Euro 2024: 5 key players to watch out for in the Round of 16

After an enthralling group stage, the UEFA Euro 2024 has finally reached its knockout phase - probably the most interesting part of any tournament. With 16 nations remaining to fight it out for continental glory, here are 5 key players who could make the difference that their team needs to make it through to the next round.

5. Jamal Musiala

The German wonderkid has been spectacular on the ball and has already racked up two goals for Die Mannschaft. Musiala's close control has been a treat to watch with the Bayern Munich star recording 3 successful dribbles per game.

Germany will be going up against Denmark in the Round of 16 and Musiala is expected to start on the Right Wing. With players like Gundogan, Wirtz and Kroos to support him in midfield, it won't be a surprise if Musiala gets on the scoresheet and makes the difference for Germany in the knockout match.

4. Jude Bellingham

Heading into the Euro 2024, a lot was expected from Jude Bellingham. However, despite scoring the only goal for England in their opening match against Serbia, the Real Madrid starlet has failed to live up the expectation

Bellingham was almost like a ghost on the pitch for England's second match against Denmark and his performance didn't improve much in the last group stage game against Slovenia either. When England face Slovakia for their Round of 16 match, the 20 year old Attacking Midfielder would be desperate to prove his worth and should put in a good shift.

3. Fabian Ruiz

The Spanish team has been one of the most impressive outfits so far in the Euro 2024. Out of the many players who have managed to shine for La Roja, Fabian Ruiz has been a standout performer in the two games that he started for Spain.

The PSG midfielder put in a great shift against Crotia, setting up Alvaro Morata for the opening goal and then himself scoring the second. Ruiz was brilliant against Italy as well, with a 95% passing accuracy and 101 touches throughout the game. He will surely be dictating the game and might even set up a goal or two when Spain go up against Georgia.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo

In what is probably his last Euro, Cristiano Ronaldo still hasn't been able to step up for his country. Despite starting all three group stage games, Ronaldo has not managed to score or record any assists yet.

However, the Al Nassr Forward has shown quite a few glimpses of brilliance on the field throughout the three matches. Amidst the plethora of criticism about his presence in the team, Ronaldo would surely want to make the difference when Portugal face Slovenia in their Round of 16 clash.

1. Georges Mikautadze

As strange as it might sound, the top scorer of the Euro 2024 as of now is a Striker from Georgia - Georges Mikautadze. The 23 year old Ajax reject has been the breakout star of the tournament so far.

Mikautadze managed to score in all three games in the group stage with a brilliantly taken penalty against Portugal helping his team qualify to the knockout stages in their inaugural Euro Championship. While Georgia are definitely far for favorites when they face Spain in the Round of 16, it won't be a surprise if Mikautadze manages to leave his mark on the game by scoring a goal or two.