A first-half goal to Fernando Torres has ended 44 years of Spanish heartache, as Spain clinched the Euro 2008 title with a 1-0 win over Germany in Vienna.
The best side of the tournament, Spain could have easily won by more than the solitary goal, as they thoroughly outplayed the Germans for much of the encounter. But in the end, Torres' goal was enough to send the long-suffering Spanish fans into raptures at the Ernst Happel Stadion.
The success marks Spain's first major championship victory since winning this tournament in 1964 on home soil, and it also ends years of being judged as perennial chokers.
Missing the tournament's top goalscorer David Villa, the striking responsibilities were left to Torres, who did not disappoint with his typically predatory and classy finish to separate the sides.
Many pundits felt that this German side did not contain the elegance and confidence of the teams that have won the tournament in the past, and after practically limping into the final after an unconvincing win over Turkey in the semi-finals, they were found out by a technically gifted Spanish outfit.
The result also marks vindication for the often under-fire Spanish manager Luis Aragones, who was publicly lambasted for leaving out seasoned international Raul and Guti. But the team he assembled was strong all over the park, and the football his side produced was a joy to watch from the very beginning of the tournament, and given the squad's youth it will enter the upcoming World Cup qualifiers as one of the favourites.
Aragones expectedly replaced the unlucky David Villa with Cesc Fabregas, who deputised so superbly against Russia, whilst for Germany, manager Joachim Low included Torsten Frings in place of Simon Rolfes, and Michael Ballack passed a late fitness test on his troublesome calf.
The Germans started the game reasonably well, and they were nearly released after just three minutes when Ramos gave possession away cheaply, but Klose couldn’t capitalise. Hitzlsperger then had his tame effort picked up by Casillas, but the Germans looked to have settled better early on.
As seen in previous games, the Spaniards were prepared to simply keep control with their passing in an effort to gain a foothold in the game, and their slick movement nearly forced an own goal on the quarter-hour. After Iniesta picked up the ball on the left, his low cross was diverted goal-bound by Christoph Metzelder, but Jens Lehmann acrobatically averted the danger.
The chance sparked Spain into life, and they nearly went ahead shortly after as a dinked cross from Sergio Ramos was headed onto the post by Fernando Torres. Joan Capdevila's speculative effort from the German clearance also sailed wide, but the threat of Torres was becoming apparent for the Germans, as he continually found space in the channels, and 10 minutes later, he fired the Spaniards into the lead.
Torres latched onto a swift through-ball from Xavi, and after outpacing and outmuscling the German left-back Philipp Lahm, he flicked the ball past the on-rushing Lehmann and into the far corner.
The German defence has been much criticised throughout the tournament, and again Mertesacker and Lahm were too easily brushed aside by the in-form Torres.
It was thought that Germany's best opportunities throughout the game would come from set pieces, given the massive height advantage the Germans have over a comparably small Spanish defence. But despite winning a number of corners and free kicks, the Germans failed to craft any clear opportunities due to their wastefulness.
At the break, Marcell Jansen replaced the disappointing Lahm in an effort to stiffen the defence. But Spain remained on the offensive as Xavi and David Silva both shot wide, before Xavi slipped Torres through again in almost a carbon copy of the goal, but this time Lehmann was out sharply to dive on the ball.
One of Germany's best chances came on the hour as Carles Puyol was caught in possession near the corner flag, but despite Jansen's subsequent cross being nicely teed up to Ballack by Miroslav Klose's cushioned header, his volley only hit the side-netting.
The chance represented Germany's best in arguably their best spell of the match, as even though the Germans for a fleeting period enjoyed good possession, they still failed to really test Iker Casillas.
The game threatened to boil over on 64 minutes, as Silva appeared to head-butt Lukas Podolski after a brief scuffle off the ball. German players furiously protested, but the Italian referee Roberto Rosetti defused the situation without cautioning Silva much to their dismay.
Even though they were in the lead and looking comfortable, the Spaniards enjoyed the better of the last 25 minutes, particularly through their polished movement with the ball.
Lehmann was forced into a number of saves in quick succession as the German defence was run ragged. First, terrible marking from a free-kick nearly proved costly, but Sergio Ramos' free header was well tipped over. From the subsequent corner, Iniesta's shot was cleared off the line by Frings, before moments later Iniesta again shot at Lehmann, bringing about another save.
Germany couldn't really gain decent control of the ball, such was the Spaniards' constant harassing, and on 81 minutes, the Spaniards almost made the game safe once again. Two substitutes Santi Cazorla and Dani Guiza combined to set up Senna, but he couldn’t latch onto the ball despite his despairing lunge and the goal gaping.
The Germans inevitably hoofed the ball forward in a desperate bid to gain an undeserved equaliser, but the Spanish defence stood resolute, and the final whistle ended decades of Spanish disappointment.
Ratings
Germany
1 - Lehmann - 7 - Kept the margin respectable.
3 - Friedrich - 5 - Never comfortable.
6 - Schweinsteiger - 6 - In and out.
8 - Frings - 6 - Fine.
11 - Klose - 5 - Didn't influence the game enough.
13 - Ballack - 5 - Quiet.
15 - Hitzlsperger - 4 - Anonymous.
16 - Lahm - 5 - Disappointing.
17 - Mertesacker - 5 - Torres' pace worried him.
20 - Podolski - 5 - Not involved enough.
21 - Metzelder - 4 - Poor.
(SUB) 2 - Jansen - 5 - Okay.
(SUB) 9 - Gomez - 6 - No impact.
(SUB) 22 - Kuranyi - 6 - His introduction didn't have desired impact.
Spain
1 - Casillas - 7 - Little to do.
4 - Marchena - 7 - Untroubled.
5 - Puyol - 6 - One or two anxious moments.
6 - Iniesta - 8 - Extremely lively.
8 - Xavi - 7 - Solid.
9 - Torres - 9 - A constant menace and classy goal.
10 - Fabregas - 7 - Worked hard.
11 - Capdevila - 7 - Assured.
15 - Sergio Ramos - 7 - Got forward well.
19 - Senna - 8 - Broke up play superbly.
21 - Silva - 6 - In and out.
(SUB) 12 - Santi Cazorla - 6 - Lively off the bench.
(SUB) 14 - X. Alonso - 6 - Fine.
(SUB) 17 - Guiza - 6 - Not enough time.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Scintillating Spain too strong for Russia
Spain will play Germany in the Euro 2008 final after a majestic second-half display secured a 3-0 victory over Russia in Vienna.
After an even first half, Spain turned on the style after the break, and played with all of the fluidity expected of such a technically gifted team, at the expense of a Russian team which looked a shadow of the side that bundled the Netherlands out of the competition.
Xavi broke the deadlock on 50 minutes, before Dani Guiza and David Silva each netted in the last 20 minutes to inflict Spain's second three-goal defeat on Russia for the tournament.
Much of the talk pre-game surrounded whether Russian manager Guus Hiddink could lead Russia to its first major success since the break-up of the Soviet Union. But again, Hiddink has failed at the semi-final stage, but the Russians certainly made significant progress at the tournament, and will most certainly be in the reckoning during the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The only negative for Spain on the night was the early injury to Euro 2008 top goalscorer David Villa, with early reports suggesting he will miss the final as a result. It would be a blow for Spain, but his substitute on the night, Cesc Fabregas, was absolutely superb in giving Spain the ascendancy after the interval, and he will be hard to leave out of the starting XI for the final.
Hiddink made just one change to his side that defeated the Netherlands, albeit an enforced one, as the suspended Denis Kolodin was replaced by Vasili Berezutski, whilst Spanish counterpart Luis Aragones opted for the same XI that has served him well for much of the tournament.
The first half was certainly entertaining despite the lack of goals, as both sides enjoyed good spells of possession and decent opportunities.
Fernando Torres was the first to test either goalkeeper, as clever buildup play from Valencia pair Villa and Silva created space, but Torres' shot was saved smartly by Igor Akinfeev. Villa then tried his luck from range, but again Akinfeev was well positioned to palm the ball away.
The Russians were certainly not overawed in the early stages, and were quite prepared to pass the ball around. Roman Pavlyuchenko had Russia's first sight of goal, but he blasted a free kick over after Carles Puyol had felled Andrei Arshavin.
Considered by many to be the star of the tournament, Arshavin failed to make an impression on the game, and his influence was sorely missed by a Russian side which lacked craft when it was most needed.
The Spaniards consistently attempted lofted diagonal balls over the lumbering Russian centre-backs towards the quicker Villa and Torres, but despite finding good positions, Berezutski and Sergei Ignashevich were equal to the attacks.
Villa's night ended just after the half hour when he seemingly strained a muscle after striking a free-kick straight at Akinfeev. A hat-trick hero against Russia in the group stage, this time he cut a forlorn figure as he trudged to the sideline to be replaced by Fabregas.
Pavlyuchenko represented Russia's clearest threat on the Spanish goal, and he had Casillas at full stretch as he curled an effort just past the post. Shortly after this attempt, a clever diagonal ball from Konstantin Zyryanov picked out Pavlyuchenko, who found space between the Spanish centre-backs, but after a great first touch he scuffed his left-foot shot wide.
With the teams level at the break, it was a question of which team would find its real rhythm first, and Spanish nerves were calmed as they took the lead after 50 minutes.
After neat interplay on the left flank, Iniesta cut inside before unleashing what appeared to be a cross-cum-shot, and his Barcelona teammate Xavi arrived late to slide the ball home after ghosting into the penalty area unmarked between Berezutski and Ignashevich.
The goal settled the Spaniards, and they nearly went two up moments later, but the ever-menacing Fernando Torres curled his shot over the bar.
The Russians never really found their rhythm after falling behind, with Arshavin often invisible as the Spanish midfield took control. Fabregas was having an immense influence on proceedings, as he pushed and probed around the Russian penalty area.
Torres then had two half-chances from two separate Sergio Ramos crosses, but he wasted both, shooting wide on the first occasion, before failing to react in time after finding space in behind Ignashevich on the second.
Fabregas and substitute Xabi Alonso then both tested Akinfeev from distance, as Spain began turning the screw, and moments later they deservedly got the second goal they craved.
Another sumptuous move, this time from the right flank, ended with Fabregas dinking the ball over the Russian defence from the edge of the box, and substitute Dani Guiza broke the offside trap before lifting the ball over Akinfeev.
The Spaniards were comfortable well before the second goal, but with the Russians now forced to attack in search of a way back into the contest, they made the game even safer 10 minutes later, with Fabregas again involved.
Iniesta released Fabregas down the left side, and he again played a delightful cross to Silva, who slotted the ball past Akinfeev despite late pressure from the Russian defence.
Russia only forced Casillas into his real save on 88 minutes, as substitute Dmitri Sychev had his effort well kept out, but the Russians had by now run out of ideas, and the teams were merely playing out time.
The Spaniards greeted the final whistle with jubilation, and they will now face Germany in the final on Sunday, whilst the Russian fans need not be too disheartened, having far exceeded their own expectations at the tournament.
Ratings
Russia
1 - Akinfeev - 6 - Nothing he could do about goals.
2 - V. Berezutski - 6 - Defended well against Torres.
4 - Ignashevich - 5 - Struggled.
9 - Saenko - 6 - No real influence.
10 - Arshavin - 5 - Invisible when needed.
11 - Semak - 6 - Outnumbered.
17 - Zyryanov - 6 - Down on his form.
18 - Zhirkov - 6 - Ran himself to exhaustion, but failed to create.
19 - Pavlyuchenko - 7 - Represented Russia's biggest threat.
20 - Semshov - 5 - Anonymous.
22 - Anyukov - 6 - Didn't get forward enough.
(SUB) 15 - Bilyaletdinov - 6 - No impact.
(SUB) 21 - Sychev - 6 - No impact.
Spain
1 - Casillas - 7 - Not much to do.
4 - Marchena - 7 - Assured.
5 - Puyol - 8 - A rock at the back.
6 - Iniesta - 7 - His best game for the tournament.
7 - Villa - 6 - Off early.
8 - Xavi - 7 - Scored important goal.
9 - Torres - 7 - A constant menace.
11 - Capdevila - 7 - Safe.
15 - Sergio Ramos - 7 - Got forward well.
19 - Senna - 8 - Broke up Russian play superbly.
21 - Silva - 7 - Always threatening.
(SUB) 10 - Fabregas - 8 - Outstanding.
(SUB) 14 - X. Alonso - 6 - No significant impact.
(SUB) 17 - Guiza - 7 - Scored a nice goal.
After an even first half, Spain turned on the style after the break, and played with all of the fluidity expected of such a technically gifted team, at the expense of a Russian team which looked a shadow of the side that bundled the Netherlands out of the competition.
Xavi broke the deadlock on 50 minutes, before Dani Guiza and David Silva each netted in the last 20 minutes to inflict Spain's second three-goal defeat on Russia for the tournament.
Much of the talk pre-game surrounded whether Russian manager Guus Hiddink could lead Russia to its first major success since the break-up of the Soviet Union. But again, Hiddink has failed at the semi-final stage, but the Russians certainly made significant progress at the tournament, and will most certainly be in the reckoning during the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The only negative for Spain on the night was the early injury to Euro 2008 top goalscorer David Villa, with early reports suggesting he will miss the final as a result. It would be a blow for Spain, but his substitute on the night, Cesc Fabregas, was absolutely superb in giving Spain the ascendancy after the interval, and he will be hard to leave out of the starting XI for the final.
Hiddink made just one change to his side that defeated the Netherlands, albeit an enforced one, as the suspended Denis Kolodin was replaced by Vasili Berezutski, whilst Spanish counterpart Luis Aragones opted for the same XI that has served him well for much of the tournament.
The first half was certainly entertaining despite the lack of goals, as both sides enjoyed good spells of possession and decent opportunities.
Fernando Torres was the first to test either goalkeeper, as clever buildup play from Valencia pair Villa and Silva created space, but Torres' shot was saved smartly by Igor Akinfeev. Villa then tried his luck from range, but again Akinfeev was well positioned to palm the ball away.
The Russians were certainly not overawed in the early stages, and were quite prepared to pass the ball around. Roman Pavlyuchenko had Russia's first sight of goal, but he blasted a free kick over after Carles Puyol had felled Andrei Arshavin.
Considered by many to be the star of the tournament, Arshavin failed to make an impression on the game, and his influence was sorely missed by a Russian side which lacked craft when it was most needed.
The Spaniards consistently attempted lofted diagonal balls over the lumbering Russian centre-backs towards the quicker Villa and Torres, but despite finding good positions, Berezutski and Sergei Ignashevich were equal to the attacks.
Villa's night ended just after the half hour when he seemingly strained a muscle after striking a free-kick straight at Akinfeev. A hat-trick hero against Russia in the group stage, this time he cut a forlorn figure as he trudged to the sideline to be replaced by Fabregas.
Pavlyuchenko represented Russia's clearest threat on the Spanish goal, and he had Casillas at full stretch as he curled an effort just past the post. Shortly after this attempt, a clever diagonal ball from Konstantin Zyryanov picked out Pavlyuchenko, who found space between the Spanish centre-backs, but after a great first touch he scuffed his left-foot shot wide.
With the teams level at the break, it was a question of which team would find its real rhythm first, and Spanish nerves were calmed as they took the lead after 50 minutes.
After neat interplay on the left flank, Iniesta cut inside before unleashing what appeared to be a cross-cum-shot, and his Barcelona teammate Xavi arrived late to slide the ball home after ghosting into the penalty area unmarked between Berezutski and Ignashevich.
The goal settled the Spaniards, and they nearly went two up moments later, but the ever-menacing Fernando Torres curled his shot over the bar.
The Russians never really found their rhythm after falling behind, with Arshavin often invisible as the Spanish midfield took control. Fabregas was having an immense influence on proceedings, as he pushed and probed around the Russian penalty area.
Torres then had two half-chances from two separate Sergio Ramos crosses, but he wasted both, shooting wide on the first occasion, before failing to react in time after finding space in behind Ignashevich on the second.
Fabregas and substitute Xabi Alonso then both tested Akinfeev from distance, as Spain began turning the screw, and moments later they deservedly got the second goal they craved.
Another sumptuous move, this time from the right flank, ended with Fabregas dinking the ball over the Russian defence from the edge of the box, and substitute Dani Guiza broke the offside trap before lifting the ball over Akinfeev.
The Spaniards were comfortable well before the second goal, but with the Russians now forced to attack in search of a way back into the contest, they made the game even safer 10 minutes later, with Fabregas again involved.
Iniesta released Fabregas down the left side, and he again played a delightful cross to Silva, who slotted the ball past Akinfeev despite late pressure from the Russian defence.
Russia only forced Casillas into his real save on 88 minutes, as substitute Dmitri Sychev had his effort well kept out, but the Russians had by now run out of ideas, and the teams were merely playing out time.
The Spaniards greeted the final whistle with jubilation, and they will now face Germany in the final on Sunday, whilst the Russian fans need not be too disheartened, having far exceeded their own expectations at the tournament.
Ratings
Russia
1 - Akinfeev - 6 - Nothing he could do about goals.
2 - V. Berezutski - 6 - Defended well against Torres.
4 - Ignashevich - 5 - Struggled.
9 - Saenko - 6 - No real influence.
10 - Arshavin - 5 - Invisible when needed.
11 - Semak - 6 - Outnumbered.
17 - Zyryanov - 6 - Down on his form.
18 - Zhirkov - 6 - Ran himself to exhaustion, but failed to create.
19 - Pavlyuchenko - 7 - Represented Russia's biggest threat.
20 - Semshov - 5 - Anonymous.
22 - Anyukov - 6 - Didn't get forward enough.
(SUB) 15 - Bilyaletdinov - 6 - No impact.
(SUB) 21 - Sychev - 6 - No impact.
Spain
1 - Casillas - 7 - Not much to do.
4 - Marchena - 7 - Assured.
5 - Puyol - 8 - A rock at the back.
6 - Iniesta - 7 - His best game for the tournament.
7 - Villa - 6 - Off early.
8 - Xavi - 7 - Scored important goal.
9 - Torres - 7 - A constant menace.
11 - Capdevila - 7 - Safe.
15 - Sergio Ramos - 7 - Got forward well.
19 - Senna - 8 - Broke up Russian play superbly.
21 - Silva - 7 - Always threatening.
(SUB) 10 - Fabregas - 8 - Outstanding.
(SUB) 14 - X. Alonso - 6 - No significant impact.
(SUB) 17 - Guiza - 7 - Scored a nice goal.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Last-minute Lahm sinks Turkey
A 90th-minute goal from Philipp Lahm has given Germany an undeserved 3-2 victory over Turkey in the first Euro 2008 semi-final.
