On Tuesday night (June 18), Portugal claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory over Czechia in the final game of the first Matchday of the 2024 European Championship (EURO 2024). In the first 12 games of the continental fiesta, we saw some memorable performances from world-class individuals. Their stellar displays fired their teams to crucial wins and draws, taking them closer to the first knockout stage of the competition — the Round of 16. Before Croatia and Albania kick off Matchday 2 on Wednesday, let us quickly check out the players who stood out on Matchday 1. Here are the top five players who impressed the most on the first five days of this month-long fiesta:
#5 Christian Eriksen – Denmark
Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest during the EURO 2020 clash against Finland three years back. His teammates guarded him as the medical staff brought him back to life. On Sunday (June 16), Eriksen not only featured for Denmark against Slovenia but also delivered a Man of the Match performance. He scored in the 17th minute and created seven chances on Matchday 1.
#4 Jude Bellingham – England
Jude Bellingham scored England’s only goal against Serbia. He also showed his tenacious side in defense and made important contributions before being subbed off in the 86th minute.
#3 Cody Gakpo – Netherlands
Cody Gakpo scored the equalizer against Poland to help the Netherlands to a comeback victory. He also created chances, completed dribbles, and won duels on Matchday 1.
#2 Fabian Ruiz – Spain
Fabian Ruiz starred for Spain against Croatia, assisting a goal and scoring one himself. He also created chances, completed passes, and pulled off dribbles in the game.
#1 Arda Guler – Turkiye
Arda Guler made his EURO debut with a spectacular goal against Georgia. He also created chances, completed passes, pulled off a dribble, and won tackles in the match.
