Germany 0-1 Spain
When he first began at the BBC John Motson surely could not have imagined he would begin his last international commentary by introducing Enrique Iglesias on stage. Anyway, cringe-fest of a closing ceremony over; on with the football and as the game gets under way Germany look in control. Miroslav Klose is given an early opportunity courtesy of a lazy Sergio Ramos back-pass, but alas his touch is too heavy. Spain's only effort on target in the opening ten minutes comes from a hefty clearance by Iker Casillas.
Fifteen minutes in and the match's balance of power shifts to the red as Iniesta is fed by Xavi and his pull back is deflected goalwards by Christoph Metzelder only to be turned away by a brilliant reaction stop from Jens Lehman. Spain now begin to control the game and Fernando Torres hits the post with a header, two minutes after heading a similar effort wide. Cesc Fabregas and Joan Capdevilla also come close before the Spanish take the lead after half an hour; Torres is played in by Xavi and with "just a little dink" (Mark Lawrenson) lifts the ball over Lehman and into the far corner of the net.
On the German side Michael Ballack has seemingly lost tolerance of his team-mates and is trying to take on the Spanish on his own. His frustrations aren't helped by being repeatedly ordered off for further treatment on a facial wound, and he inevitably finds his way into a booking after a scuffle with Puyol just before the break. At half-time it's clear Spain have impressed all... except Marcel Desailly, who thinks the Spanish should bring on another forward. "He's much bigger than me, and I wouldn't want to fight him, but I have to disagree" says Martin O'Neil.
The second half begins with an uncomfortable looking injury for Miroslav Klose who receives a kick in the Osterreich. At the other end of the field Jens Lehman is understandably angry at some haphazard German defending; "That's a contradiction in terms isn't it, an angry Lehman?" asks Mark Lawrenson as Motson chooses wisely to ignore him. Germany brink on Kevin Kuranyi for Thomas Hitzelsperger and enjoy their best spell of the game as Michael Ballack volleys just wide and Casillas comes out smartly to prevent Kuranyi meeting a cross.
Torres is over again after very little contact from Metzelder and Bastian Shweinsteiger pauses mid-dribble to offer a brief medical assessment before continuing with the game. Despite that brief flurry from Germany Spain are soon back in control and almost take advantage of desperate German defending to double their lead, firstly Sergio Ramos is unmarked from a Xavi free-kick, but his header is well turned over by Lehman. Then from the resulting corner Iniesta is left alone to run freely toward goal and hit a shot that is blocked on the line by Torsten Frings.
Iker Casillas is given little to do, but is the focus of the strangest close-up of the tournament as the camera hovers over his groin for an uncomfortably long time. Germany throw on Mario Gomez, although the straight swap only confuses Lawrenson and the Spanish merely continue their assault. Marcos Senna is next to come close breaking forward before feeding Santi Cazorla who crosses for Danny Guiza, but his nod down is agonisingly out of reach for Senna. In the closing minutes Germany almost orchestrate a fleeting chance, but Capdevilla is fouled by Gomez and Spain see out the remaining time. "The senors have become the seniors" closes Motson as a footballing cliché bites the dust; Spain are 'perennial underachievers' no more
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day18]
Russia 0-3 Spain
During the national anthems Andrei Arshavin stares into the camera as if it is his first encounter with technology. Sadly, for a player who has been so key in his team's progress it is as focussed as he'll look all evening. Spain make the early headway and Igor Akinfeev is forced into two decent saves, firstly using his feet to prevent Fernando Torres, the second getting down to his right after David Villa cuts in from the left. For all his talent Torres continues to go down theatrically at opportune moments, thankfully this referee, like most so far, is having none of it.
Russia forge few chances in the first half, but those that do come their way fall to Roman Pavlyuchenko. The forward strikes a free-kick over the bar and curls another effort wide before his best chance as he looks to have found space beyond the Spanish defence, however he is crowded out as he shoots and can only direct the ball wide. Goalless at half-time, but Spain have been forced to take off top scorer David Villa.
Five minutes into the second half the Spanish take the lead from a break down the left. Iniesta holds the ball up before delivering a chipped ball across the six yard box that is poked home by the on rushing Xavi. "Where did he come from?" asks Clive Tyldsley and presumably much of the Russian defence too. On the hour mark Spain are in control and Torres comes close to doubling their lead on two occasions. Cesc Fabregas is described as a "cunning little passer" by David Pleat and lives up to his moniker by chipping a pass in for Danny Guiza to finish for the second goal. "Spain are coming back here on Sunday" yells Tyldsley, possibly tempting fate given how the tournament has gone so far.
However, but for a Sychev header from an Arshavin free-kick that is well saved by Iker Casillas the final fifteen minutes belong to Spain just as emphatically as the preceding seventy-five, and they add a third ten minutes from time. Fabregas gets down the left and feeds David Silva who finishes well. "Ole" says Tyldsley as Spain deservedly progress.
During the national anthems Andrei Arshavin stares into the camera as if it is his first encounter with technology. Sadly, for a player who has been so key in his team's progress it is as focussed as he'll look all evening. Spain make the early headway and Igor Akinfeev is forced into two decent saves, firstly using his feet to prevent Fernando Torres, the second getting down to his right after David Villa cuts in from the left. For all his talent Torres continues to go down theatrically at opportune moments, thankfully this referee, like most so far, is having none of it.
Russia forge few chances in the first half, but those that do come their way fall to Roman Pavlyuchenko. The forward strikes a free-kick over the bar and curls another effort wide before his best chance as he looks to have found space beyond the Spanish defence, however he is crowded out as he shoots and can only direct the ball wide. Goalless at half-time, but Spain have been forced to take off top scorer David Villa.
Five minutes into the second half the Spanish take the lead from a break down the left. Iniesta holds the ball up before delivering a chipped ball across the six yard box that is poked home by the on rushing Xavi. "Where did he come from?" asks Clive Tyldsley and presumably much of the Russian defence too. On the hour mark Spain are in control and Torres comes close to doubling their lead on two occasions. Cesc Fabregas is described as a "cunning little passer" by David Pleat and lives up to his moniker by chipping a pass in for Danny Guiza to finish for the second goal. "Spain are coming back here on Sunday" yells Tyldsley, possibly tempting fate given how the tournament has gone so far.
However, but for a Sychev header from an Arshavin free-kick that is well saved by Iker Casillas the final fifteen minutes belong to Spain just as emphatically as the preceding seventy-five, and they add a third ten minutes from time. Fabregas gets down the left and feeds David Silva who finishes well. "Ole" says Tyldsley as Spain deservedly progress.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day17]
Germany 3-2 Turkey
With Turkey laden with injury and suspension the BBC's panel have opted for Germany en masse in this first semi final. Before the football though both team captains take the microphone to read a message about racism to their respective supporters, and we can only be thankful that England haven't reached this stage given the articulation of their captaincy candidates. With little action in the first five minutes John Motson embarks on a one man statisticathon. Mehmet Topal is probably the tallest play for Turkey... Hakan Balta was born in Berlin... Hamit Altintop was born in Gelsenkirchen... Joachim Low managed two clubs in Turkey... and probably has more than one white shirt.
Despite all their pre-match setbacks Turkey take control of the first half and are unlucky not to score when Colin Kazim-Richards whacks a shot against Jens Lehman's crossbar. Within minutes Kazim-Richards strikes the bar again as he meets Sabri Sarioglu's low cross and directs a looping effort over Lehman, however this time it falls to Ugur Borul and he pokes it beneath Lehman for the opening goal. Turkey have only led for three minutes so far in this tournament and that figure is only extended by four here as Lukas Podolski gets down the left and his low cross is turned in by Bastian Schweinsteiger for an arguably undeserved equaliser. Turkey continue to threaten, and a free-kick from Borul is beaten out by Lehman "The wall isn't very good," comments Mark Lawrenson, "You'd expect more efficient organisation from Germany" suggests Motson, embracing a lazy stereotype as if it were a long lost family member.
Lawrenson appears to be using this tournament to cement his own catchphrase and continues to use the phrase 'by the way' at every opportunity. He does so most unnecessarily when Philipp Lahm is flattened on the edge of the Turkish box and the referee decides to give nothing; "How is that not a penalty by the way?" This is the last action the world sees for a while with a huge thunderstorm in Vienna the apparent reason for a loss of feed, however the BBC overt a crisis by quickly switching to the Radio Five Live commentary. The thought of Andy Townsend desperately padding had ITV had the rights to this match is enough to give you nightmares.
Towards the end of one of these blackouts Germany take the lead, and pictures re-appear just in time to see a replay of Miroslav Klose heading home from a cross that Rustu Recbar, the Turkish keeper, mistakenly tried to intercept. With time running out Germany look to have secured an unlikely victory only for Turkey to do what they do best and score a late goal. Sabri leaves Lahm for dead with a neat turn and his low cross is flicked in at the near post by Semih Senturk.
However, after delivering a succession of sucker punches Popeye would be proud of throughout the tournament Turkey receive one of their own in the final minute. Lahm breaks down the left and exchanges passes with Thomas Hitzelsperger before placing a fine finish into the top corner to win it for Germany. Down on the touchline "Fatih Terim is making all the hand gestures in the world" according to Lawrenson, but sadly this entertaining spectacle isn't picked up by the cameras and Turkey are undeservedly out.
With Turkey laden with injury and suspension the BBC's panel have opted for Germany en masse in this first semi final. Before the football though both team captains take the microphone to read a message about racism to their respective supporters, and we can only be thankful that England haven't reached this stage given the articulation of their captaincy candidates. With little action in the first five minutes John Motson embarks on a one man statisticathon. Mehmet Topal is probably the tallest play for Turkey... Hakan Balta was born in Berlin... Hamit Altintop was born in Gelsenkirchen... Joachim Low managed two clubs in Turkey... and probably has more than one white shirt.
Despite all their pre-match setbacks Turkey take control of the first half and are unlucky not to score when Colin Kazim-Richards whacks a shot against Jens Lehman's crossbar. Within minutes Kazim-Richards strikes the bar again as he meets Sabri Sarioglu's low cross and directs a looping effort over Lehman, however this time it falls to Ugur Borul and he pokes it beneath Lehman for the opening goal. Turkey have only led for three minutes so far in this tournament and that figure is only extended by four here as Lukas Podolski gets down the left and his low cross is turned in by Bastian Schweinsteiger for an arguably undeserved equaliser. Turkey continue to threaten, and a free-kick from Borul is beaten out by Lehman "The wall isn't very good," comments Mark Lawrenson, "You'd expect more efficient organisation from Germany" suggests Motson, embracing a lazy stereotype as if it were a long lost family member.
Lawrenson appears to be using this tournament to cement his own catchphrase and continues to use the phrase 'by the way' at every opportunity. He does so most unnecessarily when Philipp Lahm is flattened on the edge of the Turkish box and the referee decides to give nothing; "How is that not a penalty by the way?" This is the last action the world sees for a while with a huge thunderstorm in Vienna the apparent reason for a loss of feed, however the BBC overt a crisis by quickly switching to the Radio Five Live commentary. The thought of Andy Townsend desperately padding had ITV had the rights to this match is enough to give you nightmares.
Towards the end of one of these blackouts Germany take the lead, and pictures re-appear just in time to see a replay of Miroslav Klose heading home from a cross that Rustu Recbar, the Turkish keeper, mistakenly tried to intercept. With time running out Germany look to have secured an unlikely victory only for Turkey to do what they do best and score a late goal. Sabri leaves Lahm for dead with a neat turn and his low cross is flicked in at the near post by Semih Senturk.
However, after delivering a succession of sucker punches Popeye would be proud of throughout the tournament Turkey receive one of their own in the final minute. Lahm breaks down the left and exchanges passes with Thomas Hitzelsperger before placing a fine finish into the top corner to win it for Germany. Down on the touchline "Fatih Terim is making all the hand gestures in the world" according to Lawrenson, but sadly this entertaining spectacle isn't picked up by the cameras and Turkey are undeservedly out.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day16]
Italy 0-0 Spain (2-4 on penalties)
"Don't mention June 22nd to the Spanish" begins John Motson before doing so at length as he reels off a list of Spanish penalty shoot-out defeats that have all come on this date. What promises to be an intriguing contest on paper, is an awful one on grass, the first shot on goal coming after twenty minutes as Simone Perotta's header is comfortably saved by Iker Casillas. Spain look the better side, but are being outmuscled by the Italian defence; "like a fourth former against a prefect" is how Mark Lawrenson describes Fabio Grosso getting the better of Andres Iniesta. The best effort of the half comes as David Silva pulls a shot just wide after an incisive Fernando Torres run. Thankfully there is just one added minute before the break.
In the second half chances remain limited and even the substitutions are made in pedestrian fashion. However both sides come closer to scoring, Mauro Camoranesi brings a great save from Casillas after Luca Toni had caused panic in the Spanish area. For Spain Marcos Senna threatens twice from long range, his first effort is beaten out by Gianluigi Buffon whilst his second strike is uncharacteristically spilt by the keeper only to spin onto the base of the goalpost. In a match of niggling half fouls and theatrics, David Villa can count himself unlucky to be booked for 'simulation' after slipping over in the Italian area.
