Friday , March 29 2024

Euro 2016 team of the group stage

Wednesday night brought down the curtain on the biggest-ever European Championship group stage with 36 matches played at Euro 2016 so far.

Despite expectations of a dilution in quality, the tournament has instead seen a group of underdogs impressing, with no team holding a 100 per cent record just three games in.

  Goalkeeper: Michael McGovern (Northern Ireland)

Produced an outstanding performance against world champions Germany and made 16 saves overall, conceding just twice, to guide Northern Ireland through a difficult group.

Northern Ireland goalkeeper Michael McGovern keeps out a shot from Germany's Mario Gomez on Tuesday

Right back: Darijo Srna (Croatia)

Captaining Croatia in all three group games despite the death of his father, Srna was defensively solid, offered a great outlet on the right and made sure his team didn’t completely lose their heads despite their troubles.

Croatia captain Darijo Srna slides in on Spain winger Nolito during his country's 2-1 victory on Tuesday night

Centre back: Ragnar Sigurdsson (Iceland)

Another defensive member of a side barely given a chance by critics, Sigurdsson played a key role in frustrating Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal before a similarly composed display to deny Austria.

Iceland defender Ragnar Sigurdsson tussles with Austria forward Marko Arnautovic during his side's 2-1 win

Centre back: Leonardo Bonucci (Italy)

A slip to let Wes Hoolahan in on Wednesday night aside, Bonucci has been the tournament’s outstanding defender, particularly impressing with his display and assist in the surprise win over Belgium.

Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci stops Republic of Ireland striker Shane Long from getting to the ball first 

Left back: Robbie Brady (Republic of Ireland)

Norwich City winger has played the full back role for his club and Ireland’s minnow status in their group meant he was often pinned back but still offered great runs down the wing and his goal against Italy was brilliant.

Defender Robbie Brady sent Republic of Ireland into the last 16 of Euro 2016 with a late header against Italy

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