Spain are Euro 2024 champions.
La Roja got the job done on Sunday in Berlin, with Mikel Oyarzabal's late effort seeing off England in a 2-1 victory.
But with the tournament now done and dusted, which teams and players really stood out and, conversely, which ones disappointed?
Here, with the help of Opta data, we take a look.
THE TOPS
Spain
An obvious one, but where else to start but with the champions? La Roja crashed out of the 2022 World Cup, losing to Morocco on penalties, but what Luis de la Fuente has done since replacing Luis Enrique is outstanding.
While Luis Enrique had a possession obsession. De la Fuente has added a direct aspect to that possession-based build-up. Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal (more on him to come) were fantastic, while Rodri and Fabian Ruiz dovetailed brilliantly in midfield.
Dani Olmo surely put himself into the shop window for Europe's elite with some superb individual displays, first from the bench and then as a starter. He shared the Golden Boot, scoring three goals.
In defence, Marc Cucurella was picked ahead of Bayer Leverkusen's excellent Alejandro Grimaldo, but more than repaid De la Fuente's faith with some tenacious performances, while he then teed up Oyazarbal's winner in the final.
Spain were simply the best team at this tournament, winning all seven of their matches without needing penalties.
Since the 2002 Champions League final, Spanish teams and the Spanish national team have played in 23 major finals (Champions League, UEFA Cup, Europa League, World Cup, European Championship) against non-Spanish teams and won the trophy on all 23 occasions.
La Roja are now the first team to win the Euros on four occasions, too. Vamos!
Lamine Yamal
A special word for Williams, who became the second-youngest player to score in a Euros final, but Yamal was the star of the show.
Having turned 17 on Saturday, Yamal is now the youngest player to appear in a Euros or World Cup final, surpassing Pele's record from 1958.
The Barcelona winger curled in a sensational equaliser against France in the last four to become the youngest player to score at the Euros, while he also supplied four assists throughout the tournament.
He is the first Spain player to register four assists in a single European Championship. It is also the joint most any player has ever assisted at a Euros that Opta has on record (from 1980 onwards).
This kid is special.
Niclas Fullkrug
Julian Nagelsmann's free-flowing, attacking football caught the eye as the host nation impressed, and German football looks to have a bright future following a few years in the wilderness. But for all the flair of youngsters Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz, and the neat and tidy build-up play, Germany were arguably more potent when they had a classic number nine on the pitch.
Fullkrug was that man, coming on from the bench to score twice, including a last-gasp equaliser against Switzerland in the group stage that ultimately landed Germany in the tougher half of the draw, while he also went agonisingly close to sending the tie against Spain to penalties.
Fresh from helping Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final, Fullkrug has now scored seven goals under Nagelsmann for Germany, more than any other player.
The main debate is probably whether he should be leading the line from the off, rather than having to settle for a super-sub role, given that of any player to score at least twice at the tournament, Fullkrug had the best minutes per goal ratio (80.5).
Giorgi Mamardashvili
Mamardashvili actually conceded more goals at Euro 2024 than any other goalkeeper (eight), but it is worth noting that four of those came in the last 16 against Spain.
And Georgia's shot-stopper deserves his place on this list of the standout performers.
After a fantastic season in LaLiga with Valencia, Mamardashvili finished as the goalkeeper with the most goals prevented (4.67) based on Opta's expected goals on target (xGoT) conceded model.
Mamardashvili made 30 saves in total, with a save percentage of 78.95%. Could he now be in for a big move ahead of next season?
Turkiye
It came three years later than many expected, but Turkiye - supposedly dark horses at Euro 2020 - finally impressed this time around.
Vincenzo Montella gave youth a chance in Germany, where Turkiye were buoyed by their fanatical support, giving six starts to teenagers – three for Kenan Yildiz and three for Arda Guler – a joint-record in a single edition of the finals, along with Spain at Euro 2020.
Guler was a standout performer. He became one of only three teenagers to both score and assist a goal at a single Euros, after Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo (both at Euro 2004).
The Real Madrid youngster provided his second assist as Turkiye came unstuck against the Dutch in the quarters; there had been just two occasions on record (since 1968) of a teenager providing multiple assists at a single tournament in each of the 14 previous editions combined (Enzo Scifo 1984, Ronaldo 2004).
Ultimately, the Netherlands had too much for Turkiye, but their last-16 defeat of Austria and Montella's front-foot approach saw them win admirers, and make up somewhat for losing all of their matches at Euro 2020.
THE FLOPS
France
Didier Deschamps is the most successful French coach in terms of wins - indeed, Les Bleus' victory over Austria on matchday one meant he brought up a century of victories.
But it is fair to say France, World Cup runners-up in 2022, did not impress in Germany. Indeed, it was not until the semi-finals that one of their players even managed to score a goal from open play, with their strikes before then having come via two own goals and a Kylian Mbappe penalty.
Mbappe did break his Euros duck with that successfully converted spot-kick against Poland, but the broken nose he suffered in the opening game seemed to knock France's focus, and they never got back on track.
And their 2-1 loss to Spain in that thrilling semi-final showed that a team cannot just bundle its way through a tournament without playing well; eventually, it will catch up with you.
The pre-tournament favourites could point to some bad fortune, as they did record the fourth-highest non-penalty xG figure of any team at Euro 2024 (8.38), but Deschamps' team looked short of ideas at times, with Antoine Griezmann also struggling to wield his usual influence.
Italy
The holders were hardly well fancied ahead of Euro 2024, but it really was a forgettable attempt at defending their title from Italy. The Azzurri fell behind to the earliest goal in Euros history, after just 23 seconds, in their opening match against Albania, and while they came back to win that match, it was the only triumph they managed.
