The holders Denmark were the seeded team in Group D but failed to qualify for the next phase. Croatia, one of the newly independent nations that emerged from the wars in Yugoslavia, made their first finals appearance wearing their startling checkered shirts. The Portuguese team was built around the side that had won the FIFA World Youth Championship in 1989 and 1991 and were strongly fancied.
Euro 96 Overview | Group A | Group B | Group C | Group D | Knock-Out Stage
Denmark
Portugal
The defending champions took the lead half-way through the first period but they were flattered by the score. The Portuguese played a swift game, retaining possession with intricate passing that left the Danes looking lost. Sá Pinto equalised eight minutes after the break but a lack of finishing power meant his team could not capitalise on their superiority.
Croatia
Turkey
A late goal by Goran Vlaović gave Croatia a win against fellow debutantes, Turkey.
Portugal
Turkey
Portugal showed their class in midfield to dominate the game but once again their lack of a really reliable striker was evident.
Croatia
Denmark
Croatia announced their arrival on the international stage with an emphatic win over the defending champions. Davor Šuker was the star of the show with two second-half goals, the last a devastating chip over Peter Schmeichal, stranded after an ill-advised foray forward.
Portugal
Croatia
Croatia were assured of qualifying for the knock-out phase while Portugal needed a point to move forward. The Croats rested key players and were taken apart by their opponents with Luis Figo in great form.
Denmark
Turkey
A win for Denmark would only have been good enough if Portugal were beaten by a hatful of goals in their final match. Turkey went home empty handed with nary a point nor goal.