Sadly the match labours to extra-time, the first five minutes of which produces more chances than the rest of the game put together. Silva flashes an effort just wide for Spain whilst Casillas brilliantly tips over a header from Antonio Di Natale. Mark Lawrenson is still having trouble recognising rhetorical questions, as John Motson ponders "Will penalties provide Italy with a psychological advantage?" Lawrenson chips in with a dismissive "I doubt it".
In the second half of extra time Villa almost gets in on goal but Buffon is out quickly to smother the chance. Di Natale endears himself to the Spanish fans by rolling back on to the pitch whilst injured so a Spanish attack is halted, he is subsequently booed every time he comes close to the ball. In the final minute Santi Cazorla drives a shot wide and so the match heads to its inevitable penalty shoot-out climax.
Curiously the BBC choose this moment to show a montage of Spanish penalty shoot-out losses, but it seems they are not tempting fate as Villa and Cazorla score Spain's opening kicks. Grosso does likewise for Italy before Daniele De Rossi's effort is brilliantly saved by Casillas. With Senna and Camoranesi also finding the net Dani Guiza briefly makes it interesting as Buffon saves his kick, however the next Italian effort from the unpopular Di Natale is also saved by Casillas to put Spain back in control. It falls to Cesc Fabregas to strike the winning spot-kick and send Spain through.
"Don't mention June 22nd to the Spanish" begins John Motson before doing so at length as he reels off a list of Spanish penalty shoot-out defeats that have all come on this date. What promises to be an intriguing contest on paper, is an awful one on grass, the first shot on goal coming after twenty minutes as Simone Perotta's header is comfortably saved by Iker Casillas. Spain look the better side, but are being outmuscled by the Italian defence; "like a fourth former against a prefect" is how Mark Lawrenson describes Fabio Grosso getting the better of Andres Iniesta. The best effort of the half comes as David Silva pulls a shot just wide after an incisive Fernando Torres run. Thankfully there is just one added minute before the break.
In the second half chances remain limited and even the substitutions are made in pedestrian fashion. However both sides come closer to scoring, Mauro Camoranesi brings a great save from Casillas after Luca Toni had caused panic in the Spanish area. For Spain Marcos Senna threatens twice from long range, his first effort is beaten out by Gianluigi Buffon whilst his second strike is uncharacteristically spilt by the keeper only to spin onto the base of the goalpost. In a match of niggling half fouls and theatrics, David Villa can count himself unlucky to be booked for 'simulation' after slipping over in the Italian area.
Sadly the match labours to extra-time, the first five minutes of which produces more chances than the rest of the game put together. Silva flashes an effort just wide for Spain whilst Casillas brilliantly tips over a header from Antonio Di Natale. Mark Lawrenson is still having trouble recognising rhetorical questions, as John Motson ponders "Will penalties provide Italy with a psychological advantage?" Lawrenson chips in with a dismissive "I doubt it".
In the second half of extra time Villa almost gets in on goal but Buffon is out quickly to smother the chance. Di Natale endears himself to the Spanish fans by rolling back on to the pitch whilst injured so a Spanish attack is halted, he is subsequently booed every time he comes close to the ball. In the final minute Santi Cazorla drives a shot wide and so the match heads to its inevitable penalty shoot-out climax.
Curiously the BBC choose this moment to show a montage of Spanish penalty shoot-out losses, but it seems they are not tempting fate as Villa and Cazorla score Spain's opening kicks. Grosso does likewise for Italy before Daniele De Rossi's effort is brilliantly saved by Casillas. With Senna and Camoranesi also finding the net Dani Guiza briefly makes it interesting as Buffon saves his kick, however the next Italian effort from the unpopular Di Natale is also saved by Casillas to put Spain back in control. It falls to Cesc Fabregas to strike the winning spot-kick and send Spain through.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day15]
Russia 3-1 Netherlands (aet)
"If you took an aerial photo of this city today it would look like a piece of toast... covered in marmalade" is Peter Drury's way of saying there are a lot of Dutch fans in Basel for this quarter final. Despite overwhelming Dutch support it's Russia who have the best of the opening fifteen minutes with Yuri Zhirkov testing Edwin Van der Sar with a near post free-kick. The Dutch keeper is the busier of the two and he also gets down well to turn an Andrei Arshavin effort round the post as well as turning the longest of long range efforts from Denis Kolodin over the bar.
The Netherlands' best chances are coming from set pieces, most notably Rafael Van der Vaart's vicious inswinging delivery that just evades Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Nigel de Jong. It is Van Nistelrooy who first tests Akinfeev as he rolls his marker before striking a low shot that the Russian keeper turns away. Van der Varrt also has a chance, firing straight at Igor Akinfeev after being played in by what Jim Beglin terms "a Titus Bramble moment" from Kolodin, causing at least one television in the Wigan area to be struck by a remote control... well perhaps the fireplace to the side of the television anyway.
In the second half Khalid Boulahrouz is booked for what Drury calls 'a meat-eaters tackle' although that sounds strangely like an unfortunate Victorian ailment. The Dutch defender is subbed soon after, receiving a standing ovation from the ground in view of his recent bereavement. Within minutes the Russians are in front; Sergei Semak gets down the left flank and crosses for Roman Pavluchenko to volley home. Russia are in control and have chances to double their lead as Aleksandr Anyukov is denied by Van der Sar, and then as they fail in an attempt to walk an attack into the Dutch goal.
Instead, their failure to make the game safe, along with their failure to defend set-pieces costs them as five minutes from time Van Nistelrooy heads home Wesley Sneijder's cross for the equaliser; "Orange is bright again, and has a future" yells Drury. In the final minutes there is still time for further drama as Kolodin is shown a second yellow card for a foul on Sneijder, however after consultation with his linesman, Lubos Michel quickly rescinds his decision to a goal-kick, so it remains eleven-a-side for extra-time.
Both sides forge chances in the opening half of extra time, Van Nistelrooy threatening for the Dutch but Russia have the better chances; Pavlyuchenko rattling the crossbar as he cuts inside. Russia finally get their reward in the second period as Arshavin manages to dink a high cross over Van der Sar and Dmitri Torbinski wins the race to knock it over the line and spark a good old fashioned twenty-two man pile on by the corner flag. Within two minutes Russia double their advantage as Arshavin reacts quicker than anyone to a long throw and via a deflection pokes the ball through Van der Sar's legs. Russia progress and Gus Hiddink skips onto the field in celebration like an oversized child heading to the zoo.
"If you took an aerial photo of this city today it would look like a piece of toast... covered in marmalade" is Peter Drury's way of saying there are a lot of Dutch fans in Basel for this quarter final. Despite overwhelming Dutch support it's Russia who have the best of the opening fifteen minutes with Yuri Zhirkov testing Edwin Van der Sar with a near post free-kick. The Dutch keeper is the busier of the two and he also gets down well to turn an Andrei Arshavin effort round the post as well as turning the longest of long range efforts from Denis Kolodin over the bar.
The Netherlands' best chances are coming from set pieces, most notably Rafael Van der Vaart's vicious inswinging delivery that just evades Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Nigel de Jong. It is Van Nistelrooy who first tests Akinfeev as he rolls his marker before striking a low shot that the Russian keeper turns away. Van der Varrt also has a chance, firing straight at Igor Akinfeev after being played in by what Jim Beglin terms "a Titus Bramble moment" from Kolodin, causing at least one television in the Wigan area to be struck by a remote control... well perhaps the fireplace to the side of the television anyway.
In the second half Khalid Boulahrouz is booked for what Drury calls 'a meat-eaters tackle' although that sounds strangely like an unfortunate Victorian ailment. The Dutch defender is subbed soon after, receiving a standing ovation from the ground in view of his recent bereavement. Within minutes the Russians are in front; Sergei Semak gets down the left flank and crosses for Roman Pavluchenko to volley home. Russia are in control and have chances to double their lead as Aleksandr Anyukov is denied by Van der Sar, and then as they fail in an attempt to walk an attack into the Dutch goal.
Instead, their failure to make the game safe, along with their failure to defend set-pieces costs them as five minutes from time Van Nistelrooy heads home Wesley Sneijder's cross for the equaliser; "Orange is bright again, and has a future" yells Drury. In the final minutes there is still time for further drama as Kolodin is shown a second yellow card for a foul on Sneijder, however after consultation with his linesman, Lubos Michel quickly rescinds his decision to a goal-kick, so it remains eleven-a-side for extra-time.
Both sides forge chances in the opening half of extra time, Van Nistelrooy threatening for the Dutch but Russia have the better chances; Pavlyuchenko rattling the crossbar as he cuts inside. Russia finally get their reward in the second period as Arshavin manages to dink a high cross over Van der Sar and Dmitri Torbinski wins the race to knock it over the line and spark a good old fashioned twenty-two man pile on by the corner flag. Within two minutes Russia double their advantage as Arshavin reacts quicker than anyone to a long throw and via a deflection pokes the ball through Van der Sar's legs. Russia progress and Gus Hiddink skips onto the field in celebration like an oversized child heading to the zoo.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day14]
Croatia 1-1 Turkey (1-3 on penalties)
"Last time Turkey descended on Austria like this was the Ottoman Empire" is Gary Lineker's opening gambit to what proves a slow but enthralling game none the less. Croatia are the better side early on, but they are contained by Turkey whose most experienced player, the stand-in goalkeeper Rustu Recber, is widely acknowledged as the side's weakest link, despite over one hundred caps.
Croatia should take the lead midway through the half as Luka Modric cross for Ivica Olic who should score, but with the Croatian bench already celebrating he can only rattle the bar from four yards out. On the Turkish bench coach Fatih Terim is steadily disrobing like a newspaper editor trying to reach a deadline; resplendent in suit at kick-off he is already tie-less with sleeves rolled up by the time Mehmet Topal flashes a long range effort inches wide ten minutes from half-time. Just before the break, with Tuncay down injured, Danijel Pranjic takes the opportunity to get medical attention, but instead seems to be on the receiving end of a selection of wrestling holds from one of Slavan Bilic's roadies.
In the second half Croatia continue to control the game and are almost gifted a goal by the combined efforts of Rustu and Emre Asik, it's "like the keystone cops at the back for Turkey" says Steve Wilson, but Olic can't capitalise. All the chances are falling to Croatia, but Rustu is keeping them at bay, blocking another Olic effort and brilliantly turning away a Darijo Srna free-kick. When he is beaten it is only by a very offside Olic with the whistle already blown. Glimpses of the Croatian goalmouth are rare, but when they do occur each shows more and more stewards crowded on the running track, like a bizarre luminous tabard clad remake of 'The Birds'.
The game moves into extra-time and Turkey, players and fans alike, wake up. "The Turkish fans are making a right racket" comments Wilson and they've every right to as their team dominate the opening fifteen minutes, Tuncay comes close to beating Stipe Pletikosa twice, whilst Semih Senturk also shoots over.
After the break its the Croat fans turn to rally their side and it eventually pays off in the final minute. Rustu inexplicably gives chase to Corluka's blocked cross but he is beaten to it by Modric and with the keeper stranded he chips the ball across for Ivan Klasnic to head home. The player is duly mobbed by the entire Croat bench, including Slavan Bilic who has made a David Pleat-esque run down the touchline. Already in injury time Turkey get one last throw of the dice, and they somehow roll a seven; Rustu hoofs the ball into the Croat box and it falls to Semih, who hits and hopes towards goal, and via a deflection finds the top corner with the game's very last kick.
Penalties then, a dejected Croatia against a buoyant Turkey, tension added to by the lack of a matchball. With Modric missing the opening Croatian penalty it's already 2-1 to Turkey as Ivan Rakitic steps up for the third round of kicks. "He's just a boy" intones Wilson sympathetically, but like Modric before him Rakitic too pulls his kick wide. Hamit Altintop makes it 3-1 leaving the pressure on Mladen Petric who must score to keep Croatia in the tournament. Inevitably Rustu saves and Croatia are undeservedly out. "Never ever ever write off the Turks," summarises Wilson, perhaps confusing prospective semi-final opponents.
"Last time Turkey descended on Austria like this was the Ottoman Empire" is Gary Lineker's opening gambit to what proves a slow but enthralling game none the less. Croatia are the better side early on, but they are contained by Turkey whose most experienced player, the stand-in goalkeeper Rustu Recber, is widely acknowledged as the side's weakest link, despite over one hundred caps.
Croatia should take the lead midway through the half as Luka Modric cross for Ivica Olic who should score, but with the Croatian bench already celebrating he can only rattle the bar from four yards out. On the Turkish bench coach Fatih Terim is steadily disrobing like a newspaper editor trying to reach a deadline; resplendent in suit at kick-off he is already tie-less with sleeves rolled up by the time Mehmet Topal flashes a long range effort inches wide ten minutes from half-time. Just before the break, with Tuncay down injured, Danijel Pranjic takes the opportunity to get medical attention, but instead seems to be on the receiving end of a selection of wrestling holds from one of Slavan Bilic's roadies.
In the second half Croatia continue to control the game and are almost gifted a goal by the combined efforts of Rustu and Emre Asik, it's "like the keystone cops at the back for Turkey" says Steve Wilson, but Olic can't capitalise. All the chances are falling to Croatia, but Rustu is keeping them at bay, blocking another Olic effort and brilliantly turning away a Darijo Srna free-kick. When he is beaten it is only by a very offside Olic with the whistle already blown. Glimpses of the Croatian goalmouth are rare, but when they do occur each shows more and more stewards crowded on the running track, like a bizarre luminous tabard clad remake of 'The Birds'.