Despite being outplayed for much of the encounter, the Germans battled, and have Lahm to thank for progressing to the final. It was rough justice for the determined Turks, who played superbly throughout the contest despite missing many of its stars through injury and suspension.
Ugur Boral gave Turkey the lead on 22 minutes, but Bastian Schweinsteiger restored parity four minutes later with a neat finish. Miroslav Klose headed Germany ahead with 10 minutes to play after Turkish goalkeeper Rustu Recber misjudged a high ball, but Semih Senturk equalised on 86 minutes after equally suspect goalkeeping from Jens Lehmann. But it was Lahm who scored the goal of the match in the last minute of normal time to send Germany into the final.
The result ends Turkey's fairytale run, which saw the side get out of jail twice earlier in the tournament, even in the face of mounting squad absentees. Veteran manager Fatih Terim certainly instilled self-belief in the Turks, and if not for missing a number of chances against the Germans, he and his team may well have found themselves in the final.
For the Germans, their performance was poor, particularly in defence. The back four never looked comfortable, as they failed to close down the lively Turkish attack often enough. The midfield was also ordinary defensively, but they still somehow managed to craft enough chances required to score three goals. It was this ruthlessness that the Turkish display lacked, perhaps understandably given the youth in the side.
Missing the suspended Arda Turan, Tuncay Sanli and Emre Asik, as well as injured captain Nihat, Terim joked in the press that reserve goalkeeper Tolga Zengin may be required as an outfield player. This expectedly didn't transpire, and replacements came in the form of Ugur Boral, Ayhan Akman, Semih Senturk and Mehmet Aurelio.
German manager Joachim Low opted for the same XI that impressively defeated Portugal, resisting the temptation to rush back Torsten Frings, who is still recovering from a fractured rib.
Unexpectedly, it was Turkey which began the game brighter, and in an entertaining first-half, the Turks crafted a number of early opportunities.
An early Lahm mistake nearly let in Hamit Altintop, but Lehmann was sharply off his line to avert the danger. Sloppiness in the German defence became a hallmark of the contest, and they were nearly made to pay five minutes later.
After a neat buildup down the right, more pedestrian defending allowed Colin Kazim-Richards to lash a shot against the crossbar, and a follow-up cross from the left forced a smart clearance with Semih ready to pounce.
But the Germans did not heed the warnings, and after 22 minutes they found themselves a goal behind. Altintop's cross from the right was flicked onto the crossbar by Kazim-Richards, but the rebound was met by Boral, who scrambled the ball over the line despite Lehmann's best efforts.
The goal was well deserved, but the economical Germans were sparked into action, and they pulled level less than five minutes later. Thomas Hitzlsperger released Lukas Podolski on the left flank, and his low cross was deftly flicked inside the far post by Schweinsteiger.
Germany's goal was against the run of play, but rather than lose concentration, the Turks continued to press forward. A deep Altintop free kick forced Lehmann to tip over, before another free kick out wide from Mehmet Topal needed to be double-fisted away.
Frings was brought on by Low at half-time in place of the injured Simon Rolfes, but his input was minimal, and he too failed to trigger Germany into action after the interval.
The game's first controversy came after 51 minutes, when Lahm appeared to be bundled over by Sabri Sarioglu on the edge of the penalty area. There appeared to be enough contact to give a foul, let alone a penalty, but Swiss referee Massimo Busacca waved play on. The entire German bench furiously protested the decision, and the Turks could consider themselves somewhat lucky from this incident.
There were fewer chances throughout the second half, with Hitzlsperger firing high and wide from two separate long-range efforts. Germany's play was marginally better in the second half as the Turks began to sit back, but the team still lacked a cutting edge, and it took a howler from Rustu to produce the game's third goal.
After cutting in from the left, Lahm floated in a high cross. Rustu charged off his line to try and claim it, but he was beaten to it by Klose, who headed into the unguarded net.
Again, the Turks could have conceded defeat, but instead they raced up the other end and equalised. Lahm, who defended poorly for the entire game despite his attacking abilities, was made to look poor by Sabri, and Sabri's low cross to the near post was poked home by Semih. Lehmann should never have been beaten inside his near post, but his defence was equally to blame after more lax marking.
But with the game seemingly headed to extra-time, Germany ended Turkey's fairytale in the last minute of normal time. After again cutting inside from the left, Lahm played a clever one-two with Hitzlsperger, before lashing the ball past Rustu with all the prowess of a striker.
There was to be no late Turkish heroics tonight, as Tumer Metin wasted their final opportunity with a disappointing free kick deep into stoppage time.
Relief was the common feeling for the Germans, who in typical style had gained the result through sheer efficiency. They now await the winner of the other semi-final between Spain and Russia before Sunday's final in Vienna.
Ratings
Germany
1 - Lehmann - 5 - Looked suspect on both goals. A potential weak link in the final.
3 - Friedrich - 6 - Fine.
6 - Rolfes - 5 - Struggled before being replaced at half time.
7 - Schweinsteiger - 7 - Classy goal. Otherwise in and out.
11 - Klose - 7 - Worked hard.
13 - Ballack - 6 - Quiet.
15 - Hitzlsperger - 7 - Drove Germany forward in the second half.
16 - Lahm - 7 - Defended poorly, but attacked superbly.
17 - Mertesacker - 5 - Appalling distribution from defence. Uncomfortable.
20 - Podolski - 7 - Dangerous as always.
21 - Metzelder - 6 - Okay.
(SUB) 2 - Jansen - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 8 - Frings - 6 - Failed to impose himself.
Turkey
1 - Recber Rustu - 5 - Made critical error with scores level.
3 - Hakan Balta - 6 - Defended well.
4 - Gokhan Zan - 6 - Handled Klose well for the most part.
6 - Mehmet Topal - 5 - Out of position, and at fault for first goal.
7 - Mehmet Aurelio - 6 - Didn't get forward as often as he could've.
9 - Semih Senturk - 8 - Worked hard, and was rewarded with goal.
16 - Ugur Boral - 7 - Tireless on left side.
18 - Kazim Kazim - 7 - Excellent first half, but faded.
19 - Ayhan Akman - 6 - Industrious.
20 - Sabri Sarioglu - 6 - Poor in defence, more dangerous going forward.
22 - Hamit Altintop - 6 - Didn't influence the game enough.
(SUB) 10 - Gokdeniz Karadeniz - 6 - Little time.
(SUB) 11 - Tumer Metin - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 21 - Mehmet Erdinc - 6 - Little time.
Despite being outplayed for much of the encounter, the Germans battled, and have Lahm to thank for progressing to the final. It was rough justice for the determined Turks, who played superbly throughout the contest despite missing many of its stars through injury and suspension.
Ugur Boral gave Turkey the lead on 22 minutes, but Bastian Schweinsteiger restored parity four minutes later with a neat finish. Miroslav Klose headed Germany ahead with 10 minutes to play after Turkish goalkeeper Rustu Recber misjudged a high ball, but Semih Senturk equalised on 86 minutes after equally suspect goalkeeping from Jens Lehmann. But it was Lahm who scored the goal of the match in the last minute of normal time to send Germany into the final.
The result ends Turkey's fairytale run, which saw the side get out of jail twice earlier in the tournament, even in the face of mounting squad absentees. Veteran manager Fatih Terim certainly instilled self-belief in the Turks, and if not for missing a number of chances against the Germans, he and his team may well have found themselves in the final.
For the Germans, their performance was poor, particularly in defence. The back four never looked comfortable, as they failed to close down the lively Turkish attack often enough. The midfield was also ordinary defensively, but they still somehow managed to craft enough chances required to score three goals. It was this ruthlessness that the Turkish display lacked, perhaps understandably given the youth in the side.
Missing the suspended Arda Turan, Tuncay Sanli and Emre Asik, as well as injured captain Nihat, Terim joked in the press that reserve goalkeeper Tolga Zengin may be required as an outfield player. This expectedly didn't transpire, and replacements came in the form of Ugur Boral, Ayhan Akman, Semih Senturk and Mehmet Aurelio.
German manager Joachim Low opted for the same XI that impressively defeated Portugal, resisting the temptation to rush back Torsten Frings, who is still recovering from a fractured rib.
Unexpectedly, it was Turkey which began the game brighter, and in an entertaining first-half, the Turks crafted a number of early opportunities.
An early Lahm mistake nearly let in Hamit Altintop, but Lehmann was sharply off his line to avert the danger. Sloppiness in the German defence became a hallmark of the contest, and they were nearly made to pay five minutes later.
After a neat buildup down the right, more pedestrian defending allowed Colin Kazim-Richards to lash a shot against the crossbar, and a follow-up cross from the left forced a smart clearance with Semih ready to pounce.
But the Germans did not heed the warnings, and after 22 minutes they found themselves a goal behind. Altintop's cross from the right was flicked onto the crossbar by Kazim-Richards, but the rebound was met by Boral, who scrambled the ball over the line despite Lehmann's best efforts.
The goal was well deserved, but the economical Germans were sparked into action, and they pulled level less than five minutes later. Thomas Hitzlsperger released Lukas Podolski on the left flank, and his low cross was deftly flicked inside the far post by Schweinsteiger.
Germany's goal was against the run of play, but rather than lose concentration, the Turks continued to press forward. A deep Altintop free kick forced Lehmann to tip over, before another free kick out wide from Mehmet Topal needed to be double-fisted away.
Frings was brought on by Low at half-time in place of the injured Simon Rolfes, but his input was minimal, and he too failed to trigger Germany into action after the interval.
The game's first controversy came after 51 minutes, when Lahm appeared to be bundled over by Sabri Sarioglu on the edge of the penalty area. There appeared to be enough contact to give a foul, let alone a penalty, but Swiss referee Massimo Busacca waved play on. The entire German bench furiously protested the decision, and the Turks could consider themselves somewhat lucky from this incident.
There were fewer chances throughout the second half, with Hitzlsperger firing high and wide from two separate long-range efforts. Germany's play was marginally better in the second half as the Turks began to sit back, but the team still lacked a cutting edge, and it took a howler from Rustu to produce the game's third goal.
After cutting in from the left, Lahm floated in a high cross. Rustu charged off his line to try and claim it, but he was beaten to it by Klose, who headed into the unguarded net.
Again, the Turks could have conceded defeat, but instead they raced up the other end and equalised. Lahm, who defended poorly for the entire game despite his attacking abilities, was made to look poor by Sabri, and Sabri's low cross to the near post was poked home by Semih. Lehmann should never have been beaten inside his near post, but his defence was equally to blame after more lax marking.
But with the game seemingly headed to extra-time, Germany ended Turkey's fairytale in the last minute of normal time. After again cutting inside from the left, Lahm played a clever one-two with Hitzlsperger, before lashing the ball past Rustu with all the prowess of a striker.
There was to be no late Turkish heroics tonight, as Tumer Metin wasted their final opportunity with a disappointing free kick deep into stoppage time.
Relief was the common feeling for the Germans, who in typical style had gained the result through sheer efficiency. They now await the winner of the other semi-final between Spain and Russia before Sunday's final in Vienna.
Ratings
Germany
1 - Lehmann - 5 - Looked suspect on both goals. A potential weak link in the final.
3 - Friedrich - 6 - Fine.
6 - Rolfes - 5 - Struggled before being replaced at half time.
7 - Schweinsteiger - 7 - Classy goal. Otherwise in and out.
11 - Klose - 7 - Worked hard.
13 - Ballack - 6 - Quiet.
15 - Hitzlsperger - 7 - Drove Germany forward in the second half.
16 - Lahm - 7 - Defended poorly, but attacked superbly.
17 - Mertesacker - 5 - Appalling distribution from defence. Uncomfortable.
20 - Podolski - 7 - Dangerous as always.
21 - Metzelder - 6 - Okay.
(SUB) 2 - Jansen - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 8 - Frings - 6 - Failed to impose himself.
Turkey
1 - Recber Rustu - 5 - Made critical error with scores level.
3 - Hakan Balta - 6 - Defended well.
4 - Gokhan Zan - 6 - Handled Klose well for the most part.
6 - Mehmet Topal - 5 - Out of position, and at fault for first goal.
7 - Mehmet Aurelio - 6 - Didn't get forward as often as he could've.
9 - Semih Senturk - 8 - Worked hard, and was rewarded with goal.
16 - Ugur Boral - 7 - Tireless on left side.
18 - Kazim Kazim - 7 - Excellent first half, but faded.
19 - Ayhan Akman - 6 - Industrious.
20 - Sabri Sarioglu - 6 - Poor in defence, more dangerous going forward.
22 - Hamit Altintop - 6 - Didn't influence the game enough.
(SUB) 10 - Gokdeniz Karadeniz - 6 - Little time.
(SUB) 11 - Tumer Metin - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 21 - Mehmet Erdinc - 6 - Little time.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Casillas the hero as Spain wins shootout
Spain will face Russia in the Euro 2008 semi-finals after defeating world champions Italy 4-2 on penalties after a 0-0 draw in Vienna tonight.
After a dreadful 120 minutes of few chances, Iker Casillas was Spain's hero, saving spot-kicks from Daniele De Rossi and Antonio Di Natale, before Cesc Fabregas sent Buffon the wrong way, clinching a deserved victory for Spain.
It appeared as though the Italians were prepared to play for penalties throughout much of the game, as they continually sat back and rarely ventured forward in search of a goal. Meanwhile, the Spaniards pushed and probed around the Italian penalty area, but were often crowded out by Italian defenders, creating a lacklustre game.
Despite creating little themselves, the Spaniards certainly were value for their win, and many purists will describe Spain's triumph as a win for football, such was Italy's negativity. Spain also went some way to rectifying their terrible penalty-shootout record, against a side that has a better history than most in the feared shootout.
Spanish manager Luis Aragones started the same XI that defeated Russia and Sweden, whilst his Italian counterpart drafted in Alberto Aquilani and Massimo Ambrosini in place of suspended Milan pair Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso.
Pirlo's absence was extremely noticeable, as the four central midfielders selected by Donadoni all lacked the craft and guile required to feed the isolated Luca Toni, and only later in the game when Mauro Camoranesi and Antonio Di Natale were brought on did Italy look like finding a goal.
From the kick-off, Spain dominated the lion's share of possession, but were limited to shots from distance as the Italians camped on their own penalty area. David Silva showed a constant proclivity for cutting in from the right flank onto his favoured left foot, but his subsequent shots failed to adequately test Gianluigi Buffon.
Euro 2008 top goalscorer David Villa had Spain's best chance of the first half, but his drilled free-kick from the edge of the box was comfortably dived on by Buffon.
For the Italians, only Simone Perrotta managed a shot on target, as he met Ambrosini's early cross, but he failed to get enough purchase on his header and Casillas claimed safely.
Toni was the target of many long balls from midfield, but despite possessing a distinct height advantage over Spain's central defenders Carlos Marchena and Carles Puyol, he failed to meaningfully impose himself on the game, and was often crowded out as a result.
The second half brought more of the same, with again Spain's midfield passing around looking for the elusive opening. Fernando Torres nearly created the chance after shrugging off Christian Panucci on the left, but his square ball was cut out by Giorgio Chiellini with Villa ready to pounce.
However, as is so often the case, Italy manufactured the best chance of the match on the hour, and only Casillas' leg kept Italy from surging ahead. After Toni made a nuisance of himself following another long ball, a goalmouth scramble ensued, and substitute Camoranesi's subsequent effort was blocked by Casillas despite appearing to be wrong-footed.
Sensing Spain's problems, Aragones replaced Barcelona pair Xavi and Andres Iniesta with Fabregas and Santi Cazorla, and the introduction of Fabregas proved inspired as Spain immediately became more creative in attack.
Nevertheless, clear opportunities were still few and far between, but Spain nearly broke the deadlock from a rare Buffon error.
Moments after Buffon had punched clear a dangerous free kick from Marcos Senna, Senna tried his luck again from distance, and despite seemingly travelling straight at Buffon, the ball squirmed from his grasp, but Buffon gratefully dived on the ball after it rolled back off the post.
Italy then raced up the other end on the break and almost fashioned a winner, but an inviting ball from Di Natale was wasted by Toni, despite Grosso charging onto the ball in a better position.
With no goal to separate the sides, the game went into extra-time, and Silva again shot wide from the edge of the area moments after the restart.
But as was the case in normal time, Italy had the best chance to win it in extra-time as well. Only seconds after Marchena had nicked the ball away from Toni after Grosso's dangerous cross, Zambrotta's cross from the right was met by Di Natale, but Casillas expertly tipped his header over the bar.
Both teams half-heartedly searched for a winning goal, but the game seemed destined for penalties throughout much of the extra-time period, and such was the outcome.
After Villa, Grosso and Cazorla all scored, Casillas pulled off a miraculous save to his right to keep out De Rossi's effort. After Senna and Camoranesi converted, things nearly went pear-shaped for Spain as Buffon saved the substitute Dani Guiza's shot. But Casillas wouldn't be denied, as he claimed Di Natale's penalty low to his left. It was then left to Fabregas, who self-assuredly stepped up and dispatched his penalty into the bottom corner, sending Spanish players and fans into delirium.
Spain now faces Russia in the semi-finals, a team they beat 4-1 in the group stage. But as has been shown throughout the tournament, anything can happen, and the confident Russians will surely give a better account of themselves this time around.
Ratings
Spain
1 - Casillas - 9 - The hero for Spain. Pulled off important save during game too.
4 - Marchena - 7 - Kept Toni in check for much of the game.
5 - Puyol - 6 - Reliable as always, but struggled a bit with his injury.
6 - Iniesta - 6 - No real influence.
7 - Villa - 7 - Worked tirelessly without reward.
8 - Xavi - 6 - Struggled for creativity.
9 - Torres - 6 - Never managed to meaningfully involve himself.
11 - Capdevila - 6 - Assured.
15 - Ramos - 6 - Didn't venture forward enough.
19 - Senna - 7 - Tenacious.
21 - Silva - 7 - Wasteful, but lively.
(SUB) 10 - Fabregas - 7 - Looked the man most likely to create opening.
(SUB) 12 - Cazorla - 6 - No real impact.
(SUB) 17 - Guiza - 6 - A handful for the defence.
Italy
1 - Buffon - 7 - Made a couple of important saves.
2 - Panucci - 7 - Defended well.
3 - Grosso - 7 - Did his job.
4 - Chiellini - 8 - Grew in confidence with each game.
9 - Toni - 5 - Never got into it. Poor tournament with no goals.
10 - De Rossi - 6 - Didn't create enough.
13 - Ambrosini - 6 - Battled.
18 - Cassano - 6 - No decent service.