Indeed, Italy were heading out until Mattia Zaccagni curled home in the 97th minute against Croatia, sealing a point that sent them through, but they had been comfortably beaten by Spain and subsequently capitulated without much of a fight against Switzerland in the last 16.
Luciano Spalletti only took over in September 2023 after Roberto Mancini's sudden departure, but there's plenty of work for the former Napoli boss to do.
Cristiano Ronaldo
The Euros' record goalscorer could not add to his tally, not that it was down to a lack of trying. Indeed, Ronaldo had 23 shots without scoring at Euro 2024, with only another Portuguese great, Deco, having more attempts without registering at least one goal in a single edition of the Euros (24 at Euro 2004).
This was surely Ronaldo's final Euros. He has played at six of them, becoming the only player to do so, but it is time to bow out.
Portugal flattered to deceive the whole way through, one emphatic win over Turkiye aside, and never got back on track after losing 2-0 to Georgia at the end of the group stage. Roberto Martinez's team staggered past Slovenia on penalties, before ultimately losing by the same method to France.
Now, it should be time for Ronaldo, who was the biggest expected goals underperformer at the tournament, failing to score from 3.6 xG, to pass the baton over to the next generation. But will he want one more shot at the World Cup?
Harry Kane
Unlike Ronaldo, Kane did score. Indeed, the England captain ended up sharing the Golden Boot, as one of six players with three goals to his name.
However, that does not wholly tell the story of what was a frustrating tournament for the 30-year-old.
Kane was taken off 60 minutes into the final, having also gone off in the semi-final and quarter-final when England were level.
Across his seven appearances, he had just 27 touches in the opposition box (3.8 per game). Indeed, a startling statistic for England fans is that, across the last two Euros finals, Kane had just one touch in the opponents' area.
Scotland
Going up against the hosts in the opening game was never going to be easy, but that 5-1 hammering in Munich set the tone for a dismal tournament for Scotland.
Steve Clarke's team had peaked in qualifying, and though an admirable performance in a 1-1 draw with Switzerland gave them some hope, they came unstuck at the death against Hungary.
They exited the competition having had just 17 shots, nine fewer than any other team, and mustering an xG of just 0.95, the lowest figure in the competition.
Romelu Lukaku
It was another tournament to forget for Belgium, and one has to wonder why Domenico Tedesco's team were so lacklustre against Ukraine in their final group game, when a win could have ensured they would fall into the easier half of the draw (albeit they would have faced the Netherlands, rather than France, in the last 16).
But matters might have been different had Lukaku had his shooting boots on, too.
It is quite extraordinary that Lukaku did not manage to find the net. VAR was the bane of his existence in Belgium's shock loss to Slovakia.
Based on his xG (1.7), Lukaku should have netted at least once, probably twice, but instead, he headed home without a goal to his name.
Kylian Mbappe is unbothered by his indifferent form at Euro 2024 so far, saying the most important thing is for France to keep winning as they booked a place in the semi-finals.
France and Portugal played out a 0-0 draw in 120 minutes in Hamburg, with Les Bleus staying perfect from the spot in the shootout and progressing thanks to Joao Felix’s missed penalty.
Mbappe is the only Frenchman to score at the tournament so far, netting from the spot, with France’s two wins coming via own goals. However, he does not care how the wins come as long as they keep progressing.
"These are the peculiarities of being a footballer," Mbappe said.
"But even then, you have to keep up your involvement and always be there for your team-mates.
"I've always said that no matter what happens, the most important thing is that we win. I've only scored one goal, but we are in the semi-finals, and I'm very happy."
Mbappe had been hit in the side of the head by the ball in the second half and struggled to get back into the game after it as he shied away from any more aerial challenges.
That meant the France captain was not one of the five players to step up in the shootout, having been substituted in the extra time break due to ongoing problems with his broken nose.
"We had already discussed with the coach at the end of regulation time," Mbappe added.
"We decided I would try longer, but at half-time in extra time, I told him that I wasn't feeling it anymore, that I was too tired. He told me 'okay'."
France will face Spain in the first of the Euro 2024 semi-finals on Tuesday in Munich.
Roberto Martinez insisted that Portugal must be proud of their players, describing their penalty shootout defeat to France as "cruel" in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024.
Having seen a fourth meeting between the two sides at the European Championships go the full distance, spot-kicks would decide who would face Spain in Munich next Tuesday.
Joao Felix saw his effort bounce back off the post, allowing Theo Hernandez to send Les Bleus through to their fourth semi-final in the last five major tournaments.
Portugal squandered several golden opportunities on the night, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Nuno Mendes going closest for the Selecao.
Martinez praised his side's display, believing his side were the better side on the night.
"We have to be proud of our players because they fought and performed very well," Martinez said.
"Football can be cruel. We wanted to give joy to the Portuguese people and the message is that the team gave everything and showed Portugal's values.
"It was a good game and France is a good team. We had more ball, we created opportunities, but we lacked precision and we needed to score a goal.
"We had a lot of opportunities, but it was a game of high technical and tactical level."
Following the full-time whistle in Hamburg, veteran defender Pepe was reduced to tears and consoled by former Real Madrid team-mate Ronaldo.
Pepe, who has made 140 appearances for his country, became the oldest player to play at the tournament and is likely to have played his final match for Portugal.
"Football is cruel and sadness is part of it," Pepe said.
"We were aiming to win for our country and bring joy to our people. Five days ago we won on penalties and now we lost on penalties. It's cruel.
"The most important thing is to congratulate my colleagues for their commitment to the game."
