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.
Friday, June 20, 2008
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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