Euro 2016: Five disappointing players from the RO 16 stage

The round of 16 ( pre-quarterfinals) stage had its share of ups and downs. Shocks, penalties, spectacular goals, own goals, red cards and an early English exit, this round truly had it all. Oh, and it also had the Croatia vs Portugal game. Some players flopped despite a big build up and could not live up to expectations.

We take a look at the five most disappointing players from the round of 16 stage:

1. Joe Hart (England)

 

The keeper had a night to forget against Iceland

The Manchester City shot-stopper had his worst game in national colours against minnows Iceland. He was to blame for Iceland’s second goal after he failed to hold on to Kolbeinn Sigthorsson’s shot. This mistake went on to become a blunder as the scoreline did not change after that and England crashed out of the Euros in a spectacular fashion. A few days before the game against Iceland, Hart mentioned that he has had nothing to do in the group stages.

Has he developed an attitude which tells you that this is a person who has forgotten the elementary part of his professional role? All England needed from Hart was some poise and security; He gave neither. The keeper was a mess between the poles when it mattered most and paid the  price for it.

2. Sergio Ramos (Spain)

 

The Spanish skipper was undone by the threat of suspension

The Real Madrid and Spanish skipper had a terrible outing against 2012 Runners up Italy. Having already been booked against Turkey and with a possible quarterfinal match against Germany at stake, Ramos was extremely defensive and hesitant in the tackle. He made a solitary tackle in the entire game. There were constant communication breakdowns with keeper David De Gea. He was caught out of place on more than a few occasions, notably once in the 90th minute which led to Graziano Pelle’s goal.

Being the captain of Spain, he never inspired his team to push forward and create chances. He lacked leadership, athleticism, and the fearlessness shown by his counterpart Gigi Buffon. With the penalty miss in the back of his mind, Ramos did not offer his customary attacking services, which were desperately required on a day when Spain could not find it in themselves to increase the tempo of the match.