RUNNERS-UP: ENGLAND

England went from being criticised for their defensive approach in the group stage to keeping a nation thoroughly entertained throughout the summer in the knockout rounds. They built on their run to the semifinals in the 2018 World Cup, going one better here before falling to an experienced Italy team in the final. They didn’t concede a goal until the semis and Raheem Sterling was a standout performer in what was a highly-organised and progressive operation on and off the pitch. Critics continue to argue that Gareth Southgate is too cautious, more concerned with protecting the team’s defensive frailties rather than utilising its attacking strength, but narrow defeat in the final on penalties shows he’s not far from finding the winning formula.