The European Championship: The Top 5 Players Who Couldn’t Find the Back of the Net
The EURO is known to be one of the toughest competitions for goalscorers, even for legends like Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portugal icon, playing in his record sixth EURO tournament in 2024, has been struggling to find the back of the net. Despite his best efforts, Ronaldo has failed to score a single goal in four matches so far, largely due to tight marking from defenders.
Here are the top 5 players in EURO history who have had the most shots without scoring:
#5 Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) – 20 Shots*
Cristiano Ronaldo has faced a goal drought in EURO 2024, with 20 shots without scoring. Despite taking several attempts, only nine have been on target, leading to his frustration. Ronaldo had a chance to break the deadlock against Slovenia but was denied by Jan Oblak. He did, however, redeem himself in the penalty shootout, helping Portugal to a 3-0 victory.
#4 Dani Olmo (Spain) – 21 Shots
Spain’s Dani Olmo had a tough EURO 2020 campaign, registering 21 shots without finding the back of the net. Despite his goal drought, Olmo showcased his creativity by providing three assists during the tournament.
#3 Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium) – 21 Shots
In EURO 2016, Kevin De Bruyne faced similar struggles, with 21 shots without scoring. Despite his goal drought, the midfielder displayed his playmaking abilities with three assists for Belgium.
#2 Fernando Hierro (Spain) – 23 Shots
Fernando Hierro, known for his attacking mindset, had 23 shots in EURO 1996 without scoring. Despite his efforts, Spain exited the tournament in the quarter-finals without Hierro finding the back of the net.
#1 Deco (Portugal) – 24 Shots
In EURO 2004, Deco had a disappointing campaign with 24 shots and no goals for Portugal. Despite his goal drought, Deco managed to contribute with two assists, but Portugal ultimately fell short in the final against Greece.
While these players may have struggled to score in EURO tournaments, their contributions and efforts on the field cannot be denied.
