Turkey hang on to edge out Austria in pulsating clash

Merih Demiral scored twice – including the quickest knockout-stage goal in European Championship history – as Turkey stunned Austria to set up a quarter-final with the Netherlands. This was arguably the best game of the tournament so far, a thrilling winner-takes-all tie played in pouring rain at a frenetic pace, with both teams roared forward by their fervent support. From Demiral’s first goal in the first minute to a stunning save by Turkey goalkeeper Mert Gunok to deny Austria an equaliser in the last, there was barely time for the crowd to draw a breath.

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Mattia Zaccagni strikes at death to crush Croatia sending Italy into last 16

Mattia Zaccagni scored in the final minute of stoppage time as Italy broke Croatia’s hearts with a late equaliser that ensures the defending champions progress to the last 16 of Euro 2024. Luka Modric had thought he had won it for Croatia to send them through as runners-up in Group B when he slammed a shot into the roof of the net early in the second half. However Zaccagni struck with virtually the last kick of the game to change the complexion of the group.

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Dutch denied by VAR in draw with France as Poland bow out

Xavi Simons had a second-half goal controversially ruled out as the Netherlands and France played out the first goalless draw of Euro 2024. The French started without Kylian Mbappe after he broke his nose in the win against Austria on Monday and they clearly missed their captain as they failed to take a number of chances. But it will be the Netherlands who will feel most aggrieved at not claiming the three points after Simons’ strike was chalked off.

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Conceição strikes at the death for Portugal against Czech Republic

Francisco Conceicao scored a late winner as Portugal fought back from a goal down to beat Czech Republic in their Euro 2024 opener in Leipzig. The Czech Republic spent much of the game defending in their own half but stunned Portugal when Lukas Provod’s whipped second-half strike flew into the far corner. However their hopes of victory were dashed soon after as goalkeeper Jindrich Stanek parried Nuno Mendes’ header and the ball bounced off Robin Hranac and into the back of his own net.

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