France coach Didier Deschamps said it would have been "pointless" to leave a fatigued Kylian Mbappe on for the final 15 minutes of extra time against Portugal.
Mbappe was taken off at the interval in the added 30 minutes in Hamburg on Friday, with the score level at 0-0.
It remained that way 15 minutes later, though Portugal squandered two golden chances, with Joao Felix and Nuno Mendes failing to convert.
France ultimately got the job done in the end, though, triumphing 5-3 on penalties, with Joao Felix missing the decisive spot-kick.
Mbappe had a game-leading five shots, though they accumulated just 0.17 expected goals (xG), but Deschamps believes it would have been foolish to leave the 25-year-old on any longer.
Deschamps said: "He's tired, obviously. Muscularly, it's not easy with everything he's had.
"I saw him struggling during the first period of extra time. It was pointless.
"Kylian has always been honest with me and the group, so it was only natural to bring in some new blood."
Despite not scoring from open play so far at Euro 2024, France have now reached the semi-finals in four of the last five major tournaments. They will face Spain in Munich on Tuesday.
"It was a very tense, tight game," Deschamps said.
"It could have gone either way, even if we had a more difficult end to the game in extra time. Maybe we were a bit more tired. It comes down to details.
"I'm very happy for the squad, who played to the limit. We're going to enjoy being in the last four.
"It's becoming a habit but we mustn't trivialise it. It's to the credit of the whole group, those who play and those who can't."
Deschamps was left frustrated that he was not allowed to introduce Olivier Giroud, France's record scorer, for the shootout, though.
He added: "I couldn't bring Olivier on. The referee didn't take our request into account. I had this last change to make, and Olivier was a candidate to take the kick.
"There was a kind of tranquillity, [however], even if it was in front of the Portugal end."
Two nations are now just 90 minutes away from securing a place in the Euro 2024 final following Friday's action.
Spain were the first to secure their place in the last four of the tournament, as Germany became the first hosts of a European Championship to be eliminated at the quarter-final stage.
Later on, France needed penalties to edge past Portugal, and they will meet Luis de la Fuente's side in Munich.
After another enthralling day of knockout football, we take a deep dive into the best statistics from the day.
Spain 2-1 Germany (AET): Merino's late, late show keeps Spain perfect
Mikel Merino proved to be the hero for Spain as his first international goal got them over the line.
The Real Sociedad midfielder broke German hearts, netting the third-latest winning goal in a European Championship match (118:52), after Michel Platini for France v Portugal at Euro 1984 (118:53) and Artem Dovbyk for Ukraine v Sweden at Euro 2020 (120:36).
While Merino grabbed the headlines, the influential performance of Dani Olmo should not be overlooked.
Olmo replaced Pedri early on in Stuttgart, making his mark in the 51st minute as he steered the ball home after being set up by Lamine Yamal, who became the first teenager to record three assists at a single edition of the Euros (all-time) or World Cup (on record, since 1966).
La Roja's number 10 has made an impact from the bench and is the first Spaniard to score two goals as a substitute at a single edition of the Euros, and the third at any major tournament after Fernando Morientes at the 2002 World Cup and Alvaro Morata at the 2022 World Cup.
Olmo also registered the joint-most shots (three) alongside fellow substitute Mikel Oyarzabal, and only second behind Fabian Ruiz (24) for passes in the final third with 23.
De la Fuente's side roll on to their semi-final clash with France yet to lose at the tournament so far; they are only the third nation to win five in a row during a single edition of the finals (excluding shootouts), after Les Bleus at Euro 1984 and Italy at Euro 2020, both of whom won those respective tournaments.
For Germany, however, their woes in the latter stages of the European Championships continued.
Germany have now lost three of their last four knockout stage games at the Euros (W1), as many as in their previous 12 at the finals beforehand.
Portugal 0-0 France (AET, 3-5 pens): Joao Felix flounders, Ronaldo crashes out
Joao Felix was the unlucky man to fall victim to the lottery of a penalty shootout, with his missed spot-kick allowing Theo Hernandez to set up a meeting with Spain in the semi-finals of Euro 2024.
It will be France's sixth appearance at this stage of the competition, with Didier Deschamps' serial winners only bettered by Germany (eight) for semi-final appearances at the European Championships.
Four of the five European Championship meetings between France and Portugal have now gone beyond the 90 minutes – the only fixture in the tournament’s history to go the distance more than twice.
Despite the plethora of goal-scoring talents both nations have possessed over the years, the encounter in Hamburg was the second Euros game on record (from 1980) not to see a single shot from inside either box in the first half – the other was also France v Portugal in the 1984 semi-final.
Portugal have now gone three games without scoring a goal for the first time since a run of four from December 1996 to March 1997.
Excluding penalties and own goals, France are yet to score in their five games at Euro 2024. No side has ever gone longer without such a goal in the tournament's history, with Les Bleus attempting 86 non-penalty shots (7.25 non-pen xG) without scoring from one at this year’s finals.
Deschamps now has four days to rectify his misfiring strike force, and was given food for thought with the introduction of Ousmane Dembele with 20 minutes to go.
Dembele created more chances (six) than any other player in this match. The only other player to create as many after coming on from the bench in a Euros game on record (since 1980) was Cesc Fabregas for Spain v Russia in 2008 (also six).
For Cristiano Ronaldo, his dreams of closing the curtain on a phenomenal international career with a second honour for his country were shattered in the most gut-wrenching circumstances.
He had 23 shots across the tournament, but failed to score with any of them.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Euro 2024 hopes were dashed as Portugal lost 5-3 to France in a penalty shootout following Friday's 0-0 draw in Hamburg.
