Libero

Complacent Arsenal Deserve Defeat.

2008-09-27T13:11:00.001-07:00

It was Arsene Wenger’s twelfth anniversary in charge of the club, Hull City were the opponents. The fans were expectant of a cricket score. Yet as we’ve seen in a number of games in the past four years, the players have believed in their own hype and become complacent. They did not respect Hull City in this game. They played at a snail’s pace in terms of tempo, didn’t fight for any ball, and were beaten by the better team. The second half, bar our goal, was shambolic.

Arsenal created many openings, squandered by wayward finishing and an obsession to score a ‘perfect passing goal’. Theo Walcott showed the flaws in his game when given time and space in front of goal. The young winger had three great chances but his indecision in each situation cost the Gunners. When only given one option, he has shown the direct attitude, which has suddenly made him a worldwide star. The assisting dribble and pass for our scrappy goal was one of the few instances in which our most dangerous player was able to exert his influence. On a number of other occasions, he flashed in decent crosses, which our non-existent strike-force didn’t bother to attack. Unfortunately for Walcott, who was our most threatening attacker, he was sacrificed for Vela instead of Adebayor or van Persie, both of whom had forgotten their already fragile ability to score. This is another example of the influence of seniority which affects Wenger’s substitutions.

The decision for Wenger was to keep the young, in-form strike partnership of Bendtner and Vela or to reinstate the senior members of the squad. The boss opted for the latter, who despite being on form in their past few games, hadn’t played for a week. Our Danish striker was the in-form man, while his link-up play with Vela is far more effective than that between our first choice strikers, who seem to play as lone forwards together (if that makes sense...). Adebayor took 34 minutes to bag his first offside, but had little effective play in the box or any decent shots. Playing in Eboue with a fine pass, who unsurprisingly elected to pass to Van Persie, despite having a great opportunity to open the scoring, was his one moment of the game. Yes, he pulled out wide, and collected the ball, but it was predominantly to pass back to Clichy. When did he take on his defender and win? Michael Turner, possibly the defensive find of the season, had him covered for the whole game with the aid of a little luck.

As for the defensive play, this was the third time this season where Gallas’ terrible marking has cost us a set-piece goal (the other occasions being Bolton and Fulham). It seems he has regressed in his defensive capabilities and is infatuated at playing a Beckenbauer role, in setting up attacks from deep, and often finishing. Yes, he has scored three goals, which have led to some key results in the Champions League, but his main occupation is to defend. And it seems that he is slow to pick up his marker, complacent on the ball and poor when attacking an aerial ball. While he may not be one of the most vocal leaders, he has to lead by example in his play. There is no doubt that some smug pundit will mention the incidents at St. Andrews last season, but it isn’t a matter of his speech-making capabilities this time, but simple defending. And it appears he can’t do that either.

Unfortunately, much of our attacking thrust was blocked with both Clichy and Sagna unable to bombard their respective flanks with menacing, direct runs. What was noticeable was how both checked their stride when passed the ball, breaking up any momentum. Toure was possibly the only defender who came out with any credit. The passes they were fed, mainly by Denilson, were imprecise and unclean, losing vital seconds for any attack against a very well-drilled Hull side. Denilson had the largest amount of possession for an Arsenal player, at least according to the eye, and retained the ball well, but lacked any cutting edge or drive. He works very well as a midfield runner in a 4-5-1, supporting the attack, as shown at Bolton, but lacks the physical strength to impose his defensive abilities. In terms of statistics, he seems most efficient of our midfielders but considering each pass, very few were attack-minded.

I still feel Alexandre Song is the best partner for Fabregas, with the Cameroonian having tactical, physical and technical abilities to prove a successful foil for our Spaniard. Denilson restricts Fabregas’ game, forcing him to play as the defensive player on many occasions. This tactical inexperience and lack of decent positioning is affecting our attacking game. On some occasions, when the whole team presses together, Denilson looks very effective, winning the first ball, with another red shirt sweeping up. In a performance, where most of his team-mates looked disinterested, his game was weakened. Song is much better against counter-attacking players (Hull did this several times in the second half), and uses his body better to shield and tackle. It is only a matter of time before Song will slot into the starting eleven.

Hull were brilliant, with the hold up play of Marlon King key to their attacking play. Their organisation was far from normal of a promoted side, with Phil Brown instilling a mentality that will see them stay up with ease. They were set up well to counter-attack with the pace of Daniel Cousin, the battling qualities of Ashbee and Boateng had commitment which our players couldn’t match, and having targeted our set-piece weakness, it was a masterclass in how to take a result at the Emirates by actually playing football. The crowning moment was Geovanni’s rocket from outside the box. It’s a shame that no-one could pick him up from midfield, and how we stopped playing having got the breakthrough. Real Madrid just showed how to win these kinds of games, with second round of Champions League games coming through. They won 1-2 away against a dangerous Betis, with each player showing a fine work ethic, something we lacked and has to be highlighted.

What was ominous about this game was how Fabregas spoke of the Champions League in the build up to the Hull game, a telling sign that the players were saving themselves for the supposedly bigger game. After a week, where the club was in the headlines consistently, with first the side taking the three points for the third game running at the Reebok, and then the youngest ever side thrashing Championship side Sheffield United, the players bought into their own hype, as has happened many times over the past few years. Would the youth players, who are fighting for a career at the club, have made a better impact?

We are best when there is no media attention or on the end of a defeat and heavy criticism. There will be a reaction on Tuesday and Porto will prove a huge test. Fabregas talked of its importance, now they have to deliver.

