- Rui Patricio
Another unusual underdog team at the Euro’s were 2004 finalists, Portugal. The Portuguese were written off by all experts and were not expected to go beyond the quarterfinals. After three disappointing draws in the group stages of the tournament, Portugal took on Croatia, Poland, Wales, and France.
Patricio, who was at the top of his game conceded only one goal in the four games of the knockout stages, coming against Poland. Apart from that single lapse of defense, Portugal and Patricio have been clinical in the knockout stages. Patricio has made 20 saves, the second most in the tournament.
He was arguably the best player in the finals of the tournament with 7 saves, the most in a Euro final since 1980. With 25 claims, Patricio has bossed each of his opponents within his box and clearly deserved his spot in the top 5.