With the substituted Kylian Mbappe watching on from the sidelines, Les Bleus set up a semi-final with Spain as they converted all five of their spot-kicks.
The decisive miss came from Portugal's Joao Felix, who struck the woodwork with his attempt.
And there was to be no heroics from Diogo Costa on this occasion, as Theo Hernandez coolly dispatched the winning penalty.
The pre-game expectation of a tight, cagey contest proved correct, as for just the second time on record at the Euros (since 1980), neither team managed a shot from inside the box in the first half – the other match was also France v Portugal, back in 1984.
Hernandez stung Costa's palms with a venomous strike, while Bruno Fernandes became the first Portugal player other than Ronaldo to attempt a direct free-kick shot at a major tournament since the Euro 2016 final with an effort that soared over close to half-time.
A great chance for Fernandes on the hour, which was kept out well by Mike Maignan, sparked the encounter into life.
Maignan was forced into action again moments later, using his chest to repel Vitinha's shot before beating away Ronaldo's follow-up.
Portugal were then indebted to Ruben Dias, whose last-ditch block diverted Randal Kolo Muani's attempt wide, before Eduardo Camavinga skewed off-target and Ousmane Dembele went close with a dipping long-range effort.
Extra time, though, was required, with Portugal having the better chances in the added 30 minutes, during which Didier Deschamps took off Mbappe.
Ronaldo should have broken the deadlock, only to blaze over with the goal begging, while Felix headed into the side netting and Nuno Mendes fired at Maignan, as penalties beckoned.
Portugal's captain firmly put away his spot-kick, but Felix was the unlucky party as his effort bounced away off the left-hand upright, paving the way for Hernandez to clinch victory.
Time to make way
There were no tears for Ronaldo this time around. Instead, just a rueful smile while France's players wheeled away in celebration.
The 39-year-old has claimed this will be his final Euros, and he bows out having had 23 shots without scoring once at Euro 2024 (not counting his two successful shootout penalties, of course).
Ronaldo hugged his old friend and team-mate Pepe, who at the age of 41, delivered another fine performance at the back, and was the one in tears this time out. They have been two unbelievable servants, but for both of them, the defeat will surely call time on their international careers.
Pepe almost certainly will do, but whether Ronaldo wants one more go at a World Cup, remains to be seen. The question for Portugal, though, is whether they are better off without him.
Winning ugly
England have come in for much criticism at Euro 2024, but when it comes to winning ugly, Deschamps is a true master.
Excluding penalties and own goals, France are yet to score in their five games. No side has ever gone longer without such a goal in the tournament's history, with Les Bleus attempting 86 non-penalty shots (7.25 non-pen xG) without scoring from one at this year's finals.
Yet somehow, Les Bleus are on the brink of yet another final under Deschamps. France have now reached at least the semi-finals in four of the last five major tournaments.
They will take on Spain in Munich on Tuesday.
After two long days without any Euro 2024 action, the quarter-finals got going on Friday.
There were two mouthwatering ties on offer as Spain played Germany, while Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo went head-to-head for France and Portugal.
And what about the action online?
Here is the best of the social media posts from Thursday and Friday at Euro 2024.
New look?
The hosts have already caught the eye with their performances en route to the quarter-final.
And now, Robert Andrich has caught attention with a bold new style, possibly inspired by Germany's away kit at the tournament.
Ultimately, Andrich did not get a chance to debut his new look from the start of Germany's clash with Spain, as he was named on the bench.
Walker the cheerleader
Before starting training for the day, Kyle Walker took some time to check in on how the goalkeepers were preparing for England's tie against Switzerland.
John Stones tagged along with his Manchester City team-mate, and almost got themselves into trouble after getting a little too invested in the session.
Spanish goalkeepers put to the test
Things can get a little hectic in the penalty area during set-pieces with both teams desperate to get on the ball.
Spain have figured out an impressive way to give their goalkeepers an in-game experience during training.
Although, some of those shirt tugs would likely catch the referee's attention...
The Portuguese take over Hamburg
The Portuguese fans were out in full force before their round of 16 penalty shootout victory in Frankfurt.
They have now taken to the streets in Hamburg, with the hopes that their side can recreate the magic of the Euro 2016 final, when they beat France 1-0 to lift the trophy.
Back to their roots
France's squad is full of household names, with their players spanning the globe for their various clubs.
In a special photo shoot, they instead looked back to their beginnings, each donning the shirt of their first-ever club, and they gave a glimpse behind the scenes to see how it all came together.
The competition heats up
The Netherlands produced their best performance so far at Euro 2024 on Tuesday when they booked a place in the quarter-final with a 3-0 victory over Romania.
And their competitive spirit stretches past the pitch and into the game room at their training base.
While Nathan Ake showed off his interesting technique for a new high score, tensions were on the rise at the ping-pong table.
Cristiano Ronaldo's tears upon missing a penalty in Portugal's Euro 2024 last-16 tie versus Slovenia are not worthy of discussion, says his team-mate Bernardo Silva.
Ronaldo saw an extra-time spot-kick saved by Jan Oblak as Portugal played out a goalless draw in Monday's tie, only to scrape through to the quarter-finals on penalties.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner scored in the shoot-out but is yet to net in regular play at this tournament, despite amassing a competition-high 20 shots worth 2.75 expected goals (xG).
He has failed to score in his last eight appearances at the World Cup or European Championships, having netted 10 times in his previous nine between 2018 and 2022.
When asked about Ronaldo's tears at Thursday's pre-match press conference, Silva said: "We're humans and he felt emotional when he missed a penalty.
