So, were two games into Euro 2016 and while some teams are already preparing to go home, certain individuals players are busily taking the plaudits. The likes of Paul Pogba and Harry Kane have failed to ignite during the tournament thus far, but there are plenty of players who are furthering their reputations in France this summer. Here, IBTimes UK takes a look at the best XI from Matchday 2.
Robert Almer: The Austria goalkeeper looked a nervous wreck at times during the first half of Saturdays (18 June) draw with Portugal, but transformed into his countrys hero as the game progressed. Cristiano Ronaldo could not find a way past the big Austrian.
Kyle Walker: Although England have hardly been scintillating in the tournament to date, their fullbacks have been afforded plenty of space in their opening two matches. And during Englands last-minute win against Wales, Walker was the outstanding player on the pitch, providing a constant attacking option as the Three Lions chased an invaluable win.
Jerome Boateng: The German centre-half was considered to be error prone during his brief stay in the Premier League with Manchester City, but has matured into a well-rounded, mature defender under the guidance of Pep Guardiola. He produced another impressive display during Germanys much-anticipated (but, ultimately, disappointing) clash with Poland in the Stade de France.
Leonardo Bonucci: The Italians have yet to concede a goal at Euro 2016, and the Juventus man has been the cornerstone of their defensive solidity, producing two faultless displays during their wins against Belgium and Sweden. Faced with the unenviable task of shackling Swedens record-breaking centre-forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Bonucci was inch-perfect throughout the match as Italy secured their place in the last 16.
Jonas Hector: He may not be Phillip Lahm, but Jonas Hector is still a hugely impressive fullback, who was among Germanys most dynamic attacking threats during their dour 0-0 with Poland. Hector, 26, has been linked with Liverpool in recent weeks and the attraction for potential suitors is obvious.
Andres Iniesta: Spain have been the stand-out team of the group stage so far and the Barcelona man has been a central figure in their best moves. At 32, Iniesta is already established as one of the best players of his generation and remains a joy to watch.
Marik Hamsik: The sought-after Napoli star produced an eye-catching solo display in Slovakias narrow win against the Russians on Matchday 2, assisting one goal and scoring another from an improbable angle. Wales have been warned ahead of their all-important clash.
Ivan Rakitic: Croatia boast one of the best midfields in the tournament, and there cannot be too many better passers than Barcelonas Ivan Rakitic. He scored one goal and delivered another silky display in their controversial game against the Czech Republic.
Dimitri Payet: Before Euro 2016 got underway, much of the focus centred on Pogba and Antoine Griezmann, but is the West Ham United player who has stepped up to the plate most spectacularly, scoring a goal in each of their games. If Payet continues his form through the remainder of the tournament, the Hammers may struggle to keep hold of him.
Romelu Lukaku: The in-demand Everton striker flopped in Belgiums disappointing loss to Italy in their opening game. But Lukaku and his much-hyped teammates bounced back in style against the Republic of Ireland, as the striker scored a brace to get their hopes of qualifying for the next stage back on track.
Alvaro Morata: Speaking of sought-after centre-forwards, Spains Alvaro Morata reminded the world of his quality with two goals in his teams lop-sided win against Turkey on Matchday 2. A headed effort and a tap-in proved that there is more to Moratas game than neat build-up play.