The game moves into extra-time and Turkey, players and fans alike, wake up. "The Turkish fans are making a right racket" comments Wilson and they've every right to as their team dominate the opening fifteen minutes, Tuncay comes close to beating Stipe Pletikosa twice, whilst Semih Senturk also shoots over.
After the break its the Croat fans turn to rally their side and it eventually pays off in the final minute. Rustu inexplicably gives chase to Corluka's blocked cross but he is beaten to it by Modric and with the keeper stranded he chips the ball across for Ivan Klasnic to head home. The player is duly mobbed by the entire Croat bench, including Slavan Bilic who has made a David Pleat-esque run down the touchline. Already in injury time Turkey get one last throw of the dice, and they somehow roll a seven; Rustu hoofs the ball into the Croat box and it falls to Semih, who hits and hopes towards goal, and via a deflection finds the top corner with the game's very last kick.
Penalties then, a dejected Croatia against a buoyant Turkey, tension added to by the lack of a matchball. With Modric missing the opening Croatian penalty it's already 2-1 to Turkey as Ivan Rakitic steps up for the third round of kicks. "He's just a boy" intones Wilson sympathetically, but like Modric before him Rakitic too pulls his kick wide. Hamit Altintop makes it 3-1 leaving the pressure on Mladen Petric who must score to keep Croatia in the tournament. Inevitably Rustu saves and Croatia are undeservedly out. "Never ever ever write off the Turks," summarises Wilson, perhaps confusing prospective semi-final opponents.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day13]
Germany 3-2 Portugal
Basel's hastily relayed pitch is the venue for the first quarter final as Germany take on Portugal. In the corner of the stadium a large section of the German support have come dressed as the national flag in an effort to look patriotic, but alas they've just fallen into a stereotype of clinical and efficient organisation. On the pitch both teams create opportunities in the opening fifteen minutes, but then for Thomas Hitzelsperger just entering the opposition half is considered an opportunity.
Midway through the half comes the opening goal as Germany break down the left hand side; Lucas Podolski exchanges passes with Michael Ballack and his low cross is finished by Bastian Schweinsteiger; "Germany at their very best" yells Clive Tyldsley, hitting the nail square on for once. Within two minutes its 2-0, Portugal's defence look shell-shocked by the prospect of clearing an inswinging set-piece and Miroslav Klose takes advantage to head home Schweinsteiger's cross.
Portugal edge their way back into contention and set up a potentially great second half as they pull a goal back five minutes before the break. Cristian Ronaldo finds space on the left, and although Jens Lehman saves his shot, Nuno Gomes is on hand to squeeze the rebound home.
In the second half comes clear evidence of a cultural shift; the magic sponge of football past has been replaced by the magic yellow card. Arne Friedrich fouls Ronaldo who writhes and rolls until a caution is issued to the German and then gets to his feet and carries on. Pepe has a chance to equalise for the Portugese but can't prevent his reaction header from going over. From looking destined to equalise Portugal instead fall further behind from another Schweinsteiger set-piece. This time his inswinging ball draws Ricardo from his goal-line, and Ballack beats the keeper to the ball to make it 3-1.
Portugal push forward but look uncertain of how to beat the German defence, unable to pass through them, but unwilling to put crosses in they eventually pull a goal back from the latter option. "Hello! Hold on a moment" yells Tyldsley as Helder Postiga heads home Nani's cross. It sets up a frantic final five minutes, but Germany look unlikely to concede and up in the stands their manager Jogi Low lights up a cigarette.
The final whistle goes and Germany are the first team into the semi finals meaning a succession of Phil Scolari and Chelsea stories are bound for the newspapers in the days ahead and a chance to reiterate cliché for Tylsdsley; "Never, ever, ever, write them off".
Basel's hastily relayed pitch is the venue for the first quarter final as Germany take on Portugal. In the corner of the stadium a large section of the German support have come dressed as the national flag in an effort to look patriotic, but alas they've just fallen into a stereotype of clinical and efficient organisation. On the pitch both teams create opportunities in the opening fifteen minutes, but then for Thomas Hitzelsperger just entering the opposition half is considered an opportunity.
Midway through the half comes the opening goal as Germany break down the left hand side; Lucas Podolski exchanges passes with Michael Ballack and his low cross is finished by Bastian Schweinsteiger; "Germany at their very best" yells Clive Tyldsley, hitting the nail square on for once. Within two minutes its 2-0, Portugal's defence look shell-shocked by the prospect of clearing an inswinging set-piece and Miroslav Klose takes advantage to head home Schweinsteiger's cross.
Portugal edge their way back into contention and set up a potentially great second half as they pull a goal back five minutes before the break. Cristian Ronaldo finds space on the left, and although Jens Lehman saves his shot, Nuno Gomes is on hand to squeeze the rebound home.
In the second half comes clear evidence of a cultural shift; the magic sponge of football past has been replaced by the magic yellow card. Arne Friedrich fouls Ronaldo who writhes and rolls until a caution is issued to the German and then gets to his feet and carries on. Pepe has a chance to equalise for the Portugese but can't prevent his reaction header from going over. From looking destined to equalise Portugal instead fall further behind from another Schweinsteiger set-piece. This time his inswinging ball draws Ricardo from his goal-line, and Ballack beats the keeper to the ball to make it 3-1.
Portugal push forward but look uncertain of how to beat the German defence, unable to pass through them, but unwilling to put crosses in they eventually pull a goal back from the latter option. "Hello! Hold on a moment" yells Tyldsley as Helder Postiga heads home Nani's cross. It sets up a frantic final five minutes, but Germany look unlikely to concede and up in the stands their manager Jogi Low lights up a cigarette.
The final whistle goes and Germany are the first team into the semi finals meaning a succession of Phil Scolari and Chelsea stories are bound for the newspapers in the days ahead and a chance to reiterate cliché for Tylsdsley; "Never, ever, ever, write them off".
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day12]
Sweden 0-2 Russia / Spain 2-1 Greece
John Champion is perhaps the only commentator who will ever use the line "surrounded by fields of cows" when building up the atmosphere to a crucial international match. With Spain already through and holders Greece already out the focus is on Innsbruck, home of cows seemingly, but also venue for the winner-goes-through match between Sweden and Russia. As a brief aside here, has anyone else noticed the similarity between the Russian National anthem and the music from Police Academy? No?
The Russians have welcomed back playmaker Andrei Arshavin after a two match ban, and he is proving to be the missing link for an impressive team. Methodical and controlled in possession the "red army" as Champion lazily references them, look much more accomplished than their Scandinavian opponents. Arshavin almost catches out Andreas Isaksson with a high cross-cum-shot whilst Yuri Zhirkov also flashes a volley just wide from a corner before Russia deservedly break the deadlock after twenty-four minutes. A well-worked move down the right flank orchestrated by the impressive Aleksandr Anyukov ends with Roman Pavlyuchenko finally breaking his tournament duck with a well placed low shot.
Pavlyuchenko could have another goal within minutes, but this time he ends a similar flowing move with a chipped shot onto the crossbar. Despite Russia's early dominance Sweden start to find their feet toward the end of the half with Mikael Nilsson and Freddie Ljunberg threatening, but their best effort is a flicked Henrik Larsson header that strikes the bar.
Like their fellow early qualifiers Spain have rested players for their match with Greece, but unlike the others it appears to have made a difference. Despite a range of spectacular close efforts from Xabi Alonso the Spanish trail to Greece's first goal of the tournament, a well placed powerful header from Angelos Charisteas.
Back in Innsbruck and Russia look to have confirmed their place in the quarter finals just five minutes into the second half. Arshavin plays in Zhirkov down the left and then makes it into the box to slide the return pass past Isaksson. Sweden could boast the better possession for the remainder of the match, but they failed to make anything from it and were left open to Russian counter-attacks. Konstantin Zyrianov only prevented from making it 3-0 by the upright, as Russia move on to face the Netherlands in the quarter finals. "First Eurovision, now this" is Champion's strangely prioritised summary.
In Salzburg Russia's fellow Group D quarter finalists have returned from a goal down to defeat Greece 2-1 and qualify with maximum points. Ruben de la Red equalised on the hour mark with the sort of shot Hot Shot Hamish would have been proud off, cannoning the ball home via Antonios Nikopolidis' now probably broken hand and the crossbar. With two minutes to go the Spanish complete their come back as Daniel Gueza wanders freely beyond a terrible offside trap to head home a Sergio Garcia cross.
John Champion is perhaps the only commentator who will ever use the line "surrounded by fields of cows" when building up the atmosphere to a crucial international match. With Spain already through and holders Greece already out the focus is on Innsbruck, home of cows seemingly, but also venue for the winner-goes-through match between Sweden and Russia. As a brief aside here, has anyone else noticed the similarity between the Russian National anthem and the music from Police Academy? No?
The Russians have welcomed back playmaker Andrei Arshavin after a two match ban, and he is proving to be the missing link for an impressive team. Methodical and controlled in possession the "red army" as Champion lazily references them, look much more accomplished than their Scandinavian opponents. Arshavin almost catches out Andreas Isaksson with a high cross-cum-shot whilst Yuri Zhirkov also flashes a volley just wide from a corner before Russia deservedly break the deadlock after twenty-four minutes. A well-worked move down the right flank orchestrated by the impressive Aleksandr Anyukov ends with Roman Pavlyuchenko finally breaking his tournament duck with a well placed low shot.
Pavlyuchenko could have another goal within minutes, but this time he ends a similar flowing move with a chipped shot onto the crossbar. Despite Russia's early dominance Sweden start to find their feet toward the end of the half with Mikael Nilsson and Freddie Ljunberg threatening, but their best effort is a flicked Henrik Larsson header that strikes the bar.
Like their fellow early qualifiers Spain have rested players for their match with Greece, but unlike the others it appears to have made a difference. Despite a range of spectacular close efforts from Xabi Alonso the Spanish trail to Greece's first goal of the tournament, a well placed powerful header from Angelos Charisteas.
Back in Innsbruck and Russia look to have confirmed their place in the quarter finals just five minutes into the second half. Arshavin plays in Zhirkov down the left and then makes it into the box to slide the return pass past Isaksson. Sweden could boast the better possession for the remainder of the match, but they failed to make anything from it and were left open to Russian counter-attacks. Konstantin Zyrianov only prevented from making it 3-0 by the upright, as Russia move on to face the Netherlands in the quarter finals. "First Eurovision, now this" is Champion's strangely prioritised summary.
In Salzburg Russia's fellow Group D quarter finalists have returned from a goal down to defeat Greece 2-1 and qualify with maximum points. Ruben de la Red equalised on the hour mark with the sort of shot Hot Shot Hamish would have been proud off, cannoning the ball home via Antonios Nikopolidis' now probably broken hand and the crossbar. With two minutes to go the Spanish complete their come back as Daniel Gueza wanders freely beyond a terrible offside trap to head home a Sergio Garcia cross.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day11]
France 0-2 Italy / Netherlands 2-0 Romania
The pressure is on the managers in Zurich where only one of World Cup finalists France or Italy can go through to the quarter finals. "One might lose his job tonight" suggests John Motson. "They both might... then again they both might stay" is Mark Lawrenson's typically astute reply. Italy dominate the opening minutes and only a goal-line clearance from Claude Makelele denies Christian Panucci. A bad start gets worse for France as Franck Ribery is forced off with an injury just eight minutes on.
Meanwhile in Bern the already qualified Netherlands have made nine changes to their line-up, and so far the only thing concerning them is a particularly bad smell in the dug-out as the rest of the substitutes look accusingly at Rafael Van der Vaart. Back in Zurich Italy take a deserved lead midway through the half, Luca Toni gets on the end of a long ball and is brought down by Eric Abidal. Andrea Pirlo scores the resulting penalty while Abidal is dismissed. France are forced to reshuffle and substitute their substitute, Samir Nasri giving way for Jean-Alain Boumsong just fifteen minutes after he came on for Ribery thus sending Motson into statistical overdrive.
Italy have chances to add to their lead before the break with Luca Toni missing a hatful of chances, while Fabio Grosso's free-kick is only kept out by a combination of Gregory Coupet's finger-tips and the goal-post. One nil at half-time; bad news for France and for Romania who now have to win against the Dutch. The half-time highlights from Bern suggest an even contest with the threat of Adrian Mutu matched by the Netherlands' reserve line-up, their best chance wasted by Arjen Robben.
Ten minutes into the second half the Dutch do take the lead as Klaas-Jan Huntelaar turns home Ibrahim Afellay's low cross. That news is greeted warmly in Zurich where Italy are weathering increased French possession, but a wayward long range volley from Karim Benzema is as close as France come to a goal. After an hour the Italians deliver the killer blow to seemingly cement the end of an era for French football; Daniele De Rossi's long range free-kick deflecting in via Thierry Henry's left boot. Benzema almost pulls a goal back, but he is denied by a brilliant save from Gianluigia Buffon and only terrible finishing prevents Italy from increasing their lead; "More Swiss Toni than Luca Toni" summarises Lawrenson in a desperate hunt for a pun.
The Netherlands make sure that it will be Italy joining them in the quarter finals as they score a second goal in Bern to end Romania's hopes of progression. Robin Van Persie controlling a cross before finishing high and hard into the top corner to set up a quarter final tie with either Sweden or Russia, whilst Italy will now face Spain.
