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5 youngsters who will shine in the quarter-finals of Euro 2016

Reuters

The latter stages of a major international tournament are often remembered for individual performances, be it a single iconic moment in a match or a dominant showing over 90 (or 120) minutes.

With some of the world's most exciting young talent still in play at Euro 2016, there's a distinct possibility that this summer's lasting image could be provided by someone born in the 1990s.

Here are five young stars who could steal the headlines in the quarter-finals:

Renato Sanches (Portugal)

A battering ram whose explosive first step is akin to being shot out of a cannon, 18-year-old Renato Sanches showcased against Croatia exactly why Bayern Munich splashed €35 million to acquire his services from Benfica prior to the start of Euro 2016.

The teenage midfielder is a dominant physical presence who has the ability to turn defence instantly into attack; it was his tackle on Ivan Strinic that launched the counter-attack from which Portugal scored its 117th-minute goal to advance to the quarter-finals of the tournament.

Named UEFA's official Man of the Match for that contest - despite the fact that he only came on as a half-time substitute - Sanches offers a zestful option for manager Fernando Santos. While his willingness to be everywhere at once could open up gaps for the opposition to exploit, the benefits of his aggressive style are plain for all to see. Should he get the start against Poland on Thursday, his dynamism could be crucial in unlocking a stubborn Polish defense that has conceded just once in France.

Julian Draxler (Germany)

Long linked with some of Europe's most prestigious clubs - both Manchester United and Juventus were after his signature last summer before he ultimately moved to Wolfsburg - silky smooth attacking midfielder Julian Draxler broke out in a big way in the Round of 16.

The 22-year-old created Germany's second goal of the contest against Slovakia by eviscerating Juraj Kucka with a sweet piece of skill, before putting the final touches on his day with a volley from close range.

Another impressive showing against Italy could help to cement Draxler's status on the international stage, transforming the rangy dribbler from a youngster with oodles of potential to a household name.

Joshua Kimmich (Germany)

Joachim Low finally saw the light.

After starting the solid, but unspectacular Benedikt Howedes at right-back to open the tournament - a move that somewhat strangled Germany's attack given the Schalke captain's limited effectiveness going forward - the bench boss has thrust versatile youngster Joshua Kimmich into the role in his side's two most recent matches.

The 21-year-old, a personal favourite of Pep Guardiola, has offered another bright attacking outlet down the right flank, complementing the forward forays of left-back Jonas Hector with those of his own.

Michy Batshuayi (Belgium)

Reportedly on the verge of a £33.2-million move to Chelsea, 22-year-old Belgian striker Michy Batshuayi was finally given a chance to see the pitch in the Red Devils' contest against Hungary.

Related - Report: Chelsea close to signing Batshuayi from Marseille

He promptly scored with his first touch, ghosting into the penalty area and converting a straightforward tap-in.

Marc Wilmots' first-choice centre-forward, Romelu Lukaku, has endured a mixed bag of results thus far in France, and should he struggle against Wales in the quarter-finals, Batshuayi will be waiting to pounce on the opportunity to supplant the Everton star as the frontman for a devastating Belgian attack.

Kingsley Coman (France)

Clocked as the fastest player in the tournament at 33 kilometres per hour, blistering winger Kingsley Coman could be set for a starring role in France's quarter-final contest against tournament darling Iceland.

With midfielder N'Golo Kante suspended, manager Didier Deschamps will be forced to tinker with his starting lineup once again - this time by necessity, after some questionable moves made by choice earlier in the tournament.

If Deschamps opts to move away from his 4-3-3 setup, or drops Dimitri Payet into midfield, Coman is likely to get the nod; the Bayern Munich forward has clearly been preferred to fellow 20-year-old Anthony Martial thus far, playing 200 minutes compared to only 59 for his Manchester United peer.

In the 2-1 upset of England, Iceland only ever looked unnerved when Marcus Rashford was introduced in the final five minutes, the gawky teenager putting defenders under pressure by running at them with pace. Coman, boasting an absurd 5.4 dribbles completed per 90 minutes so far in the tournament, could be just what the doctor ordered to unlock the Icelandic backline.

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