Euro Scores: A History of UEFA European Championship Finals

The UEFA European Championship, commonly known as the Euros, is a prestigious international football tournament held every four years. This article delves into the history of the competition, specifically focusing on the Euro Scores of each final match. From the inaugural tournament in 1960 to the most recent edition in 2024, we’ll recap the thrilling victories, heartbreaking defeats, and memorable moments that have shaped the history of the Euros.

The Soviet Union emerged victorious in the first-ever European Championship final in 1960, defeating Yugoslavia 2-1 in extra time. Viktor Ponedelnik’s late goal secured the title for the Soviets, establishing them as the first European champions.

Four years later, Spain hosted the tournament and triumphed over the defending champions, the Soviet Union, with a final score of 2-1. Marcelino’s late header secured the victory for Spain in front of their home crowd.

In 1968, Italy and Yugoslavia played to a 1-1 draw in the final, requiring a replay. Italy won the replay 2-0, claiming their first European Championship title.

West Germany dominated the 1972 tournament, culminating in a 3-0 victory over the Soviet Union in the final. Gerd Müller’s two goals cemented his status as a legendary striker.

Czechoslovakia won the 1976 final against West Germany in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw. Antonín Panenka’s iconic chipped penalty secured the victory for the Czechoslovakians.

West Germany reclaimed the title in 1980, defeating Belgium 2-1 in the final thanks to two goals from Horst Hrubesch.

France, led by the brilliant Michel Platini, won the 1984 tournament on home soil, defeating Spain 2-0 in the final.

The Netherlands secured their first major international trophy in 1988, defeating the Soviet Union 2-0 in the final. Marco van Basten’s stunning volley is considered one of the greatest goals in European Championship history.

In a surprising turn of events, Denmark, who replaced Yugoslavia in the tournament at the last minute, won the 1992 European Championship, defeating Germany 2-0 in the final.

Germany emerged victorious in the 1996 final against the Czech Republic, winning 2-1 with a golden goal from Oliver Bierhoff.

France clinched the 2000 title with a golden goal victory over Italy in the final, the score ending 2-1. David Trezeguet’s memorable strike secured the win for Les Bleus.

In 2004, Greece stunned the football world by winning the European Championship, defeating hosts Portugal 1-0 in the final. Angelos Charisteas’s header secured a historic victory for the underdog Greeks.

Spain began their period of dominance in 2008, winning the tournament with a 1-0 victory over Germany in the final. Fernando Torres scored the winning goal.

Spain retained their title in 2012, defeating Italy 4-0 in a comprehensive victory in the final.

Portugal won their first European Championship in 2016, defeating hosts France 1-0 in extra time. Éder’s long-range strike secured a memorable victory for the Portuguese.

Italy triumphed in the delayed EURO 2020 tournament, defeating England 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the final held at Wembley Stadium.

Spain once again claimed the European Championship title in 2024, defeating England 2-1 in the final held in Berlin. Mikel Oyarzabal’s late goal sealed the victory for Spain.