Euro 2024: A surge in own goals defines the tournament
What do Antonio Rudiger, Maximilian Wober, Robin Hranac, Klaus Gjasula, Riccardo Calafiori, Samet Akaydin, Donyell Malen, Robin Le Normand, Jan Vertonghen, and Mert Muldur have in common in this Euro 2024? They all scored an own goal.
Euro 2024 has become notable not just for spectacular goals and thrilling matches, but also for a surprising surge in own goals.
Indeed, the tournament has seen a record number of self-inflicted blunders that have significantly impacted the competition.
This year’s European Championship is close to breaking the own goal record set at Euro 2020, where 11 own goals were scored.
Euro 2024 has already seen 10 own goals with three matches remaining, suggesting that a new record could be set.
Turkey has particularly suffered, with both Samet Akaydin and Mert Muldur scoring own goals.
On the flip side, France has benefitted twice from opponents’ own goals, with Maximilian Wober and Jan Vertonghen contributing to their victories.
As Euro 2024 approaches its final stages, the trend of own goals adds an unpredictable element to the tournament.
With Spain, France, the Netherlands, and England all aiming for the top, fans are left to wonder if this year’s competition will set a new record for own goals, marking it as one of the most memorable tournaments in recent history.
