As we approach the start of the new domestic football season, fans have a chance to reflect on a summer of international tournaments, with both the European Championships and Copa America providing plenty of entertainment.
Indeed, the offseason was packed with memorable moments and results that shocked those making a football bet as Spain and Argentina won their respective competitions.
The two nations will meet in the Finalissima next year to crown an intercontinental champion, but there were plenty of worthy champions across the continents over the summer that could have equally gone all the way.
With that in mind, let’s look back at this summer’s major football tournaments and highlight which sides impressed throughout their campaigns.
Netherlands – Euros
Despite falling short in the semi-final of Euro 2024, the Netherlands put up a valiant effort in Germany in Ronald Koeman’s first tournament back in charge. The Dutch took a 1-0 lead against England through Xavi Simons before the Three Lions reached the final late on with a 2-1 win. It was a frustrating exit that overshadowed the sleek, attacking football Holland had played before that.
The likes of Simons, Memphis Depay, and joint-Golden Boot winner Cody Gakpo stepped up to the mark and laid some solid foundations ahead of the next Nations League and 2026 World Cup.
Colombia – Copa America
The finalists of Copa America 2024, Colombia were narrowly beaten in extra-time by Argentina 1-0, with Lautaro Martínez denying Los Cafeteros a first international trophy since 2001.
The Colombians gave a fine account of themselves though, with James Rodriguez rolling back the years with some fine displays akin to his run of form at the 2014 World Cup.
Having topped a group that included one of the favourites Brazil, Colombia beat Panama and Uruguay en route to the final and were unfortunate to come up short in New Jersey.
Georgia – Euros
Playing in their first-ever major tournament, not much was expected of Georgia at Euro 2024. However, the plucky underdogs shocked everyone when they made it out of a tough group that consisted of Turkey, the Czech Republic and Portugal.
The shock of the tournament came in their final group game, where Georgia’s 2-0 win over Portugal ensured their progression to the round of 16, with Georges Mikautadze and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia among the standout performers.
Unfortunately, the fairy-tale ended abruptly in the knockout stages. Although Georgia looked like they might stun Spain when they took an early lead, the eventual champions showed their quality after a shaky start, cruising to a 4-1 victory en route to the title in Berlin.
The Georgians can be proud of their efforts as they pursue a qualifying spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Canada – Copa America
The surprise package at Copa America was one of the hosts for the next World Cup in Canada. This was the first time the Canadians played in the competition, and they were something of a dark horse, with plenty of European talent in the ranks, including Tajon Buchanan, Johnathan David and Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies.
Under the guidance of former Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch, who only accepted the role in charge of the Canucks in May, Canada reached the semi-finals of Copa America, beaten by Argentina in the last four, but upsetting Chile and Venezuela in games that demonstrated their resilience. Keep an eye out for them in the next World Cup, especially if they can make the most of home advantage.
