Most Successful nations in the EUROS history

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Euro 2024 is well underway and there has already been plenty of exciting action in this year’s tournament thus far. The atmosphere is electric in Germany as we approach the all-important knockout rounds, particularly from the point of view of England, who face a much more routine path to the final than expected.

The Three Lions managed to avoid the hosts as well as pre-tournament favourites France, after topping their group despite winning just one game. The pressure is on Gareth Southgate to deliver England’s first major tournament victory since 1966, although many feel that time is ticking following a string of strange tactical decisions.

England fans have often been critical over Southgate’s negative approach – a state of affairs that ultimately cost them the final of Euro 2020 at Wembley after Italy came from behind to win on penalties. However, Southgate has ensured his side’s progression and they remain unbeaten, leaving the manager to come out and defend himself.

“I understand the narrative towards me. That's better for the team than it being towards them. But it's creating an unusual environment to operate in. I've not seen any other team qualify and receive similar."

"I understand some of the reactions but it's a strange environment we're playing in," he added. "I thought we were much improved with the ball, we've created some good openings and at the moment it's hard work for us because we're not quite getting that break in front of goal.

"So many things are starting to come together. We had a lot of issues coming into the tournament and today we looked more dangerous, we had a good impact from our substitutes, and we've got just now to convert our chances."

Victory at the European Championships will be the first time England will have lifted the coveted trophy. While it feels like this group of players lacks the experience there are other nations who know how to get the job done when the going gets tough.

In this article, we examine the most successful sides in the history of the European Championships since its formation in 1958, and look at which nation has won the Euros the most. Read on to find out more.

Germany – Three titles

With three titles, coming in 1972, 1980, and 1996, Germany stands tall as one of the most successful Euro nations. Their consistency and tactical prowess have made them consistent contenders.

The hosts for this year’s tournament, many were surprised at Julian Nagelsmann’s squad selection, with the former Bayern boss leaving out several senior players. However, the young coach has taken the gamble and if it pays off, he will be a hero in Berlin come the end of the summer, with the Germans progressing to the knockout round, with a late equaliser from Niclas Füllkrug salvaging a 1-1 draw against Switzerland to top the group.

Spain - Three titles

Spain has also won the European Championship three times, with their victories spread across different eras.

Spain's first title came in 1964 when they hosted the tournament. They defeated the Soviet Union 2-1 in the final, with goals from Jesús María Pereda and Marcelino, but would have to wait over 50 years for their next taste of international success.

After that long wait, Spain's golden era began in 2008 when they won the Euros in Austria and Switzerland, blowing the odds from even the best Irish betting sites out of the water.

They played an exhilarating brand of football, culminating in a 1-0 victory over Germany in the final, with Fernando Torres scoring the winning goal.

Spain successfully defended their title in 2012, becoming the first team to win consecutive European Championships. In the final, held in Kyiv, they delivered a masterful performance, thrashing Italy 4-0 with goals from David Silva, Jordi Alba, Fernando Torres, and Juan Mata.

Italy - Two titles

Italy have long been known for their defensive solidity and tactical approach to the game – redefining club football with the 3-5-2. This style transcended the European game and has helped the Azzurri won the European Championship twice. Their first victory came in 1968 when they hosted the tournament. Italy faced Yugoslavia in the final, which initially ended in a 1-1 draw. The match was replayed two days later, and Italy emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, thanks to goals from Luigi Riva and Pietro Anastasi.

The Italians came close in Euro 2012, inspired by the goalscoring antics of Mario Balotelli, but ultimately came up short when they were hammered by Spain in the final.

Italy's second triumph came in 2021 when they lifted the trophy at Wembley Stadium in England. In a highly competitive final against England, the match ended 1-1 after extra time. Italy won 3-2 in the penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma making crucial saves to secure their victory.

France -Two titles

France has also enjoyed significant success in the European Championship, winning the tournament twice. Their first title came in 1984 when they hosted the competition. Led by the legendary Michel Platini, who scored a record nine goals in the tournament, France defeated Spain 2-0 in the final, with goals from Platini and Bruno Bellone.

France's second victory was in 2000, held in Belgium and the Netherlands. In a thrilling final against Italy, France came from behind to win 2-1 in extra time. Sylvain Wiltord scored a last-minute equaliser to force extra time, and David Trezeguet scored the golden goal to secure the title for France

There are several other sides that have won a single European Championship in their history. Cinderella stories like Denmark and Greece remind us that in football, anything is possible, and the Euros continue to be a stage where dreams can come true, no matter the odds.