Euro 2020 Kickoff: Highlights and Key Moments from Matchday 1

Euro 2020 Matchday 1: Dramatic Returns, Emotional Moments, and Standout Performances

The opening matchday of Euro 2020 delivered an exhilarating showcase of football, reuniting fans with the energy and passion that had been missing during the months without crowds. Across the host cities, excitement returned in full force as spectators filled stadiums and unforgettable moments unfolded on the pitch.

Kickoff in Rome: Italy Make a Statement Against Turkey

The tournament commenced at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, where Italy faced Turkey in front of 16,000 spectators—though the atmosphere echoed that of a packed arena whenever the Azzurri surged forward. Italy dominated, breaking the deadlock through an own goal by Merih Demiral after intense pressure from Domenico Berardi. The Italian momentum continued as Ciro Immobile and Lorenzo Insigne found the net, securing a convincing 3-0 victory to set the tournament tone.

Baku Drama: Wales Hold Switzerland to a Draw

On the following day in Baku, Wales and Switzerland produced a closely contested 1-1 draw. Breel Embolo powered Switzerland into the lead after halftime, but Wales responded through Keiffer Moore, whose header leveled the score and ensured both teams took a point from their group opener.

Copenhagen Shock: Eriksen’s Collapse and Historic Finnish Triumph

Emotions ran particularly high during Denmark vs. Finland in Copenhagen. Tragedy struck in the 43rd minute when Christian Eriksen collapsed due to cardiac arrest, prompting immediate intervention by captain Simon Kjaer and swift medical response. Supporters from both teams joined in a powerful tribute, chanting Eriksen’s name as he was stretchered off. After a lengthy break, play resumed under challenging circumstances, and Joel Pohjanpalo scored to give Finland their first-ever European Championship win, marking an unforgettable debut for the Nordic nation.

Belgium Start Strong; Lukaku’s Emotional Tribute

Belgium kicked off their campaign with a decisive 3-0 win over Russia, powered by Romelu Lukaku’s brace and a goal from Thomas Meunier. Lukaku dedicated his first goal to club teammate Christian Eriksen, adding a heartfelt layer to Belgium’s performance.

England Impress at Wembley with Sterling’s Decisive Strike

England took on Croatia at Wembley in a rematch of the 2018 World Cup semifinal. Gareth Southgate surprised many by playing right-back Kieran Trippier on the left, omitting specialists Luke Shaw and Ben Chilwell. England still controlled the match, and Raheem Sterling scored early in the second half to secure an important 1-0 victory, marking England’s first-ever win in a European Championship opening match.

Austria Outpace North Macedonia

Austria recorded a 3-1 victory against tournament newcomers North Macedonia. Stefan Lainer opened the scoring, followed by Michael Gregoritsch and Marko Arnautovic, while veteran Goran Pandev netted North Macedonia’s lone goal, giving their debut a memorable moment despite the loss.

Amsterdam Thriller: Late Winner Decides Netherlands vs. Ukraine

Perhaps the highlight of Matchday 1 was the dramatic clash in Amsterdam between the Netherlands and Ukraine. The Dutch took a commanding 2-0 lead through Georginio Wijnaldum’s powerful finish and Wout Weghorst’s quick reaction. Ukraine fought back with stunning goals by Andriy Yarmolenko and Roman Yaremchuk to draw level, only for Denzel Dumfries to head home a late winner, sealing a 3-2 Dutch triumph in a match brimming with quality and resilience.

Schick’s Stunner Lights Up Glasgow

In Glasgow, the Czech Republic defeated Scotland 2-0, thanks largely to Patrik Schick’s standout performance. Schick scored a precise header before producing one of the tournament’s most iconic moments, launching a looping shot from near the halfway line over goalkeeper David Marshall. The audacious goal instantly entered European Championship folklore and gave the Czechs a memorable victory.

Slovakia Upsets Poland; Spain Held by Sweden

Poland and Slovakia delivered another twist, as Slovakia claimed a 2-1 win. Róbert Mak’s determined run led to an own goal off Wojciech Szczesny, and after Karol Linetty equalized, Grzegorz Krychowiak’s red card handed momentum back to Slovakia, who clinched victory through Milan Škriniar. Meanwhile in Seville, Spain dominated possession against Sweden (86%) but were unable to break the Swedish defense, resulting in a 0-0 stalemate in a match marked by missed chances from both sides.

Late Surge Propels Portugal Past Hungary

In Budapest, a full Puskas Arena witnessed Hungary frustrating Portugal for most of the game. However, the defending champions broke the deadlock in the 84th minute with Raphael Guerreiro’s deflected shot, triggering a late surge. Willi Orban’s foul led to a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty conversion, and Ronaldo added another goal moments later, cementing his status as the competition’s all-time leading scorer. Portugal’s 3-0 win belied the challenge Hungary posed for much of the match.

World Champions France Edge Germany

The final game of the opening round brought together France and Germany in a heavyweight showdown. The match was settled by an own goal from Mats Hummels as France’s technical superiority, highlighted by Kylian Mbappe and Paul Pogba, guided them to a vital 1-0 victory. Germany controlled possession but struggled to penetrate a disciplined French defense.

Matchday 1 Results Table

Looking Ahead

Euro 2020’s opening round brought back the thrill of tournament football with electric goals, emotional moments, and passionate fans. As the competition unfolds, excitement is sure to grow, promising even more unforgettable drama on the European stage. Stay tuned for more coverage and analysis as the journey continues.