The European Championships have often been a platform for drama, excitement, and memorable football moments.
The Euros have been a tournament of highs and lows for England, from painful exits to stirring runs deep into the competition.
Despite never winning the tournament, England’s journey in the European Championships has been marked by several outstanding performances and unforgettable matches.
With England to win Euros odds as short as 3/1 ahead of Euro 2024, a victory in the tournament could finally be on the horizon.
So, as anticipation builds, here are some of the best moments that have defined England’s participation in the Euros over the years.
1996 – Football on home soil
Euro 1996 was a massive moment for English football.
Hosted on home soil, the tournament slogan “Football’s Coming Home” became a rallying cry for the nation, and the anthem “Three Lions” an enduring symbol of English football.
One of the most iconic moments came during England’s group match against Scotland when Paul Gascoigne scored one of the most memorable goals in England’s football history.
Gazza’s brilliant flick over Colin Hendry’s head followed by a volley into the bottom corner ignited England’s campaign, and the dentist chair celebration is just as iconic.
The team reached the semi-finals, and although they ultimately lost to Germany on penalties, Euro 1996 is remembered fondly by English fans for the sense of national pride and unity it inspired.
2004 – Wayne Rooney bursts onto the scene
Euro 2004 in Portugal saw a young Wayne Rooney announce his arrival on the international stage. Just 18 years old at the time, Rooney’s performances were electrifying.
He scored four goals in the group stages, including two against Switzerland, showcasing his raw talent and potential.
His impact was so profound that his injury in the quarter-final against Portugal was seen as a turning point in the match, which England eventually lost on penalties.
Rooney’s explosive debut at the Euros remains one of the high points in England’s tournament history.
2020 – Reaching the final
Euro 2020, held in 2021 due to the pandemic, saw England reach their first-ever European Championship final.
The journey to the final was marked by several standout moments, including Raheem Sterling’s and Harry Kane’s crucial goals and a solid team performance throughout the tournament.
The semi-final against Denmark played at Wembley, was particularly dramatic. After conceding the first goal, England fought back to equalise and eventually won the match in extra time thanks to a Kane rebound from a saved penalty.
Unfortunately for the Three Lions, they couldn’t win the trophy in front of a predominately home crowd at Wembley as Italy spoiled the party.
Luke Shaw gave England the lead after just two minutes, but Italy equalised as Leonardo Bonucci scrambled the ball into the net and the Azzurri went on to win on penalties.
Though the trophy has eluded them, England’s journey in the European Championships has been filled with moments of brilliance, passion, and unforgettable football.
Only time will tell if they can change their fortunes in Germany, but the Euro 2024 betting odds are firmly in their favour.
