The Highest Scoring Matches in European Championship History

With Euro 2024 approaching, we look back at the matches with the most goals scored in the history of the European Championship. Some of these games remain unforgettable due to the sheer number of goals and the excitement they brought. In this article, we explore the five highest-scoring matches ever played at the Euros. From the early tournaments to recent triumphs, these games show what’s possible when teams give their all on the pitch.

Highest Scoring Matches at the Euros

Yugoslavia 5-4 France – 6 July 1960

In the very first match of the European Championship, held in 1960 in France, nine goals were scored. Yugoslavia and France provided a spectacular opening game that ended in a 5-4 victory for Yugoslavia.

  • French attacks led them to a 4-2 lead.
  • Yugoslavian comeback in the final minutes of the match.

Despite losing in the final to the Soviet Union, this game remains one of the most memorable in the tournament’s history.

Spain 5-3 Croatia (Extra Time) – 28 June 2021

At the postponed Euro 2020, the match between Spain and Croatia in the round of 16 provided eight goals and an exciting extra time. Spain ultimately won 5-3.

  • Pedri’s own goal gave Croatia an early lead.
  • Spain’s swift comeback with three goals, followed by dramatic extra time.

Spain showed resilience and creativity, which ultimately secured them the victory.

Spain 4-3 Yugoslavia – 21 June 2000

During the group stage of Euro 2000, Spain won a thrilling match against Yugoslavia with a score of 4-3. This encounter was filled with twists and last-minute decisions.

  • Spain scored twice in stoppage time to secure the victory.
  • Pep Guardiola’s long pass led to Alfonso’s winning goal.

This match marked one of the most dramatic comebacks in the history of the tournament.

Netherlands 6-1 Yugoslavia – 25 June 2000

At Euro 2000, the Dutch team delivered an outstanding performance by defeating Yugoslavia 6-1 in the quarter-finals. It was one of the most one-sided matches in the history of the tournament.

  • Patrick Kluivert scored a hat-trick.
  • Marc Overmars added two more goals to the tally.

Dutch fans remember this game as a highlight in their football history.

France 5-2 Iceland – 3 July 2016

In the quarter-finals of Euro 2016, France convincingly defeated Iceland with a score of 5-2. This match was a true display of French attacking prowess.

  • Olivier Giroud and Antoine Griezmann led the goal-scoring spree.
  • Iceland scored twice but couldn’t withstand the French onslaught.

France advanced to the semi-finals, where they defeated Germany to reach the final.

Euro Football Statistics and Records

The European Championship has produced some impressive statistics and records over the years. Here are some notable facts:

  • Most goals in a single match: Yugoslavia 5-4 France (1960) – nine goals.
  • Most goals in the tournament: Spain scored five goals in two consecutive matches in 2021.
  • Most goals conceded by a single team: Yugoslavia conceded ten goals in two matches against the Netherlands and Spain (2000).

These records show how dynamic and exciting the Euros can be, with teams sometimes rewriting the history books with their performances.

Expectations for Euro 2024

With Euro 2024 on the horizon, expectations are high. Will a new record be set for the most goals in a single match? Can teams like England shine again on Europe’s biggest stage?

  • Can England break new records?
  • Will new stars emerge to break old records?

Football fans can’t wait to see what Euro 2024 will bring. History teaches us that every tournament offers new opportunities for remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments.

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Date published: 11-06-2024 | Date updated: 11-06-2024 | Author: Patrick de Graaf

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Discover the highest-scoring matches in the history of the European Championship. From Yugoslavia's 5-4 win in 1960 to Spain's recent triumphs.


About the author of 'The Highest Scoring Matches in European Championship History'

Patrick (author and webmaster)

Author of this content is Patrick. I have been playing soccer for more than 25 years and follow the daily news closely. My hobbies include playing football, running and maintaining various websites, in addition to my job as a financial professional.

I do not work for any related company or institution, so the information is reliable and independent. The information has been collected accurately from reliable sources and is regularly updated.