19 - Zambrotta - 6 - Fine.
20 - Perrotta - 5 - Peripheral.
22 - Aquilani - 4 - Quiet.
(SUB) 7 - Del Piero - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 11 - Di Natale - 6 - Looked lively.
(SUB) 16 - Camoranesi - 7 - Helped Toni out in attack.
After a dreadful 120 minutes of few chances, Iker Casillas was Spain's hero, saving spot-kicks from Daniele De Rossi and Antonio Di Natale, before Cesc Fabregas sent Buffon the wrong way, clinching a deserved victory for Spain.
It appeared as though the Italians were prepared to play for penalties throughout much of the game, as they continually sat back and rarely ventured forward in search of a goal. Meanwhile, the Spaniards pushed and probed around the Italian penalty area, but were often crowded out by Italian defenders, creating a lacklustre game.
Despite creating little themselves, the Spaniards certainly were value for their win, and many purists will describe Spain's triumph as a win for football, such was Italy's negativity. Spain also went some way to rectifying their terrible penalty-shootout record, against a side that has a better history than most in the feared shootout.
Spanish manager Luis Aragones started the same XI that defeated Russia and Sweden, whilst his Italian counterpart drafted in Alberto Aquilani and Massimo Ambrosini in place of suspended Milan pair Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso.
Pirlo's absence was extremely noticeable, as the four central midfielders selected by Donadoni all lacked the craft and guile required to feed the isolated Luca Toni, and only later in the game when Mauro Camoranesi and Antonio Di Natale were brought on did Italy look like finding a goal.
From the kick-off, Spain dominated the lion's share of possession, but were limited to shots from distance as the Italians camped on their own penalty area. David Silva showed a constant proclivity for cutting in from the right flank onto his favoured left foot, but his subsequent shots failed to adequately test Gianluigi Buffon.
Euro 2008 top goalscorer David Villa had Spain's best chance of the first half, but his drilled free-kick from the edge of the box was comfortably dived on by Buffon.
For the Italians, only Simone Perrotta managed a shot on target, as he met Ambrosini's early cross, but he failed to get enough purchase on his header and Casillas claimed safely.
Toni was the target of many long balls from midfield, but despite possessing a distinct height advantage over Spain's central defenders Carlos Marchena and Carles Puyol, he failed to meaningfully impose himself on the game, and was often crowded out as a result.
The second half brought more of the same, with again Spain's midfield passing around looking for the elusive opening. Fernando Torres nearly created the chance after shrugging off Christian Panucci on the left, but his square ball was cut out by Giorgio Chiellini with Villa ready to pounce.
However, as is so often the case, Italy manufactured the best chance of the match on the hour, and only Casillas' leg kept Italy from surging ahead. After Toni made a nuisance of himself following another long ball, a goalmouth scramble ensued, and substitute Camoranesi's subsequent effort was blocked by Casillas despite appearing to be wrong-footed.
Sensing Spain's problems, Aragones replaced Barcelona pair Xavi and Andres Iniesta with Fabregas and Santi Cazorla, and the introduction of Fabregas proved inspired as Spain immediately became more creative in attack.
Nevertheless, clear opportunities were still few and far between, but Spain nearly broke the deadlock from a rare Buffon error.
Moments after Buffon had punched clear a dangerous free kick from Marcos Senna, Senna tried his luck again from distance, and despite seemingly travelling straight at Buffon, the ball squirmed from his grasp, but Buffon gratefully dived on the ball after it rolled back off the post.
Italy then raced up the other end on the break and almost fashioned a winner, but an inviting ball from Di Natale was wasted by Toni, despite Grosso charging onto the ball in a better position.
With no goal to separate the sides, the game went into extra-time, and Silva again shot wide from the edge of the area moments after the restart.
But as was the case in normal time, Italy had the best chance to win it in extra-time as well. Only seconds after Marchena had nicked the ball away from Toni after Grosso's dangerous cross, Zambrotta's cross from the right was met by Di Natale, but Casillas expertly tipped his header over the bar.
Both teams half-heartedly searched for a winning goal, but the game seemed destined for penalties throughout much of the extra-time period, and such was the outcome.
After Villa, Grosso and Cazorla all scored, Casillas pulled off a miraculous save to his right to keep out De Rossi's effort. After Senna and Camoranesi converted, things nearly went pear-shaped for Spain as Buffon saved the substitute Dani Guiza's shot. But Casillas wouldn't be denied, as he claimed Di Natale's penalty low to his left. It was then left to Fabregas, who self-assuredly stepped up and dispatched his penalty into the bottom corner, sending Spanish players and fans into delirium.
Spain now faces Russia in the semi-finals, a team they beat 4-1 in the group stage. But as has been shown throughout the tournament, anything can happen, and the confident Russians will surely give a better account of themselves this time around.
Ratings
Spain
1 - Casillas - 9 - The hero for Spain. Pulled off important save during game too.
4 - Marchena - 7 - Kept Toni in check for much of the game.
5 - Puyol - 6 - Reliable as always, but struggled a bit with his injury.
6 - Iniesta - 6 - No real influence.
7 - Villa - 7 - Worked tirelessly without reward.
8 - Xavi - 6 - Struggled for creativity.
9 - Torres - 6 - Never managed to meaningfully involve himself.
11 - Capdevila - 6 - Assured.
15 - Ramos - 6 - Didn't venture forward enough.
19 - Senna - 7 - Tenacious.
21 - Silva - 7 - Wasteful, but lively.
(SUB) 10 - Fabregas - 7 - Looked the man most likely to create opening.
(SUB) 12 - Cazorla - 6 - No real impact.
(SUB) 17 - Guiza - 6 - A handful for the defence.
Italy
1 - Buffon - 7 - Made a couple of important saves.
2 - Panucci - 7 - Defended well.
3 - Grosso - 7 - Did his job.
4 - Chiellini - 8 - Grew in confidence with each game.
9 - Toni - 5 - Never got into it. Poor tournament with no goals.
10 - De Rossi - 6 - Didn't create enough.
13 - Ambrosini - 6 - Battled.
18 - Cassano - 6 - No decent service.
19 - Zambrotta - 6 - Fine.
20 - Perrotta - 5 - Peripheral.
22 - Aquilani - 4 - Quiet.
(SUB) 7 - Del Piero - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 11 - Di Natale - 6 - Looked lively.
(SUB) 16 - Camoranesi - 7 - Helped Toni out in attack.
Inspired Russians stun Netherlands
An Andrei Arshavin-inspired Russia has booked a spot in the Euro 2008 semi-finals after upsetting the Netherlands 3-1 in Basle.
Despite being many people's favourites to win the tournament after their scintillating performances in the group stage, the flat Dutch were comprehensively outplayed by the Russians, who were unlucky not to win the game in normal time such was their domination.
Roman Pavlyuchenko put Russia ahead just before the hour, but Ruud van Nistelrooy finished a Wesley Sneijder free-kick with five minutes to play to draw the Dutch level. But in extra time, the Russians again dictated play, and second-period goals to substitute Dmitri Torbinsky and the superb Arshavin sealed a famous win for Russia.
It was a sweet victory for Russia's Dutch manager Guus Hiddink, who has built a strong reputation of getting the best out of unfancied teams. In the build-up he suggested that he'd like nothing better than to be considered the biggest traitor in the Netherlands, and he has now fulfilled this prediction.
Hiddink made just one change to his side that destroyed Sweden, with Ivan Saenko replacing Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, whilst Dutch counterpart Marco van Basten opted not to start Arjen Robben or Robin van Persie, instead preferring the same XI that defeated Italy and France so comprehensively.
From the start, it was the Russians who somewhat unexpectedly took the game to the Dutch, and Pavlyuchenko had the best early chance, but he headed over despite finding himself in space.
The Dutch failed to find any rhythm comparable to their earlier performances during the group stage, as the flair that had been a hallmark of their play was absent throughout the entire 120 minutes. Sneijder had the Dutch's first opportunity, but his shot was well blocked by Sergei Ignashevich.
Russia looked extremely vulnerable defending set-pieces for the whole match, and on the half-hour the Dutch nearly exploited the weakness, but Rafael van der Vaart's whipped free-kick travelled just beyond the lunging Nigel de Jong and van Nistelrooy.
Arshavin proved a constant menace for the Dutch, who often failed to double-team him despite his immense influence. Just after the half-hour he forced Dutch custodian Edwin van der Sar into a smart save after he tried to curl an effort into the bottom corner.
Throughout the first half, young Russian centre-back Denis Kolodin wowed the crowd with his blistering right boot. After a corner was cleared to the edge of the box, Kolodin unleashed a rocket from no less than 40 yards which forced van der Sar to tip over, and again from the next corner he tried his luck again, but this time his shot whistled inches over the bar from even further out.
But he still looked vulnerable in defence, and after giving the ball away cheaply on the edge of his own box just before half time, he was relieved to see van der Vaart's shot comfortably saved by Akinfeev.
The Dutch introduced Robin van Persie at half time for Dirk Kuyt to try to spark some life into the side, and his impact was almost immediate as he flashed a volley wide less than a minute into the second half.
But van der Sar was still the busier goalkeeper throughout the second half, and ten minutes later, the Russians deservedly made the breakthrough. Moments after Arshavin had sent a wicked free kick just wide from wide on the left, veteran Sergei Semak made a good run down the same flank, before crossing the ball to Pavlyuchenko, who finished first-time with his left foot, leaving van der Sar rooted to the spot.
Despite the goal, the Dutch were still disappointing in attack, and they were restricted to audacious efforts from long range, with van der Vaart trying his luck with a dinky chip.
As they pushed numbers forward, they were nearly caught at the back as Russian right-back Alexsandr Anyukov found space in the penalty area, but an extended hand from van der Sar kept the margin to one goal.
After more Dutch shots from range failed to find their mark, poor Dutch defending nearly gifted substitute Torbinsky an opening, but Joris Mathijsen averted the danger.
It proved an important intervention, as after 86 minutes, the Dutch restored parity through van Nistelrooy.
Russia's defensive frailties were to blame, as van Nistelrooy stole in ahead of Ignashevich to bundle in Sneijder's inviting free kick from close range. It was an unmerited equaliser, but you can never allow van Nistelrooy to find space goal-side from a set-piece.
As the game edged into stoppage time, an unusual situation transpired as Kolodin was shown a second yellow card, only to have it rescinded by the linesman. Slovakian referee Lubos Michel gave Kolodin a second yellow card, but because the ball had gone out for a goal-kick before his challenge, Michel reversed his decision, much to the astonishment of the Dutch players.
In extra time, despite conceding the late goal, Russia again took the ascendancy, and Pavlyuchenko was unlucky not to score his second after his long range effort cannoned back off the crossbar.
Torbinsky had Russia's next chance two minutes later after clever play by Arshavin, but his shot had no power and was picked up by van der Sar.
Left-back Yuri Zhirkov then had a penalty appeal turned down at the beginning of the second period of extra time, despite appearing to be shoved by substitute John Heitinga. But the Russians finally gained what turned out to be the winner after 112 minutes, and again it was Arshavin at the centre of it.
After another brilliant run down the right by Arshavin, his cross, perhaps more by luck than design, floated over van der Sar's head and onto the boot of the gleeful Torbinsky, who poked the ball into the unguarded net to the delight of the entire Russian squad, which proceeded to pile on top of him in celebration.
The Dutch looked a beaten side after falling behind again, and they conceded again five minutes later. The Dutch defence lost concentration as Anyukov's long throw allowed Arshavin to get goal-side of the tiring defence, and he then slid the ball through van der Sar's legs via a slight deflection off Heitinga.
It was a deserved goal for Arshavin, who was once again Russia's talisman. The full-time whistle was met by stunned disbelief by the Dutch players and fans, but they can have no complaints after their collectively poor performance.
For the Russians, they find themselves in the semi-finals of a major tournament for the first time since the Soviet Union's break-up, and they now await the winner of Spain and Italy in tomorrow's quarter-final.
Ratings
Netherlands
1 - Van der Sar - 7 - Nothing he could do about goals. Kept the margin respectable.
2 - Ooijer - 6 - Often outpaced by nippy Arshavin.
4 - Mathijsen - 7 - The Dutch's best defender.
5 - Van Bronckhorst - 6 - Not his best performance.
8 - Engelaar - 6 - Fine.
9 - Van Nistelrooy - 7 - A constant threat.
10 - Sneijder - 8 - Never stopped working.
17 - De Jong - 6 - Worked hard.
18 - Kuyt - 5 - No impact.
21 - Boulahrouz - 6 - Battled hard in trying circumstances.
23 - Van der Vaart - 6 - Quiet game.
(SUB) 3 - Heitinga - 5 - Poor and clumsy after coming on.
(SUB) 7 - Van Persie - 6 - Didn't have desired effect.
(SUB) 20 - Afellay - 6 - Minimal impact.
Russia
1 - Akinfeev - 7 - Not much to do.
4 - Ignashevich - 6 - Marking at set-pieces average, otherwise fine.
8 - Kolodin - 7 - Growing in confidence.
9 - Saenko - 6 - Limited impact.
10 - Arshavin - 9 - Outstanding player on the pitch.
11 - Semak - 7 - Experienced head in midfield.
17 - Zyrianov - 7 - Continued his impressive form.
18 - Zhirkov - 7 - Quieter than he has been, but still solid.
19 - Pavlyuchenko - 8 - Unlucky to have not scored more than once.
20 - Semshov - 7 - Tireless worker.
22 - Anyukov - 6 - Worked hard.
(SUB) 7 - Torbinsky - 7 - Scored decisive goal, could've scored more.
(SUB) 15 - Bilyaletdinov - 6 - Not bad.
(SUB) 21 - Sychev - No time.
Despite being many people's favourites to win the tournament after their scintillating performances in the group stage, the flat Dutch were comprehensively outplayed by the Russians, who were unlucky not to win the game in normal time such was their domination.
Roman Pavlyuchenko put Russia ahead just before the hour, but Ruud van Nistelrooy finished a Wesley Sneijder free-kick with five minutes to play to draw the Dutch level. But in extra time, the Russians again dictated play, and second-period goals to substitute Dmitri Torbinsky and the superb Arshavin sealed a famous win for Russia.
It was a sweet victory for Russia's Dutch manager Guus Hiddink, who has built a strong reputation of getting the best out of unfancied teams. In the build-up he suggested that he'd like nothing better than to be considered the biggest traitor in the Netherlands, and he has now fulfilled this prediction.
Hiddink made just one change to his side that destroyed Sweden, with Ivan Saenko replacing Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, whilst Dutch counterpart Marco van Basten opted not to start Arjen Robben or Robin van Persie, instead preferring the same XI that defeated Italy and France so comprehensively.
From the start, it was the Russians who somewhat unexpectedly took the game to the Dutch, and Pavlyuchenko had the best early chance, but he headed over despite finding himself in space.
The Dutch failed to find any rhythm comparable to their earlier performances during the group stage, as the flair that had been a hallmark of their play was absent throughout the entire 120 minutes. Sneijder had the Dutch's first opportunity, but his shot was well blocked by Sergei Ignashevich.
Russia looked extremely vulnerable defending set-pieces for the whole match, and on the half-hour the Dutch nearly exploited the weakness, but Rafael van der Vaart's whipped free-kick travelled just beyond the lunging Nigel de Jong and van Nistelrooy.
Arshavin proved a constant menace for the Dutch, who often failed to double-team him despite his immense influence. Just after the half-hour he forced Dutch custodian Edwin van der Sar into a smart save after he tried to curl an effort into the bottom corner.
Throughout the first half, young Russian centre-back Denis Kolodin wowed the crowd with his blistering right boot. After a corner was cleared to the edge of the box, Kolodin unleashed a rocket from no less than 40 yards which forced van der Sar to tip over, and again from the next corner he tried his luck again, but this time his shot whistled inches over the bar from even further out.
But he still looked vulnerable in defence, and after giving the ball away cheaply on the edge of his own box just before half time, he was relieved to see van der Vaart's shot comfortably saved by Akinfeev.
The Dutch introduced Robin van Persie at half time for Dirk Kuyt to try to spark some life into the side, and his impact was almost immediate as he flashed a volley wide less than a minute into the second half.
But van der Sar was still the busier goalkeeper throughout the second half, and ten minutes later, the Russians deservedly made the breakthrough. Moments after Arshavin had sent a wicked free kick just wide from wide on the left, veteran Sergei Semak made a good run down the same flank, before crossing the ball to Pavlyuchenko, who finished first-time with his left foot, leaving van der Sar rooted to the spot.
Despite the goal, the Dutch were still disappointing in attack, and they were restricted to audacious efforts from long range, with van der Vaart trying his luck with a dinky chip.
As they pushed numbers forward, they were nearly caught at the back as Russian right-back Alexsandr Anyukov found space in the penalty area, but an extended hand from van der Sar kept the margin to one goal.
After more Dutch shots from range failed to find their mark, poor Dutch defending nearly gifted substitute Torbinsky an opening, but Joris Mathijsen averted the danger.
It proved an important intervention, as after 86 minutes, the Dutch restored parity through van Nistelrooy.
Russia's defensive frailties were to blame, as van Nistelrooy stole in ahead of Ignashevich to bundle in Sneijder's inviting free kick from close range. It was an unmerited equaliser, but you can never allow van Nistelrooy to find space goal-side from a set-piece.
As the game edged into stoppage time, an unusual situation transpired as Kolodin was shown a second yellow card, only to have it rescinded by the linesman. Slovakian referee Lubos Michel gave Kolodin a second yellow card, but because the ball had gone out for a goal-kick before his challenge, Michel reversed his decision, much to the astonishment of the Dutch players.
In extra time, despite conceding the late goal, Russia again took the ascendancy, and Pavlyuchenko was unlucky not to score his second after his long range effort cannoned back off the crossbar.
Torbinsky had Russia's next chance two minutes later after clever play by Arshavin, but his shot had no power and was picked up by van der Sar.
Left-back Yuri Zhirkov then had a penalty appeal turned down at the beginning of the second period of extra time, despite appearing to be shoved by substitute John Heitinga. But the Russians finally gained what turned out to be the winner after 112 minutes, and again it was Arshavin at the centre of it.
After another brilliant run down the right by Arshavin, his cross, perhaps more by luck than design, floated over van der Sar's head and onto the boot of the gleeful Torbinsky, who poked the ball into the unguarded net to the delight of the entire Russian squad, which proceeded to pile on top of him in celebration.
The Dutch looked a beaten side after falling behind again, and they conceded again five minutes later. The Dutch defence lost concentration as Anyukov's long throw allowed Arshavin to get goal-side of the tiring defence, and he then slid the ball through van der Sar's legs via a slight deflection off Heitinga.
