England's European Championship-winning Squads: Complete Lineups
England have been crowned champions of Europe just once in their history, winning the European Championship in 1968. Here are the complete lineups of the victorious teams:
1968 European Championship-winning Squad
Goalkeepers: Gordon Banks, Peter Bonetti
Defenders: Ray Wilson, Keith Newton, Nobby Stiles, Terry Cooper, Roger Hunt
Midfielders: Bobby Charlton (c), Martin Peters
Forwards: Geoff Hurst, Allan Clarke
Manager: Sir Alf Ramsey
The 1968 tournament was the second edition of the European Championship and was played in Italy. England won all their group games, beating Spain, Yugoslavia, and hosts Italy. They then faced the Soviet Union in the semi-final, winning 2-0 thanks to goals from Bobby Charlton and Martin Peters. In the final, they met Yugoslavia again and won 1-0, with a goal from Alan Clarke.
Analysis of the 1968 Squad
The 1968 squad was composed mainly of players from the successful England team that had won the World Cup two years earlier. The team was built around captain and talisman Bobby Charlton, who played a central role in midfield. The likes of Nobby Stiles and Terry Cooper provided solid defensive cover, while the key attacking threats were Geoff Hurst and Allan Clarke. Manager Sir Alf Ramsey was known for his conservative tactical approach, which was perfectly suited to the team's strengths. England's defense was particularly impressive, conceding just one goal in the entire tournament.
Conclusion
England's triumph in the 1968 European Championship remains one of the finest moments in the country's football history. While the team was packed with quality players, it was the disciplined and structured approach of Sir Alf Ramsey that ultimately proved decisive. With the European Championship growing in stature and importance, many England fans will be hoping to see their team lift the trophy once again in the near future.
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