"It's acceptable, isn't it? Sometimes you react in ways you don't expect... he felt he could have done better in that moment.
"He cries for a bit, which is how humans deal with emotions sometimes.
"So I don't see any reason for people to discuss it. Obviously people will, because that's the business."
Though Portugal impressed as they beat Turkiye 3-0 in their second group-stage match, they have disappointed in their other games and been criticised at home over a lack of attacking thrust.
Asked about that criticism, Silva said: "We understand it, it's part of the business, it's the reason why we earn so much money and we are able to give our families and friends a better life.
"We don't complain about the criticism, it's for good and for bad, it's our job.
"When it comes to June and a World Cup or Euros, everyone thinks they're a manager. We get that and we accept that."
Roberto Martinez insists Portugal's Euro 2024 quarter-final clash with France will not merely come down to Cristiano Ronaldo's duel with Kylian Mbappe.
Portugal and France face off in Hamburg on Friday, with a last-four meeting with either Germany or Spain the prize for the victor.
Many have billed the match as a head-to-head battle between Mbappe and his idol Ronaldo, with both superstars desperate to hit top form after underwhelming starts to the tournament.
Ronaldo is yet to score from 20 shots worth 2.75 expected goals (xG), the former being a tournament-high tally, and he was in tears at half-time in extra time after seeing a penalty saved in Portugal's last-16 tie versus Slovenia.
Mbappe, meanwhile, suffered a broken nose in France's Group D opener against Austria, returning to score from the penalty spot in their matchday-three victory over Poland but failing to prevent them from finishing as runners-up.
France are yet to score a goal from open play at this tournament, with two own goals coming alongside Mbappe's spot-kick.
Martinez has played down suggestions Friday's match will be all about stopping Mbappe, saying: "Suffering is part of life, it's part of football, part of everything.
"We can promise that we will give everything, the players are focused on playing, and football is a team sport. Tomorrow is not a two-player game.
"They have incredible influence, Cristiano had an influence on Mbappe and Mbappe on others, but tomorrow is a game where the team needs to perform great."
Ronaldo was criticised by many for attempting four shots from direct free-kicks without success against Slovenia.
He has now attempted 60 direct free-kicks in European Championship or World Cup matches, only scoring with one of them, versus Spain at the 2018 World Cup.
Asked whether Ronaldo could be stripped of set-piece duties, Martinez said: "That passes me by.
"The players practice in training and Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes have that responsibility. We are fortunate to have two players with a very good profile to do it."
Portugal will hope to draw on the memories of their Euro 2016 final victory over Les Bleus, when Eder scored an extra-time winner after Ronaldo was taken off injured.
Asked how Portugal's class of 2024 matches up to the 2016 champions, Martinez said: "I don't like to compare generations.
"This generation has a different path. We are a better generation, but in 2016 we had a victory in the final."
Kylian Mbappe is determined to write his own script when he has the "honour" of facing Cristiano Ronaldo in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals.
France will take on Portugal for a place in the last four on Friday, having overcome Belgium 1-0 in the last 16 via a late Jan Vertonghen own goal.
Portugal, meanwhile, beat Slovenia on penalties after Ronaldo missed a plethora of chances in a goalless draw, seeing an extra-time spot-kick saved by Jan Oblak.
Ronaldo has had more shots (20) than any other player at Euro 2024, accumulating a total expected goals (xG) figure of 2.75 but failing to score.
At each of his previous 10 major international tournaments (World Cup or European Championships), he got off the mark before the end of the group stage.
The battle between Mbappe and Ronaldo is sure to turn heads on Friday, with the former also enduring a frustrating tournament, suffering a broken nose in Les Bleus' first group match and only scoring from the penalty spot against Poland on matchday three.
Many have touted Mbappe as something of a successor to Ronaldo since he sealed his move to Real Madrid, but the France skipper is determined to be his own player.
"It's an honour, everyone knows the admiration I have for him," Mbappe said of Ronaldo at Thursday's pre-match press conference.
"We are always in touch. He will remain a legend of the game but we hope to beat him tomorrow.
"Do I envy him? You have to know how to appreciate what he is and what he has been. He is a unique player, his CV speaks for itself. We have respect for him.
"He's unique! There is only one like him. I just want to follow my passage. I hope that I will write a big page at Real but it will be different to his."
France lost to Portugal on home soil in the Euro 2016 final, with Eder netting an extra-time winner as Ronaldo gave instructions from the sidelines after going off injured.
Didier Deschamps refused to be drawn on whether the Selecao have regressed since then, saying: "They were strong. That was eight years ago but it was painful.
"I don't know if they are stronger or weaker, but we're in the quarter-finals. All the best teams are there. They are one of the best teams in Europe. It will be a great game."
France are yet to score a goal from open play at this tournament, only netting via an Mbappe penalty and two own goals, leading to criticism from the media at home.
Les Bleus' total of 67 shots has only been bettered by Spain (82), Portugal (73) and Germany (72), but they have underperformed their xG figures by a greater margin (-3.94, three goals from 6.94 xG) than any other side at the tournament.
Asked about that criticism, Deschamps said: "That is a popular craze now. There are people who may not be happy but I have seen other people happy.
"It would be more exciting to win 5-4, for sure. The critics are there to do their job, they have always been part of my daily life. It doesn't stop me from living."
Nuno Mendes insists he is prepared to face Kylian Mbappe ahead of Portugal's quarter-final meeting with France at Euro 2024.
Mbappe, who officially joined Real Madrid at the start of the month, played alongside Mendes at Paris Saint-Germain for two seasons.
The France captain has scored once for Les Bleus at the tournament, a penalty against Poland in their final Group D fixture and is yet to sparkle so far.
