FULL-TIME Germany 5-1 Scotland A sore one for 10-man Scotland. Totally outclassed.

Five Fascinating Facts About the UEFA EURO 2024

The UEFA European Championship, commonly known as the UEFA EURO, is one of the most prestigious and anticipated football tournaments in the world. As we approach EURO 2024, here are five intriguing facts that highlight the tournament’s rich history and unique aspects.

Germany Hosting as a Unified Nation for the First Time- Germany will host the UEFA EURO 2024, marking its first time doing so as a unified nation. The last time Germany hosted the tournament was in 1988, when it was still divided into East and West Germany. West Germany served as the host then, and now, for the first time since reunification, the entire nation will embrace the tournament, showcasing its unified strength and passion for football.

The Golden Goal Rule's Dramatic Impact- The Golden Goal rule, introduced by UEFA in 1993, added a thrilling element to the 1996 and 2000 European Championships. This rule stipulated that the first team to score during extra time would immediately win the match, effectively ending the game. It provided some unforgettable moments, such as Oliver Bierhoff's decisive goal for Germany in 1996 against the Czech Republic and David Trezeguet's winner for France in 2000 against Italy. Although the rule was abolished before the 2004 edition, its impact on those tournaments was profound and memorable.

Denmark's Unlikely Triumph in 1992- One of the most astonishing stories in EURO history is Denmark's victory in 1992. Initially, Denmark did not qualify for the tournament but was given a spot after Yugoslavia was disqualified due to the ongoing Yugoslav wars. Seizing this unexpected opportunity, Denmark went on to win the championship, defeating Germany 2-0 in the final. This underdog triumph remains one of the most remarkable feats in European football history.

Record Number of Italian Managers in EURO 2024- EURO 2024 will set a new record with five Italian managers leading various teams. Luciano Spalletti will head the Italian national team, while Vincenzo Montella, Domenico Tedesco, Marco Rossi, and Francesco Calzona will coach Turkey, Belgium, Hungary, and Slovenia, respectively. This unprecedented representation underscores Italy's profound influence and expertise in the world of football coaching.

Michel Platini's Unmatched Performance in 1984- Michel Platini's performance in the 1984 UEFA European Championship remains unparalleled. Leading France to their first-ever EURO title, Platini scored nine goals throughout the tournament, including crucial goals in the semi-final and final. His exceptional display of skill and leadership not only secured the championship for France but also cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of the competition.