The pressure is on the managers in Zurich where only one of World Cup finalists France or Italy can go through to the quarter finals. "One might lose his job tonight" suggests John Motson. "They both might... then again they both might stay" is Mark Lawrenson's typically astute reply. Italy dominate the opening minutes and only a goal-line clearance from Claude Makelele denies Christian Panucci. A bad start gets worse for France as Franck Ribery is forced off with an injury just eight minutes on.
Meanwhile in Bern the already qualified Netherlands have made nine changes to their line-up, and so far the only thing concerning them is a particularly bad smell in the dug-out as the rest of the substitutes look accusingly at Rafael Van der Vaart. Back in Zurich Italy take a deserved lead midway through the half, Luca Toni gets on the end of a long ball and is brought down by Eric Abidal. Andrea Pirlo scores the resulting penalty while Abidal is dismissed. France are forced to reshuffle and substitute their substitute, Samir Nasri giving way for Jean-Alain Boumsong just fifteen minutes after he came on for Ribery thus sending Motson into statistical overdrive.
Italy have chances to add to their lead before the break with Luca Toni missing a hatful of chances, while Fabio Grosso's free-kick is only kept out by a combination of Gregory Coupet's finger-tips and the goal-post. One nil at half-time; bad news for France and for Romania who now have to win against the Dutch. The half-time highlights from Bern suggest an even contest with the threat of Adrian Mutu matched by the Netherlands' reserve line-up, their best chance wasted by Arjen Robben.
Ten minutes into the second half the Dutch do take the lead as Klaas-Jan Huntelaar turns home Ibrahim Afellay's low cross. That news is greeted warmly in Zurich where Italy are weathering increased French possession, but a wayward long range volley from Karim Benzema is as close as France come to a goal. After an hour the Italians deliver the killer blow to seemingly cement the end of an era for French football; Daniele De Rossi's long range free-kick deflecting in via Thierry Henry's left boot. Benzema almost pulls a goal back, but he is denied by a brilliant save from Gianluigia Buffon and only terrible finishing prevents Italy from increasing their lead; "More Swiss Toni than Luca Toni" summarises Lawrenson in a desperate hunt for a pun.
The Netherlands make sure that it will be Italy joining them in the quarter finals as they score a second goal in Bern to end Romania's hopes of progression. Robin Van Persie controlling a cross before finishing high and hard into the top corner to set up a quarter final tie with either Sweden or Russia, whilst Italy will now face Spain.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day10]
Austria 0-1 Germany / Poland 0-1 Croatia
With Croatia already through the focus is on Vienna where Austria meet Germany in a winner goes through match. Germany start the brighter and should take the lead inside the opening four minutes as Clemens Fritz cuts into the area through most of the Austrian defence before laying the ball across goal for Mario Gomez to make a simple tap-in. However, Gomez makes the simple look impossible and with an open goal he loops the ball straight up from two yards out and then as it drops 14 gets in front of him to clear. Indisputably the miss of the tournament thus far.
Austria press themselves and have a reasonable penalty appeal turned down after twenty minutes as Edwin Hoffer gets round the back of the German defence only to be clumsily hauled over by Christoph Metzelder. Austria switch the play in attack, but for all their movement around the German box the final ball eludes them, and their best opportunities are twice snuffed out by Jens Lehman's alertness off his line. At the other end Lukas Podolski brings a good one handed save from Jurgen Macho with a shot from distance but Germany look happy to wind the clock down for a draw that should take them through. The two managers are slightly more animated than the players, with both of them sent to the stands after forty minutes.
However Germany need Croatia to ensure Poland don't win and with Slaven Bilic making nine changes to his side the Poles should be confident. Instead the half-time highlights from Klagenfirt show that, but for a Dariusz Dudka header from a corner that flew wide of the far post, it's the Croatian second string who have had the better of it. Arguably the goalkeeper of the tournament so far Artur Boruc has again kept Poland in it with two good blocks to deny Ivan Klasnic and Ivan Rakitic respectively when both were through on goal. Hrvoje Vejic has also come close, flicking Rakitic's well struck free-kick goalwards, but seeing it go inches the wrong side of the post.
Back to Vienna and after forty-eight minutes a rare moment of brilliance as Michael Ballack thunders a free-kick past Macho from thirty yards for an emphatic opening goal, and up in the stands his manager exchanges high-fives with Boris Becker. Moments later the news breaks that Croatia have also taken the lead in their game; Danjiel Pranjic pulling it back to Klasnic who finds the bottom corner with a great first time shot. Back in Vienna Austria are losing their rhythm and the frustration is clear as Emmanuel Pogatetz takes to eating the matchball.
Germany are creating the better opportunities and Macho takes a whack in the ribs after bravely closing down Klose. "He was what it says on the tin - Macho" offers Mark Lawrenson, probably to himself. In the final ten minutes Andreas Ivanschitz tries to bring life to his team-mates with a mazy run into the box that is only halted by Lahm at the vital moment, but Austria seem to have already accepted defeat and the match peters out.
In Klagenfurt Poland, as Gordon Strachan summarises, only begin to play once the pressure is off. Their two best chances feature their newest citizen Roger Guerreiro who first turns well only to pull his shot narrowly wide, and also as he crosses for Marek Saganowski but his header is well saved by the diving Vedran Runje. Croatia may have already been through but at the final whistle the bench react as joyously as they have after any other victory.
With Croatia already through the focus is on Vienna where Austria meet Germany in a winner goes through match. Germany start the brighter and should take the lead inside the opening four minutes as Clemens Fritz cuts into the area through most of the Austrian defence before laying the ball across goal for Mario Gomez to make a simple tap-in. However, Gomez makes the simple look impossible and with an open goal he loops the ball straight up from two yards out and then as it drops 14 gets in front of him to clear. Indisputably the miss of the tournament thus far.
Austria press themselves and have a reasonable penalty appeal turned down after twenty minutes as Edwin Hoffer gets round the back of the German defence only to be clumsily hauled over by Christoph Metzelder. Austria switch the play in attack, but for all their movement around the German box the final ball eludes them, and their best opportunities are twice snuffed out by Jens Lehman's alertness off his line. At the other end Lukas Podolski brings a good one handed save from Jurgen Macho with a shot from distance but Germany look happy to wind the clock down for a draw that should take them through. The two managers are slightly more animated than the players, with both of them sent to the stands after forty minutes.
However Germany need Croatia to ensure Poland don't win and with Slaven Bilic making nine changes to his side the Poles should be confident. Instead the half-time highlights from Klagenfirt show that, but for a Dariusz Dudka header from a corner that flew wide of the far post, it's the Croatian second string who have had the better of it. Arguably the goalkeeper of the tournament so far Artur Boruc has again kept Poland in it with two good blocks to deny Ivan Klasnic and Ivan Rakitic respectively when both were through on goal. Hrvoje Vejic has also come close, flicking Rakitic's well struck free-kick goalwards, but seeing it go inches the wrong side of the post.
Back to Vienna and after forty-eight minutes a rare moment of brilliance as Michael Ballack thunders a free-kick past Macho from thirty yards for an emphatic opening goal, and up in the stands his manager exchanges high-fives with Boris Becker. Moments later the news breaks that Croatia have also taken the lead in their game; Danjiel Pranjic pulling it back to Klasnic who finds the bottom corner with a great first time shot. Back in Vienna Austria are losing their rhythm and the frustration is clear as Emmanuel Pogatetz takes to eating the matchball.
Germany are creating the better opportunities and Macho takes a whack in the ribs after bravely closing down Klose. "He was what it says on the tin - Macho" offers Mark Lawrenson, probably to himself. In the final ten minutes Andreas Ivanschitz tries to bring life to his team-mates with a mazy run into the box that is only halted by Lahm at the vital moment, but Austria seem to have already accepted defeat and the match peters out.
In Klagenfurt Poland, as Gordon Strachan summarises, only begin to play once the pressure is off. Their two best chances feature their newest citizen Roger Guerreiro who first turns well only to pull his shot narrowly wide, and also as he crosses for Marek Saganowski but his header is well saved by the diving Vedran Runje. Croatia may have already been through but at the final whistle the bench react as joyously as they have after any other victory.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day9]
Czech Republic 2-3 Turkey / Switzerland 2-0 Portugal
With Portugal already through and Switzerland already out the winner takes a quarter final spot match between Czech Republic and Turkey is the main draw. Both games are scheduled to take place at the same time, but a hold up over stud examinations in Geneva puts the more crucial of the two matches behind schedule. The Czechs, although much improved without him in their second match, have recalled Jan Koller, who John Champion describes as "not so much over the hill as halfway down the other side".
The first half is tight, testy and cagey and there are two Turkish bookings before a real chance is fashioned; Marek Matejovsky testing Volkan Demirel, the latter not put off by the Turkish fans behind him seemingly singing a rendition of 'Minnie the Moocher'. Libor Sionko has been the best Czech player in the tournament and has already come close twice himself before crossing for the opening goal; Koller inevitably leaping highest to power home a header from twelve yards.
Half-time brings some retro praise from David Moyes for "Czechoslovakia" whilst Andy Townsend paints a worrying picture; "Servet is literally, literally up his backside". Highlights from the other game in Basel suggest Switzerland are taking advantage of an under-strength Portugese side. Efforts from Hakan Yakin's header and Johan Volanthen's strike coming as close to beating Ricardo as Pepe's flick is to beating Pascal Zuberbuhler in a match that remains goalless thus far.
Back to the second half in Geneva and Turkey, buoyed on by their very vocal support, are livelier but despite their obvious height disadvantage continue to hit wasteful crosses into the box. Whilst Turkish centre half Emre Gungo leaves the field through injury the Czechs take advantage of their extra man and Koller should double the lead as he races clear from halfway only to poke his shot wide. Within a minute and with Turkey still a man down the second goal arrives as Sionko's cross is met at the far post by Jaroslav Plasil. The Turkish bench are incensed prompting Champion and Jim Beglin to wade into a minefield of lazy stereotypes about Turkish superstition and temperament. As the news breaks that Switzerland have taken the lead in Basel the match in Geneva is almost wrapped up but Jan Polak can only hit the post from Zdenek Grygera's cross.
Having been let-off at one end Turkey briefly return to their low passing game and it pays dividends as they work a goal back; Sabri Sarioglu feeding Hamit Altintop with a glorious pass and his pull-back is turned in by Arda Turan. In the other match Hakan Yakin has sent the host nation out on a high, scoring a penalty to cement a 2-0 win. However all eyes are on what is turning out to be e frenetic final ten minutes in Geneva. Servet should equalise for Turkey but can only make minimal contact with Hamit's cross heading it weakly wide instead. With just three minutes left Turkey are thrown, or rather dropped a life-line. Hamit's cross looks harmless enough, however it is dropped by Petr Cech right onto the foot of Nihat Kahveci and the captain scores the equaliser.
The momentum is with Turkey now and incredibly within two minutes it is 3-2 to Turkey; Nihat is played in and with remarkable composure completes the come-back, curling the ball over Cech and in off the underside of the bar. "What next?" yells Champion, "Don't ask me" is Beglin's shrill reply. There is still much more though as in injury time a long high punt downfield sees Volkan collide with Servet to leave the goal gaping, yet Stanislav Vlcek can only head wide. While the replay is being shown Volkan is sent off for a cynical push on Koller and with all three Turkish subs on the field Tuncay dons the gloves. Luckily for him the only remaining action is another booking, for Milan Baros despite the fact he is still on the Czech bench and Turkey scrape through; as Champions summarises; "It defies belief".
With Portugal already through and Switzerland already out the winner takes a quarter final spot match between Czech Republic and Turkey is the main draw. Both games are scheduled to take place at the same time, but a hold up over stud examinations in Geneva puts the more crucial of the two matches behind schedule. The Czechs, although much improved without him in their second match, have recalled Jan Koller, who John Champion describes as "not so much over the hill as halfway down the other side".
The first half is tight, testy and cagey and there are two Turkish bookings before a real chance is fashioned; Marek Matejovsky testing Volkan Demirel, the latter not put off by the Turkish fans behind him seemingly singing a rendition of 'Minnie the Moocher'. Libor Sionko has been the best Czech player in the tournament and has already come close twice himself before crossing for the opening goal; Koller inevitably leaping highest to power home a header from twelve yards.
Half-time brings some retro praise from David Moyes for "Czechoslovakia" whilst Andy Townsend paints a worrying picture; "Servet is literally, literally up his backside". Highlights from the other game in Basel suggest Switzerland are taking advantage of an under-strength Portugese side. Efforts from Hakan Yakin's header and Johan Volanthen's strike coming as close to beating Ricardo as Pepe's flick is to beating Pascal Zuberbuhler in a match that remains goalless thus far.
Back to the second half in Geneva and Turkey, buoyed on by their very vocal support, are livelier but despite their obvious height disadvantage continue to hit wasteful crosses into the box. Whilst Turkish centre half Emre Gungo leaves the field through injury the Czechs take advantage of their extra man and Koller should double the lead as he races clear from halfway only to poke his shot wide. Within a minute and with Turkey still a man down the second goal arrives as Sionko's cross is met at the far post by Jaroslav Plasil. The Turkish bench are incensed prompting Champion and Jim Beglin to wade into a minefield of lazy stereotypes about Turkish superstition and temperament. As the news breaks that Switzerland have taken the lead in Basel the match in Geneva is almost wrapped up but Jan Polak can only hit the post from Zdenek Grygera's cross.