However, Mendes knows all too well the threat Mbappe carries, and is relishing the opportunity of facing him at the Volksparkstadion on Friday.
"I don't think he will be playing on my flank, but if it happens I'm prepared," he said. "I train every day for these moments and we are prepared to face them.
"They have high-level players, but we also have great players. We need to do everything we can to cancel France's strengths and play our game."
All eyes look set to fall on Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo, as they look to spearhead their sides to the semi-finals of the competition.
Ronaldo saw his penalty saved in extra-time of Portugal's last-16 tie against Slovenia and is yet to score at Euro 2024, despite registering 20 shots at the tournament.
Mendes has had the luxury of sharing a dressing room with both Mbappe and Ronaldo, acknowledging the threat both possess ahead of their meeting in Hamburg.
"They are high-level, excellent players who can make a difference at any moment," Mendes said.
"I shared a dressing room with both of them and it was a pleasure to play with Mbappé and play with Cristiano.
"They are incredible, from one moment to the next they make a difference."
Cristiano Ronaldo will bounce back from his Euro 2024 disappointment and find form due to his elite mentality, according to former Manchester United team-mate Wes Brown.
The Portugal captain is the record appearance maker (29) and goalscorer (14) at the Euros, yet has failed to find the back of the net in this edition of the competition.
Ronaldo was reduced to tears after his penalty was saved by Jan Oblak in extra time before making amends and scoring in their last-16 penalty shoot-out win over Slovenia.
That brought questions once more over the veteran forward's ability and influence for Roberto Martinez's side, who face France in the quarter-finals on Friday.
However, Brown, who spent six years with Ronaldo at Manchester United, believes his former team-mate has the mentality to recover and prove his doubters wrong in Germany.
"Mentality [wise], there's no one better," Brown said, speaking to Stats Perform at the Home of Adidas football in Berlin.
"He'd be disappointed he didn't score the penalty in normal time, that would have frustrated him, but there were a lot of people I was talking to, and they thought he might not even start games.
"I totally disagreed and thought he's still got it to perform. He will be disappointed he's not scored, but he's a team player, he's won the competition before, and he just wants to do well, helping the team.”
Though the five-time Ballon d'Or winner has a list of records to his name, he has added some unwanted statistics to his displays after an underwhelming Euro 2024.
Ronaldo is the biggest expected goals (xG) underperformer in the tournament (0 goals from 2.75 xG), while he has had nine shots on target, which is the joint-highest along with Germany's Kai Havertz.
No player has had as many shots as Ronaldo during UEFA's flagship international competition either. He is five clear of any other player, while only Havertz has a higher xG (3.6 to Ronaldo’s 2.75).
Portugal and France confirmed their places in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024, but both the pre-tournament favourites were far from convincing in doing so.
Roberto Martinez had Diogo Costa to thank for his penalty heroics against Slovenia as the Porto goalkeeper spared Cristiano Ronaldo's blushes in Frankfurt.
Ronaldo saw his spot-kick saved by Jan Oblak in extra time, reducing the five-time Ballon d'Or winner to tears at the interval before stepping up to score in the shootout.
Earlier that day, France were aided by the knee of Jan Vertonghen as they squeezed past Belgium in Dusseldorf, with their struggles in front of goal continuing.
This will be the first meeting between the two sides since Euro 2020, in which three of the four goals were scored from the penalty spot in a 2-2 draw at the Puskas Arena. It is also, of course, a repeat of the Euro 2016 final, which Portugal won 1-0 in Paris.
Many predict another enthralling encounter against two European powerhouses, but based on current form, we might be better not expecting a classic.
Here, we use Opta data to preview Friday's clash.
What's expected?
France are predicted to emerge victorious in Hamburg, with the Opta supercomputer handing them a 40.1% chance of winning at the Volksparkstadion.
Portugal triumphed in 30.2% of the data-led simulations, with a draw forecast at 29.8%, meaning extra time and penalties are a real possibility.
This will be the fifth meeting between Portugal and France at the European Championships, with the Selecao unbeaten in the last two.
France won the first two meetings, going on to lift the trophy both times (3-2 in 1984, 2-1 in 2000), and Les Bleus know a win could send them on their way to silverware once again.
But while both sides boast an array of attacking talent, they have misfired in Germany, and every little advantage will likely be crucial in a tight contest.
Portugal have now failed to score in their last two matches. They have never failed to score in three consecutive games at a single major tournament before.
Les Bleus have had a similar problem. Their three goals at Euro 2024 so far have come from two own goals and a penalty from Kylian Mbappe.
Not since a run of five internationals between March and September 2013 have France seen their players fail to score from open play in as many matches.
However, their defence remained resolute in their time of need. France have an expected goals against (xGA) tally of just 2.63 at Euro 2024 – the lowest of any side in the quarter-final, and second lowest at the tournament overall after already-eliminated Serbia (2.57).
Didier Deschamps' team have an impressive record over Friday's opponents, having lost only one of their last 14 games against Portugal (W11 D2), although that lone defeat came in the final of Euro 2016.
But Martinez's side will fancy their chances of claiming a second European Championship crown should they triumph here.
The previous four teams to eliminate Les Bleus at the quarter-final stage of a major tournament have gone on to win the trophy (Italy in the 1938 World Cup, Greece at Euro 2004, Spain at Euro 2012 and Germany at the 2014 World Cup).
Stick or twist with Ronaldo?
It's a question that has emerged not for the first time at Euro 2024, but Martinez will face his toughest decision yet on Portugal's talisman ahead of the fixture against France.
