EURO 2024: Five Players Who Impressed In The Round Of 16

The quarter-final lineup at Euro 2024 has been completed following the Round of 16 ties, with some unforgettable moments across the first knockout games.

Following the last-16 fixtures at Euro 2024, we’ve picked out five players who impressed.

Ruben Vargas – Switzerland

Switzerland Ruben Vargas

Switzerland delivered an impressive performance to eliminate defending champions Italy. The Swiss showcased their superiority in a 2-0 victory, leaving Italy trailing behind at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.

Ruben Vargas, who is a player for FC Augsburg in Germany, provided a skillful assist to set up Remo Feuler for Switzerland’s first goal. Vargas then extended Switzerland’s lead with a brilliant goal just 27 seconds into the second half With space to take a shot, Vargas expertly placed the ball into the far corner, leaving the Azzurri stunned.

England have been warned ahead of their quarter-final clash this weekend.

Nico Williams – Spain

Lamine Yamal and Nico Willams for Spain

Spain has emerged as the standout team in the tournament thus far, and Nico has been key in La Roja’s campaign.

The 21-year-old’s blend of pace, power, and skill have made him elite entertainment so far and he grew into the game against Georgia to have a decisive contribution.

Williams assisted Rodri for the equalizing goal after Spain initially trailed due to Robin Le Normand’s own goal. He then scored a solo goal to secure a 4-1 victory.

Williams concluded the match with a goal, an assist, four crucial passes, and an impeccable passing record of 46 out of 46 completed passes throughout the evening.

At times he has been unplayable this summer.

Diogo Costa – Portugal

Portugal Goalkeeper Diogo Costa and Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe must be grateful for having Diogo Costa in goal for Portugal, as the goalkeeper saved his veteran teammates in the match against Slovenia.

Ronaldo was emotional after failing to convert a penalty in extra time when the game was still tied, and then Pepe’s error allowed Benjamin Sesko to break through in a one-on-one situation.

Costa came to the rescue with a huge save, as Portugal was taken to a shootout by their underdog opponent.

Following that, the goalkeeper put on a stellar performance. The 24-year-old made history in the Champions League by saving three consecutive penalties in the 2022-23 season, solidifying his reputation as a penalty-saving expert against Slovenia.

The Porto goalkeeper saved all three Slovenia spot-kicks, denying Josip Ilicic, Jure Balkovec, and Benjamin Verbic, to book Portugal a quarter-final with France. He’s the first goalkeeper to save three penalties in a European Championship shootout.

Cody Gakpo – Netherlands

Netherlands’ forward, Cody Gakpo scores the opening goal during the UEFA Euro 2024 round of 16 football match between Romania and the Netherlands at the Munich Football Arena in Munich on July 2, 2024.

Cody Gakpo further solidified his reputation as a big-game player for the Netherlands, with the Liverpool forward excelling at Euro 2024.

Gakpo made an impression on the national team by scoring three goals in the 2022 Cup in Qatar, he has continued his goalscoring form this summer.

The 25-year-old has three goals after opening the scoring in the 3-0 win over Romania, as the Dutch bounced back from an unconvincing group-stage performance to seal a place in the quarter-finals.

Gakpo expertly cut inside and scored with a precise low shot that beat Florin Nita at the near post. His exceptional determination was on full display when he managed to keep the ball in play on the by, setting up Donyell Malen for the second goal.

Gakpo was a constant threat throughout the game, leading in shots, shots on target, and touches inside the opponent’s box.

While Gakpo has not frequently played on the left wing for Liverpool, he seems comfortable in a wide position for the Dutch national team this summer.

This could be something for the new manager, Arne Slot, to consider, especially as Gakpo is currently tied for the lead in the race for the Euro 2024 Golden Boot.

Merih Demiral – Turkey

Turkey Defender Merih Demiral

Merih Demiral Shines As Turkey Makes History Against AustriaTurkey has advanced to the quarter-finals after Vincenzoella Montella’s side defeated Austria in a match between the underdog teams of the tournament.

A thoroughly entertaining encounter saw Merih Demiral fire Turkey ahead inside just 57 seconds, as the center-back slammed in after a goal-mouth scramble.

The 26-year-old added his second goal of the match connecting with Arda Güler’s corner kick with a superb header, doubling his tally of international goals in just one game.

He also made a significant impact on the defensive end with an impressive display, accumulating a remarkable 17 clearances, winning six aerial duels, and making four crucial blocks. The Al-Ahli defender will surely remember his outstanding performance against Austria for a time.