It was a deserved goal for Arshavin, who was once again Russia's talisman. The full-time whistle was met by stunned disbelief by the Dutch players and fans, but they can have no complaints after their collectively poor performance.
For the Russians, they find themselves in the semi-finals of a major tournament for the first time since the Soviet Union's break-up, and they now await the winner of Spain and Italy in tomorrow's quarter-final.
Ratings
Netherlands
1 - Van der Sar - 7 - Nothing he could do about goals. Kept the margin respectable.
2 - Ooijer - 6 - Often outpaced by nippy Arshavin.
4 - Mathijsen - 7 - The Dutch's best defender.
5 - Van Bronckhorst - 6 - Not his best performance.
8 - Engelaar - 6 - Fine.
9 - Van Nistelrooy - 7 - A constant threat.
10 - Sneijder - 8 - Never stopped working.
17 - De Jong - 6 - Worked hard.
18 - Kuyt - 5 - No impact.
21 - Boulahrouz - 6 - Battled hard in trying circumstances.
23 - Van der Vaart - 6 - Quiet game.
(SUB) 3 - Heitinga - 5 - Poor and clumsy after coming on.
(SUB) 7 - Van Persie - 6 - Didn't have desired effect.
(SUB) 20 - Afellay - 6 - Minimal impact.
Russia
1 - Akinfeev - 7 - Not much to do.
4 - Ignashevich - 6 - Marking at set-pieces average, otherwise fine.
8 - Kolodin - 7 - Growing in confidence.
9 - Saenko - 6 - Limited impact.
10 - Arshavin - 9 - Outstanding player on the pitch.
11 - Semak - 7 - Experienced head in midfield.
17 - Zyrianov - 7 - Continued his impressive form.
18 - Zhirkov - 7 - Quieter than he has been, but still solid.
19 - Pavlyuchenko - 8 - Unlucky to have not scored more than once.
20 - Semshov - 7 - Tireless worker.
22 - Anyukov - 6 - Worked hard.
(SUB) 7 - Torbinsky - 7 - Scored decisive goal, could've scored more.
(SUB) 15 - Bilyaletdinov - 6 - Not bad.
(SUB) 21 - Sychev - No time.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Turks spot on as Croatia crashes out
Turkey will face Germany in the Euro 2008 semi-finals after overcoming Croatia in a penalty shootout in Vienna.
After a largely forgettable 120 minutes, nearly all of the drama was reserved for the closing stages of extra time, as first Ivan Klasnic put Croatia in front, only for Turkish substitute Semih Senturk to equalise with the last kick of extra-time.
The Turks then dominated the shootout, as after Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric both missed their kicks wide, veteran goalkeeper Rustu Recber saved from Mladen Petric to seal a 3-1 shootout victory.
In a game devoid of many clear opportunities, the likelihood of the game going to penalties grew as both teams failed to seize the initiative. But even more remarkable was the fact that two goals came in the space of 90 seconds to force this outcome.
Turkey came into the game with an injury and suspension-depleted line-up, highlighted by the recall of Rustu, who replaced suspended goalkeeper Volkan Demirel. Of the Turkish starting XI, no less than eight players were also on yellow cards, giving manager Fatih Terim even more headaches.
Croatia's team selection was more straight-forward, as manager Slaven Bilic opted for the same line-up that defeated Germany during the group stage.
The game began at a quick tempo, belying what would follow over the next 120 minutes. The Turks were pedestrian in defence at times, and they nearly came unstuck after just six minutes as Rakitic found space on the left, but Hakan Balta brilliantly cut out his square ball with Darijo Srna poised to finish.
Turkey enjoyed good possession early on, but as would be a hallmark for much of the game, they failed to find the incisiveness required to unlock Croatia's defence.
The best chance of the match fell to Croatia after 19 minutes, and it was set up by the ever-influential Luka Modric. After a mazy run down the right, he sent a dangerous low cross beyond the Turkish defence, but somehow the sliding Ivica Olic contrived to smash his effort against the cross-bar with the goal gaping, and Kranjcar's follow-up header sailed over.
The Croatians were momentarily sparked into life by this chance, as they attacked often down the left in an attempt to exploit Turkey's inexperienced right-back Sabri Sarioglu. Meanwhile, whilst Turkey's midfield passing may have looked stylish, their best chance came from the boot of Mehmet Topal, whose 35-yard shot whistled past Pletikosa's post.
So the teams went in level at the break, but the second half still failed to bring the game to the boil. Olic had another half-chance after more sloppy Turkish defending moments after the break, but Rustu did just enough to put him off after Emre Asik's back-header sold him short.
Modric was at the forefront of many Croatian attacks, and he slipped Kranjcar through just before the hour, but he was crowded out and his subsequent shot was comfortably saved by Rustu.
But Croatia did dominated the second half, and as it wore on, Croatia did get closer to the elusive goal. On 70 minutes, Rakitic played a clever one-two with Olic, before blazing his effort over despite being in a good position.
Darijo Srna then forced an outstanding save from Rustu from a trademark free-kick on the edge of the penalty area, as the Turks were content to send the game into extra time.
Croatia had one final chance before the final whistle, but after another good run down the right and cross by Modric, Olic couldn’t get enough purchase on his effort to trouble Rustu.
During extra-time, it was the Turks who made most of the running, but they again failed to significantly test Croatian goalkeeper Pletikosa, as substitute Semih Senturk shot high, and then Tuncay shot wide from two separate opportunities despite finding space.
But with the game seemingly destined for dreaded shootout, the game was turned on its head as Croatia took the lead, despite being second best for much of the extra-time period.
After strong play on the right by Srna and Modric, Rustu was caught in no man's land after racing out off his line to tackle Modric, leaving Klasnic with the easiest of headers from Modric's subsequent cross.
It was a horror mistake by Rustu, who up until then had kept reasonably well despite having not played for some time. But amazingly, the drama was not finished there, as Turkey equalized at the death.
After Rustu desperately punted downfield into the Croatian penalty area, Semih blasted the ball into the top corner after a goalmouth scramble, stunning the Croatian players and fans alike.
After Arda Turan, Semih and Hamit Altintop scored for Turkey in the shootout, Rustu became the hero, saving the decisive kick from Petric to send the Turkish fans wild.
Turkey's fairytale run will now continue against Germany, but they will lose Arda Turan, Tuncay Sanli and Emre Asik to suspensions as they all picked up second bookings, in what will add to Fatih Terim's big selection headaches.
Ratings
Croatia
1 - Pletikosa - 6 - Nothing to do until being beaten. Failed in shootout.
3 - Simunic - 6 - Fine.
4 - R. Kovac - 6 - Defended well.
5 - Corluka - 7 - Kept Arda Turan well in check.
7 - Rakitic - 6 - Wasted his chances.
10 - N. Kovac - 6 - Did his job.
11 - Srna - 6 - Did well.
14 - Modric - 8 - Always creative.
18 - Olic - 6 - Wasteful, but worked hard.
19 - Kranjcar - 5 - Peripheral.
22 - Pranjic - 6 - Decent game.
(SUB) 17 - Klasnic - 7 - Scored what looked like the winner.
(SUB) 21 - Petric - 6 - Little impact.
Turkey
1 - Rustu - 6 - Went from villain to hero in the shootout.
3 - Hakan Balta - 7 - Defended well.
4 - Gokhan Zan - 6 - Looked shaky at times.
6 - Mehmet Topal - 7 - Tenacious in midfield.
8 - Nihat - 6 - No real influence.
14 - Arda Turan - 6 - Only showed glimpses.
15 - Emre Asik - Looked uncomfortable at times.
17 - Tuncay Sanli - 6 - In and out.
18 - Kazim Kazim - 5 - No impact.
20 - Sabri Sarioglu - 6 - Tried hard, but out of position.
22 - Hamit Altintop - 6 - Looked good early, but faded.
(SUB) 9 - Semih Senturk - 7 - Scored priceless goal.
(SUB) 10 - Gokdeniz Karadeniz - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 16 - Ugur Boral - 6 - No impact.
After a largely forgettable 120 minutes, nearly all of the drama was reserved for the closing stages of extra time, as first Ivan Klasnic put Croatia in front, only for Turkish substitute Semih Senturk to equalise with the last kick of extra-time.
The Turks then dominated the shootout, as after Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric both missed their kicks wide, veteran goalkeeper Rustu Recber saved from Mladen Petric to seal a 3-1 shootout victory.
In a game devoid of many clear opportunities, the likelihood of the game going to penalties grew as both teams failed to seize the initiative. But even more remarkable was the fact that two goals came in the space of 90 seconds to force this outcome.
Turkey came into the game with an injury and suspension-depleted line-up, highlighted by the recall of Rustu, who replaced suspended goalkeeper Volkan Demirel. Of the Turkish starting XI, no less than eight players were also on yellow cards, giving manager Fatih Terim even more headaches.
Croatia's team selection was more straight-forward, as manager Slaven Bilic opted for the same line-up that defeated Germany during the group stage.
The game began at a quick tempo, belying what would follow over the next 120 minutes. The Turks were pedestrian in defence at times, and they nearly came unstuck after just six minutes as Rakitic found space on the left, but Hakan Balta brilliantly cut out his square ball with Darijo Srna poised to finish.
Turkey enjoyed good possession early on, but as would be a hallmark for much of the game, they failed to find the incisiveness required to unlock Croatia's defence.
The best chance of the match fell to Croatia after 19 minutes, and it was set up by the ever-influential Luka Modric. After a mazy run down the right, he sent a dangerous low cross beyond the Turkish defence, but somehow the sliding Ivica Olic contrived to smash his effort against the cross-bar with the goal gaping, and Kranjcar's follow-up header sailed over.
The Croatians were momentarily sparked into life by this chance, as they attacked often down the left in an attempt to exploit Turkey's inexperienced right-back Sabri Sarioglu. Meanwhile, whilst Turkey's midfield passing may have looked stylish, their best chance came from the boot of Mehmet Topal, whose 35-yard shot whistled past Pletikosa's post.
So the teams went in level at the break, but the second half still failed to bring the game to the boil. Olic had another half-chance after more sloppy Turkish defending moments after the break, but Rustu did just enough to put him off after Emre Asik's back-header sold him short.
Modric was at the forefront of many Croatian attacks, and he slipped Kranjcar through just before the hour, but he was crowded out and his subsequent shot was comfortably saved by Rustu.
But Croatia did dominated the second half, and as it wore on, Croatia did get closer to the elusive goal. On 70 minutes, Rakitic played a clever one-two with Olic, before blazing his effort over despite being in a good position.
Darijo Srna then forced an outstanding save from Rustu from a trademark free-kick on the edge of the penalty area, as the Turks were content to send the game into extra time.
Croatia had one final chance before the final whistle, but after another good run down the right and cross by Modric, Olic couldn’t get enough purchase on his effort to trouble Rustu.
During extra-time, it was the Turks who made most of the running, but they again failed to significantly test Croatian goalkeeper Pletikosa, as substitute Semih Senturk shot high, and then Tuncay shot wide from two separate opportunities despite finding space.
But with the game seemingly destined for dreaded shootout, the game was turned on its head as Croatia took the lead, despite being second best for much of the extra-time period.
After strong play on the right by Srna and Modric, Rustu was caught in no man's land after racing out off his line to tackle Modric, leaving Klasnic with the easiest of headers from Modric's subsequent cross.
It was a horror mistake by Rustu, who up until then had kept reasonably well despite having not played for some time. But amazingly, the drama was not finished there, as Turkey equalized at the death.
After Rustu desperately punted downfield into the Croatian penalty area, Semih blasted the ball into the top corner after a goalmouth scramble, stunning the Croatian players and fans alike.
After Arda Turan, Semih and Hamit Altintop scored for Turkey in the shootout, Rustu became the hero, saving the decisive kick from Petric to send the Turkish fans wild.
Turkey's fairytale run will now continue against Germany, but they will lose Arda Turan, Tuncay Sanli and Emre Asik to suspensions as they all picked up second bookings, in what will add to Fatih Terim's big selection headaches.
Ratings
Croatia
1 - Pletikosa - 6 - Nothing to do until being beaten. Failed in shootout.
3 - Simunic - 6 - Fine.
4 - R. Kovac - 6 - Defended well.
5 - Corluka - 7 - Kept Arda Turan well in check.
7 - Rakitic - 6 - Wasted his chances.
10 - N. Kovac - 6 - Did his job.
11 - Srna - 6 - Did well.
14 - Modric - 8 - Always creative.
18 - Olic - 6 - Wasteful, but worked hard.
19 - Kranjcar - 5 - Peripheral.
22 - Pranjic - 6 - Decent game.
(SUB) 17 - Klasnic - 7 - Scored what looked like the winner.
(SUB) 21 - Petric - 6 - Little impact.
Turkey
1 - Rustu - 6 - Went from villain to hero in the shootout.
3 - Hakan Balta - 7 - Defended well.
4 - Gokhan Zan - 6 - Looked shaky at times.
6 - Mehmet Topal - 7 - Tenacious in midfield.
8 - Nihat - 6 - No real influence.
14 - Arda Turan - 6 - Only showed glimpses.
15 - Emre Asik - Looked uncomfortable at times.
17 - Tuncay Sanli - 6 - In and out.
18 - Kazim Kazim - 5 - No impact.
20 - Sabri Sarioglu - 6 - Tried hard, but out of position.
22 - Hamit Altintop - 6 - Looked good early, but faded.
(SUB) 9 - Semih Senturk - 7 - Scored priceless goal.
(SUB) 10 - Gokdeniz Karadeniz - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 16 - Ugur Boral - 6 - No impact.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Opportunistic Germany overcome Portugal
Germany has become the first team to book its place in the Euro 2008 semi-finals, defeating Portugal 3-2 in an absorbing encounter in Basle.
Despite only showing glimpses of its best football in the group stage, pre-tournament favourites Germany took full advantage of Portugal's defensive frailties, with two goals coming from simple set-pieces. Whilst Portugal will be bitterly disappointed to be going home after such a promising start to its campaign.
Bastian Schweinsteiger got the ball rolling for the Germans after 22 minutes, before Miroslav Klose doubled the advantage five minutes later with his first goal of the tournament. Nuno Gomes gave Portugal a lifeline just before half time, but Michael Ballack made the game safe on the hour as he headed home. Substitute Helder Postiga set up a grandstand finish as he headed past Jens Lehmann with the clock winding down, but the Germans held on.
With manager Joachim Low watching from the stands after his dismissal against Austria, German managerial duties were left to the inexperienced Hans-Dieter Flick to pit his wits against Chelsea-bound Luis Felipe Scolari.
There were three changes to the German side that tackled Austria, with Simon Rolfes and Thomas Hitzlsperger coming in to midfield in place of Clemens Fritz and Torsten Frings, and with Mario Gomez left out, Podolski was switched to partner Klose up front, allowing Schweinsteiger to take his midfield position.
After playing mostly reserves in Portugal's defeat to Switzerland, Scolari unsurprisingly reverted back to his starting XI from the first two group games.
The opening stages were devoid of any clear-cut chances despite some nice passing movement from both sides. The first real chance came on the quarter-hour, as the ever-creative Deco slipped in Simao, but his shot was saved at the near-post by Lehmann.
Portugal made their intentions clear early, attempting to exploit the towering Per Mertesacker and Christian Metzelder for pace by playing around their feet or playing lofted passes over the top. Cristiano Ronaldo was on the end of a clever ball from Nuno Gomes after 20 minutes, but a last-ditch tackle from Arne Friedrich averted the danger.
Jose Bosingwa was a constant threat on the right flank, and his dangerous cross should have reaped rewards after 20 minutes, but Joao Moutinho's indecision cost him, as the ball bounced off his knee and over.
These early misses proved costly as Germany surged ahead after 24 minutes from a wonderfully crafted move.
Philipp Lahm, Michael Ballack and Podolski combined sumptuously down the left flank, and Podolski's low cross was met by the sliding Schweinsteiger who poked the ball past goalkeeper Ricardo.
It was a goal one would expect Portugal to score, such was the fluency of the passing movement and interplay. The goal stunned the Portuguese, and five minutes later they found themselves in a bigger hole as Germany doubled the advantage, this time from the simplest of set-pieces.
After winning a free-kick out wide on the left, Schweinsteiger floated the curled the ball into the centre, where the completely unmarked Miroslav Klose was on hand to nod the ball home.
In the lead-up to the game, Scolari was concerned about the distinct height advantage the Germans have over the Portuguese, but that fails to justify the woeful Portuguese marking, as Klose beat the offside trap to score.
With a two-goal buffer, the Germans sat back for the remainder of the half and invited Portuguese possession. Ronaldo was stung into action, and after a great team move his attempted cross was well cut out by Mertesacker with Nuno Gomes ready to pounce.
But five minutes before the break, Portugal got themselves back into the game, and again, the influential Ronaldo was involved.
After a brilliant first-touch took him past Friedrich, he had his initial shot saved by Lehmann, but the rebound fell to Nuno Gomes, who slid the ball inside the post despite the best efforts of Metzelder on the line.
Portugal enjoyed the better of the play either side of half time, but the side failed to find the incisive pass required to unlock the resolute German defence. Pepe missed the best of the opportunities, as he headed over from close range after Nuno Gomes flicked on a corner at the near post, and the Portuguese were duly punished on the counter-attack as more poor marking led to a third German goal.
On the hour, Schweinsteiger whipped in another free-kick from the left, and this time it was captain Michael Ballack who rose to head the ball past the on-rushing Ricardo, who was caught hopelessly out of position.
Ballack did appear to shove Paulo Ferreira in the build-up, but that doesn't explain Ricardo's positioning. Ricardo looked vulnerable defending set-pieces throughout the entire tournament, and the Germans exploited his weakness to the full.
The Portuguese became desperate after this goal, and Petit, Raul Meireles and the substitute Nani all tried their luck from distance without any luck.
Germany were more than prepared to defend for the last half-hour, but they nearly surged three ahead after a corner was cleared to Podolski, who unleashed a first-time rocket that whistled only inches wide of the post with Ricardo helpless.
But after absorbing much of the Portuguese pressure, the Germans came unstuck again as Portugal gained a lifeline.
After clever footwork on the left side by the lively Nani, he sent in a cross that was headed beyond Lehmann by fellow substitute Helder Postiga.
But time ran out on the Portuguese, despite mounting wave after wave of attack in the closing stages. The Germans now await the winner of the quarter-final between Turkey and Croatia.
Ratings
Portugal
1 - Ricardo - 5 - Poor. Couldn't cope with set-pieces.