Ronaldo endured an evening to forget against Slovenia, but assumed responsibility for the Selecao's first spot-kick in the penalty shootout, and was sure not to make the same mistake twice.
During that game in Frankfurt, Ronaldo had the most shots (eight), shots on target (four), and touches in the opposition box (seven), of any player. A clinical edge is lacking.
Indeed, Portugal's captain has mustered 20 shots at Euro 2024, the most of any player, but is yet to find the back of the net.
Ronaldo has also attempted 34 direct free-kick shots for Portugal at the Euros, over twice as many as any other player on record (since 1980 – Zinedine Zidane 15), yet he is still to score one.
While it may be difficult to drop a player who is the all-time leading goalscorer in international football, Martinez could see this as an opportunity to freshen up his forward line.
Having recorded an xG total of 1.97 against Slovenia, failing to take those opportunities against a superior opposition will surely have devastating consequences.
Slim pickings for Deschamps
Deschamps tried to reignite Les Bleus' attacking spark with a three-man strike force against Belgium, but the pickings were slim.
A trio of Mbappe, Marcus Thuram and Antoine Griezmann were preferred, with Randal Kolo Muani introduced late on, but it proved to be another blunt display.
France had 19 shots against the Belgians, but just two were on target, and ultimately it was a touch of fortune that saw them through.
Between Mbappe (five), Thuram (four) and Griezmann (two), they managed just one shot on target, despite having 18 touches between them in Belgium's box.
Defence, ironically, given the attacking talent at their disposal, has been France’s strong point. However, their array of attacking options will have to step up sooner rather than later.
France have kept a clean sheet in three of their four games, the most of any side at the tournament, yet they are not being helped by the players in front of them.
Deschamps, however, has the opportunity to freshen up his forward line. The France coach faces a decision similar to Martinez, as to which of his players he can trust on the biggest of stages.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Portugal - Joao Paulinha
With Portugal's misfiring front line at the centre of attention against Slovenia, it overshadowed the impressive display of Joao Paulinha at the heart of midfield.
Paulinha, who is reportedly set to join Bayern Munich, made nine tackles in this game. The last player to make more in a European Championship match was Anatoliy Tymoshchuk for Ukraine v France in 2012 (12).
The 28-year-old's ability to break up play proved extremely effective against Slovenia, winning the most duels (17), most aerial duels (10), and winning possession more than any other Portugal player on the pitch (10).
France - William Saliba
William Saliba has carried his impressive form with Arsenal into his second major international tournament, and his defensive presence will be important given France's struggles in attack.
The defender has completed 96.6% of his passes so far at Euro 2024 (256/265), the best passing accuracy recorded (min. 100 passes) by a France player at a major tournament (since 1966 for the World Cup, and 1980 for the Euros).
Portugal and France confirmed their places in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024, but both the pre-tournament favourites were far from convincing in doing so.
Roberto Martinez had Diogo Costa to thank for his penalty heroics against Slovenia as the Porto goalkeeper spared Cristiano Ronaldo's blushes in Frankfurt.
Ronaldo saw his spot-kick saved by Jan Oblak in extra time, reducing the five-time Ballon d'Or winner to tears at the interval before stepping up to score in the shootout.
Earlier that day, France were aided by the knee of Jan Vertonghen as they squeezed past Belgium in Dusseldorf, with their struggles in front of goal continuing.
This will be the first meeting between the two sides since Euro 2020, in which three of the four goals were scored from the penalty spot in a 2-2 draw at the Puskas Arena. It is also, of course, a repeat of the Euro 2016 final, which Portugal won 1-0 in Paris.
Many predict another enthralling encounter against two European powerhouses, but based on current form, we might be better not expecting a classic.
Here, we use Opta data to preview Friday's clash.
What's expected?
France are predicted to emerge victorious in Hamburg, with the Opta supercomputer handing them a 40.1% chance of winning at the Volksparkstadion.
Portugal triumphed in 30.2% of the data-led simulations, with a draw forecast at 29.8%, meaning extra time and penalties are a real possibility.
This will be the fifth meeting between Portugal and France at the European Championships, with the Selecao unbeaten in the last two.
France won the first two meetings, going on to lift the trophy both times (3-2 in 1984, 2-1 in 2000), and Les Bleus know a win could send them on their way to silverware once again.
But while both sides boast an array of attacking talent, they have misfired in Germany, and every little advantage will likely be crucial in a tight contest.
Portugal have now failed to score in their last two matches. They have never failed to score in three consecutive games at a single major tournament before.
Les Bleus have had a similar problem. Their three goals at Euro 2024 so far have come from two own goals and a penalty from Kylian Mbappe.
Not since a run of five internationals between March and September 2013 have France seen their players fail to score from open play in as many matches.
However, their defence remained resolute in their time of need. France have an expected goals against (xGA) tally of just 2.63 at Euro 2024 – the lowest of any side in the quarter-final, and second lowest at the tournament overall after already-eliminated Serbia (2.57).
Didier Deschamps' team have an impressive record over Friday's opponents, having lost only one of their last 14 games against Portugal (W11 D2), although that lone defeat came in the final of Euro 2016.
But Martinez's side will fancy their chances of claiming a second European Championship crown should they triumph here.
The previous four teams to eliminate Les Bleus at the quarter-final stage of a major tournament have gone on to win the trophy (Italy in the 1938 World Cup, Greece at Euro 2004, Spain at Euro 2012 and Germany at the 2014 World Cup).
Stick or twist with Ronaldo?
It's a question that has emerged not for the first time at Euro 2024, but Martinez will face his toughest decision yet on Portugal's talisman ahead of the fixture against France.