Having been let-off at one end Turkey briefly return to their low passing game and it pays dividends as they work a goal back; Sabri Sarioglu feeding Hamit Altintop with a glorious pass and his pull-back is turned in by Arda Turan. In the other match Hakan Yakin has sent the host nation out on a high, scoring a penalty to cement a 2-0 win. However all eyes are on what is turning out to be e frenetic final ten minutes in Geneva. Servet should equalise for Turkey but can only make minimal contact with Hamit's cross heading it weakly wide instead. With just three minutes left Turkey are thrown, or rather dropped a life-line. Hamit's cross looks harmless enough, however it is dropped by Petr Cech right onto the foot of Nihat Kahveci and the captain scores the equaliser.
The momentum is with Turkey now and incredibly within two minutes it is 3-2 to Turkey; Nihat is played in and with remarkable composure completes the come-back, curling the ball over Cech and in off the underside of the bar. "What next?" yells Champion, "Don't ask me" is Beglin's shrill reply. There is still much more though as in injury time a long high punt downfield sees Volkan collide with Servet to leave the goal gaping, yet Stanislav Vlcek can only head wide. While the replay is being shown Volkan is sent off for a cynical push on Koller and with all three Turkish subs on the field Tuncay dons the gloves. Luckily for him the only remaining action is another booking, for Milan Baros despite the fact he is still on the Czech bench and Turkey scrape through; as Champions summarises; "It defies belief".
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day8]
Spain 2-1 Sweden
In major tournaments "Sweden tend to thrive, Spain to shrink" according to John Champion's opening gambit and he's almost proved right as Zlatan Ibrahimovic has a chance in the opening thirty seconds, but his touch lets him down. Spain though open the scoring fifteen minutes in, a well worked corner ends with David Silva's angled cross being volleyed home by Fernando Torres. The remainder of the half's chances are Swedish ones with Henrik Larsson and Johan Elmander both off target before Ibrahimovic scores the equaliser after half an hour, controlling Frederick Stoor's cross and turning his man to roll the ball past Iker Casillas.
In injury time Spain have a valid penalty appeal turned down as Ramos' cross hangs in the air and Silva is removed from his position underneath it by Elmander's clumsy challenge. The decision rallies Spain and they are more effective in attack after the break. Silva wastes an early chance as he tries to return David Villa's pass to him, despite being through on goal. On the hour Silva comes close again but Andreas Isaksson saves his low drive well and smothers Villa's attempt on the rebound before Daniel Andersson blocks Torres' follow-up. Holding midfielder Marcos Senna also tests Isaksson after a rare forward run.
Sweden have a chance to nick the game as Petter Hansson gets round the back of the Spanish defence from a late free-kick however he can only volley the ball tantalisingly across goal. Just as a draw seems inevitable Spain steal a win with the most un-Spanish of goals. A long ball down field eludes everyone and Villa gets the better of Hansson to finish and send Champion into an inevitable bout of hyperbole; "the most unconvincing of performances, the most convincing of finishes".
Greece 0-1 Russia
In Salzburg the holders have to win to keep themselves in the tournament, but they don't start well. Roman Pavlyuchenko cuts in from the left of the area and attempts to chip Antonios Nikopolidis, however the Greek keeper turns it over. Pavlyuchenko is involved in everything Russia produce and has a penalty shout for handball minutes later, but he has already been flagged offside. Greece's best chances comes the way of Angelos Charisteas but he fails to get his head on Angelos Basinas' free-kick and the ball deflects wide off Igor Semshov. As the Russian fans beat out a rhythm in the stands, Nikopolidis gives chase to a deep cross, however he's beaten to it by Sergei Semak who bicycle kicks it back across goal to give Konstantin Zyrianov a simple finish.
At half-time Andy Townsend and Sam Allardyce show a worrying lack of football knowledge and basic common-sense as they argue that Semak was offside, as like Christian Panucci in Italy's game with the Netherlands he was off the pitch. However, unlike Panucci, Semak is not defending... and has actually made the pass himself... playing the ball backwards. In the second half Jim Beglin agrees claiming "the law is an ass", although I can think of three primer examples. Out on the pitch Russia are in control; Pavlyuchenko balls a shot wide of the near post after breaking down the left and Zyrianov also blazes wide, while Diniyar Bilyaletdinov has a shot crucial blocked by Traianos Dellas.
Greece work their way back into the game but fail to threaten the Russian goal, Charisteas' downward header straight at goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev. Stelios Giannakopolous comes on to give another attacking option, but to do so has to operate the electronic substitute board himself. Greece find the net towards the end, but Theofanis Gekas has already been flagged offside. Russia could have already been out of sight could Pavlyuchenko finish, he blasts over again in injury time leading Beglin to sound like an exasperated teacher; "He's a talented boy but he drives me mad at times". It finishes 1-0 and in the words of Peter Drury "Greece is no longer the word".
In major tournaments "Sweden tend to thrive, Spain to shrink" according to John Champion's opening gambit and he's almost proved right as Zlatan Ibrahimovic has a chance in the opening thirty seconds, but his touch lets him down. Spain though open the scoring fifteen minutes in, a well worked corner ends with David Silva's angled cross being volleyed home by Fernando Torres. The remainder of the half's chances are Swedish ones with Henrik Larsson and Johan Elmander both off target before Ibrahimovic scores the equaliser after half an hour, controlling Frederick Stoor's cross and turning his man to roll the ball past Iker Casillas.
In injury time Spain have a valid penalty appeal turned down as Ramos' cross hangs in the air and Silva is removed from his position underneath it by Elmander's clumsy challenge. The decision rallies Spain and they are more effective in attack after the break. Silva wastes an early chance as he tries to return David Villa's pass to him, despite being through on goal. On the hour Silva comes close again but Andreas Isaksson saves his low drive well and smothers Villa's attempt on the rebound before Daniel Andersson blocks Torres' follow-up. Holding midfielder Marcos Senna also tests Isaksson after a rare forward run.
Sweden have a chance to nick the game as Petter Hansson gets round the back of the Spanish defence from a late free-kick however he can only volley the ball tantalisingly across goal. Just as a draw seems inevitable Spain steal a win with the most un-Spanish of goals. A long ball down field eludes everyone and Villa gets the better of Hansson to finish and send Champion into an inevitable bout of hyperbole; "the most unconvincing of performances, the most convincing of finishes".
Greece 0-1 Russia
In Salzburg the holders have to win to keep themselves in the tournament, but they don't start well. Roman Pavlyuchenko cuts in from the left of the area and attempts to chip Antonios Nikopolidis, however the Greek keeper turns it over. Pavlyuchenko is involved in everything Russia produce and has a penalty shout for handball minutes later, but he has already been flagged offside. Greece's best chances comes the way of Angelos Charisteas but he fails to get his head on Angelos Basinas' free-kick and the ball deflects wide off Igor Semshov. As the Russian fans beat out a rhythm in the stands, Nikopolidis gives chase to a deep cross, however he's beaten to it by Sergei Semak who bicycle kicks it back across goal to give Konstantin Zyrianov a simple finish.
At half-time Andy Townsend and Sam Allardyce show a worrying lack of football knowledge and basic common-sense as they argue that Semak was offside, as like Christian Panucci in Italy's game with the Netherlands he was off the pitch. However, unlike Panucci, Semak is not defending... and has actually made the pass himself... playing the ball backwards. In the second half Jim Beglin agrees claiming "the law is an ass", although I can think of three primer examples. Out on the pitch Russia are in control; Pavlyuchenko balls a shot wide of the near post after breaking down the left and Zyrianov also blazes wide, while Diniyar Bilyaletdinov has a shot crucial blocked by Traianos Dellas.
Greece work their way back into the game but fail to threaten the Russian goal, Charisteas' downward header straight at goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev. Stelios Giannakopolous comes on to give another attacking option, but to do so has to operate the electronic substitute board himself. Greece find the net towards the end, but Theofanis Gekas has already been flagged offside. Russia could have already been out of sight could Pavlyuchenko finish, he blasts over again in injury time leading Beglin to sound like an exasperated teacher; "He's a talented boy but he drives me mad at times". It finishes 1-0 and in the words of Peter Drury "Greece is no longer the word".
Friday, June 13, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day7]
Italy 1-1 Romania
Determined to bounce back from defeat to the Dutch Italy's fans are particularly loud in Zurich, and their team dominate the opening fifteen minutes. Alessandro Del Piero comes close while Luca Toni heads over. Although starting defensively Romania are much more potent in attack than they produce against France and both Adrian Mutu breaking down the left and Gabriel Tama from a long range free-kick bring saves from Gianluigi Buffon. Cristian Chivu comes even closer to opening the scoring as his free-kick deflects off Christian Panucci and comes back off the post and in the ensuing mayhem Razvan Rat and Mirel Radoi come together in a sickening clash of heads which forces Radoi out the game.
Mauro Camoranesi is at the heart of everything Italy produce and his cross almost brings a goal to Luca Toni but again his header is off target. When the forward finally gets a couple of efforts on target he is denied first by a brilliant Bogdan Lobont save and then the linesman's flag. Lobont thwarts another chance as Italy press; "There's no method to it, it's just crisis management" says John Champion although Romania's coaching staff may disagree. Mutu has been quiet since his early chance so he takes the opportunity to get his name on the screen with a wild swing at 21 that receives a deserved booking.
Ten minutes into the second half Romania take the lead. Gianluca Zambrotta attempts to head a long ball back to Buffon, but Mutu intercepts and strikes into the roof of the net. They lead for barely a minute as Italy force a corner and Giorgio Chiellini heads Daniele De Rossi's delivery back across goal for Panucci to poke home from a yard out becoming in Champions words; "the oldest player to score and outfield goal in open play". Italy have a great chance to take the lead midway through the half as De Rossi meets Toni's chested lay-off with a diving header but again Lobont saves brilliantly. With ten minutes left Romania then get their chance for an unlikely win as Daniel Niculae is hauled down by Panucci for a penalty. However Buffon, sporting a strange highwayman's neckerchief, saves Mutu's spot-kick with a combination of hand and foot and it finishes level.
France 1-4 Netherlands
France make changes after a lacklustre opening game display, or as John Motson puts it; "Anelka and Benzema left out after firing blanks against Romania". The Netherlands meanwhile simply carry on where they left off and lead after just nine minutes as Dirk Kuyt heads home Giovanni Van Bronckhorst's corner. France begin to force their way back into it and twenty minutes in Sidney Govou forces Edwin Van der Sar to make an excellent save and leads Mark Lawrenson to ask; "How many saves have we seen made by keepers with their feet in these Championships?" The already long dead horse is flogged further as Lawrenson then tries to name all such saves. Inspired by Franck Ribery France have the better of the game's second quarter and the midfielder himself comes close, denied by another good save from Van der Sar.
France have chances to lead early in the second half too, only two timely Andre Ooijer blocks, the second possibly with a flailing arm, prevent Thierry Henry from scoring. Florent Malouda's overhead kick then puts Henry in the clear, but he can't control his lob as it clears both Van der Sar and his crossbar. With chances falling by the wayside the camera cuts to the exasperated Raymond Domenech who is looking more and more like a morphing experiment involving Parker and Paul O'Grady. The Netherlands are decidedly more clinical and they enforce this fact extending their lead on the hour mark. Ruud Van Nistelrooy pulls off a glorious 360 degree turn on the halfway line to release Arjen Robben and his cross is finished by Robin Van Persie.
Far from out of it France hit back as Willy Sagnol breaks down the right and his low cross is brilliantly turned home by the deftest of touches from Henry. Typically though, the Netherlands reclaim their two goal cushion within a minute. Wesley Sneijder finds Robben in the left side of the penalty area and just as it seems Lilian Thuram has forced him too wide he unleashes an unstoppable shot high into the net. In injury-time the Dutch complete the rout with the best goal of the night; Sneijder turns on the edge of the box and hits a brilliant dipping curling shot in off the underside of the bar providing, in Motson's words, "a fabulous finish to a fantastic match".
Determined to bounce back from defeat to the Dutch Italy's fans are particularly loud in Zurich, and their team dominate the opening fifteen minutes. Alessandro Del Piero comes close while Luca Toni heads over. Although starting defensively Romania are much more potent in attack than they produce against France and both Adrian Mutu breaking down the left and Gabriel Tama from a long range free-kick bring saves from Gianluigi Buffon. Cristian Chivu comes even closer to opening the scoring as his free-kick deflects off Christian Panucci and comes back off the post and in the ensuing mayhem Razvan Rat and Mirel Radoi come together in a sickening clash of heads which forces Radoi out the game.
Mauro Camoranesi is at the heart of everything Italy produce and his cross almost brings a goal to Luca Toni but again his header is off target. When the forward finally gets a couple of efforts on target he is denied first by a brilliant Bogdan Lobont save and then the linesman's flag. Lobont thwarts another chance as Italy press; "There's no method to it, it's just crisis management" says John Champion although Romania's coaching staff may disagree. Mutu has been quiet since his early chance so he takes the opportunity to get his name on the screen with a wild swing at 21 that receives a deserved booking.