2 - Ferreira - 5 - Struggled with Schweinsteiger.
4 - Bosingwa - 7 - Ran tirelessly up and down right flank.
7 - Ronaldo - 7 - Involved in all of Portugal's attacks, but at times wasteful.
8 - Petit - 6 - No significant impact.
10 - Moutinho - 6 - Off injured early.
11 - Simao - 6 - In and out.
15 - Pepe - 6 - Uncomfortable at set-pieces.
16 - Carvalho - 6 - Not at his best.
20 - Deco - 8 - Creative as usual.
21 - Nuno Gomes - 7 - Scored, but otherwise quiet.
(SUB) 6 - Raul Meireles - 6 - Okay.
(SUB) 19 - Nani - 7 - Lively after coming on.
(SUB) 23 - Postiga - 6 - Late goal.
Germany
1 - Lehmann - 6 - Kept well for the most part.
3 - Friedrich - 6 - Tried hard to cope with Ronaldo.
6 - Rolfes - 7 - Tenacious.
7 - Schweinsteiger - 8 - Involved in all 3 goals.
11 - Klose - 7 - Finally scored. Worked hard.
13 - Ballack - 8 - Influential.
15 - Hitzlsperger - 7 - Worked hard.
16 - Lahm - 7 - Defended well.
17 - Mertesacker - 7 - Imperious in the air.
20 - Podolski - 7 - Continued his great form.
21 - Metzelder - 6 - Looked a bit shaky.
(SUB) 2 - Jansen - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 4 - Fritz - 6 - Little time.
(SUB) 18 - Borowski - 6 - Little time.
Despite only showing glimpses of its best football in the group stage, pre-tournament favourites Germany took full advantage of Portugal's defensive frailties, with two goals coming from simple set-pieces. Whilst Portugal will be bitterly disappointed to be going home after such a promising start to its campaign.
Bastian Schweinsteiger got the ball rolling for the Germans after 22 minutes, before Miroslav Klose doubled the advantage five minutes later with his first goal of the tournament. Nuno Gomes gave Portugal a lifeline just before half time, but Michael Ballack made the game safe on the hour as he headed home. Substitute Helder Postiga set up a grandstand finish as he headed past Jens Lehmann with the clock winding down, but the Germans held on.
With manager Joachim Low watching from the stands after his dismissal against Austria, German managerial duties were left to the inexperienced Hans-Dieter Flick to pit his wits against Chelsea-bound Luis Felipe Scolari.
There were three changes to the German side that tackled Austria, with Simon Rolfes and Thomas Hitzlsperger coming in to midfield in place of Clemens Fritz and Torsten Frings, and with Mario Gomez left out, Podolski was switched to partner Klose up front, allowing Schweinsteiger to take his midfield position.
After playing mostly reserves in Portugal's defeat to Switzerland, Scolari unsurprisingly reverted back to his starting XI from the first two group games.
The opening stages were devoid of any clear-cut chances despite some nice passing movement from both sides. The first real chance came on the quarter-hour, as the ever-creative Deco slipped in Simao, but his shot was saved at the near-post by Lehmann.
Portugal made their intentions clear early, attempting to exploit the towering Per Mertesacker and Christian Metzelder for pace by playing around their feet or playing lofted passes over the top. Cristiano Ronaldo was on the end of a clever ball from Nuno Gomes after 20 minutes, but a last-ditch tackle from Arne Friedrich averted the danger.
Jose Bosingwa was a constant threat on the right flank, and his dangerous cross should have reaped rewards after 20 minutes, but Joao Moutinho's indecision cost him, as the ball bounced off his knee and over.
These early misses proved costly as Germany surged ahead after 24 minutes from a wonderfully crafted move.
Philipp Lahm, Michael Ballack and Podolski combined sumptuously down the left flank, and Podolski's low cross was met by the sliding Schweinsteiger who poked the ball past goalkeeper Ricardo.
It was a goal one would expect Portugal to score, such was the fluency of the passing movement and interplay. The goal stunned the Portuguese, and five minutes later they found themselves in a bigger hole as Germany doubled the advantage, this time from the simplest of set-pieces.
After winning a free-kick out wide on the left, Schweinsteiger floated the curled the ball into the centre, where the completely unmarked Miroslav Klose was on hand to nod the ball home.
In the lead-up to the game, Scolari was concerned about the distinct height advantage the Germans have over the Portuguese, but that fails to justify the woeful Portuguese marking, as Klose beat the offside trap to score.
With a two-goal buffer, the Germans sat back for the remainder of the half and invited Portuguese possession. Ronaldo was stung into action, and after a great team move his attempted cross was well cut out by Mertesacker with Nuno Gomes ready to pounce.
But five minutes before the break, Portugal got themselves back into the game, and again, the influential Ronaldo was involved.
After a brilliant first-touch took him past Friedrich, he had his initial shot saved by Lehmann, but the rebound fell to Nuno Gomes, who slid the ball inside the post despite the best efforts of Metzelder on the line.
Portugal enjoyed the better of the play either side of half time, but the side failed to find the incisive pass required to unlock the resolute German defence. Pepe missed the best of the opportunities, as he headed over from close range after Nuno Gomes flicked on a corner at the near post, and the Portuguese were duly punished on the counter-attack as more poor marking led to a third German goal.
On the hour, Schweinsteiger whipped in another free-kick from the left, and this time it was captain Michael Ballack who rose to head the ball past the on-rushing Ricardo, who was caught hopelessly out of position.
Ballack did appear to shove Paulo Ferreira in the build-up, but that doesn't explain Ricardo's positioning. Ricardo looked vulnerable defending set-pieces throughout the entire tournament, and the Germans exploited his weakness to the full.
The Portuguese became desperate after this goal, and Petit, Raul Meireles and the substitute Nani all tried their luck from distance without any luck.
Germany were more than prepared to defend for the last half-hour, but they nearly surged three ahead after a corner was cleared to Podolski, who unleashed a first-time rocket that whistled only inches wide of the post with Ricardo helpless.
But after absorbing much of the Portuguese pressure, the Germans came unstuck again as Portugal gained a lifeline.
After clever footwork on the left side by the lively Nani, he sent in a cross that was headed beyond Lehmann by fellow substitute Helder Postiga.
But time ran out on the Portuguese, despite mounting wave after wave of attack in the closing stages. The Germans now await the winner of the quarter-final between Turkey and Croatia.
Ratings
Portugal
1 - Ricardo - 5 - Poor. Couldn't cope with set-pieces.
2 - Ferreira - 5 - Struggled with Schweinsteiger.
4 - Bosingwa - 7 - Ran tirelessly up and down right flank.
7 - Ronaldo - 7 - Involved in all of Portugal's attacks, but at times wasteful.
8 - Petit - 6 - No significant impact.
10 - Moutinho - 6 - Off injured early.
11 - Simao - 6 - In and out.
15 - Pepe - 6 - Uncomfortable at set-pieces.
16 - Carvalho - 6 - Not at his best.
20 - Deco - 8 - Creative as usual.
21 - Nuno Gomes - 7 - Scored, but otherwise quiet.
(SUB) 6 - Raul Meireles - 6 - Okay.
(SUB) 19 - Nani - 7 - Lively after coming on.
(SUB) 23 - Postiga - 6 - Late goal.
Germany
1 - Lehmann - 6 - Kept well for the most part.
3 - Friedrich - 6 - Tried hard to cope with Ronaldo.
6 - Rolfes - 7 - Tenacious.
7 - Schweinsteiger - 8 - Involved in all 3 goals.
11 - Klose - 7 - Finally scored. Worked hard.
13 - Ballack - 8 - Influential.
15 - Hitzlsperger - 7 - Worked hard.
16 - Lahm - 7 - Defended well.
17 - Mertesacker - 7 - Imperious in the air.
20 - Podolski - 7 - Continued his great form.
21 - Metzelder - 6 - Looked a bit shaky.
(SUB) 2 - Jansen - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 4 - Fritz - 6 - Little time.
(SUB) 18 - Borowski - 6 - Little time.
Elegant Russia dump Sweden
Russia has booked its place in the Euro 2008 quarter-finals after downing Sweden 2-0 in Innsbruck.
The scoreline flattered Sweden, as the Russians thoroughly outclassed their more experienced opponents. Goals from Roman Pavlyuchenko and returning playmaker Andrei Arshavin secured the win, and Russia can now look forward to a final-eight showdown with manager Guus Hiddink's native Netherlands.
With Spain already having qualified from Group D, Sweden and Russia were fighting it out for second spot. Sweden only required a draw from the fixture, while the Russians needed to win due to an inferior goal difference.
Hiddink rushed back talisman Arshavin from suspension in place of Dmitri Torbinsky, but Swedish counterpart Lars Lagerback opted for an unchanged line-up from the team that lost 2-1 to Spain in stoppage-time.
Right from the kick-off Russia seized the initiative, with impressive full-backs Alexsandr Anyukov and Yuri Zhirkov prepared to get forward at every opportunity. But it was Arshavin who led many Russian attacking thrusts, and Russia's first two chances fell to him.
First, he headed a dangerous Anyukov cross wide despite being in yards of space, and then his out-stretched boot failed to control a low cross after another neat build-up down the right flank.
Much of Sweden's early play was directed through the enigmatic Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and he saw an early header comfortably collected by Igor Akinfeev.
However, with each passing foray forward Russia edged closer to the breakthrough. A fortuitous cross-shot by Arshavin forced a tip-over by Andreas Isaksson and from the resulting corner, a floated ball from Konstantin Zyryanov found Zhirkov, but his beautifully struck first-time volley swerved just wide of the far post.
But the dominance finally told after 24 minutes as Russia surged ahead. Another wonderful team move down the right ended with Anyukov, whose run was not picked up by the Swedish defence. He slid the ball inside to Pavlyuchenko, who slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
It was a just reward for the Russians, whose work-rate and pressure constantly harassed the Swedes into coughing up possession in dangerous areas. Left midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov had a half-chance to extend the advantage within two minutes, but he shot wide.
Sweden's best chance of the game came almost immediately after this miss. Totally against the run of play, a lofted cross from Mikael Nilsson picked out Henrik Larsson, whose clever flicked header grazed the top of the crossbar with Akinfeev stranded.
This opening proved to be the exception rather than the norm, however, as the Russians regained control, and went agonisingly close to doubling their lead.
After Ibrahimovic was robbed of possession inside his own half, neat footwork down the right played in Bilyaletdinov. He opted to leave the ball for Pavlyuchenko, but his curling effort cannoned back off the upright, and Zyryanov's follow-up was clawed away by Isaksson.
But Sweden's best spell of the match came in the five minutes before half time. Freddie Ljungberg and Mikael Nilsson both tested Akinfeev after some sloppy Russian defending, and they would have been hoping to continue with their enterprising play after the interval.
But instead, Sweden never took control, and moments after Elmander had a goal chalked off for off-side, Russia raced down the other end and deservedly doubled their lead.
Zhirkov set in motion another sumptuous flowing chain of passes, and after having the ball returned to him by Bilyaletdinov, he squared the ball to Arshavin, who powered the ball past Isaksson.
But even at two goals behind, Sweden still failed to create any clear-cut chances, as only an ambitious overhead kick from Henrik Larsson brought about a save from Akinfeev, albeit a comfortable one.
Arshavin was proving a constant menace, and he nearly brought about another goal as he was sent through on goal. This time, he nearly pressured right-back Fredrik Stoor into an own-goal, but Isaksson alertly diverted the ball out for a corner.
But with the Swedes pouring forward in search of a goal, they inevitably left huge gaps in defence, instigating an astonishing sequence of glorious chances for Russia to finally seal victory.
First, Zyryanov hit the post with a deflected effort, before Pavlyuchenko headed straight at Isaksson despite being in acres of space after a delightful cross from Anyukov.
Arshavin then released the substitute Ivan Saenko, but his cross from the right was played behind the onrushing Pavlyuchenko, before Isaksson brilliantly saved moments later after Arshavin was through one-on-one.
The final whistle was greeted with jubilant scenes from the Russians, whilst the Swedes are on the plane home despite starting their campaign with a win over Greece.
Ratings
Russia
1 - Akinfeev - 7 - Little to do.
4 - Ignashevich - 8 - Assured in defence.
8 - Kolodin - 7 - Getting better with each game.
10 - Arshavin - 9 - Influential in most of Russia's play.
11 - Semak (c) - 7 - Workhorse.
15 - Bilyaletdinov - 7 - In and out.
17 - Zyryanov - 7 - Always involved.
18 - Zhirkov - 8 - Outstanding down left side.
19 - Pavlyuchenko - 7 - Could've scored more than one goal.
20 - Semshov - 7 - Played his role well in midfield.
22 - Anyukov - 7 - Another solid game.
(SUB) 9 - Saenko - 6 - Ran hard in cameo appearance.
(SUB) 23 - Bystrov - 6 - No time.
Sweden
1 - Isaksson - 7 - Helped keep scoreline respectable.
2 - Nilsson - 6 - Under constant pressure.
3 - Mellberg - 7 - Tried hard.
4 - Hansson - 6 - Struggled at times.
5 - Stoor - 5 - Terrorised by Zhirkov and Bilyaletdinov.
8 - Svensson - 5 - No impact.
9 - Ljungberg - 6 - Not involved enough.
10 - Ibrahimovic - 6 - Faded.
11 - Elmander - 5 - Wasteful.
17 - H. Larsson - 6 - In and out.
19 - Andersson - 5 - Peripheral.
(SUB) 16 - Kallstrom - 6 - Little impact.
(SUB) 20 - Allback - 6 - No time.
The scoreline flattered Sweden, as the Russians thoroughly outclassed their more experienced opponents. Goals from Roman Pavlyuchenko and returning playmaker Andrei Arshavin secured the win, and Russia can now look forward to a final-eight showdown with manager Guus Hiddink's native Netherlands.
With Spain already having qualified from Group D, Sweden and Russia were fighting it out for second spot. Sweden only required a draw from the fixture, while the Russians needed to win due to an inferior goal difference.
Hiddink rushed back talisman Arshavin from suspension in place of Dmitri Torbinsky, but Swedish counterpart Lars Lagerback opted for an unchanged line-up from the team that lost 2-1 to Spain in stoppage-time.
Right from the kick-off Russia seized the initiative, with impressive full-backs Alexsandr Anyukov and Yuri Zhirkov prepared to get forward at every opportunity. But it was Arshavin who led many Russian attacking thrusts, and Russia's first two chances fell to him.
First, he headed a dangerous Anyukov cross wide despite being in yards of space, and then his out-stretched boot failed to control a low cross after another neat build-up down the right flank.
Much of Sweden's early play was directed through the enigmatic Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and he saw an early header comfortably collected by Igor Akinfeev.
However, with each passing foray forward Russia edged closer to the breakthrough. A fortuitous cross-shot by Arshavin forced a tip-over by Andreas Isaksson and from the resulting corner, a floated ball from Konstantin Zyryanov found Zhirkov, but his beautifully struck first-time volley swerved just wide of the far post.
But the dominance finally told after 24 minutes as Russia surged ahead. Another wonderful team move down the right ended with Anyukov, whose run was not picked up by the Swedish defence. He slid the ball inside to Pavlyuchenko, who slotted the ball into the bottom corner.
It was a just reward for the Russians, whose work-rate and pressure constantly harassed the Swedes into coughing up possession in dangerous areas. Left midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov had a half-chance to extend the advantage within two minutes, but he shot wide.
Sweden's best chance of the game came almost immediately after this miss. Totally against the run of play, a lofted cross from Mikael Nilsson picked out Henrik Larsson, whose clever flicked header grazed the top of the crossbar with Akinfeev stranded.
This opening proved to be the exception rather than the norm, however, as the Russians regained control, and went agonisingly close to doubling their lead.
After Ibrahimovic was robbed of possession inside his own half, neat footwork down the right played in Bilyaletdinov. He opted to leave the ball for Pavlyuchenko, but his curling effort cannoned back off the upright, and Zyryanov's follow-up was clawed away by Isaksson.
But Sweden's best spell of the match came in the five minutes before half time. Freddie Ljungberg and Mikael Nilsson both tested Akinfeev after some sloppy Russian defending, and they would have been hoping to continue with their enterprising play after the interval.
But instead, Sweden never took control, and moments after Elmander had a goal chalked off for off-side, Russia raced down the other end and deservedly doubled their lead.
Zhirkov set in motion another sumptuous flowing chain of passes, and after having the ball returned to him by Bilyaletdinov, he squared the ball to Arshavin, who powered the ball past Isaksson.
But even at two goals behind, Sweden still failed to create any clear-cut chances, as only an ambitious overhead kick from Henrik Larsson brought about a save from Akinfeev, albeit a comfortable one.
Arshavin was proving a constant menace, and he nearly brought about another goal as he was sent through on goal. This time, he nearly pressured right-back Fredrik Stoor into an own-goal, but Isaksson alertly diverted the ball out for a corner.
But with the Swedes pouring forward in search of a goal, they inevitably left huge gaps in defence, instigating an astonishing sequence of glorious chances for Russia to finally seal victory.
First, Zyryanov hit the post with a deflected effort, before Pavlyuchenko headed straight at Isaksson despite being in acres of space after a delightful cross from Anyukov.
Arshavin then released the substitute Ivan Saenko, but his cross from the right was played behind the onrushing Pavlyuchenko, before Isaksson brilliantly saved moments later after Arshavin was through one-on-one.
The final whistle was greeted with jubilant scenes from the Russians, whilst the Swedes are on the plane home despite starting their campaign with a win over Greece.
Ratings
Russia
1 - Akinfeev - 7 - Little to do.
4 - Ignashevich - 8 - Assured in defence.
8 - Kolodin - 7 - Getting better with each game.
10 - Arshavin - 9 - Influential in most of Russia's play.
11 - Semak (c) - 7 - Workhorse.
15 - Bilyaletdinov - 7 - In and out.
17 - Zyryanov - 7 - Always involved.
18 - Zhirkov - 8 - Outstanding down left side.
19 - Pavlyuchenko - 7 - Could've scored more than one goal.
20 - Semshov - 7 - Played his role well in midfield.
22 - Anyukov - 7 - Another solid game.
(SUB) 9 - Saenko - 6 - Ran hard in cameo appearance.
(SUB) 23 - Bystrov - 6 - No time.
Sweden
1 - Isaksson - 7 - Helped keep scoreline respectable.
2 - Nilsson - 6 - Under constant pressure.
3 - Mellberg - 7 - Tried hard.
4 - Hansson - 6 - Struggled at times.
