Euro 2024 has reached the knockout stages, and one player who stands out among the rest is Cody Gakpo. The Netherlands forward has been making waves in the tournament, currently tied at the top of the scoring charts with three goals. However, despite his individual brilliance, Gakpo cannot carry his team alone. In the recent round-of-16 match against Romania, Gakpo showcased his skills by scoring a goal and providing an assist for Donyell Malen. While Gakpo’s performance has been stellar, his teammates such as Memphis Depay and Xavi Simons need to step up to support him.
For Cristiano Ronaldo, the Euro 2024 quarterfinal against Slovenia was a night to forget. The 39-year-old missed a crucial penalty in the first period of extra time, which could have secured Portugal’s progression. Despite redeeming himself later in the shootout, Ronaldo faced criticism for his overall performance, including missed free kicks and off-target shots. The night took a further sour turn for Ronaldo as fans taunted him with rival Lionel Messi’s shirt, and a TV caption mocking his penalty miss drew backlash from fans.
Paul Pogba, the French midfielder currently serving a ban, made a public appearance at a stadium in Düsseldorf and received a hero’s welcome from fans. Despite his suspension, Pogba remains a celebrated figure among football enthusiasts, with fans singing his name and chanting “Pogba President.” His presence at the match between France and Belgium was met with enthusiasm, as he interacted with fans, players, and coaching staff, reminiscing his days on the field.
England’s Harry Kane found support from unexpected quarters during Euro 2024, as NFL legend Tom Brady and quarterback Patrick Mahomes expressed admiration for his performance. Kane’s winning goal against Slovakia drew reactions from Brady and Mahomes on social media, highlighting the global appeal of major tournaments like the European Championships. Kane, a footballer with aspirations to play in the NFL, was thrilled by the support from such esteemed personalities from the sporting world.
While teams battle it out on the field, Neil Marriott, a bagpiper from New Zealand, brings a unique touch to Euro 2024 by playing the bagpipes outside stadiums. Clad in traditional Highland Dress, Marriott’s performances aim to raise funds for his participation in the World Pipe Band Championship. Despite the rivalry between England and Scotland, Marriott’s spirited bagpipe tunes resonate across host stadiums, adding a cultural flair to the tournament.
Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham has been a prominent figure in Euro 2024, garnering attention for his on-field prowess and controversies. Despite UEFA’s investigation into his goal celebration, Bellingham’s social media popularity has soared during the tournament. With a significant increase in his Instagram followers since the start of Euro 2024, Bellingham’s box-office appeal continues to rise, solidifying his status as a fan favorite.
Key players in Euro 2024 are not just making headlines on the field but also leaving a lasting impact off the pitch. From stellar performances to social media stardom, these players play a crucial role in shaping the narrative of the tournament. As the competition progresses, the spotlight will continue to shine on these individuals, highlighting their talent, influence, and contribution to the overall spectacle of Euro 2024.
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