Euro 2024 was a tournament that will be remembered for the underwhelming performances of star strikers like Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite Portugal’s attacking system being entirely focused on servicing Ronaldo with chances, the 39-year-old failed to find the back of the net. With a total of 23 shots, one missed penalty, and zero goals, Ronaldo’s performance was a major factor in Portugal’s struggles during the tournament.
Ronaldo’s lackluster form had a ripple effect on the entire Portuguese attack. Talented midfielders like Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva were often seen crossing the ball instead of taking shots, as they tried to set up Ronaldo for scoring opportunities. This one-dimensional approach to the attack meant that Portugal became overly reliant on Ronaldo to produce goals, leading to a lack of creativity and unpredictability in their gameplay.
A Shift in Striker Roles
Euro 2024 showcased a diverse range of striker roles employed by different teams, with an emphasis on more than just scoring goals. Players like Havertz, Depay, and Mikautadze demonstrated the evolution of the striker position, where finishing was only a part of their responsibilities. Their involvement in link play, movement off the ball, and creating space for teammates were crucial to their team’s attacking strategies.
The importance of versatility was evident in Havertz’s performance, as he not only contributed to scoring opportunities but also played a significant role in creating space for his teammates. Depay, on the other hand, showcased his ability to impact the game from multiple positions on the field, linking play with his teammates and stretching the opponents’ defense. Mikautadze’s unconventional role as a goal scorer for Georgia highlighted the changing dynamics of modern strikers.
The Sacrifices of Star Strikers
Players like Kylian Mbappé and Alvaro Morata also found themselves in unfamiliar roles during Euro 2024, where defensive responsibilities took precedence over their attacking duties. Mbappé’s attacking freedom was limited by the need for defensive cover from other players, as manager Didier Deschamps sought to preserve his energy for crucial attacking moments. Similarly, Morata’s role as a traditional number 9 was overshadowed by Spain’s focus on midfield dominance and wing play.
The sacrifices made by star strikers like Mbappé and Morata exemplified the team-first mentality that defined Euro 2024. Despite their individual talents, both players had to adjust their playing styles to suit the tactical requirements of their teams. This shift in focus from individual glory to team success was a recurring theme throughout the tournament, as captains like Kane and Morata prioritized defensive contributions over goal scoring.
Euro 2024 was a tournament that challenged the traditional expectations of star strikers. The emphasis on versatility, teamwork, and defensive work highlighted the evolving role of forwards in modern football. While the tournament may not have produced the goal-scoring exploits of previous editions, it showcased the importance of adaptability and selflessness in achieving success at the highest level of the game.