What are the greatest goals in UEFA EURO history? The Game Magazine reviews some of the most spectacular and important moments in the tournament's history, from Marco van Basten's iconic goal in EURO 1988 to Zlatan Ibrahimovic's acrobatic strike in EURO 2012.
The Greatest Goals in UEFA EURO History: Moments of Joy
Deciding on the greatest goal in a tournament is challenging. Each team experiences moments of triumph, and every goal holds a special place for fans in a competition as important as the UEFA EURO. Nonetheless, some goals are crucial, dramatically altering the course of matches and, ultimately, the outcome of the tournament. There are moments when a single strike can crown a team as champion or redirect the trajectory of a game. The UEFA European Championship has always been a stage for extraordinary footballing moments, especially those that leave fans awestruck. Here we celebrate “The Greatest Goals in UEFA EURO History,” a collection that encapsulates skill, audacity, and the sheer magic of football.
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Marco van Basten v Soviet Union, EURO 1988
In the 1988 final, Marco van Basten scored what is arguably the most iconic goal in the history of the Euros. His spectacular volley from an implausible angle secured the Netherlands’ first major international trophy and etched his name into footballing folklore.
Patrick Schick v Scotland, EURO 2021
Czech Republic’s Patrick Schick lit up Euro 2020 with a stunning long-range goal against Scotland. From just over the halfway line, Schick spotted the goalkeeper off his line and launched a beautifully judged lob that sailed into the net. This goal demonstrated extraordinary vision and became an instant classic for its boldness and precision.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic v France, EURO 2012
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is no stranger to scoring spectacular goals, and his acrobatic volley against France in 2012 was proof of this. With an incredible display of flexibility and technique, Ibrahimovic smashed the ball into the net, showing why he is considered one of the most dynamic strikers in football history.
Kim Vilfort v Germany, EURO1992 Final
Kim Vilfort’s goal in the 1992 final helped Denmark pull off one of the biggest upsets in football history. His strike against Germany sealed a fairytale victory for the Danes, who weren’t even originally qualified for the tournament. Vilfort’s goal was a display of skill and a heartwarming moment of triumph against the odds.
Mario Balotelli v Germany, UEFA 2012
Mario Balotelli’s powerful and emotive performance in the 2012 semifinals against Germany was highlighted by his two goals. The second goal was a thunderous strike that left no doubt about his capabilities on the big stage. His celebration, a mix of defiance and intensity, became almost as memorable as the goal itself.
Karel Poborsky v Portugal, UEFA 1996
Karel Poborsky’s lob over Portugal’s goalkeeper in the 1996 quarterfinals showcased creativity and cheekiness. His scooped finish after a solo run was not just effective but stylish, marking it as one of the most ingenious goals in the tournament’s history.
Paul Gascoigne v Scotland, UEFA 1996
Paul Gascoigne’s goal against Scotland was a brilliant combination of skill and exuberance. ‘Gazza’ flicked the ball over Colin Hendry’s head before volleying it into the net, a moment of pure genius that remains one of the most celebrated goals in England’s football history.
Eder v France, UEFA Final 2016
Eder’s long-range strike in the EURO 2016 final against France was as unexpected as it was spectacular. His goal clinched Portugal’s first-ever major tournament win. A moment of national celebration that came through a display of individual brilliance.