5 - Stoor - 5 - Terrorised by Zhirkov and Bilyaletdinov.
8 - Svensson - 5 - No impact.
9 - Ljungberg - 6 - Not involved enough.
10 - Ibrahimovic - 6 - Faded.
11 - Elmander - 5 - Wasteful.
17 - H. Larsson - 6 - In and out.
19 - Andersson - 5 - Peripheral.
(SUB) 16 - Kallstrom - 6 - Little impact.
(SUB) 20 - Allback - 6 - No time.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Azzurri eliminate sorry French
France has become the first big-name casualty of Euro 2008 after going down 2-0 to Italy in its final Group C game at Euro 2008 in Zurich.
The Italians, meanwhile, secured passage to the knockout stage, despite largely indifferent form over their group matches, after Romania succumbed to a 2-0 defeat to the in-form Netherlands.
It was a night of misery for the French, who lost midfield talisman Franck Ribery to what looked a serious leg injury less than ten minutes into the game, before having defender Eric Abidal sent off on the half hour for a last-man tackle on Luca Toni.
Andrea Pirlo dispatched the subsequent penalty beyond Gregory Coupet, and a deflected Daniele De Rossi free kick on the hour sealed France's fate.
The French depart the tournament after amassing just one goal and one point from its three encounters, and a changing of the guard looks imminent, with some of its experienced players expected to retire from international football.
The game between the World Cup finalists could have proved inconsequential if Romania had upset the Netherlands. But barring that result, France went into the game needing a win to progress, whilst the Italians only required a draw.
Accordingly, French manager Raymond Domenech paired Theirry Henry with Karim Benzema for the first time in the tournament, whilst his Italian counterpart Roberto Donadoni again tinkered with his line-up, making two changes to the side that faced Romania.
The first clear-cut chance of the match fell to Luca Toni, after Giorgio Chiellini lofted a through-ball over the defence. But he wastefully fired wide after despite being free of France's defence
This was to be a common theme for the match, as many long balls were played to Toni, and on another night he may well have scored at least a hat-trick.
France was dealt a body blow after less than 10 minutes when Ribery was stretchered off. After a seemingly innocuous challenge, he collapsed in agony, forcing Domenech to replace him with Marseille midfielder Samir Nasri.
France's early rhythm was disrupted by Ribery's withdrawal, and the Italians seized the initiative. First, Panucci connected with a powerful header from Italy's first corner, but Claude Makelele was on the line to hoof it clear. Shortly after, a whipped Pirlo free kick from out wide was punched clear by Coupet with Luca Toni lurking.
But on 25 minutes, France's problems were compounded when the Italians were awarded a penalty, after another long ball over the top found Toni. His sublime control took the ball away from Abidal, who then hauled him down from behind.
Slovakian referee Lubos Michel was left with little alternative but to distribute the first red card of the tournament to Abidal, despite the protests of the French players.
The ever-reliable Pirlo stepped up and powered the ball beyond Coupet to send Italy into the lead, as France was forced into another reshuffle, with Nasri, who replaced Ribery just 15 minutes early, unluckily sacrificed in order to bring on centre-back Jean-Alain Boumsong.
By now, Italy had well and truly taken control of the match, and Toni then wasted a remarkable succession of opportunities as Italy looked to extend its advantage.
The lively Antonio Cassano produced the best of Toni's chances as he picked him out from the right, but Toni's clever flick sailed just beyond the far-post. As Toni saw another two chances wastefully come and go, the French looked as if they were about to collapse under the barrage of pressure.
But amazingly, he was nearly made to pay for these misses, as France carved out its first decent opportunity just after the half-hour. The impressive Jeremy Toulalan released Theirry Henry, who found space inside Chiellini. But Henry, who has not been at his best at Euro 2008, scuffed the chance by firing wide.
Italy nearly made the game safe just before half-time, as a free-kick from Fabio Grosso was brilliantly tipped onto the post by Coupet at full-stretch.
The second half began with France enjoying a good spell of possession. But despite pinning the Italians on the edge of their own penalty area, France failed to severely test Buffon. Benzema volleyed over, before two Henry shots left Buffon untroubled.
But as has been historically customary for the Azzurri, they hit the French on the break with a sucker punch. De Rossi blasted a 30-yard free kick, and it sailed into the net after a fortuitous deflection off Henry's extended boot wrong-footed Coupet.
The goal ended France's hopes of qualifying, and it was evident in the last half hour of play. Whilst Benzema did force an outstanding save from Buffon with a curling effort with a quarter-hour left on the clock, the Italians enjoyed a relatively stable period to end the game.
Toni could have again etched his name on the score-sheet in the final minute of injury time, but this time his shot cannoned off the outside of the upright.
The final whistle was greeted with ecstasy by the Italians, which now faces Spain in the quarter-finals on Sunday. However, they will be without Milan duo Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso after they picked up second bookings.
Ratings
France
23 - Coupet - 7 - Some good saves.
3 - Abidal - 4 - Sent off early.
5 - Gallas - 5 - Troubled all day.
6 - Makelele - 5 - Lost midfield battle.
9 - Benzema - 7 - Worked hard, would've scored if not for Buffon brilliance.
10 - Govou - 6 - In and out.
12 - Henry - 6 - Looks a spent force.
13 - Evra - 6 - Often double-teamed on Italian right-wing.
14 - Clerc - 5 - Wasteful in possession
20 - Toulalan - 7 - A rare shining light.
22 - Ribery - 5 - Forced off early.
(SUB) 2 - Boumsong - 5 - Never comfortable.
(SUB) 8 - Anelka - 6 - No impact.
(SUB) 11 - Nasri - 6 - Only lasted 15 minutes. Unlucky.
Italy
1 - Buffon - 8 - Did what he needed to do, with one outstanding save.
2 - Panucci - 6 - Little to do.
3 - Grosso - 7 - Worked hard up and down the left side.
4 - Chiellini - 6 - Looked better today.
8 - Gattuso - 6 - Typical performance.
9 - Toni - 5 - Terribly wasteful.
10 - De Rossi - 7 - Solid game.
18 - Cassano - 7 - Justified his selection.
19 - Zambrotta - 6 - Untroubled.
20 - Perrotta - 6 - Worked well in midfield.
21 - Pirlo - 6 - Creative as always.
(SUB) 13 - Ambrosini - 6 - Slotted into Perrotta's place well.
(SUB) 16 - Camoranesi - 6 - Little impact.
(SUB) 22 - Aquilani - 6 - No time.
The Italians, meanwhile, secured passage to the knockout stage, despite largely indifferent form over their group matches, after Romania succumbed to a 2-0 defeat to the in-form Netherlands.
It was a night of misery for the French, who lost midfield talisman Franck Ribery to what looked a serious leg injury less than ten minutes into the game, before having defender Eric Abidal sent off on the half hour for a last-man tackle on Luca Toni.
Andrea Pirlo dispatched the subsequent penalty beyond Gregory Coupet, and a deflected Daniele De Rossi free kick on the hour sealed France's fate.
The French depart the tournament after amassing just one goal and one point from its three encounters, and a changing of the guard looks imminent, with some of its experienced players expected to retire from international football.
The game between the World Cup finalists could have proved inconsequential if Romania had upset the Netherlands. But barring that result, France went into the game needing a win to progress, whilst the Italians only required a draw.
Accordingly, French manager Raymond Domenech paired Theirry Henry with Karim Benzema for the first time in the tournament, whilst his Italian counterpart Roberto Donadoni again tinkered with his line-up, making two changes to the side that faced Romania.
The first clear-cut chance of the match fell to Luca Toni, after Giorgio Chiellini lofted a through-ball over the defence. But he wastefully fired wide after despite being free of France's defence
This was to be a common theme for the match, as many long balls were played to Toni, and on another night he may well have scored at least a hat-trick.
France was dealt a body blow after less than 10 minutes when Ribery was stretchered off. After a seemingly innocuous challenge, he collapsed in agony, forcing Domenech to replace him with Marseille midfielder Samir Nasri.
France's early rhythm was disrupted by Ribery's withdrawal, and the Italians seized the initiative. First, Panucci connected with a powerful header from Italy's first corner, but Claude Makelele was on the line to hoof it clear. Shortly after, a whipped Pirlo free kick from out wide was punched clear by Coupet with Luca Toni lurking.
But on 25 minutes, France's problems were compounded when the Italians were awarded a penalty, after another long ball over the top found Toni. His sublime control took the ball away from Abidal, who then hauled him down from behind.
Slovakian referee Lubos Michel was left with little alternative but to distribute the first red card of the tournament to Abidal, despite the protests of the French players.
The ever-reliable Pirlo stepped up and powered the ball beyond Coupet to send Italy into the lead, as France was forced into another reshuffle, with Nasri, who replaced Ribery just 15 minutes early, unluckily sacrificed in order to bring on centre-back Jean-Alain Boumsong.
By now, Italy had well and truly taken control of the match, and Toni then wasted a remarkable succession of opportunities as Italy looked to extend its advantage.
The lively Antonio Cassano produced the best of Toni's chances as he picked him out from the right, but Toni's clever flick sailed just beyond the far-post. As Toni saw another two chances wastefully come and go, the French looked as if they were about to collapse under the barrage of pressure.
But amazingly, he was nearly made to pay for these misses, as France carved out its first decent opportunity just after the half-hour. The impressive Jeremy Toulalan released Theirry Henry, who found space inside Chiellini. But Henry, who has not been at his best at Euro 2008, scuffed the chance by firing wide.
Italy nearly made the game safe just before half-time, as a free-kick from Fabio Grosso was brilliantly tipped onto the post by Coupet at full-stretch.
The second half began with France enjoying a good spell of possession. But despite pinning the Italians on the edge of their own penalty area, France failed to severely test Buffon. Benzema volleyed over, before two Henry shots left Buffon untroubled.
But as has been historically customary for the Azzurri, they hit the French on the break with a sucker punch. De Rossi blasted a 30-yard free kick, and it sailed into the net after a fortuitous deflection off Henry's extended boot wrong-footed Coupet.
The goal ended France's hopes of qualifying, and it was evident in the last half hour of play. Whilst Benzema did force an outstanding save from Buffon with a curling effort with a quarter-hour left on the clock, the Italians enjoyed a relatively stable period to end the game.
Toni could have again etched his name on the score-sheet in the final minute of injury time, but this time his shot cannoned off the outside of the upright.
The final whistle was greeted with ecstasy by the Italians, which now faces Spain in the quarter-finals on Sunday. However, they will be without Milan duo Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso after they picked up second bookings.
Ratings
France
23 - Coupet - 7 - Some good saves.
3 - Abidal - 4 - Sent off early.
5 - Gallas - 5 - Troubled all day.
6 - Makelele - 5 - Lost midfield battle.
9 - Benzema - 7 - Worked hard, would've scored if not for Buffon brilliance.
10 - Govou - 6 - In and out.
12 - Henry - 6 - Looks a spent force.
13 - Evra - 6 - Often double-teamed on Italian right-wing.
14 - Clerc - 5 - Wasteful in possession
20 - Toulalan - 7 - A rare shining light.
22 - Ribery - 5 - Forced off early.
(SUB) 2 - Boumsong - 5 - Never comfortable.
(SUB) 8 - Anelka - 6 - No impact.
(SUB) 11 - Nasri - 6 - Only lasted 15 minutes. Unlucky.
Italy
1 - Buffon - 8 - Did what he needed to do, with one outstanding save.
2 - Panucci - 6 - Little to do.
3 - Grosso - 7 - Worked hard up and down the left side.
4 - Chiellini - 6 - Looked better today.
8 - Gattuso - 6 - Typical performance.
9 - Toni - 5 - Terribly wasteful.
10 - De Rossi - 7 - Solid game.
18 - Cassano - 7 - Justified his selection.
19 - Zambrotta - 6 - Untroubled.
20 - Perrotta - 6 - Worked well in midfield.
21 - Pirlo - 6 - Creative as always.
(SUB) 13 - Ambrosini - 6 - Slotted into Perrotta's place well.
(SUB) 16 - Camoranesi - 6 - Little impact.
(SUB) 22 - Aquilani - 6 - No time.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Spirited Swiss upset Portugal
Host-nation Switzerland has bowed out of Euro 2008 with a flourish, defeating a second-string Portugal 2-0 in Basel tonight in the tournament's first dead-rubber.
Roared on by a vocal home crowd, the Swiss took full advantage of the weakened Portuguese outfit, and two second-half goals from veteran Hakan Yakin were enough to seal an impressive win in manager Kobi Kuhn's last game in charge.
The Portuguese performance will concern their manager Luis Felipe Scolari to some extent, as nearly all of their second-stringers failed to do enough to fight their way into Scolari's plans for the knockout stage.
As flagged by Scolari, eight changes were made to the side that defeated Turkey and the Czech Republic, with only the goalkeeper Ricardo, and defenders Paulo Ferreira and Pepe making their third starts.
This gave an opportunity for young starlets Miguel Veloso and Nani, along with the enigmatic Ricardo Quaresma, Helder Postiga and Miguel to press their claims for a berth in the team for their quarter-final clash.
The Portuguese did begin the game brightly, as Quaresma's full bag of tricks was on show after his stupendous cross was headed over by the constantly offside Postiga.
Portugal's best early chance came just after the quarter-hour, as a drilled free-kick by Miguel was deflected goal-bound by Pepe, but Swiss keeper Pascal Zuberbuhler's touch was enough to divert it onto the crossbar and over.
Early on, the Swiss were restricted to shots from distance, as the impressive Gokhan Inler's speculative effort was smartly tipped over by the anxious Ricardo.
Ricardo once again looked shaky defending set-pieces, and this will certainly be an area that teams will look to exploit later in the tournament.
The Swiss were getting well into the game by the half-hour, and a deep free-kick by Yakin only just evaded Philippe Senderos at the back post. Two minutes later, Ricardo was forced into a diving save to his left by a Yakin header from a corner, as the game by now had well and truly opened up.
The game's first moment of controversy game 10 minutes before half-time, as Helder Postiga was played in on goal by Quaresma. He finished past Zuberbuhler, only for the linesman to flag for offside, but replays suggested that he was at least level with the edgy Swiss full-back Stephan Lichtsteiner.
So the first half finished goalless despite both teams enjoying opportunities, but the Portuguese should have surged ahead just after the interval, as another mistake by Lichtsteiner allowed Nani to race in on goal, but his near-post shot struck the outside of the upright and went wide.
Another mistake in the Swiss defence, this time by Senderos, gave Quaresma space on the edge of the penalty area five minutes later, but Zuberbuhler was equal to his subsequent effort as he palmed it clear.
The Portuguese would rue these errors, as the introduction of Tranquillo Barnetta for the ineffectual Johan Vonlanthen reinvigorated the Swiss, as the side settled into a nice rhythm, creating a host of chances.
Barnetta almost got his name on the score-sheet with his first touch. After clever play by Inler down the left, his drilled cross found Barnetta, whose poor effort was nearly deflected into the net by Pepe.
Inler again tried his luck from distance, and this time he was even closer, as his shot cannoned off the outside of the upright.
The Swiss were well and truly on top now, and their pressure finally told on 71 minutes as Hakan Yakin put them ahead.
After neat play down the right flank, the ball fell to the tireless Eren Derdiyok, whose deft first-time flick sent Yakin through, and he slotted the ball through Ricardo's legs to give Switzerland the lead.
It was a just reward for some sustained pressure around the Portuguese penalty area, but the Swiss nearly came undone only five minutes later as Quaresma had a wonderful chance to equalise.
After Nani dispossessed Gelson Fernandes in midfield, he released Ricardo Quaresma. But instead of shooting with only Zuberbuhler to beat, he instead tried to play the ball sideways to substitute Hugo Almeida, but Zuberbuhler dived on the ball and the chance was gone.
Portugal were to rue this miss as the Swiss made the game safe with 10 minutes to go from the penalty spot.
The influential Barnetta was brought down by Fernando Meira after flicking the ball beyond him, allowing Yakin to step up and complete his brace with a shot to Ricardo's right.
With the home fans by now in raptures, the Swiss held on for an uplifting 2-0 victory, and the Portuguese will now lick their wounds before facing a likely quarter-final against Germany, unless Austria or Poland can pull off a miracle.
Ratings
Switzerland
18 - Zuberbuhler - 7 - Did well to keep a clean sheet.
3 - Magnin - 7 - Solid performance.
4 - Senderos - 6 - Looked shaky at times.
5 - Lichtsteiner - 5 - Incredibly uncomfortable, too many mistakes.
8 - Inler - 8 - Very impressive.
10 - Yakin - 8 - Well-earned brace.
12 - Derdiyok - 7 - Some nice touches, worked tirelessly.
15 - Fernandes - 7 - Industrious game.
19 - Behrami - 7 - Looked lively before picking up early knock.
20 - Muller - 6 - Assured for the most part.
22 - Vonlanthen - 5 - Ineffectual.
(SUB) 7 - Cabanas - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 13 - Grichting - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 16 - Barnetta - 7 - Invigorated Swiss attack.
Portugal
1 - Ricardo - 5 - Didn't look comfortable at set-pieces.
2 - Ferreira - 6 - Brought off early after early booking.
3 - Bruno Alves - 6 - Decent.
5 - Meira - 5 - Clumsily gave away penalty. Looked slow.
6 - Raul Meireles - 6 - Not enough impact.
13 - Miguel - 6 - Didn't do enough to suggest he could displace Bosingwa.
15 - Pepe - 7 - Led the defensive line well.
17 - Quaresma - 6 - Frustratingly inconsistent.
18 - Veloso - 6 - Some nice touches.
19 - Nani - 6 - Should've scored.
23 - Postiga - 6 - Wasteful.
(SUB) 9 - Almeida - 6 - Not enough time.
(SUB) 10 - Moutinho - 6 - Not enough time.
(SUB) 14 - Jorge Ribeiro - 6 - Average.
Roared on by a vocal home crowd, the Swiss took full advantage of the weakened Portuguese outfit, and two second-half goals from veteran Hakan Yakin were enough to seal an impressive win in manager Kobi Kuhn's last game in charge.
The Portuguese performance will concern their manager Luis Felipe Scolari to some extent, as nearly all of their second-stringers failed to do enough to fight their way into Scolari's plans for the knockout stage.
As flagged by Scolari, eight changes were made to the side that defeated Turkey and the Czech Republic, with only the goalkeeper Ricardo, and defenders Paulo Ferreira and Pepe making their third starts.
This gave an opportunity for young starlets Miguel Veloso and Nani, along with the enigmatic Ricardo Quaresma, Helder Postiga and Miguel to press their claims for a berth in the team for their quarter-final clash.