Ten minutes into the second half Romania take the lead. Gianluca Zambrotta attempts to head a long ball back to Buffon, but Mutu intercepts and strikes into the roof of the net. They lead for barely a minute as Italy force a corner and Giorgio Chiellini heads Daniele De Rossi's delivery back across goal for Panucci to poke home from a yard out becoming in Champions words; "the oldest player to score and outfield goal in open play". Italy have a great chance to take the lead midway through the half as De Rossi meets Toni's chested lay-off with a diving header but again Lobont saves brilliantly. With ten minutes left Romania then get their chance for an unlikely win as Daniel Niculae is hauled down by Panucci for a penalty. However Buffon, sporting a strange highwayman's neckerchief, saves Mutu's spot-kick with a combination of hand and foot and it finishes level.
France 1-4 Netherlands
France make changes after a lacklustre opening game display, or as John Motson puts it; "Anelka and Benzema left out after firing blanks against Romania". The Netherlands meanwhile simply carry on where they left off and lead after just nine minutes as Dirk Kuyt heads home Giovanni Van Bronckhorst's corner. France begin to force their way back into it and twenty minutes in Sidney Govou forces Edwin Van der Sar to make an excellent save and leads Mark Lawrenson to ask; "How many saves have we seen made by keepers with their feet in these Championships?" The already long dead horse is flogged further as Lawrenson then tries to name all such saves. Inspired by Franck Ribery France have the better of the game's second quarter and the midfielder himself comes close, denied by another good save from Van der Sar.
France have chances to lead early in the second half too, only two timely Andre Ooijer blocks, the second possibly with a flailing arm, prevent Thierry Henry from scoring. Florent Malouda's overhead kick then puts Henry in the clear, but he can't control his lob as it clears both Van der Sar and his crossbar. With chances falling by the wayside the camera cuts to the exasperated Raymond Domenech who is looking more and more like a morphing experiment involving Parker and Paul O'Grady. The Netherlands are decidedly more clinical and they enforce this fact extending their lead on the hour mark. Ruud Van Nistelrooy pulls off a glorious 360 degree turn on the halfway line to release Arjen Robben and his cross is finished by Robin Van Persie.
Far from out of it France hit back as Willy Sagnol breaks down the right and his low cross is brilliantly turned home by the deftest of touches from Henry. Typically though, the Netherlands reclaim their two goal cushion within a minute. Wesley Sneijder finds Robben in the left side of the penalty area and just as it seems Lilian Thuram has forced him too wide he unleashes an unstoppable shot high into the net. In injury-time the Dutch complete the rout with the best goal of the night; Sneijder turns on the edge of the box and hits a brilliant dipping curling shot in off the underside of the bar providing, in Motson's words, "a fabulous finish to a fantastic match".
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day6]
Croatia 2-1 Germany
In Klagenfurt "two of England's greatest foes" come head to head according to Peter Drury, which will no doubt be news to Scottish and Argentine ears. It's the least foe-like of England's foes who take the lead midway through the half as patient build up play on the left ends with Danijel Pranjic crossing and Darijo Srna turning it home at the far post. The Croats are in control and Niko Krancjar should double the advantage from Ivica Olic's nod down. Germany's best spell comes after half an hour; a long range Michael Ballack free-kick is saved by Stipe Pletikosa while Torsten Frings and Christoph Metzelder also come close to an equaliser. Just as it seems the tide has turned Vedran Corluka breaks down the right and from his square ball Olic tees up Krancjar again, however Jens Lehman pulls off a great save. "Croatia could be out of sight by now" observes Jim Beglin.
The second half starts somewhat bizarrely with Jens Lehman taking a bite out of the matchball before a goal-kick. Germany attempt to edge their way back into the game, but the final ball continues to elude them. Croatia have better luck, and out of nothing they double their lead; Ivan Rakitic's low hard cross deflects goal-wards off Lukas Podolski and Lehman can only turn it off the post to the feet of the grateful Olic. "Deutschland, Deutschland, Auf Weidersehen" sing the Croat fans.
Bastian Shweinsteiger forces a save from Pletikosa with a low shot from a narrow angle, then with ten minutes left Podolski volleys in to give life to the final ten minutes. Croatia make it to the ninetieth minute though, and then subsequently to the corner flag. In the three minutes injury time there is still time for four cards to be shown including the tournament's first red one, to Schweinsteiger who reacts angrily to a foul by Jerko Leko and faces the obvious penalty. The post-match reaction hailed it as an upset, but Croatia have proved themselves far from underdogs; through to the quarter finals with a game to spare.
Austria 1-1 Poland
According to the commentary the crowd in Vienna is a 50/50 split, but it sounds distinctly more Austrian in the opening minutes. Both sides have elected to start with their impact substitutes from the opening games; Roger Guerreiro for Poland, Umit Korkmaz for Austria. The hosts continue where they left off against Croatia dominating the opening quarter of an hour and creating a number of great chances. The first comes as Mariusz Jop dallies over a lazy back-pass and Martin Harnik goes clean through only for Artur Boruc to get a telling touch. Minutes later Korkmaz's pull back is finished tamely by Harnik and again Boruc saves. The Celtic keeper completes a hat-trick of crucial stops a minute later as he denies Christoph Leitgeb who has had since the halfway line to weigh up his options.
After surviving the onslaught Poland hit Austria in the words of Mark Lawrenson with an "absolute sucker punch". Marek Saganowski controls across, turns and shoots, the defender and keeper can only direct it across goal to the waiting, and marginally offside, Guerreiro who gets his first goal for his adopted nation. Austria, clearly shell-shocked by the goal muster one more key opportunity in stoppage time, but waste a free-kick and go in behind. As Martin O'Neil deftly puts it; "Every time Austria get through, the goal is getting smaller and smaller".
The second half is understandably not as open as the first, but, aside from a Jacek Krzynowek free-kick from distance that is turned over by Jurgen Macho, Austria remain the dominant side. In the final ten minutes a corner finds its way to Jurgen Saumel who volleys it goalwards, but in the words of John Champion "like so many efforts before it goes high into the Viennese night sky". As the final whistle approaches and when it seems like Austrian hope is gone the hosts lump one last free-kick into the box and Howard Webb points to the spot. Sebastian Proedl has been hauled down by Mariusz Lewandowski and Ivica Vastic scores the resultant penalty. A point is rescued and Mark Lawrenson thumbs through his thesaurus to observe that down on the touchline Polish coach Leo Beenhakker is "going absolutely apoplectic".
In Klagenfurt "two of England's greatest foes" come head to head according to Peter Drury, which will no doubt be news to Scottish and Argentine ears. It's the least foe-like of England's foes who take the lead midway through the half as patient build up play on the left ends with Danijel Pranjic crossing and Darijo Srna turning it home at the far post. The Croats are in control and Niko Krancjar should double the advantage from Ivica Olic's nod down. Germany's best spell comes after half an hour; a long range Michael Ballack free-kick is saved by Stipe Pletikosa while Torsten Frings and Christoph Metzelder also come close to an equaliser. Just as it seems the tide has turned Vedran Corluka breaks down the right and from his square ball Olic tees up Krancjar again, however Jens Lehman pulls off a great save. "Croatia could be out of sight by now" observes Jim Beglin.
The second half starts somewhat bizarrely with Jens Lehman taking a bite out of the matchball before a goal-kick. Germany attempt to edge their way back into the game, but the final ball continues to elude them. Croatia have better luck, and out of nothing they double their lead; Ivan Rakitic's low hard cross deflects goal-wards off Lukas Podolski and Lehman can only turn it off the post to the feet of the grateful Olic. "Deutschland, Deutschland, Auf Weidersehen" sing the Croat fans.
Bastian Shweinsteiger forces a save from Pletikosa with a low shot from a narrow angle, then with ten minutes left Podolski volleys in to give life to the final ten minutes. Croatia make it to the ninetieth minute though, and then subsequently to the corner flag. In the three minutes injury time there is still time for four cards to be shown including the tournament's first red one, to Schweinsteiger who reacts angrily to a foul by Jerko Leko and faces the obvious penalty. The post-match reaction hailed it as an upset, but Croatia have proved themselves far from underdogs; through to the quarter finals with a game to spare.
Austria 1-1 Poland
According to the commentary the crowd in Vienna is a 50/50 split, but it sounds distinctly more Austrian in the opening minutes. Both sides have elected to start with their impact substitutes from the opening games; Roger Guerreiro for Poland, Umit Korkmaz for Austria. The hosts continue where they left off against Croatia dominating the opening quarter of an hour and creating a number of great chances. The first comes as Mariusz Jop dallies over a lazy back-pass and Martin Harnik goes clean through only for Artur Boruc to get a telling touch. Minutes later Korkmaz's pull back is finished tamely by Harnik and again Boruc saves. The Celtic keeper completes a hat-trick of crucial stops a minute later as he denies Christoph Leitgeb who has had since the halfway line to weigh up his options.
After surviving the onslaught Poland hit Austria in the words of Mark Lawrenson with an "absolute sucker punch". Marek Saganowski controls across, turns and shoots, the defender and keeper can only direct it across goal to the waiting, and marginally offside, Guerreiro who gets his first goal for his adopted nation. Austria, clearly shell-shocked by the goal muster one more key opportunity in stoppage time, but waste a free-kick and go in behind. As Martin O'Neil deftly puts it; "Every time Austria get through, the goal is getting smaller and smaller".
The second half is understandably not as open as the first, but, aside from a Jacek Krzynowek free-kick from distance that is turned over by Jurgen Macho, Austria remain the dominant side. In the final ten minutes a corner finds its way to Jurgen Saumel who volleys it goalwards, but in the words of John Champion "like so many efforts before it goes high into the Viennese night sky". As the final whistle approaches and when it seems like Austrian hope is gone the hosts lump one last free-kick into the box and Howard Webb points to the spot. Sebastian Proedl has been hauled down by Mariusz Lewandowski and Ivica Vastic scores the resultant penalty. A point is rescued and Mark Lawrenson thumbs through his thesaurus to observe that down on the touchline Polish coach Leo Beenhakker is "going absolutely apoplectic".
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day5]
Czech Republic 1-3 Portugal
The Czechs have elected to leave Jan Koller on the bench for this one and they are much the better for it. However despite a more mobile front-line it is Portugal who take the lead, some intricate passing around the penalty area leads to a not so intricate scrambled finish from Deco, who looks increasingly like Dean Saunders with every passing tournament. They lead for less than ten minutes though as the impressive Libor Sionko equalises with a bullet header from a corner.
Within a minute of the second half starting the Czechs almost lead, but Sionko's square ball is missing a killer touch to turn it into a goal. Although Portugal control the next quarter of an hour's play the Czech's come close again and this time its Tomas Ujfalusi's header that is agonisingly close. Within a minute a goal comes, however it's Portugal who score it, retaking the lead as Cristiano Ronaldo sweeps home Deco's square ball, as Clive Tyldsley says; "It had to be him".
After seventy-two minutes the Czechs introduce Jan Koller seemingly with the instructions to 'put himself about a bit'. His team-mates continue to press for an equaliser and given the Portugese keeper Ricardo's non-committal defence of his goal (but for one excellent tip over from a Sionko header) it's understandable. However, with much of their team camped in the Portugese half the Czechs are caught out by a quickly taken free-kick by Deco which releases Ronaldo and his unselfishness is rewarded with a clinical third goal for Ricardo Queresma.
Switzerland 1-2 Turkey
The Swiss fans in Basel are very loud and very red, but the game initially fails to live up to their volume. Then ten minutes in the heavens open... completely... and stay open. The more the pitch becomes waterlogged, the more intriguing and exciting the match becomes. Turkey come close to opening the scoring as Arda Turan inadvertently strikes the post. The Swiss keeper flaps at a free-kick from the by-line succeeding only in pushing it onto Arda's head before the ball strikes the upright.
Strangely inspired by the wet conditions Switzerland look increasingly dangerous and take a deserved lead after half an hour. A long ball holds up in the rain sodden penalty area allowing Eren Derdiyok to round the Turkish keeper, who slides past him hopelessly like a child on a flume, before squaring the ball towards Hakan Yakin. Although it stops in a puddle before it reaches him, Yakin treads water long enough to poke it over the line for the opening goal. "Try calling this off now" yells Steve Wilson over the Swiss celebrations. It could be worse for Turkey as Yakin wastes a similar opportunity just minutes later.
In the second half Turkey throw themselves into attack, but a chance goes begging as Hakan Balta inexplicably handballs. Thankfully for him his team-mates produce a goal on the hour mark as Semih Senturk heads home a cross from the left. Tuncay twice receives the ball in great positions on the right, but twice wastes the opportunities leaving Mark Bright desperately imploring Turkey to use Arda on the opposite flank.
Switzerland push for the win and almost get their goal in a four on two break, however after Johan Volatanhen's lay-off Yakin's shot is well saved by Volkan who smothers the rebound too. With Switzerland committing men forward they are hit on the break as Alda runs down the left before cutting inside and hitting a shot which is deflected in to give Turkey the win, knock Switzerland out, and presumably leave Mark Bright very smug indeed.
The Czechs have elected to leave Jan Koller on the bench for this one and they are much the better for it. However despite a more mobile front-line it is Portugal who take the lead, some intricate passing around the penalty area leads to a not so intricate scrambled finish from Deco, who looks increasingly like Dean Saunders with every passing tournament. They lead for less than ten minutes though as the impressive Libor Sionko equalises with a bullet header from a corner.
