The UEFA Euro 2024 has reached its semi-final stage with Spain, France, England, and the Netherlands qualifying for the penultimate stage. While superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Toni Kroos played their last game at the European championship, many youngsters including Florian Wirtz and Arda Guler were knocked out of their debut Euro edition.
In the quarter-final stage, Spain and the Netherlands defeated hosts Germany and Turkey respectively by a similar score of 2-1. On the other hand, France and England knocked out Portugal and Switzerland in the penalty shootout to qualify for the 2024 Euro semis.
Despite getting knocked out, players like Joshua Kimmich and Florian Wirtz of Germany, Portugal defender Pepe, and Switzerland striker Breel Embolo earned a spot in our Playing XI from the UEFA Euro 2024 quarter-finals due to their spectacular performances.
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon has been terrific in the entire tournament and his strong defense against Germany earned him a spot in the list. Netherlands’ Stefan de Vrij and France left-back Theo Hernandez join Kimmich and Pepe at the defensive line. While De Vrij scored the equaliser against Turkey, Hernandez was a menace in the attack and a solid pillar at defense on the left.
Spain’s game-winner Mikel Merino and England’s Bukayao Saka, who scored a late equaliser to force extra-time, join Florian Writz at the midfield. France winger Ousmane Dembele made several crucial runs and attempts in the game against Portugal to earn a spot in our Playing XI. The PSG star is pared with Spain’s in-form Dani Olmo, who has scored two goals and made two assists in the tournament.
Best XI of Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals
Defenders
- GK: Unai Simon (Spain)
- RB: Joshua Kimmich (Germany)
- CB: Stefan de Vrij (Netherlands)
- CB: Pepe (Portugal)
- LB: Theo Hernandez (France)
Midfielders
- CM: Mikel Merino (Spain)
- CM: Florian Wirtz (Germany)
- CM: Bukayo Saka (England)
Forwards
- RW: Ousmane Dembele (France)
- LW: Dani Olmo (Spain)
- ST: Breel Embolo (Switzerland)