The Portuguese did begin the game brightly, as Quaresma's full bag of tricks was on show after his stupendous cross was headed over by the constantly offside Postiga.
Portugal's best early chance came just after the quarter-hour, as a drilled free-kick by Miguel was deflected goal-bound by Pepe, but Swiss keeper Pascal Zuberbuhler's touch was enough to divert it onto the crossbar and over.
Early on, the Swiss were restricted to shots from distance, as the impressive Gokhan Inler's speculative effort was smartly tipped over by the anxious Ricardo.
Ricardo once again looked shaky defending set-pieces, and this will certainly be an area that teams will look to exploit later in the tournament.
The Swiss were getting well into the game by the half-hour, and a deep free-kick by Yakin only just evaded Philippe Senderos at the back post. Two minutes later, Ricardo was forced into a diving save to his left by a Yakin header from a corner, as the game by now had well and truly opened up.
The game's first moment of controversy game 10 minutes before half-time, as Helder Postiga was played in on goal by Quaresma. He finished past Zuberbuhler, only for the linesman to flag for offside, but replays suggested that he was at least level with the edgy Swiss full-back Stephan Lichtsteiner.
So the first half finished goalless despite both teams enjoying opportunities, but the Portuguese should have surged ahead just after the interval, as another mistake by Lichtsteiner allowed Nani to race in on goal, but his near-post shot struck the outside of the upright and went wide.
Another mistake in the Swiss defence, this time by Senderos, gave Quaresma space on the edge of the penalty area five minutes later, but Zuberbuhler was equal to his subsequent effort as he palmed it clear.
The Portuguese would rue these errors, as the introduction of Tranquillo Barnetta for the ineffectual Johan Vonlanthen reinvigorated the Swiss, as the side settled into a nice rhythm, creating a host of chances.
Barnetta almost got his name on the score-sheet with his first touch. After clever play by Inler down the left, his drilled cross found Barnetta, whose poor effort was nearly deflected into the net by Pepe.
Inler again tried his luck from distance, and this time he was even closer, as his shot cannoned off the outside of the upright.
The Swiss were well and truly on top now, and their pressure finally told on 71 minutes as Hakan Yakin put them ahead.
After neat play down the right flank, the ball fell to the tireless Eren Derdiyok, whose deft first-time flick sent Yakin through, and he slotted the ball through Ricardo's legs to give Switzerland the lead.
It was a just reward for some sustained pressure around the Portuguese penalty area, but the Swiss nearly came undone only five minutes later as Quaresma had a wonderful chance to equalise.
After Nani dispossessed Gelson Fernandes in midfield, he released Ricardo Quaresma. But instead of shooting with only Zuberbuhler to beat, he instead tried to play the ball sideways to substitute Hugo Almeida, but Zuberbuhler dived on the ball and the chance was gone.
Portugal were to rue this miss as the Swiss made the game safe with 10 minutes to go from the penalty spot.
The influential Barnetta was brought down by Fernando Meira after flicking the ball beyond him, allowing Yakin to step up and complete his brace with a shot to Ricardo's right.
With the home fans by now in raptures, the Swiss held on for an uplifting 2-0 victory, and the Portuguese will now lick their wounds before facing a likely quarter-final against Germany, unless Austria or Poland can pull off a miracle.
Ratings
Switzerland
18 - Zuberbuhler - 7 - Did well to keep a clean sheet.
3 - Magnin - 7 - Solid performance.
4 - Senderos - 6 - Looked shaky at times.
5 - Lichtsteiner - 5 - Incredibly uncomfortable, too many mistakes.
8 - Inler - 8 - Very impressive.
10 - Yakin - 8 - Well-earned brace.
12 - Derdiyok - 7 - Some nice touches, worked tirelessly.
15 - Fernandes - 7 - Industrious game.
19 - Behrami - 7 - Looked lively before picking up early knock.
20 - Muller - 6 - Assured for the most part.
22 - Vonlanthen - 5 - Ineffectual.
(SUB) 7 - Cabanas - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 13 - Grichting - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 16 - Barnetta - 7 - Invigorated Swiss attack.
Portugal
1 - Ricardo - 5 - Didn't look comfortable at set-pieces.
2 - Ferreira - 6 - Brought off early after early booking.
3 - Bruno Alves - 6 - Decent.
5 - Meira - 5 - Clumsily gave away penalty. Looked slow.
6 - Raul Meireles - 6 - Not enough impact.
13 - Miguel - 6 - Didn't do enough to suggest he could displace Bosingwa.
15 - Pepe - 7 - Led the defensive line well.
17 - Quaresma - 6 - Frustratingly inconsistent.
18 - Veloso - 6 - Some nice touches.
19 - Nani - 6 - Should've scored.
23 - Postiga - 6 - Wasteful.
(SUB) 9 - Almeida - 6 - Not enough time.
(SUB) 10 - Moutinho - 6 - Not enough time.
(SUB) 14 - Jorge Ribeiro - 6 - Average.
Euro 2008 - Observations - 2
It's time for some more observations, with every team having played two games.
1) Goodbye, Greece!
The seemingly inevitable has happened. Greece will not be defending their 2004 crown, having been unceremoniously dumped out of Euro 2008 after just two games, in which they haven't scored a goal, let alone gained any points.
As said earlier, the Greeks' biggest mistake was not to introduce enough new blood into the side. There is a distinct sameness between the 2004 and 2008 line-ups, and really, the best European nations were not going to fall for the Greeks' ultra-defensive, counter-attacking, set-piece oriented style of play this time around.
Changes are needed, right from the very top. Manager Otto Rehhagel may be a national hero in Greece, and rightfully so, but the Greek side is in need of a rejuvenation before it kicks off its 2010 qualification campaign.
2) Double Dutch!
Amazingly, the Netherlands took their sparkling form against Italy into its second game against France, and has now put a combined total of seven goals past the two reigning World Cup finalists.
There is a lot to like about this Dutch team. Marco van Basten appears to have finally got the balance right in his team, after tinkering since taking over four years ago. The midfield combination of two screeners (Engelaar and de Jong), as well as two creative midfielders in Sneijder and van der Vaart, as well as the workhorse Dirk Kuyt on the right-flank, the Dutch are scoring goals at will. And so far, the defence has held firm, despite some nervy moments against the French.
The defence is still the biggest issue, and I'm sure nations will attempt to exploit this later in the tournament. But when players of the ilk of Arjen Robben, Robin van Persie, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and John Heitinga are left warming the bench, there will be many furrowed brows on the faces of opposing managers.
3) Unsung Heroes
There have been many unsung heroes during this tournament, especially from the pre-tournament unfancied teams. By unsung heroes, I refer to players who quietly go about playing their role for their side, often without the plaudits that are gained by strikers and midfielders.
Orlando Engelaar and Nigel de Jong fit this category for the Netherlands, Marcos Senna for Spain, Tomas Galasek for the Czech Republic, Paul Codrea for the surprise-packets Romania, and even Konstantin Zyrianov for Russia.
These are just a number of players who play pivotal roles for their respective sides, and yet they hardly draw any acclaim in the wash-up. Zyrianov is an exception, given his priceless, match-winning goal that has kept Russia's qualification hopes alive. But many holding midfielders have been instrumental in their teams' successes thus far, and all power to them, as their sides would have an awful balance without their presence and industriousness.
4) Will the real Spain please stand up (permanently)?
It only took two games for Spanish problems to resurface. After destroying Russia in its opening game, Spain laboured to its lucky 2-1 victory over an admittedly better-organised Swedish outfit. The starting XI was identical, and two of Luis Aragones' substitutes made second appearances against the Swedes (Fabregas and Santi Cazorla).
Their midfield was stifled against Sweden, with Barcelona duo Xavi and Andres Iniesta struggling to impose themselves on the game, before they were both withdrawn simultaneously before the hour mark. Both had significant impact against the Russians, and their partnership will be critical in determining how far Spain advance through the tournament.
Fernando Torres and David Villa seem to be striking up a more potent partnership with each game, as against Sweden it was Torres who looked the more threatening. Both got their names on the scoresheet, which will no doubt please Spanish supporters, but problems still remain.
Aragones will be hoping that the injury to defensive stalwart Carles Puyol is not serious. Puyol endured an interrupted past season at the Camp Nou, but his presence at the heart of the Spanish backline is necessary, as his replacement against Sweden, Valencia's Raul Albiol, never really looked comfortable. If anything, it was a blight on Sweden that he wasn't tested more significantly than he was.
Nevertheless, Spain will avoid the Netherlands in the quarter-finals, but a potential meeting with France, Italy or Romania awaits. And as the Spaniards well know, anything can happen in a knockout tournament.
5) Biggest Surprises
1. Croatia
Well, I was certainly made to eat humble pie after Croatia surprisingly knocked off tournament favourites Germany!
But really, the Croatia that played Germany was a different outfit to the one that played Austria, surely?!
Croatian manager Slaven Bilic is a canny character. In my previous blog I flagged that the Croatians were in need of some more attacking flair, after never testing the Austrian goal after going 1-0 up in their opening game. So what does he do in team selection? Why, drop a striker of course?!
In came young left-winger Ivan Rakitic at the expense of Mladen Petric, and all of a sudden, Croatia looked more threatening. Niko Kranjcar looked more dangerous in a slightly more central role, Luka Modric continued his sublime form, and Ivica Olic once again ran himself into the ground, but this time with the reward of securing Croatia's priceless second goal.
More performances like that, and Croatia would certainly pose a threat to any side in the tournament. But, in its first two games, we have seen the best and worst of Croatia, and there is no doubt that a performance like the one against Austria in the knockout stages would result in certain elimination against high quality opposition.
2. Romania
The Romanians appeared in this section of my last blog, but they are worthy of their place again. Romania has taken two points off both World Cup finalists, and against Italy, it could have easily been all three.
Mutu's penalty has been a key talking point, inevitably. Buffon's save was stupendous, and Mutu was understandably distraught for the rest of the game before being substituted. But outside the penalty miss, Romania certainly had its chances against the makeshift Italian backline.
Inspirational captain Christian Chivu was unlucky to have his blasted free-kick cannon back off the post after a deflection, whilst Gabriel Tamas and Razvan Rat both had Buffon sprawling to cover their efforts from distance. Mutu was a constant thorn in the Italians' side, and he could've added to his predatory strike, as well.
Don't discount a possible Romanian win against the Dutch on Tuesday. The Dutch are already through, and moreover, Romania beat the Netherlands en route to Euro 2008 in Bucharest, and achieved a credibtable 0-0 draw in Amsterdam.
6) Biggest Disappointments
1. Poland
The Poles have been their own worst enemies in this tournament. Certainly, nobody really expected them to beat Germany in the opening game, but a 1-1 draw with Austria? For a team that topped Portugal in qualifying, achieving an impressive 2-1 victory over the Portuguese in Warsaw, it has been a disappointing campaign for the Poles.
Sure, it was a last-minute penalty conceded against a team which had a vocal home support behind it. But Austria had chances to even win the game earlier on, as Polish goalkeeper Artur Boruc kept Poland's slim ascendancy in tact.
Poland now faces almost certain elimination, having to defeat already-qualified Croatia while hoping that Austria pulls off a monumental upset by defeating Germany. It has been a bel0w-par campaign for the Poles, which will now focus on qualifying for the World Cup in 2010, with or without journeyman Dutch manager Leo Beenhakker.
2. Italy
There was definitely more to like about Italy's second performance than the first. For starters, the inclusion of veteran Alessandro Del Piero brought target man Luca Toni into the game more regularly, and on another day he may have bagged one or two goals.
Daniele De Rossi also proved to be a better option than Massimo Ambrosini in an attacking sense, but the Italians still have problems, and remarkably some of them are in defence.
Long renowned for its stingy defence, the inexperienced pairing of Cristian Panucci and Giorgio Chiellini looked vulnerable at times, whilst seasoned right-back Gianluca Zambrotta is having an indifferent time of things, and it was his uncharacteristic error that allowed Mutu to steal in and put Romania in front.
At least under-fire manager Roberto Donadoni changed things up from the Dutch game, but after failing again to secure all three points, they now face a World Cup final rematch with the French, and even a win might see them eliminated if the Dutch fall to Romania. It promises to be an intriguing morning on Wednesday.
7) Predictions
Unfortunately, I am not Nostradamus, as my measly three out of eight correct result predictions (let alone margins) will testify! Nonetheless, here is how I think the final group games will pan out.
Switzerland 1-1 Portugal
It has been a terribly dissatisfying performance by both the host nations, especially from the more-fancied Swiss. Losing Alexander Frei in the tournament's first game was a massive body-blow, from which the Swiss never really recovered. Notwithstanding this disappointment, I expect them to go out with a flourish, and at least take a point off Portugal in what is the first of the tournament's dead-rubbers.
Turkey 1-2 Czech Republic
I am really hoping that this game doesn't end in a draw. Neither team should have the indignity of bowing out of such a high-standard tournament at the group stage due to a penalty shootout. So without any logic, I'm backing the Czechs, purely because on the balance of the first two games, they have performed marginally better than the Turks. Turkey were much improved against Switzerland, though, so I wouldn't be surprised if they edge it.
Austria 0-3 Germany
Expect the Germans to bounce back strongly after being comprehensively beaten by Croatia. The strike partnership of Mario Gomez and Miroslav Klose hasn't really clicked yet in this tournament, and time is surely running out for them to gel before one is sacrificed. Bastian Schweinsteiger's needless sending off against Croatia will probably jeopardise his desire for further game-time should Germany make the knockout phase, as well. For Austria, a competitive performance will be considered a success. So far, the one point from six could be considered somewhat of an achievement given all the negative predictions pre-tournament.
Poland 2-1 Croatia
I'm tipping an upset here. It's not that I don't rate Croatia, but Poland will surely be up for this one knowing that miracles can happen elsewhere. Slaven Bilic has already said that he plans to omit anybody on a yellow card, meaning Robert Kovac, Darijo Srna, Josip Simunic and Luka Modric will be rested, and this may be the opportunity for Poland to at least keep their end of the bargain, and hope that Austria can somehow pull off the impossible against Germany.
Netherlands 2-0 Romania
It's hard to tip against the Netherlands at the moment. Van Basten will surely look to get more time in the legs of Robben and van Persie, and even if he chooses to rest players, the Dutch have incredible depth and can surely cover for a few stars in what for them is essentially a dead-rubber. For Romania, I expect their run to come to a close here. They have certainly not been out of place in the "Group of Death", and I'm sure the French aren't looking forward to playing them again (twice) in World Cup Qualifying for 2010.
France 1-2 Italy
The most intriguing match-up without a doubt. The French will still have revenge on their minds from the World Cup final, but I'm still backing the Italians to once again defeat them. Italy goes into the game in slightly better form despite being level on points, and there was enough improvement to suggest that they'll be up for this challenge. France will look to Henry and Ribery to provide the magic, but Ribery looks tired after a long season, and Henry isn't the same player of a few years ago. It's time for some rebuilding at Clairefontaine.
Spain 2-0 Greece
Another dead-rubber. Footballing purists won't be too upset at Greece's elimination, as they once again exhibited an ultra-defensive game style. The Spanish will surely use this game as a confidence booster for the knockout round. Confidence is important for Spain, with many players in the line-up relying on a positive attitude to get the job done. They should have little trouble against the Greeks.
Russia 1-0 Sweden
I think the Swedes' last-gasp loss to Spain will really sting the side. Sweden was good value for its point against Spain, but to have it stolen away at the very end will have knocked the stuffing out of them. Russia, meanwhile, will have grown in confidence after a narrow win over Greece. After its poor display against Spain, Guus Hiddink will undoubtedly be happier with his side's effort against Greece, and I think they'll carry this confidence into its last game, and give Hiddink yet another chance at European glory.
1) Goodbye, Greece!
The seemingly inevitable has happened. Greece will not be defending their 2004 crown, having been unceremoniously dumped out of Euro 2008 after just two games, in which they haven't scored a goal, let alone gained any points.
As said earlier, the Greeks' biggest mistake was not to introduce enough new blood into the side. There is a distinct sameness between the 2004 and 2008 line-ups, and really, the best European nations were not going to fall for the Greeks' ultra-defensive, counter-attacking, set-piece oriented style of play this time around.
Changes are needed, right from the very top. Manager Otto Rehhagel may be a national hero in Greece, and rightfully so, but the Greek side is in need of a rejuvenation before it kicks off its 2010 qualification campaign.
2) Double Dutch!
Amazingly, the Netherlands took their sparkling form against Italy into its second game against France, and has now put a combined total of seven goals past the two reigning World Cup finalists.
There is a lot to like about this Dutch team. Marco van Basten appears to have finally got the balance right in his team, after tinkering since taking over four years ago. The midfield combination of two screeners (Engelaar and de Jong), as well as two creative midfielders in Sneijder and van der Vaart, as well as the workhorse Dirk Kuyt on the right-flank, the Dutch are scoring goals at will. And so far, the defence has held firm, despite some nervy moments against the French.
The defence is still the biggest issue, and I'm sure nations will attempt to exploit this later in the tournament. But when players of the ilk of Arjen Robben, Robin van Persie, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and John Heitinga are left warming the bench, there will be many furrowed brows on the faces of opposing managers.
3) Unsung Heroes
There have been many unsung heroes during this tournament, especially from the pre-tournament unfancied teams. By unsung heroes, I refer to players who quietly go about playing their role for their side, often without the plaudits that are gained by strikers and midfielders.
Orlando Engelaar and Nigel de Jong fit this category for the Netherlands, Marcos Senna for Spain, Tomas Galasek for the Czech Republic, Paul Codrea for the surprise-packets Romania, and even Konstantin Zyrianov for Russia.
These are just a number of players who play pivotal roles for their respective sides, and yet they hardly draw any acclaim in the wash-up. Zyrianov is an exception, given his priceless, match-winning goal that has kept Russia's qualification hopes alive. But many holding midfielders have been instrumental in their teams' successes thus far, and all power to them, as their sides would have an awful balance without their presence and industriousness.
4) Will the real Spain please stand up (permanently)?
It only took two games for Spanish problems to resurface. After destroying Russia in its opening game, Spain laboured to its lucky 2-1 victory over an admittedly better-organised Swedish outfit. The starting XI was identical, and two of Luis Aragones' substitutes made second appearances against the Swedes (Fabregas and Santi Cazorla).
Their midfield was stifled against Sweden, with Barcelona duo Xavi and Andres Iniesta struggling to impose themselves on the game, before they were both withdrawn simultaneously before the hour mark. Both had significant impact against the Russians, and their partnership will be critical in determining how far Spain advance through the tournament.
