiye, with one of the notable players being Matthijs de Ligt.
All these recent games have shown that the big players have to rise to the occasion, especially in the decisive stages of the game, and this will be vital in the two semi-final matches.
Top Goal Scorers
This year’s Golden Boot race has become intense, and many footballers are now fighting for the title. Mbappe tops the charts which proves his goal-kissing ability during the tournament. Harry Kane is also just behind, maintaining his excellent scoring rate from previous international tournaments. Other prominent goal scorers are Ferran Torres of Spain and Memphis Depay of Netherlands both have been brilliant in their team’s attacking line.
These players aim to increase this tally as the tournament goes on, with an eye on clinching the highly coveted Golden Boot.
Standout Players in 2024
Players Who Have Made an Impact:
Some of them have already left a great mark in Euro 2024, even if their teams are out of the competition. Diogo Jota of Portugal was exceptional in the team’s matches regardless of their elimination through his high energy and goal prowess. German international Ilkay Gündogan was instrumental in playing the role of a box-to-box midfielder, a defensive shield, and an attacking outlet before their ouster. He also scored a goal and had an assist to boot.
Players Expected to Make an Impact in the Final Three Games
In the remaining three games, several players will likely come to the fore. In the case of Spain, creativity, and vision from Pedri in midfield will be essential against the French defense. Spain will have a very difficult time handling Kylian Mbappe due to his pace and goal-scoring prowess. In the other semi-final, captaincy and goal-poaching ability of Harry Kane will be important for England and the presence of Matthijs de Ligt in the Dutch defense will be crucial for the Netherlands.
These players have been performing very well and are expected to continue doing so in the remaining games. For bonus and top odds on player props, such as how many goals Henry Kane will score in the semis, check out this Fanatics Sportsbook Promo Code.
Impact of Own Goals
One of the unusual features of Euro 2024 has been its own goals, of which there have been ten so far; there were only nine total for the previous fifteen European Championships. These own goals have at times, decided matches and have made the tournament very interesting. However, their own goals can also demoralize teams and show that the players are under immense pressure during such high-profile tournaments. One striking example is the own goal that solidified the Netherlands’ entrance into the semi-finals. Mert Mulder muffed the ball, knocking it into his own net, sending the Dutch on with a 2-1 victory.
Conclusion
All in all, Euro 2024 has been an avenue to display talents and beautiful football. These stars and goal kings have been instrumental in their teams’ campaigns and they will be key to the success in the later stages of the competition. Therefore, the fans have a great prospect to watch more incredible moments and outstanding players of the European football championships in the semi-finals and the final.