Ronaldo endured an evening to forget against Slovenia, but assumed responsibility for the Selecao's first spot-kick in the penalty shootout, and was sure not to make the same mistake twice.
During that game in Frankfurt, Ronaldo had the most shots (eight), shots on target (four), and touches in the opposition box (seven), of any player. A clinical edge is lacking.
Indeed, Portugal's captain has mustered 20 shots at Euro 2024, the most of any player, but is yet to find the back of the net.
Ronaldo has also attempted 34 direct free-kick shots for Portugal at the Euros, over twice as many as any other player on record (since 1980 – Zinedine Zidane 15), yet he is still to score one.
While it may be difficult to drop a player who is the all-time leading goalscorer in international football, Martinez could see this as an opportunity to freshen up his forward line.
Having recorded an xG total of 1.97 against Slovenia, failing to take those opportunities against a superior opposition will surely have devastating consequences.
Slim pickings for Deschamps
Deschamps tried to reignite Les Bleus' attacking spark with a three-man strike force against Belgium, but the pickings were slim.
A trio of Mbappe, Marcus Thuram and Antoine Griezmann were preferred, with Randal Kolo Muani introduced late on, but it proved to be another blunt display.
France had 19 shots against the Belgians, but just two were on target, and ultimately it was a touch of fortune that saw them through.
Between Mbappe (five), Thuram (four) and Griezmann (two), they managed just one shot on target, despite having 18 touches between them in Belgium's box.
Defence, ironically, given the attacking talent at their disposal, has been France’s strong point. However, their array of attacking options will have to step up sooner rather than later.
France have kept a clean sheet in three of their four games, the most of any side at the tournament, yet they are not being helped by the players in front of them.
Deschamps, however, has the opportunity to freshen up his forward line. The France coach faces a decision similar to Martinez, as to which of his players he can trust on the biggest of stages.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Portugal - Joao Paulinha
With Portugal's misfiring front line at the centre of attention against Slovenia, it overshadowed the impressive display of Joao Paulinha at the heart of midfield.
Paulinha, who is reportedly set to join Bayern Munich, made nine tackles in this game. The last player to make more in a European Championship match was Anatoliy Tymoshchuk for Ukraine v France in 2012 (12).
The 28-year-old's ability to break up play proved extremely effective against Slovenia, winning the most duels (17), most aerial duels (10), and winning possession more than any other Portugal player on the pitch (10).
France - William Saliba
William Saliba has carried his impressive form with Arsenal into his second major international tournament, and his defensive presence will be important given France's struggles in attack.
The defender has completed 96.6% of his passes so far at Euro 2024 (256/265), the best passing accuracy recorded (min. 100 passes) by a France player at a major tournament (since 1966 for the World Cup, and 1980 for the Euros).
The Euro 2024 round of 16 comes to an end on Tuesday.
Romania and the Netherlands are in action in Munich, with their fans creating quite the atmosphere.
Turkiye and Austria face off later on.
And there was also plenty of reaction from the previous matches of the round, too. We've picked out some of the best social media posts.
Private Ed-ucation
England thought they were heading out of the tournament until Jude Bellingham's moment of brilliance against Slovakia on Sunday.
And along with a quarter-final against Switzerland coming as a reward, the Three Lions' squad got an extra treat when pop sensation Ed Sheeran visited their camp to put on a private performance.
Clips of the gig made it onto social media. Perhaps that is what England need to add some spark to their performances?
Oranje takeover
The Dutch fans have been an off-field highlight in Germany, and they were in fantastic voice again as they travelled in their thousands to Munich to cheer on Ronald Koeman's team against Romania.
It was a sea of orange (or Oranje), and it really is some sight.
Fans in unison
But it wasn't just the Dutch fans enjoying themselves in Munich ahead of kick-off.
In fact, supporters of both the Netherlands and Romania joined up to have a sing and dance in the fan park before the match.
Ronaldo's tears
Cristiano Ronaldo was in the limelight on Monday, albeit not for the reason he would have wanted.
The Portugal star missed a penalty in extra time against Slovenia, and relied on his goalkeeper Diogo Costa to get the Selecao out of trouble by making three saves in the shootout.
Ronaldo was in tears at the interval in extra time, though it all worked out in the end. Portugal will face France in the last eight.
CR7's free-kick woes
That penalty was not the only set-piece Ronaldo squandered against Slovenia, with the 39-year-old also trying his luck from free-kicks.
In fact, Ronaldo has now taken 60 free-kicks at major tournaments, yet he has only scored one (against Spain at the 2018 World Cup).
Opta Analyst posted a handy graphic of all those free-kick attempts on X, while also providing a comparison with Lionel Messi, who has scored five out of 53 free-kicks at major tournaments.
Talk about adding insult to injury, guys...
Bellingham's 'most important goal'
Bellingham was the man in England's 'diary room' on Tuesday, and he mentioned how he made sure to give Marc Guehi credit for helping to tee up his overhead kick against Slovakia.
The 21-year-old called it "the most important" goal of his life, too.
There's plenty of spirit in the England camp. Can they translate that into a better performance, though?
Safety first...
Gareth Southgate has come in for plenty of criticism for his conservative tactics at Euro 2024.
And that has seen some accounts join in with what has become something of a pile-on... Including, bizarrely, KFC.
Their official X account posted an AI-generated image of Southgate in a hi-vis, helmet and gloves while frying chicken. Poor old Gareth.
Memphis' new(er) look
Memphis Depay debuted a headband in the group stage, but it looks like he's now switched up the colour from white to black.
He has scored one goal so far, though that came in a defeat to Austria. Will this new look change his luck?
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