As EURO 2024 quickly approaches, fans and pundits alike are busy discussing the potential outcomes, with the EURO 2024 odds being a hot topic. It’s a time of excitement and anticipation, where every team dreams of glory and every fan clings to hope, no matter the odds. In the spirit of looking forward, let’s also take a moment to glance back and celebrate some of the most unexpected cases in EURO history. These games remind us why football is so beloved worldwide: because on any given day, the impossible can become possible.
Greece’s Fairy Tale Victory in 2004
The story of Greece’s triumph at EURO 2004 is one for the ages. Heading into the tournament, no one could have predicted that this underdog team, facing staggering odds, would end up lifting the trophy. They kicked off their journey with a stunning 2-1 victory over the host nation, Portugal, in the opening match, setting the tone for what was to become a miraculous campaign. This victory was not just a fluke, it was a statement that even the most overlooked teams could defy expectations.
Throughout the tournament, Greece demonstrated tactical discipline, resilience, and an unwavering spirit that saw them edge past France and the Czech Republic, both favorites, to reach the final. Their return match against Portugal in the final was a masterclass in defensive football, with Angelos Charisteas scoring the only goal of the game. Greece’s win was proof of the fact that with unity, hard work, and a bit of luck, even the most improbable dreams could be realized.
Denmark’s 1992 Surprise Triumph
Another tale of unexpected glory is Denmark’s victory in the 1992 European Championship. The Danes weren’t even supposed to be in the tournament, having finished second in their qualifying group behind Yugoslavia. However, due to the Yugoslav Wars, Denmark was given a last-minute entry. With barely any preparation and considered mere participants, the odds were heavily stacked against them from the start.
Denmark’s journey in the tournament was nothing short of miraculous. They advanced from the group stages with a mix of solid defense and effective counter-attacks. Their semi-final match against the Netherlands, the defending champions, ended in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout which Denmark won, showcasing their mental and physical resilience. The final against Germany was a masterstroke of tactical ingenuity, with Denmark winning 2-0 and completing one of the most remarkable underdog stories in football history.
Iceland’s Remarkable Run in 2016
The 2016 European Championship saw one of the most heartwarming underdog stories unfold as Iceland, a country with a population of just over 330,000, made their debut in a major tournament. Their campaign was nothing short of a fairy tale, captivating the hearts of fans around the world. Iceland not only qualified for the knockout stages but also did so in style, drawing with Portugal and Hungary and defeating Austria.
Their crowning moment, however, came in the round of 16 against England, one of the pre-tournament favorites. Against all odds, Iceland secured a 2-1 victory, with their compact defending and quick counter-attacks proving too much for the English. This match wasn’t just a win, it was a statement that in football, passion, and teamwork can overcome the most daunting odds. Iceland’s run eventually ended in the quarter-finals, but their spirit and achievements will forever be remembered as one of the most inspiring in EURO history.