A recap of the best European Championships finals

Euro 2024 is almost upon us and international football fans are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting summer. With hosts Germany joining England and France amongst the favourites with Euro 2024 odds to go all the way and win the tournament.

Over the years, there have been a number of memorable finals at the Euros, and in anticipation of this year’s competition, we reflect on previous years and look back at the best sides to have lifted the coveted trophy. In this article, we look at some of the best finals at the European Championships.

Spain 4-0 Italy (2012)

In the 2012 Euro final held in Kyiv, Ukraine, Spain showcased their tiki-taka style, dominating possession and dismantling Italy with a resounding 4-0 victory. Goals from David Silva, Jordi Alba, Fernando Torres, and Juan Mata highlighted Spain's offensive prowess. This victory, Spain’s third consecutive major tournament win following their triumphs in Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup, was the most successful period in the nation’s history under Luis Aragonés and Vicente del Bosque.

The final was a testament to La Roja’s dominance throughout this era, often referred to as the "Golden Generation" of Spanish football. Their fluid passing game, orchestrated by midfield maestros Xavi and Andrés Iniesta, left Italy chasing shadows for much of the match, as they had done Germany and the Netherlands in their other previous finals.

Spain's victory in Kyiv wasn't just about the scoreline, it was a masterclass in football philosophy and execution, redolent of Barcelona’s Champions League dominance over Manchester United the summer before. This win, which introduced new stars like Mata and David Silva, solidified their legacy as one of the greatest national teams in history.

England 1-1 Italy (AET, Italy win on penalties, 2020)

When Luke Shaw scored early in the final of Euro 202, netting the fastest goal in a final after just two minutes, many thought football was coming home. However, Italy equalised through Leonardo Bonucci, who capitalised on a loose ball in the box.

After a tense second half, normal time ended 1-1, and Italy prevailed in the shootout, with Gianluigi Donnarumma saving crucial penalties to secure their second European Championship title.

This match was significant for several reasons: it highlighted Italy's resurgence under Roberto Mancini, showcased the grit and determination of an experienced Italian squad, and marked another chapter in England's long history of heartbreak in major tournaments. This was an Italy team that had a much older group of players than England, but it was perhaps that lack of experience in the big games that proved the Three Lions’ undoing, with Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka, all teenagers, missing crucial penalties.

Greece 1-0 Portugal (2004)

In one of the biggest upsets in football history, the 2004 Euro final at Estádio da Luz in Lisbon, Portugal, saw Greece’s disciplined defence frustrate Portugal throughout the match. Angelos Charisteas headed home the winner, and Greece lifted their first major trophy, defying odds of 150/1.

This final is a blueprint for any team looking to complete their own underdog story. Greece, managed by Otto Rehhagel, had got the best out of his side in the group stages, where they had previously met Portugal to snatch second place away from the Spanish on the final matchday. And when you look at the side that they beat, which included Portuguese legends Luis Figo and Cristiano Ronaldo at different ends of their careers, it was all the more impressive.

The win remains one of the most remarkable achievements in international football. Greece's triumph was a celebration of teamwork, discipline, and strategic brilliance, proving that even the most unlikely teams can achieve greatness with the right approach, beating the hosts in their own backyard.