Euro 2016 concluded on Sunday with Portugal crowned Champions of Europe, but a number of players from various countries impressed during the tournament.
It may not have been the most exciting of European Championships, but ultimately it delivered its fair share of standout goals and moments.
From Iceland’s memorable run to the quarter-finals to England’s early demise and Portugal’s success, team spirit ultimately trumped individuals but we take a look at the best players from the tournament.
Team of the tournament:
Rui Patricio
Quietly went about his business throughout the tournament with some solid displays, but rose to the occasion in the final and produced some crucial saves to help guide the Portuguese to glory.
Leonardo Bonucci
From that wonderful assist for Emanuele Giaccherini in the opening game against Belgium to his all-round defensive solidity, the Juventus defender was a crucial part of Italy’s success.
Pepe
A real leader in the Portugal defence, Pepe was solid throughout and led by example. Missed the semi-final with an injury, but recovered and was brilliant again in the final.
Jerome Boateng
Aside from giving away a penalty against Italy, the Germany defender was impressive, both defensively and in his distribution. Scored a great goal against Slovakia, and deserves his place in this team.
Aaron Ramsey
Pivotal in Wales’ wins over Slovakia, Russia and Belgium, and his absence was undoubtedly felt in the semi-final against Portugal. The Arsenal man will hope to take that influential form into the new Premier League season as he impressed in his advanced creative midfield role.
Toni Kroos
Pulled the strings in the Germany midfield as his quality on the ball was rivalled by few. Was unable to lead his side all the way to the final, but can be pleased with his contribution.
Renato Sanches
Named the Young Player of the Tournament, Bayern Munich have evidently snapped up a great player. Given his chance to shine, the 18-year-old grabbed it with both hands and impressed.
Gareth Bale
Really impressive tournament for the talismanic Wales forward, with three goals in the group stages and an important role thereafter. Considering the pressure on his shoulders to deliver, he stepped up.
Dimitri Payet
Scored a crucial winning goal in the opening game and continued to impress. Could have offered more in the final, but the West Ham United playmaker certainly had a memorable tournament.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Wasn’t the greatest tournament for the 31-year-old, but his goals against Hungary were crucial for his country to advance, was pivotal against Croatia and Wales, and was then able to inspire and galvanise his team-mates from the sidelines in the final. The rest of the Portugal squad deserve an enormous amount of credit, and although he has his detractors, Ronaldo played his part in taking them all the way.
Antoine Griezmann
A bitterly disappointing end to Euro 2016 for the Atletico Madrid star, but after a slow start, he bagged the Golden Boot award with a string of top performances and wonderful finishes.