Euro 2016: Weirdest ways players have shown their patriotism

The ongoing Euro 2016 competition has been a great opportunity to witness sparkling individual performances, sensational goals and a constant array of ultra-competitive football. It’s also been a platform for the European nations to converge in a celebration of football, and also display their patriotism with their complete zeal and enthusiasm.

The sea of yellow and blue during Italy versus Sweden, the magnificent and spirited support of the Irish fans and there’ve been innumerable examples of passionate fans travelling across the continent to spur on their nation and revel in the Euro 2016 atmosphere. In this piece, we take a look at the players and the crazy and innovative ways they’ve found to show their patriotism for their country.

Ivan Perisic (Croatia)

We simply have to begin with the Croatian winger Ivan Perisic’s haircut, don’t we? He turned out for the knockout match with Portugal with his country’s striped colours on his head, making for a truly bizarre appearance that set the Internet alight.

Croatia were unfortunately knocked out, even though many forecasted a deep run into the tournament for the Croatians, so he’ll have to decide what to do with his hair by the time he turns up for Inter Milan for the new season!

Paul Pogba (France)

Pogba has had a number of different hairstyles in the tournament

Pogba is by now quite famous for his whacky haircuts. He’s always trying something new and has already sported a variety of different hairstyles and appearances for Juventus and even the French national team.

This time, he went in for a new patriotic look before France’s opening game against Romania and had the France Football Federation logo shaved onto his head. Pogba has looked inspired in each of his performances in the Euros so far, although there is still so much more he can do to fulfill his limitless potential in this tournament.

Peter Pekarik (Slovakia)

Slovakia might not have won the game but Pekarik did steal some of the headlines

Slovakia were a solid spirited side to watch in the Euros with Marek Hamsik and Duda having great performances in the tournament. Peter Pekarik, their right back had busted his nose in the clash against England and turned up for the Germany game with his nose bandaged in an innovative way.

His nose and cheeks were painted blue, with the Slovakian flag perfectly painted on his left cheek. Slovakia went on to be thoroughly outclassed by the Germans in the match, but Slovakia had already made their fans proud.