Fernando Torres and David Villa seem to be striking up a more potent partnership with each game, as against Sweden it was Torres who looked the more threatening. Both got their names on the scoresheet, which will no doubt please Spanish supporters, but problems still remain.
Aragones will be hoping that the injury to defensive stalwart Carles Puyol is not serious. Puyol endured an interrupted past season at the Camp Nou, but his presence at the heart of the Spanish backline is necessary, as his replacement against Sweden, Valencia's Raul Albiol, never really looked comfortable. If anything, it was a blight on Sweden that he wasn't tested more significantly than he was.
Nevertheless, Spain will avoid the Netherlands in the quarter-finals, but a potential meeting with France, Italy or Romania awaits. And as the Spaniards well know, anything can happen in a knockout tournament.
5) Biggest Surprises
1. Croatia
Well, I was certainly made to eat humble pie after Croatia surprisingly knocked off tournament favourites Germany!
But really, the Croatia that played Germany was a different outfit to the one that played Austria, surely?!
Croatian manager Slaven Bilic is a canny character. In my previous blog I flagged that the Croatians were in need of some more attacking flair, after never testing the Austrian goal after going 1-0 up in their opening game. So what does he do in team selection? Why, drop a striker of course?!
In came young left-winger Ivan Rakitic at the expense of Mladen Petric, and all of a sudden, Croatia looked more threatening. Niko Kranjcar looked more dangerous in a slightly more central role, Luka Modric continued his sublime form, and Ivica Olic once again ran himself into the ground, but this time with the reward of securing Croatia's priceless second goal.
More performances like that, and Croatia would certainly pose a threat to any side in the tournament. But, in its first two games, we have seen the best and worst of Croatia, and there is no doubt that a performance like the one against Austria in the knockout stages would result in certain elimination against high quality opposition.
2. Romania
The Romanians appeared in this section of my last blog, but they are worthy of their place again. Romania has taken two points off both World Cup finalists, and against Italy, it could have easily been all three.
Mutu's penalty has been a key talking point, inevitably. Buffon's save was stupendous, and Mutu was understandably distraught for the rest of the game before being substituted. But outside the penalty miss, Romania certainly had its chances against the makeshift Italian backline.
Inspirational captain Christian Chivu was unlucky to have his blasted free-kick cannon back off the post after a deflection, whilst Gabriel Tamas and Razvan Rat both had Buffon sprawling to cover their efforts from distance. Mutu was a constant thorn in the Italians' side, and he could've added to his predatory strike, as well.
Don't discount a possible Romanian win against the Dutch on Tuesday. The Dutch are already through, and moreover, Romania beat the Netherlands en route to Euro 2008 in Bucharest, and achieved a credibtable 0-0 draw in Amsterdam.
6) Biggest Disappointments
1. Poland
The Poles have been their own worst enemies in this tournament. Certainly, nobody really expected them to beat Germany in the opening game, but a 1-1 draw with Austria? For a team that topped Portugal in qualifying, achieving an impressive 2-1 victory over the Portuguese in Warsaw, it has been a disappointing campaign for the Poles.
Sure, it was a last-minute penalty conceded against a team which had a vocal home support behind it. But Austria had chances to even win the game earlier on, as Polish goalkeeper Artur Boruc kept Poland's slim ascendancy in tact.
Poland now faces almost certain elimination, having to defeat already-qualified Croatia while hoping that Austria pulls off a monumental upset by defeating Germany. It has been a bel0w-par campaign for the Poles, which will now focus on qualifying for the World Cup in 2010, with or without journeyman Dutch manager Leo Beenhakker.
2. Italy
There was definitely more to like about Italy's second performance than the first. For starters, the inclusion of veteran Alessandro Del Piero brought target man Luca Toni into the game more regularly, and on another day he may have bagged one or two goals.
Daniele De Rossi also proved to be a better option than Massimo Ambrosini in an attacking sense, but the Italians still have problems, and remarkably some of them are in defence.
Long renowned for its stingy defence, the inexperienced pairing of Cristian Panucci and Giorgio Chiellini looked vulnerable at times, whilst seasoned right-back Gianluca Zambrotta is having an indifferent time of things, and it was his uncharacteristic error that allowed Mutu to steal in and put Romania in front.
At least under-fire manager Roberto Donadoni changed things up from the Dutch game, but after failing again to secure all three points, they now face a World Cup final rematch with the French, and even a win might see them eliminated if the Dutch fall to Romania. It promises to be an intriguing morning on Wednesday.
7) Predictions
Unfortunately, I am not Nostradamus, as my measly three out of eight correct result predictions (let alone margins) will testify! Nonetheless, here is how I think the final group games will pan out.
Switzerland 1-1 Portugal
It has been a terribly dissatisfying performance by both the host nations, especially from the more-fancied Swiss. Losing Alexander Frei in the tournament's first game was a massive body-blow, from which the Swiss never really recovered. Notwithstanding this disappointment, I expect them to go out with a flourish, and at least take a point off Portugal in what is the first of the tournament's dead-rubbers.
Turkey 1-2 Czech Republic
I am really hoping that this game doesn't end in a draw. Neither team should have the indignity of bowing out of such a high-standard tournament at the group stage due to a penalty shootout. So without any logic, I'm backing the Czechs, purely because on the balance of the first two games, they have performed marginally better than the Turks. Turkey were much improved against Switzerland, though, so I wouldn't be surprised if they edge it.
Austria 0-3 Germany
Expect the Germans to bounce back strongly after being comprehensively beaten by Croatia. The strike partnership of Mario Gomez and Miroslav Klose hasn't really clicked yet in this tournament, and time is surely running out for them to gel before one is sacrificed. Bastian Schweinsteiger's needless sending off against Croatia will probably jeopardise his desire for further game-time should Germany make the knockout phase, as well. For Austria, a competitive performance will be considered a success. So far, the one point from six could be considered somewhat of an achievement given all the negative predictions pre-tournament.
Poland 2-1 Croatia
I'm tipping an upset here. It's not that I don't rate Croatia, but Poland will surely be up for this one knowing that miracles can happen elsewhere. Slaven Bilic has already said that he plans to omit anybody on a yellow card, meaning Robert Kovac, Darijo Srna, Josip Simunic and Luka Modric will be rested, and this may be the opportunity for Poland to at least keep their end of the bargain, and hope that Austria can somehow pull off the impossible against Germany.
Netherlands 2-0 Romania
It's hard to tip against the Netherlands at the moment. Van Basten will surely look to get more time in the legs of Robben and van Persie, and even if he chooses to rest players, the Dutch have incredible depth and can surely cover for a few stars in what for them is essentially a dead-rubber. For Romania, I expect their run to come to a close here. They have certainly not been out of place in the "Group of Death", and I'm sure the French aren't looking forward to playing them again (twice) in World Cup Qualifying for 2010.
France 1-2 Italy
The most intriguing match-up without a doubt. The French will still have revenge on their minds from the World Cup final, but I'm still backing the Italians to once again defeat them. Italy goes into the game in slightly better form despite being level on points, and there was enough improvement to suggest that they'll be up for this challenge. France will look to Henry and Ribery to provide the magic, but Ribery looks tired after a long season, and Henry isn't the same player of a few years ago. It's time for some rebuilding at Clairefontaine.
Spain 2-0 Greece
Another dead-rubber. Footballing purists won't be too upset at Greece's elimination, as they once again exhibited an ultra-defensive game style. The Spanish will surely use this game as a confidence booster for the knockout round. Confidence is important for Spain, with many players in the line-up relying on a positive attitude to get the job done. They should have little trouble against the Greeks.
Russia 1-0 Sweden
I think the Swedes' last-gasp loss to Spain will really sting the side. Sweden was good value for its point against Spain, but to have it stolen away at the very end will have knocked the stuffing out of them. Russia, meanwhile, will have grown in confidence after a narrow win over Greece. After its poor display against Spain, Guus Hiddink will undoubtedly be happier with his side's effort against Greece, and I think they'll carry this confidence into its last game, and give Hiddink yet another chance at European glory.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Villa breaks Swedish hearts
A stoppage-time goal from David Villa has lifted an unconvincing Spain to a 2-1 victory over Sweden this afternoon in Innsbruck.
Despite performing well below expectations after impressing against Russia, the Spaniards sealed passage to the final eight thanks to Villa, while the unfortunate Swedes now face a must-win game against Russia.
Fernando Torres fired Spain ahead on the quarter-hour, only for his goal to be cancelled out 20 minutes later by Zlatan Ibrahimovic. But with the game seemingly petering out, Villa took full advantage of a slight lapse in concentration in the Swedish defence to steal all three points.
Spain's manager Luis Aragones will have cause for concern, however, as for much of the game, the Spaniards failed to find their best form, as evidenced in their opening game against Russia.
Aragones sent out an unchanged line-up, whilst Swedish boss Lars Lagerback replaced Niclas Alexandersson with Fredrik Stoor at right-back, and Johan Elmander came in for Christian Wilhelmsson.
The game began as expected, with the well-organised Swedes prepared to sit back and allow Spain possession. But after a quiet opening 15 minutes, the deadlock was broken by the predatory instincts of Fernando Torres.
A short-corner routine found Silva on the edge of the penalty area. His neat chip was met by Torres, whose outstretched boot diverted the ball beyond the helpless Isaksson.
Sweden's response was immediate, as Henrik Larsson released Elmander after clever footwork, but his shot could only hit the side-netting.
Spain were forced into an early substitution, with Raul Albiol replacing the injured Carles Puyol in the centre of defence, and he never really looked comfortable as Sweden pressed on for an equaliser.
It finally came on 34 minutes, as Stoor picked out Ibrahimovic in the area from a centering ball from deep. After digging the ball out from under his feet and fending off the attentions of Sergio Ramos, his low shot squirmed in under Iker Casillas' left hand.
The goal was a just reward for Sweden's enterprising play, as Spain's sloppiness came back to haunt them.
Spain reclaimed the initiative after being stung into action by the goal, and they should have had a penalty in first half injury-time.
After a cross came into the penalty area, Elmander appeared to clumsily barge into the back of David Silva, but the Dutch referee Peter Vink waved play on. At the half time whistle, the Spanish players surrounded Vink, to voice their complaints, but the sides went in level at the interval.
The second half was punctuated by few chances, as the Swedes retreated into their shell. Much of the play took place in the middle third of the pitch, as Spain struggled to find any significant rhythm.
Sweden also withdrew Ibrahimovic at half-time due to a knee complaint, further signalling intentions to play on the break.
Spain's best chance of restoring its lead came just after the hour, as the ball somehow stayed out of the Swedish net after a goalmouth scramble.
First, Silva had his effort saved down low by Isaksson, then Villa's follow-up was blocked, and somehow Daniel Andersson was able to scurry across to clear Torres' effort off the line and out for a corner.
The Swedes were desperate in defence, with centre-backs Olof Mellberg and Petter Hansson performing well and largely keeping Villa and Torres in check.
After another lull in play, Sweden conjured up a chance in a rare venture forward with ten minutes on the clock. Hansson found space in behind Ramos and latched on to a deep free kick from Anders Svensson, but his square ball across the six-yard box only just eluded Henrik Larsson when only a touch was needed.
With time running out, Torres hit a shot in anger that was comfortably claimed by Isaksson, but Sweden's hearts were broken in the second minute of stoppage-time by Villa.
Villa chased down a speculative long ball down the left by Joan Capdevila, and after cutting inside Hansson a little too easily, he calmly slotted the ball inside Isaksson's far post.
All the Spanish players, including the goalkeeper Casillas, converged on Villa, as they knew that they'd gotten out of jail and undeservedly snatched all three points.
Spain will now progress as Group D winners, avoiding the Netherlands in the quarter-finals, whilst Sweden have it all to play for against Russia on in Innsbruck on June 18.
Ratings
Sweden
1 - Isaksson - 7 - Kept well overall, little he could do about goals.
2 - Nilsson - 6 - Not bad.
3 - Mellberg - 8 - Marshalled his defence well.
4 - Hansson - 7 - Crucial slip at the end, otherwise solid.
5 - Stoor - 6 - Got forward well early on, defensively shaky.
8 - Svensson - 6 - Peripheral.
9 - Ljungberg - 6 - In and out.
10 - Ibrahimovic - 7 - A constant threat before going off early.
11 - Elmander - 5 - Wasteful.
17 - H. Larsson - 7 - Always buzzing around.
19 - Andersson - 7 - Screened his back four well.
(SUB) 16 - Kallstrom - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 18 - S. Larsson - 6 - Not enough time.
(SUB) 22 - Rosenberg - 6 - Couldn't get into the game.
Spain
1 - Casillas - 6 - Little to do, but might've done better with goal.
4 - Marchena - 6 - Assured for the most part.
5 - Puyol - 6 - Off early.
6 - Iniesta - 6 - Peripheral.
7 - Villa - 8 - A constant threat around the box.
8 - Xavi - 6 - No significant impact.
9 - Torres - 7 - Always dangerous.
11 - Capdevila - 6 - Not really in the game.
15 - Sergio Ramos - 6 - Looked extremely shaky in defence.
19 - Senna - 7 - Battled well in midfield.
21 - D. Silva - 7 - Worked hard.
(SUB) 2 - Albiol - 5 - Never looked comfortable.
(SUB) 10 - Fabregas - 6 - Struggled to get into the game.
(SUB) 12 - Cazorla - 6 - Not much impact.
Despite performing well below expectations after impressing against Russia, the Spaniards sealed passage to the final eight thanks to Villa, while the unfortunate Swedes now face a must-win game against Russia.
Fernando Torres fired Spain ahead on the quarter-hour, only for his goal to be cancelled out 20 minutes later by Zlatan Ibrahimovic. But with the game seemingly petering out, Villa took full advantage of a slight lapse in concentration in the Swedish defence to steal all three points.
Spain's manager Luis Aragones will have cause for concern, however, as for much of the game, the Spaniards failed to find their best form, as evidenced in their opening game against Russia.
Aragones sent out an unchanged line-up, whilst Swedish boss Lars Lagerback replaced Niclas Alexandersson with Fredrik Stoor at right-back, and Johan Elmander came in for Christian Wilhelmsson.
The game began as expected, with the well-organised Swedes prepared to sit back and allow Spain possession. But after a quiet opening 15 minutes, the deadlock was broken by the predatory instincts of Fernando Torres.
A short-corner routine found Silva on the edge of the penalty area. His neat chip was met by Torres, whose outstretched boot diverted the ball beyond the helpless Isaksson.
Sweden's response was immediate, as Henrik Larsson released Elmander after clever footwork, but his shot could only hit the side-netting.
Spain were forced into an early substitution, with Raul Albiol replacing the injured Carles Puyol in the centre of defence, and he never really looked comfortable as Sweden pressed on for an equaliser.
It finally came on 34 minutes, as Stoor picked out Ibrahimovic in the area from a centering ball from deep. After digging the ball out from under his feet and fending off the attentions of Sergio Ramos, his low shot squirmed in under Iker Casillas' left hand.
The goal was a just reward for Sweden's enterprising play, as Spain's sloppiness came back to haunt them.
Spain reclaimed the initiative after being stung into action by the goal, and they should have had a penalty in first half injury-time.
After a cross came into the penalty area, Elmander appeared to clumsily barge into the back of David Silva, but the Dutch referee Peter Vink waved play on. At the half time whistle, the Spanish players surrounded Vink, to voice their complaints, but the sides went in level at the interval.
The second half was punctuated by few chances, as the Swedes retreated into their shell. Much of the play took place in the middle third of the pitch, as Spain struggled to find any significant rhythm.
Sweden also withdrew Ibrahimovic at half-time due to a knee complaint, further signalling intentions to play on the break.
Spain's best chance of restoring its lead came just after the hour, as the ball somehow stayed out of the Swedish net after a goalmouth scramble.
First, Silva had his effort saved down low by Isaksson, then Villa's follow-up was blocked, and somehow Daniel Andersson was able to scurry across to clear Torres' effort off the line and out for a corner.
The Swedes were desperate in defence, with centre-backs Olof Mellberg and Petter Hansson performing well and largely keeping Villa and Torres in check.
After another lull in play, Sweden conjured up a chance in a rare venture forward with ten minutes on the clock. Hansson found space in behind Ramos and latched on to a deep free kick from Anders Svensson, but his square ball across the six-yard box only just eluded Henrik Larsson when only a touch was needed.
With time running out, Torres hit a shot in anger that was comfortably claimed by Isaksson, but Sweden's hearts were broken in the second minute of stoppage-time by Villa.
Villa chased down a speculative long ball down the left by Joan Capdevila, and after cutting inside Hansson a little too easily, he calmly slotted the ball inside Isaksson's far post.
All the Spanish players, including the goalkeeper Casillas, converged on Villa, as they knew that they'd gotten out of jail and undeservedly snatched all three points.
Spain will now progress as Group D winners, avoiding the Netherlands in the quarter-finals, whilst Sweden have it all to play for against Russia on in Innsbruck on June 18.
Ratings
Sweden
1 - Isaksson - 7 - Kept well overall, little he could do about goals.
2 - Nilsson - 6 - Not bad.
3 - Mellberg - 8 - Marshalled his defence well.
4 - Hansson - 7 - Crucial slip at the end, otherwise solid.
5 - Stoor - 6 - Got forward well early on, defensively shaky.
8 - Svensson - 6 - Peripheral.
9 - Ljungberg - 6 - In and out.
10 - Ibrahimovic - 7 - A constant threat before going off early.
11 - Elmander - 5 - Wasteful.
17 - H. Larsson - 7 - Always buzzing around.
19 - Andersson - 7 - Screened his back four well.
(SUB) 16 - Kallstrom - 6 - No time.
(SUB) 18 - S. Larsson - 6 - Not enough time.
(SUB) 22 - Rosenberg - 6 - Couldn't get into the game.
Spain
1 - Casillas - 6 - Little to do, but might've done better with goal.
4 - Marchena - 6 - Assured for the most part.
5 - Puyol - 6 - Off early.
6 - Iniesta - 6 - Peripheral.
7 - Villa - 8 - A constant threat around the box.
8 - Xavi - 6 - No significant impact.
9 - Torres - 7 - Always dangerous.
11 - Capdevila - 6 - Not really in the game.
15 - Sergio Ramos - 6 - Looked extremely shaky in defence.
19 - Senna - 7 - Battled well in midfield.
21 - D. Silva - 7 - Worked hard.
(SUB) 2 - Albiol - 5 - Never looked comfortable.
(SUB) 10 - Fabregas - 6 - Struggled to get into the game.
(SUB) 12 - Cazorla - 6 - Not much impact.
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