Best XI of the Euro 2024 Quarterfinals: Portugal Has 2 Players

(Best XI of the Euro 2024 Quarterfinals) – Pepe, Bukayo Saka, and Dani Olmo are three of the 11 highest-rated players in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals according to WhoScored.

Unai Simon (8.11 points) is one of the three standout Spanish players to make it into WhoScored’s best XI of the Euro 2024 quarterfinals. The goalkeeper made five crucial saves against Germany and relieved defensive pressure with four catches from crosses. In the picture, Simon makes a save in Spain’s 2-1 win over Germany in Stuttgart on July 5.

Bukayo Saka (8.91) excelled in the right wing-back role, a new position for him. In the match against Switzerland, the English player completed four dribbles and two key passes. He scored with a left-footed curler from outside the box to equalize and successfully converted his penalty in the shootout, helping the “Three Lions” win 5-3.

Pepe (7.34) remained solid at age 41, anchoring Portugal’s defense. The experienced center-back (number 3 in the picture) had a 97.1% pass accuracy from 138 passes, made six clearances, and three tackles, helping Portugal keep a clean sheet against France. However, in the penalty shootout, Portugal lost 3-5.

Stefan de Vrij (7.25) shone with three clearances and one tackle in the match against Turkey. Besides his defensive solidity, De Vrij (number 6) helped level the score at 1-1 with a header. The Netherlands later won thanks to an own goal by Mert Muldur.

Nuno Mendes (8.23) was another standout in Portugal’s defense. The 22-year-old defender showed all-around excellence against France, with three tackles, two interceptions, and four successful dribbles. Despite having a chance to be the hero with a dangerous shot late in the game, Mendes (number 19) could not score.

Jude Bellingham (7.5) was the second English player selected for the best XI of the Euro 2024 quarterfinals. In the match against Switzerland, the Real Madrid midfielder completed four dribbles, one key pass, one tackle, and successfully converted his penalty in the shootout.

Mikel Merino (7.46) created two key passes and completed one dribble after coming on as a substitute. However, the highlight for the 28-year-old midfielder was a precise header into the top corner in the 119th minute, leaving Manuel Neuer with no chance, helping Spain secure a 2-1 win over Germany.

Florian Wirtz (7.61) revitalized Germany’s attack after replacing Leroy Sane at the start of the second half. The 21-year-old midfielder completed three successful dribbles, two key passes, and three shots. He equalized 1-1 with a shot that hit the post, sending the game into extra time.

Ousmane Dembele (8.5) replaced Antoine Griezmann midway through the second half and delivered an outstanding performance against Roberto Martinez’s team. The PSG winger completed six dribbles, six key passes, and three shots, including one that hit the frame. He also scored in the penalty shootout, helping France win 5-3. In the picture, Dembele dribbles past two Portuguese defenders, Nuno Mendes and Pepe.

Memphis Depay (8.14) made three key passes, including a crucial assist for Stefan de Vrij’s equalizer against Turkey. The Dutch forward also completed three dribbles and had four shots, including one that went over the bar in the opening minute.

Dani Olmo (9.06) unexpectedly replaced an injured Pedri in the 8th minute but became the star, helping Spain reach the semifinals. The number 10 midfielder opened the scoring with a cross-shot early in the second half, then assisted Mikel Merino’s winning goal in the 119th minute.