Within a minute of the second half starting the Czechs almost lead, but Sionko's square ball is missing a killer touch to turn it into a goal. Although Portugal control the next quarter of an hour's play the Czech's come close again and this time its Tomas Ujfalusi's header that is agonisingly close. Within a minute a goal comes, however it's Portugal who score it, retaking the lead as Cristiano Ronaldo sweeps home Deco's square ball, as Clive Tyldsley says; "It had to be him".
After seventy-two minutes the Czechs introduce Jan Koller seemingly with the instructions to 'put himself about a bit'. His team-mates continue to press for an equaliser and given the Portugese keeper Ricardo's non-committal defence of his goal (but for one excellent tip over from a Sionko header) it's understandable. However, with much of their team camped in the Portugese half the Czechs are caught out by a quickly taken free-kick by Deco which releases Ronaldo and his unselfishness is rewarded with a clinical third goal for Ricardo Queresma.
Switzerland 1-2 Turkey
The Swiss fans in Basel are very loud and very red, but the game initially fails to live up to their volume. Then ten minutes in the heavens open... completely... and stay open. The more the pitch becomes waterlogged, the more intriguing and exciting the match becomes. Turkey come close to opening the scoring as Arda Turan inadvertently strikes the post. The Swiss keeper flaps at a free-kick from the by-line succeeding only in pushing it onto Arda's head before the ball strikes the upright.
Strangely inspired by the wet conditions Switzerland look increasingly dangerous and take a deserved lead after half an hour. A long ball holds up in the rain sodden penalty area allowing Eren Derdiyok to round the Turkish keeper, who slides past him hopelessly like a child on a flume, before squaring the ball towards Hakan Yakin. Although it stops in a puddle before it reaches him, Yakin treads water long enough to poke it over the line for the opening goal. "Try calling this off now" yells Steve Wilson over the Swiss celebrations. It could be worse for Turkey as Yakin wastes a similar opportunity just minutes later.
In the second half Turkey throw themselves into attack, but a chance goes begging as Hakan Balta inexplicably handballs. Thankfully for him his team-mates produce a goal on the hour mark as Semih Senturk heads home a cross from the left. Tuncay twice receives the ball in great positions on the right, but twice wastes the opportunities leaving Mark Bright desperately imploring Turkey to use Arda on the opposite flank.
Switzerland push for the win and almost get their goal in a four on two break, however after Johan Volatanhen's lay-off Yakin's shot is well saved by Volkan who smothers the rebound too. With Switzerland committing men forward they are hit on the break as Alda runs down the left before cutting inside and hitting a shot which is deflected in to give Turkey the win, knock Switzerland out, and presumably leave Mark Bright very smug indeed.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day4]
Spain 4-1 Russia
In picturesque Innsbruck, according to Mark Lawrenson, "it's time to put up or shut up" for Spain. If they heard him above their apparent self-induced racket then it would seem they opted for option one. Russia are arguably the better side in the opening fifteen minutes; but their intricate passing leads to nothing. The Spanish players' penchant for long shorts and un-tucked shirts gives them the strange appearance of a team of dwarves. Although not in control they prove much more clinical; Fernanado Torres is released by a clearance downfield and beats his man before squaring to David Villa who gives them the lead and the two celebrate as if they had won the tournament itself.
Russia try to forge a way back into the game and are unlucky not to level, hitting the woodwork twice. First to do so is Konstantin Zyrianov who is the only player in the Spanish area not to ignore Dmitri Sychev's cut-back, but he can only direct his shot against the foot of the post. Roman Pavlyuchenko almost catches out Iker Casillas as effectively as he catches out the Swiss production team; his shot against the bar filmed, presumably, from atop of a nearby Alp. As is the way of this tournament if at first you don't succeed expect to be punished on the break; Spain make it 2-0 as Andres Iniesta rolls a perfectly weighted pass toward Villa who gets his second goal.
Early in the second half Torres enjoys that rarest of delicacies; according to Jonathan Pearce he has "got Kolodin on toast". However the game peters out around the hour mark leaving Lawrenson to fill the tedium by answering Pearce's rhetorical questions. Aleksandr Anyukov makes a great last ditch challenge to deny Villa a hat-trick, but it's only temporary. With twenty minutes left Villa gets his third goal finishing after a deft pass from Cesc Fabregas. Pavlyuchenko gets his nation a consolation goal as he flicks home from a right wing corner, and from a similar set-piece two minutes time the Russians threaten to make it interesting by coming close to a second goal. Instead Spain manage to extend their lead as a counter attack ends with Xavi's volley saved and Fabregas heading home the rebound.
Greece 0-2 Sweden
The reigning champions take the field led by their coach Otto Rehhagel, a man with suspiciously dark hair for his age. However, since his greatest hour his team's defensive tactics appear to have been exaggerated by the media leaving Tyldsley to summarise the opening twenty minutes as "not sterile Jim". As for Jim, well he seems to think the Greek side are giving him the come on, saying of Giorgos Karagounis; "he's writhing around a little too much for me". Half an hour in and Sweden create the match's first telling chances; Henrik Larsson squares when he perhaps should have shot, whilst Zlatan Ibrahimovic flicks Fredrik Ljunberg's inswinging cross over the bar. Ina fairly physical game Ljunberg is in the wars, suffering a simultaneous challenge from Traianos Dellas and Kostas Katsouranis. "That's what you call a Greek sandwich" offers Beglin, master of the 'less-than-single-entendre'.
"Its tight, its tense, its goalless" is Steve Ryder's summation of the first half. The Greeks are playing a patient game and are happy to knock the ball around their back-line when they get possession, but if you listened to the commentary team you'd be forgiven for assuming they were playing a 10-0-0 formation. Christian Wilhelmsson should score when put clear, but he lifts his shot over the bar and then just as Tyldsley is bemoaning the match's lack of highlights Ibrahimovic provides one with a gloriously struck shot to give Sweden the lead. Their second goal follows soon after and is as clumsy as the first was sublime. Ljunberg misses a great chance but the ball subsequently loops into the air and lands in the goalmouth where Petter Hansson bundles it over the line.
In picturesque Innsbruck, according to Mark Lawrenson, "it's time to put up or shut up" for Spain. If they heard him above their apparent self-induced racket then it would seem they opted for option one. Russia are arguably the better side in the opening fifteen minutes; but their intricate passing leads to nothing. The Spanish players' penchant for long shorts and un-tucked shirts gives them the strange appearance of a team of dwarves. Although not in control they prove much more clinical; Fernanado Torres is released by a clearance downfield and beats his man before squaring to David Villa who gives them the lead and the two celebrate as if they had won the tournament itself.
Russia try to forge a way back into the game and are unlucky not to level, hitting the woodwork twice. First to do so is Konstantin Zyrianov who is the only player in the Spanish area not to ignore Dmitri Sychev's cut-back, but he can only direct his shot against the foot of the post. Roman Pavlyuchenko almost catches out Iker Casillas as effectively as he catches out the Swiss production team; his shot against the bar filmed, presumably, from atop of a nearby Alp. As is the way of this tournament if at first you don't succeed expect to be punished on the break; Spain make it 2-0 as Andres Iniesta rolls a perfectly weighted pass toward Villa who gets his second goal.
Early in the second half Torres enjoys that rarest of delicacies; according to Jonathan Pearce he has "got Kolodin on toast". However the game peters out around the hour mark leaving Lawrenson to fill the tedium by answering Pearce's rhetorical questions. Aleksandr Anyukov makes a great last ditch challenge to deny Villa a hat-trick, but it's only temporary. With twenty minutes left Villa gets his third goal finishing after a deft pass from Cesc Fabregas. Pavlyuchenko gets his nation a consolation goal as he flicks home from a right wing corner, and from a similar set-piece two minutes time the Russians threaten to make it interesting by coming close to a second goal. Instead Spain manage to extend their lead as a counter attack ends with Xavi's volley saved and Fabregas heading home the rebound.
Greece 0-2 Sweden
The reigning champions take the field led by their coach Otto Rehhagel, a man with suspiciously dark hair for his age. However, since his greatest hour his team's defensive tactics appear to have been exaggerated by the media leaving Tyldsley to summarise the opening twenty minutes as "not sterile Jim". As for Jim, well he seems to think the Greek side are giving him the come on, saying of Giorgos Karagounis; "he's writhing around a little too much for me". Half an hour in and Sweden create the match's first telling chances; Henrik Larsson squares when he perhaps should have shot, whilst Zlatan Ibrahimovic flicks Fredrik Ljunberg's inswinging cross over the bar. Ina fairly physical game Ljunberg is in the wars, suffering a simultaneous challenge from Traianos Dellas and Kostas Katsouranis. "That's what you call a Greek sandwich" offers Beglin, master of the 'less-than-single-entendre'.
"Its tight, its tense, its goalless" is Steve Ryder's summation of the first half. The Greeks are playing a patient game and are happy to knock the ball around their back-line when they get possession, but if you listened to the commentary team you'd be forgiven for assuming they were playing a 10-0-0 formation. Christian Wilhelmsson should score when put clear, but he lifts his shot over the bar and then just as Tyldsley is bemoaning the match's lack of highlights Ibrahimovic provides one with a gloriously struck shot to give Sweden the lead. Their second goal follows soon after and is as clumsy as the first was sublime. Ljunberg misses a great chance but the ball subsequently loops into the air and lands in the goalmouth where Petter Hansson bundles it over the line.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day3]
France 0-0 Romania
"Its been dreadful, its boring," summarises Alan Hansen at half-time depressingly close to understatement. Like Vienna yesterday Zurich's stadium has also received a blue makeover for the championships, sadly the backdrop is the most vibrant aspect of a first half devoid of chances. Nicolas Anelka nods a bouncing ball over the bar and there have apparently been three yellow cards, although few can remember who to or what for.
The opening ten minutes of the second half offer enough action to wake up the Romanian support at least. As the yellow section of the stand begins to bounce John Champion intones that "if we're not careful a decent game might break out here". That fear is quietly allied within ten minutes as Romania's back eight restrict France to a couple of feeble efforts from Karim Benzema. Quite simply, the worst game of the tournament so far.
Netherlands 3-0 Italy
What goes down must come up and so after the tournaments nadir we are treated to what is set to be its benchmark game. In the opening minutes the Dutch kit catches the eye as they have elected to team their famous orange shirts with blue-pants-in-a-white-wash coloured socks. Holland have the better of the opening quarter of an hour and may have had a penalty when Ruud Van Nistelrooy rounds Gianluigi Buffon; however the Dutchman stays on his feet when thousands wouldn't and the chance is gone.
The opening comes within ten minutes; Buffon fails to clear Rafael Van der Vaart's free-kick and Schneider drives the ball back into the box where Van Nistelrooy pokes it home. The striker subsequently unveils a new celebration involving a prolonged and guilty look toward the linesman; the replays show he is clearly offside. Italy come close as a corner is cleared off the line by Giovanni Van Bronckhorst, but within seconds are two behind after a thrilling counter-attack. Van Bronckhorst racing from his goal-line heroics to pick out Dirk Kuyt whose knockdown is turned home by Wesley Sneijder. "Wonderful Goal! Wonderful Goal!" yells David Pleat.
Before half-time the match could have been settled as Van Nistelrooy is denied a second only by a great save from Buffon. In the second half Italy throw on Alessandro Del Piero to try and rescue the situation; he goes on to create some of their better opportunities, but Edwin van der Sar is proving formidable. "This is his moment" champions Clive Tyldsley as Antonio Cassano is thrown on as well and the Italian almost lives up to his billing, putting Luca Toni clean through. However Toni wastes the opportunity and the watching Italian coaching staff are left to see, hear and speak no evil in slow motion.
Andrea Pirlo is next to come close with a curling right foot free-kick that is brilliantly saved by Van der Sar who proceeds to celebrate as if he's saved a winning spot-kick. Whilst the keeper punches the air the Netherlands counter again; Van Bronckhurst feeds Kuyt and when his initial effort is well-saved he chips the follow-up back into the box where Van Bronckhorst heads home the third Dutch goal. As Tyldsley waxes lyrical about Italy never having lost by more than three goals in a tournament finals, Dutch sub Ibrahim Afellay almost ruins that statistic mid sentence grazing the Italian crossbar. Instead it finishes 3-0 and suddenly the Dutch are the favourites.
"Its been dreadful, its boring," summarises Alan Hansen at half-time depressingly close to understatement. Like Vienna yesterday Zurich's stadium has also received a blue makeover for the championships, sadly the backdrop is the most vibrant aspect of a first half devoid of chances. Nicolas Anelka nods a bouncing ball over the bar and there have apparently been three yellow cards, although few can remember who to or what for.
The opening ten minutes of the second half offer enough action to wake up the Romanian support at least. As the yellow section of the stand begins to bounce John Champion intones that "if we're not careful a decent game might break out here". That fear is quietly allied within ten minutes as Romania's back eight restrict France to a couple of feeble efforts from Karim Benzema. Quite simply, the worst game of the tournament so far.
Netherlands 3-0 Italy
What goes down must come up and so after the tournaments nadir we are treated to what is set to be its benchmark game. In the opening minutes the Dutch kit catches the eye as they have elected to team their famous orange shirts with blue-pants-in-a-white-wash coloured socks. Holland have the better of the opening quarter of an hour and may have had a penalty when Ruud Van Nistelrooy rounds Gianluigi Buffon; however the Dutchman stays on his feet when thousands wouldn't and the chance is gone.
