UEFA Euro 2020, held in 2021 due to COVID-19, featured Italy’s championship, Christian Eriksen’s cardiac arrest, and England’s heartbreaking penalty shootout loss in the final.
Tournament Delay
Originally scheduled for summer 2020, the tournament was postponed one year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. UEFA kept the “Euro 2020” branding for commercial reasons.
The tournament used 11 host cities across Europe (first multi-country Euros), including Wembley (London), Rome, Munich, and Copenhagen.
Christian Eriksen Collapse
On June 12, 2021, Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen suffered cardiac arrest on the pitch during Denmark vs. Finland. Medical staff performed CPR, and he was revived with a defibrillator.
The incident was broadcast live, shocking the world. Eriksen later received an ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) and returned to professional soccer with Brentford and Manchester United.
Denmark’s players formed a protective circle around Eriksen during treatment, an iconic image of solidarity. Denmark dedicated their run to him, reaching the semifinals.
Italy’s Championship Run
Italy went undefeated en route to the title, defeating England 3-2 on penalties in the final at Wembley Stadium on July 11, 2021.
Italy’s defensive masterclass under manager Roberto Mancini featured Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma won Player of the Tournament.
England’s Heartbreak
England reached their first major final since 1966, with Gareth Southgate’s young squad captivating the nation. “It’s Coming Home” chants filled Wembley.
Luke Shaw scored after two minutes in the final, the fastest Euro final goal. Italy equalized through Bonucci in the 67th minute, forcing extra time and penalties.
England lost the penalty shootout 3-2, with misses from Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Bukayo Saka (19 years old). The three Black players faced racist abuse on social media, sparking national outrage.
Denmark Fairy Tale
Denmark’s semifinal run was emotional after Eriksen’s collapse. They defeated Wales and Czech Republic before losing to England 2-1 in extra time (controversial penalty).
The team wore #10 Eriksen shirts during celebrations, dedicating every win to him.
Spain’s Young Squad
Spain reached the semifinals with a youthful team, featuring Pedri (18) and Ferran Torres. They defeated Croatia 5-3 in an epic Round of 16 match but lost to Italy on penalties in the semis.
Wales & Scotland Participation
Wales (led by Gareth Bale) and Scotland qualified, making it a historic tournament for British teams. Scotland’s group stage exit was disappointing, but the Tartan Army fan presence was celebrated.
Own Goal Record
The tournament saw a record 11 own goals, more than the previous 15 Euros combined. Mats Hummels (Germany) and Raphaël Guerreiro (Portugal) scored notable own goals.
Racism Aftermath
The racist abuse of Saka, Rashford, and Sancho after the final led to police investigations and bans. UK government condemned the attacks, and murals honoring Saka appeared in London.
Gareth Southgate defended the players, calling them heroes. The incident sparked national conversations about racism in English soccer.
Attendance & COVID Protocols
Wembley allowed 60,000+ fans for the semifinals and final, controversial given COVID-19 surges. Other venues had reduced capacities (25-100% depending on local rules).
Legacy
#EURO2020 (held in 2021) is remembered for Eriksen’s survival, Italy’s redemption (after missing 2018 World Cup), and England’s near-miss. The tournament proved major events could proceed amid a pandemic with health protocols.
The multi-country format was criticized for environmental impact and competitive imbalance but celebrated for inclusivity.