UEFA Euro 2016 round 1: Fantasy pick

fantasy teamGoalkeeper: Hannes Halldorsson

The 32-year-old goalkeeper of Bodo / Glimt showed an incredible performance against the favourites Portugal. He made a total of 10 saves during the first game of the group stage, conceding only one goal and helping his team record a historical 1-1 draw. Halldorsson denied Cristiano Ronaldo, as the forward of Real Madrid couldn’t find his net. The goalkeeper also saved a great header by Nani from about 3-4 metres. So, Halldorsson is our pick for the goalkeeper position.

Right Fullback: Kyle Walker

Even though England couldn’t win their first match against Russia, Walker showed a classy performance. His superb dribbling during the first half, created several goal-scoring chance, which was missed by Lallana. However, Walker was also good in defence and can’t be blamed for Russia’s late equalizer.

Centre Back: Shkodran Mustafi

The German defender was excellent in the first group game against Ukraine. He opened the score sheet early in the game. Then, he gave the Ukrainians no chance in attack, helping his teammates keep a clean sheet. Surely, he will have plenty of offers after the end of the European championship.

Centre Back: Leonardo Bonucci

To continue with, we all know what Bonucci is capable of. Even though he plays as a defender, his best skill is passing. And he proved that again after providing a great assist to Giaccherini for the opening goal against Belgium. Leonardo Bonucci also kept Belgium forwards quiet and Italy recorded their first 3 points at the Euro 2016.

Left Fullback: Tamas Kadar

Another less-known name in our squad, but Kadar of Hungary was the best left fullback after the first matches of the group stage. He was superb in defence and tireless. Kadar gave the Austrians no chance. He became even more active after Dragovic’s red card.

Central Midfielder: Luka Modric

To be honest, I didn’t expect Modric to perform well for Croatia after the long season with Real Madrid, but the Croatian midfielder was the best player for his nation against Turkey. He scored the only goal of the game with a great volley. Modric also created some of the most interesting situations in front of Turkey’s goal.

Central Midfielder: Andres Iniesta

You know when you have a player like Iniesta in your squad, that he can win a match for you with just one touch. Iniesta was performing at his usual level against the Czech Republic, when he made that terrific pass in the 86th minute and Pique found the net. So, Andres Iniesta is deservedly in our squad for his match winning delivery.

Left Winger: Dimitri Payet

It’s obvious Dimitri Payet can become the best player of the European championship. He is not afraid to take the responsibility. He made an assist for France’s first goal and then in the last minute of the game scored with a very nice shot. The 29-year-old Frenchman is tireless, skillful and has a great shot and passing abilities. He can lead France to the glory!

Right Winger: Krizstian Nemeth

The word, which can describe Nemeth’s performance in Hungary’s first match of the group stage is “discipline”. He showed solid performance and helped his teammates record a superb victory against the favourites Austria.

Attacking Midfielder: Wesley Hoolahan

Hoolahan of Norwich City proved that he deserves his place among Ireland’s starting eleven. He was at the right place at the right moment and scored Ireland’s only goal in Isaksson’s net with a brilliant shot from a half-volley. He is able to help his team achieve something significant at the Euro 2016.

Forward: Arkadiusz Milik

The forward of Ajax Amsterdam scored the only goal for Poland against Northern Ireland and brought the first victory for his nation at the European championships. He showed a great partnership with the star striker Robert Lewandowski, and both created several good goal-scoring chances.