The opening comes within ten minutes; Buffon fails to clear Rafael Van der Vaart's free-kick and Schneider drives the ball back into the box where Van Nistelrooy pokes it home. The striker subsequently unveils a new celebration involving a prolonged and guilty look toward the linesman; the replays show he is clearly offside. Italy come close as a corner is cleared off the line by Giovanni Van Bronckhorst, but within seconds are two behind after a thrilling counter-attack. Van Bronckhorst racing from his goal-line heroics to pick out Dirk Kuyt whose knockdown is turned home by Wesley Sneijder. "Wonderful Goal! Wonderful Goal!" yells David Pleat.
Before half-time the match could have been settled as Van Nistelrooy is denied a second only by a great save from Buffon. In the second half Italy throw on Alessandro Del Piero to try and rescue the situation; he goes on to create some of their better opportunities, but Edwin van der Sar is proving formidable. "This is his moment" champions Clive Tyldsley as Antonio Cassano is thrown on as well and the Italian almost lives up to his billing, putting Luca Toni clean through. However Toni wastes the opportunity and the watching Italian coaching staff are left to see, hear and speak no evil in slow motion.
Andrea Pirlo is next to come close with a curling right foot free-kick that is brilliantly saved by Van der Sar who proceeds to celebrate as if he's saved a winning spot-kick. Whilst the keeper punches the air the Netherlands counter again; Van Bronckhurst feeds Kuyt and when his initial effort is well-saved he chips the follow-up back into the box where Van Bronckhorst heads home the third Dutch goal. As Tyldsley waxes lyrical about Italy never having lost by more than three goals in a tournament finals, Dutch sub Ibrahim Afellay almost ruins that statistic mid sentence grazing the Italian crossbar. Instead it finishes 3-0 and suddenly the Dutch are the favourites.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day2]
Austria 0-1 Croatia
The Ernst Happoel Stadium in Vienna has been strangely carpeted in blue ready for this game, and perhaps it is that which distracts Rene Aufhauser enough for him to bring down Ivica Olic within the opening four minutes for a very obvious penalty. Emanuel Pogatetz's misplaced protests earn him a yellow card before Luka Modric rolls home the spot kick. The goal brings Croatian manager Slaven Bilic out of his technical area; his silver suit, rogue earring and sly grin giving him the air of a man who is emerging from court having just got off a charge for GBH.
Before half-time Pogatetz could have received a yellow card, and is probably only spared by Olic's incredible theatrics who makes such a meal of the Pogatetz's foul that you suspect the Dutch referee begins to side with the Austrian. Olic will later be subbed in the second half leaving the field like a 20km walker crossing the finish-line before collapsing by the dugout... you wonder if he is so dramatic in everything he does; crawling on his hands and knees across the road to an ice-cream van perhaps?
If the first half was Croatia's the second belongs to the hosts. Rank outsiders they may be but like Switzerland yesterday they throw everything at their opponents. The introduction of Umit Korkmaz gives them further life and he tests the Croat keeper with a curling effort, before Roman Kienhast glances their best effort wide of the post in injury-time. And so like their co-hosts they are left to rue a 1-0 defeat that could have been more.
Germany 2-0 Poland
"Everyone knows a Polish person" says Gary Lineker in case the British public were short on reasons to support a nation about to face Germany. Apparently there has been much tension in the two countries heading into this game, but if Poland's defensive line is anything to go by they at least seem keen to forgive and forget; gifting Germany a chance after four minutes only for Miroslav Klose to inexplicably square the ball to the understandably unprepared Mario Gomes. Midway through the half a similar chance presents itself to Klose who again goes square but this time Lukas Podolski gives Germany the lead.
At half-time Martin O'Neil calls Poland's defensive display a 'shambles' causing Lineker to grin like a naughty schoolboy who's accomplice just got the blame. In the second half Poland introduce their token naturalised Brazilian Guerreiro and look much the better for it, however they fail to take advantage of what Mark Lawrenson terms 'laborious' defending by Christoph Metzelder. Instead Germany rally, with Michael Ballack denied by a brilliant Artur Boruc save before they eventually double their lead minutes later. Pawel Golanski dwells over a routine clearance allowing Bastian Shweinsteiger to square the ball; Klose slices it horrifically but in doing so inadvertently tees up Podolski who volleys home.
The closest Poland get is a flicked near-post header from Marek Saganowksi off Guerreiro's cross which brings a reaction save from Jens Lehman, giving Lawrenson and Jonathan Pearce excuse for a high noon goalkeeping cliché showdown, and the Austrian television producers opportunity to show slow motion footage of Lehman shouting and waving... or maybe it's in real time.
The Ernst Happoel Stadium in Vienna has been strangely carpeted in blue ready for this game, and perhaps it is that which distracts Rene Aufhauser enough for him to bring down Ivica Olic within the opening four minutes for a very obvious penalty. Emanuel Pogatetz's misplaced protests earn him a yellow card before Luka Modric rolls home the spot kick. The goal brings Croatian manager Slaven Bilic out of his technical area; his silver suit, rogue earring and sly grin giving him the air of a man who is emerging from court having just got off a charge for GBH.
Before half-time Pogatetz could have received a yellow card, and is probably only spared by Olic's incredible theatrics who makes such a meal of the Pogatetz's foul that you suspect the Dutch referee begins to side with the Austrian. Olic will later be subbed in the second half leaving the field like a 20km walker crossing the finish-line before collapsing by the dugout... you wonder if he is so dramatic in everything he does; crawling on his hands and knees across the road to an ice-cream van perhaps?
If the first half was Croatia's the second belongs to the hosts. Rank outsiders they may be but like Switzerland yesterday they throw everything at their opponents. The introduction of Umit Korkmaz gives them further life and he tests the Croat keeper with a curling effort, before Roman Kienhast glances their best effort wide of the post in injury-time. And so like their co-hosts they are left to rue a 1-0 defeat that could have been more.
Germany 2-0 Poland
"Everyone knows a Polish person" says Gary Lineker in case the British public were short on reasons to support a nation about to face Germany. Apparently there has been much tension in the two countries heading into this game, but if Poland's defensive line is anything to go by they at least seem keen to forgive and forget; gifting Germany a chance after four minutes only for Miroslav Klose to inexplicably square the ball to the understandably unprepared Mario Gomes. Midway through the half a similar chance presents itself to Klose who again goes square but this time Lukas Podolski gives Germany the lead.
At half-time Martin O'Neil calls Poland's defensive display a 'shambles' causing Lineker to grin like a naughty schoolboy who's accomplice just got the blame. In the second half Poland introduce their token naturalised Brazilian Guerreiro and look much the better for it, however they fail to take advantage of what Mark Lawrenson terms 'laborious' defending by Christoph Metzelder. Instead Germany rally, with Michael Ballack denied by a brilliant Artur Boruc save before they eventually double their lead minutes later. Pawel Golanski dwells over a routine clearance allowing Bastian Shweinsteiger to square the ball; Klose slices it horrifically but in doing so inadvertently tees up Podolski who volleys home.
The closest Poland get is a flicked near-post header from Marek Saganowksi off Guerreiro's cross which brings a reaction save from Jens Lehman, giving Lawrenson and Jonathan Pearce excuse for a high noon goalkeeping cliché showdown, and the Austrian television producers opportunity to show slow motion footage of Lehman shouting and waving... or maybe it's in real time.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Euro 2008 Diary [day1]
Swizerland 0-1 Czech Republic
The tournament begins in Basel in a stadium strangely dwarfed by the close proximity of a gleaming towering structure; Jan Koller is starting for the Czechs. Koller's team mates seem particularly uninspired by one of Europe's least bombastic anthems, a state mirrored by their play. The most significant incident of the first half comes just before the break as Alexander Frei goes down injured and his attended by two men, one clutching a cool box the other a DJ's record case. As the half-time whistle sounds Frei limps toward the tunnel in tears sporting the kind of ice-pack on his knee that is normally only seen in the design sections of Sunday broadsheet supplements.
Ten minutes into the second half Jan Koller is substituted to a chorus of presumably Swiss whistling. The swap for Vaclav Sverkos brings brief life to the Czech game-plan, which in turn causes the tournament's first booking for Swiss captain and uglier Gareth Roberts-a-like Ludovic Magnin. After seventy minutes the Czechs manage their first real effort on goal and it's enough for Sverkos to give them an undeserved lead.
Hard done by, the Swiss spend the rest of the match on the attack, throwing a succession of long balls into the Czech area. The hosts' desperation is not helped by their coach Kobi Kuhn who is physically incapable of mustering any facial emotion other than slight amusement and general joviality and as such unable to convey any sense of urgency to their play. The Swiss substitute Johan Vonlathen has a similar impact to Sverkos, picking up a booking inside five seconds and latter blasting his side's best chance against the bar as he followed up Tranquillo Barnetta's effort. It is to prove as close as they come to a goal in a lively opening match.
Portugal 2-0 Turkey
"It beats GCSE revision" is Clive Tyldsley's parting line as ITV head for their customary pre kick-off break. A strangely low billing for what promises to be one of the most fluidly attacking games of the group stages. Portugal are the more coherent of the two in the opening stages a fact enforced as Nihat Kahveci puts in a great last ditch tackle; sadly for him the tackle is on his team-mate Tuncay. Quarter of an hour in and Portugal think they've scored but it's ruled out for offside; "Good decision" intones Tyldsley. The closest we come to a goal is a Cristiano Ronaldo free-kick that hits the post. "How on earth did he do that?" yells Tyldsley seemingly so lost in hyperbole that the concept of a man kicking a ball very hard has taken on new and magical properties.
Early in the second half Gokhan Zan hesitates before hoofing the ball downfield and ends up hoofing Simao into the air instead; before the midfielder has landed Nuno Gomes has already followed up and as Tyldsley says; "for the second time tonight Portugal strike wood". On the hour comes the break through; centre half Pepe breaks, exchanges passes with Gomes and finds the net under pressure. In celebration The green tabard wearing Portugese subs swamp the scorer producing a scene which resembles an escaped psychiatric patient finally being taken down by the orderlies.
Turkey who had looked threatening on the break in the first half struggle to move the ball forward with any purpose as Portugal see out the match efficiently. Having already struck the woodwork a third time via Gomes again they make the points safe with a glorious breakaway goal in injury time; Ronaldo breaks down the right and feeds Joao Moutinho who's great turn and unselfish lay-off feeds Raul Meireles for the clinical second
The tournament begins in Basel in a stadium strangely dwarfed by the close proximity of a gleaming towering structure; Jan Koller is starting for the Czechs. Koller's team mates seem particularly uninspired by one of Europe's least bombastic anthems, a state mirrored by their play. The most significant incident of the first half comes just before the break as Alexander Frei goes down injured and his attended by two men, one clutching a cool box the other a DJ's record case. As the half-time whistle sounds Frei limps toward the tunnel in tears sporting the kind of ice-pack on his knee that is normally only seen in the design sections of Sunday broadsheet supplements.
Ten minutes into the second half Jan Koller is substituted to a chorus of presumably Swiss whistling. The swap for Vaclav Sverkos brings brief life to the Czech game-plan, which in turn causes the tournament's first booking for Swiss captain and uglier Gareth Roberts-a-like Ludovic Magnin. After seventy minutes the Czechs manage their first real effort on goal and it's enough for Sverkos to give them an undeserved lead.
Hard done by, the Swiss spend the rest of the match on the attack, throwing a succession of long balls into the Czech area. The hosts' desperation is not helped by their coach Kobi Kuhn who is physically incapable of mustering any facial emotion other than slight amusement and general joviality and as such unable to convey any sense of urgency to their play. The Swiss substitute Johan Vonlathen has a similar impact to Sverkos, picking up a booking inside five seconds and latter blasting his side's best chance against the bar as he followed up Tranquillo Barnetta's effort. It is to prove as close as they come to a goal in a lively opening match.
Portugal 2-0 Turkey
"It beats GCSE revision" is Clive Tyldsley's parting line as ITV head for their customary pre kick-off break. A strangely low billing for what promises to be one of the most fluidly attacking games of the group stages. Portugal are the more coherent of the two in the opening stages a fact enforced as Nihat Kahveci puts in a great last ditch tackle; sadly for him the tackle is on his team-mate Tuncay. Quarter of an hour in and Portugal think they've scored but it's ruled out for offside; "Good decision" intones Tyldsley. The closest we come to a goal is a Cristiano Ronaldo free-kick that hits the post. "How on earth did he do that?" yells Tyldsley seemingly so lost in hyperbole that the concept of a man kicking a ball very hard has taken on new and magical properties.
Early in the second half Gokhan Zan hesitates before hoofing the ball downfield and ends up hoofing Simao into the air instead; before the midfielder has landed Nuno Gomes has already followed up and as Tyldsley says; "for the second time tonight Portugal strike wood". On the hour comes the break through; centre half Pepe breaks, exchanges passes with Gomes and finds the net under pressure. In celebration The green tabard wearing Portugese subs swamp the scorer producing a scene which resembles an escaped psychiatric patient finally being taken down by the orderlies.
Turkey who had looked threatening on the break in the first half struggle to move the ball forward with any purpose as Portugal see out the match efficiently. Having already struck the woodwork a third time via Gomes again they make the points safe with a glorious breakaway goal in injury time; Ronaldo breaks down the right and feeds Joao Moutinho who's great turn and unselfish lay-off feeds Raul Meireles for the clinical second
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