The best teams in Europe have started to compete for the chance to be crowned the best on the continent.
The Euros have given us some incredible moments over the years, and the 2024 edition promises to be no different, with several records potentially up for grabs. Let’s take a look at some records that may be broken before the tournament is over.
Youngest Player to Ever Get Minutes
In 2021, Polish teenager Kacper Kozlowski set the record for the youngest player to ever play in the Euros when he was subbed into a game at 17 years and 246 days. However, this record is in serious danger. Spain’s Lamine Yamal, who has yet to turn 17, is a regular fixture on their right wing. If he plays, this record will be broken once the Euros begin.
Oldest Player to Ever Play
The record for the oldest player to ever play in the Euros is currently held by Hungary’s Gabor Kiraly, who played at 40 years and 86 days during the 2016 tournament. This year, Portugal’s Pepe, who is 41, is set to break this record when he steps onto the field. Pepe has been a key player for Portugal for nearly two decades, and new manager Roberto Martinez still values his tenacity.
Oldest Goal Scorer
Austria’s Ivica Vastic holds the record for the oldest goal scorer at the Euros, having converted a penalty in 2008 at 38 years and 257 days. Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, now 39, is poised to break this record. Given Ronaldo’s determination and knack for making history, this will be an additional motivation for him to score.
Most Goals Scored by a Team in a Single Tournament
France set the record for the most goals scored by a team in a single tournament with 14 goals in 1984, largely thanks to Michel Platini’s nine goals. At the 2022 World Cup, France scored 16 goals. If they replicate or surpass this feat at the Euros, they could set a new record. Many top teams, not just France, have the potential to break this record.
Youngest Goal Scorer
Swiss striker Johan Vonlanthen became the youngest goal scorer in Euros history at 18 years and 141 days in 2004. With young talents like Lamine Yamal, this record is under threat. Yamal and other young stars will be eager to make their mark and possibly set a new record.
Most Euro Tournaments Played
Cristiano Ronaldo already holds the record for most Euro tournaments played, having participated in five. Barring any surprises, he will play in his sixth tournament this year, extending his own record. Given his current form, it wouldn’t be surprising if he made it seven in 2028.
Fastest Goal Ever Scored
The fastest goal ever scored at the Euros was by Dmitri Kirichenko, who scored after just 67 seconds in the 2004 tournament. With the dynamic and potent attacks seen in modern football, this record could be broken by a quick-strike artist at Euro 2024.
Most Goals Scored by a Player in a Single Tournament
Michel Platini holds the record for most goals scored by a player in a single Euros tournament with nine goals in 1984. The closest anyone has come to this was Antoine Griezmann with six goals in 2016. Kylian Mbappe is a likely candidate to challenge this record, potentially passing it from one French great to another. However, any top talent in the world could also achieve this feat.
Conclusion
Euro 2024 promises to be a thrilling tournament not just because of the high level of competition, but also due to the potential for record-breaking performances. From the youngest to the oldest players, and from individual scoring feats to team achievements, this tournament could see several records rewritten. As we eagerly await the kickoff, these potential milestones add an extra layer of excitement to an already highly anticipated event.
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