France has secured their place in the Euro Semifinals after defeating Portugal in a hard-fought quarterfinal match. Their victory extends their unbeaten record against Portugal, who have yet to claim a win against their French rivals. France will now face Spain, who themselves pulled off a major upset by eliminating host nation Germany. This victory marks a significant milestone for Spain, as they have historically struggled to overcome host nations in knockout stages.

The Euro tournament has reached a poignant juncture, as legendary players bid farewell to this grand stage. The echoes of their brilliance will linger, but their final walk through the tunnel marks the end of an era. The future of European football is uncertain, but the legacy of these icons will forever inspire. The Euro tournament has borne witness to countless legends, their brilliance etched in its history. But this year, a bittersweet undercurrent flows through the competition. Toni Kroos’s departure, Pepe’s tears, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s farewell smile, all tinged with sorrow, have stirred a deep sense of nostalgia. These icons, whose names are synonymous with greatness, have left an indelible mark on the tournament, and their absence will be keenly felt.

Toni Kroos’s decision to retire from international football after the Euros, despite his peak physical condition and recent triumphs with Real Madrid, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his personal goals. His decision, while surprising to many, reflects a calculated choice to end his career on his own terms, leaving behind a legacy of excellence. His departure marks the end of an era for German football, but his impact on the sport will continue to resonate for years to come. Toni Kroos’s footballing journey, which began at Greifs SC and culminated in a trophy-laden career with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, has come to an end. His final match, marked by a dramatic late goal from Merino that ended Germany’s hopes of extending the game, fulfilled Joselu’s playful wish for his retirement. While his departure leaves a void in German football, his legacy of excellence and achievement will continue to inspire generations of players. The journey that began on July 1st, 2002, a journey marked by youthful promise and boundless potential, has reached its conclusion on July 6th, 2024.

This chapter, filled with experiences and growth, has come to a close, leaving behind a legacy of memories and lessons learned. Toni Kroos’s career is a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent. His trophy cabinet is a testament to his success, boasting an impressive collection of accolades, including: Top scorer at the U-17 European Championship in 2007; FIFA World Cup winner in 2014; German Footballer of the Year in 2018; Six Champions League titles with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich ; FIFA Club World Cup winner with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich; Three Bundesliga titles with Bayern Munich; Five Super Cup titles with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid; Four Spanish La Liga titles; Three German Cup titles; One Spanish Cup title; Three German Super Cup titles; One German Super Cup title; One Torneio Internacional Algarve U17 title. These achievements solidify his place as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation. Toni Kroos’s career is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. He has left an indelible mark on the game, establishing himself as one of the most decorated midfielders of all time. His legacy as a legend will continue to inspire generations of players.

Veteran defender Pepe, at the age of 41, bid farewell to international football after Portugal’s heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to France in the Euro 2020 Round of 16. The match marked the end of an era for the experienced center-back, who has been a stalwart for Portugal throughout his career.Pepe’s impact on the Portuguese national team was undeniable. His unwavering presence at the heart of the defense provided stability and leadership, guiding the team through numerous challenges. His commitment and experience were instrumental in Portugal’s success, particularly in recent years. The penalty shootout defeat against France, which saw Joao Felix miss a crucial spot-kick, brought Pepe’s international journey to a close. While the outcome was disappointing, it did not diminish the legacy he leaves behind. Pepe’s contributions to Portuguese football will be remembered for years to come. Pepe’s impact extends beyond his 140 caps for Portugal, a testament to his longevity and dedication. He achieved remarkable success at club level, notably with Porto and Real Madrid, where he reached the pinnacle of his career. His trophy cabinet boasts a UEFA Nations League title and a European Championship, showcasing his ability to perform at the highest level. Pepe’s contributions to Portugal’s qualification for numerous international tournaments are a testament to his unwavering commitment and influence. He is widely regarded as one of the best defenders of his generation.

Cristiano Ronaldo, following his penalty miss against Slovenia, declared that the ongoing Euro 2020 tournament would be his last. The prolific goal scorer, aiming for a grand finale to his European Championship journey, saw his aspirations cut short as Portugal succumbed to their long-standing rivals, France. Despite Portugal’s elimination, Ronaldo exits the tournament with his head held high. He leaves with a legacy of remarkable achievements, including the title of top scorer in the Euros and the record for most assists in the competition’s history. His assist for Bruno Fernandes against Turkey solidified his status as a true legend of the game, cementing his place as one of the greatest players to ever grace the European Championship stage. Ronaldo’s impact on Portuguese football is undeniable. He has led the nation to two international trophies, a testament to his leadership and influence. His contributions will forever be etched in the history of Portuguese football, and he bows out as a true legend, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

Mattia Zaccagni’s 98th-minute header secured Italy’s victory, eliminating Croatia from the Euro tournament after they finished fourth in their group. This marked the end of Luka Modrić’s Euro campaign. The 39-year-old midfielder has been instrumental for both Croatia and Real Madrid. The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner led Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final, a remarkable achievement for the underdogs. He also played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s success, contributing to their three consecutive Champions League titles. Modrić’s impact on the Euros was undeniable, marked by his signature performances, assists, goals, and breathtaking passes. He led Croatia to qualification for the World Cup, UEFA Nations League, and Euros. As he concludes his Euro journey and his time with the Croatian national team, his contributions will be forever remembered.

Thomas Müller, known for his longevity, was visibly emotional after Germany’s loss to Spain. A late goal from Wirtz in stoppage time forced a penalty shootout, but a stoppage-time goal from Merino in extra time ultimately eliminated Germany. The 34-year-old has enjoyed a decorated career with both Germany and Bayern Munich. Müller’s trophy cabinet is a testament to his success: a World Cup, two Champions League titles, a FIFA World Club Cup, a Super Cup, 12 German championships, six German Cups, and eight German Super Cups. He was also a three-time top scorer in the 2010 World Cup, DFB-Pokal 09/10, and 13/14 seasons. With 45 goals and 41 assists in 131 appearances for Germany since 2010, he is a true legend of the game, admired and respected worldwide. Thomas Muller the man who was thought to not get old was all tears after losing to Spain. The host nation got a life line through Wirtz’s strike in the stoppage time to take them to the penalty shootout. However, Merino at the stoppage time of the extra 30minutes to bring the game to end and Germany eliminated. The 34year old has had a lot of achievements with Germany and his Bayern Munich. Winning the World Cup in 2014, 2Champions League, FIFA World Club Cup and Super Cup. 12times German champion, 6times German Cup champion and 8German Super Cup. He was a 3time top scorer in the 2010 World Cup, DFB-Pokal 09/10 and 13/14 season. He has 45 goals and 41assists in 131games for the German team since 2010. He will be fondly remembered and idolized not just in Germany but in the football world. He is a legend of the game and will be fondly remembered.

While the absence of Ronaldo, Kroos, Modric, Thomas Muller and Pepe will undoubtedly leave a void, the future of the European Championship remains bright. The emergence of young stars eager to make their mark promises a new era of excitement and competition. The spirit of these legends will inspire the next generation to strive for greatness, ensuring that the tournament continues to captivate audiences worldwide. The emergence of these young talents across Europe is a testament to the enduring legacy of the game. Their skills and ambition promise a thrilling future for the European Championship. As we bid farewell to the legends who have graced the tournament with their brilliance, we raise our glasses in gratitude for their contributions and the memories they have created. Their impact will forever be etched in the history of the Euros.