The Unprecedented Own Goals at Euro 2024
The Euro 2024 tournament in Germany is witnessing an unusual trend of own goals, with a total of six recorded so far. One of the most memorable incidents occurred in Dortmund during the match between Portugal and Turkey. At the 28-minute mark, Samet Akaydin's attempt to pass the ball to his goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir, resulted in an own goal, giving Portugal a 2-0 lead. This unexpected turn of events followed a moment of confusion between Joao Cancelo and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Pattern of Own Goals
A noticeable pattern has emerged in these own goals. Many of them are the result of massive attacks and defensive errors. For instance, Spain's victory over Italy featured an own goal by Riccardo Calafiori, who inadvertently scored while trying to defend against a cross from Nico Williams. Similarly, a match between France and Austria saw Maximilian Wöber scoring an own goal due to pressure from multiple French attackers.
Fans' Passion and Support
The fervor of the fans is another highlight of Euro 2024. Turkish supporters, in particular, have shown immense passion, flocking to Dortmund in large numbers to support their team against Portugal. The Turkish diaspora in Germany, which numbers around 3 million, has been particularly vocal, with many fans paying hefty sums on the black market for tickets to the match. Their enthusiasm adds a vibrant atmosphere to the tournament, despite the setbacks on the field.
- Spain's match against Italy in Gelsenkirchen saw a dramatic own goal by Riccardo Calafiori, who scored after a challenge from Nico Williams. This was not an isolated incident, as the tournament has seen multiple such occurrences, often stemming from intense attacking plays.
- In the clash between France and Austria, Kylian Mbappé's cross led to an own goal by Maximilian Wöber, highlighting the pressure defenders face from aggressive offensive strategies. Similarly, Portugal's match against the Czech Republic featured an own goal by Robin Hranác, further emphasizing this trend.
- The Turkish fans' presence in Dortmund was a sight to behold, with thousands of supporters creating a sea of red and white. Their dedication was evident as they paid significant amounts for tickets, showcasing the deep connection and support for their national team.