(Image courtesy of BBC Sport)

European Title Races Preview - England and Spain

2008-08-26T07:22:00.000-07:00

England:
After a troubled pre-season in which many first-team regulars have left (Gilberto, Flamini, Hoyte) and been replaced by inexperienced newcomers, Arsenal do not currently look like challengers A number of squad players have been loaned out thus lowering the depth of the side, with a notable departure in the loaning of Philippe Senderos to AC Milan. The lack of a midfield enforcer to set the tempo, drive on the side and gee up team-mates is a major factor why the side is likely to fall well short from first place. If a current squad member can step up or a new signing or two (Inler?) comes in, then the Gunners will have a squad with enough quality to compete for silverware this year.

Chelsea have hired another Portuguese manager and a larger Portuguese-speaking contingent with Bosingwa and Deco adding to Ferreira, Alex et al. The addition of Deco, the Brazilian born playmaker, looks to be key to the side’s style of play. There is an embarrassment of midfield riches, with Lampard, Deco, Ballack, Mikel and Essien all fighting for a starting spot. Scolari’s use of attacking full-backs might finally get the best out of Ashley Cole. The squad depth and the re-signing of Frank Lampard to a new hugely-inflated five year deal might spur last year’s runners up to challenge on all four fronts.

Having won the Champions League and Premiership last season, Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United will look to defend their titles, with an even more congested fixture list, with the World Club Championship in December, it will be even more difficult this time round, especially if they decide to take part in the FA Cup, unlike last time. The main issue with the team is the lack of a reliable third striker aside from Rooney and Tevez, especially with Saha being as injury prone as…well, Rosicky. Berbatov is the name being touted everywhere but will cost close to £30m. The injury to Real Madrid fan Ronaldo will inhibit their play but the strength in depth means results will come even without the Portuguese attacker. The sale of Silvestre to Arsenal means the promotion of Fabio and Rafael the adventurous full-backs, with the former of the two top-scoring for Brazil in the U17 World Cup in 2007. Silverware is very likely for the Red Devils.

‘When will Liverpool win the title again?’ is a question on the lips of many a football fan. Pundits and ex-players alike have tipped the side to run the favourites close having signed Keane from Tottenham. Yet the issue of money has come up once more, with Benitez insistent on signing Barry for £18m and his reasons for this protracted transfer saga being the need of left footers and British players. The reported £8m arrival of ex-Manchester City player Albert Riera from Espanyol is now being seen as the alternative to Barry, despite their different positions and style of play. The future of Alonso is still up for debate, while the fans are also worried concerning the success of the DIC’s bid to buy the club from its American owners, neither of whom are particularly liked (and that’s being kind). Success on the pitch will do much to distract the media attention from the inner turmoil at the club.

Prediction: Chelsea 1st, Manchester United 2nd, Arsenal 3rd, Liverpool 4th
Abramovich may finally get his wish of wining the title with aesthetically pleasing football. United will no doubt be right up there, but lagging behind unfortunately will be Arsenal and Liverpool (the order of the two is anybody’s guess – I’m feeling optimistic!).

Spain:
A poor quality La Liga title race was won by Real Madrid at a canter last season and one can only hope a better fight is put up this time around. The Spanish Champions will no doubt put priority on a 10th Champions League crown, having been knocked out by Roma last year, but a third league title is very appealing. They have strengthened with the signing of Rafael Van Der Vaart, who will play a key role, especially after the injury which Sneijder sustained in the Emirates Cup, keeping him out for roughly 3 months. The transfer saga of Robinho is seen as karma by many for the flirtatious manner in which the Spanish side courted Ronaldo over the summer. After a relatively low key summer in terms of spending, with De La Red bought back and Garay signed and loaned back to Racing Santander, it seems Schuster is happy with the size of his squad. Perhaps the signing of David Villa might be the key to another successful season. If they can pull it off (a figure of £41m is being touted), glory should be theirs.

Finally, for Barcelona, the old guard is gone. Coach Frank Rikjaard leaves; having won a Champions League title (something which only club legend Johan Cruyff has achieved) and two La Ligas. His players let him down with the likes of Ronaldinho and Deco rightly criticised for their poor form. Both have since left and Samuel Eto’o, after a brief flirtation with Uzbekistani side Kuruvchi, has buckled down and decided to stay. A new defence has practically been bought by new coach Pep Guardiola, with Alex Hleb also coming in from Arsenal but with Lionel Messi in front of him, it is unlikely he will start many games this upcoming season. An impressive pre-season against small sides showed their potential after it culminated in a 4-0 win in the important Champions League qualifier against Wisla Krakow. They will run the Champions closer this time around.

Has complacency set in at El Madrigal? The Yellow Submarine, led by Manuel Pellegrini has performed poorly against sides including Sevilla and Valladolid, with the latter thrashing them 5-1. Goalkeeper Diego Lopez called for self-reflection with Villarreal looking to improve on a 2nd placed finish last year. They have retained Marcos Senna, who performed a master-class in the holding role over the summer for Spain. They have signed Joseba Llorente, who will guarantee goals. The size of their squad may make challenging for the title difficult, especially with a Champions League campaign to contend with. A better work ethic from the one shown over pre-season is needed if they are to reach the heights of last year.

Sevilla under Juande Ramos were aggressive and attacking, playing wonderful football at a high tempo. After a year of mediocrity, Manolo Jimenez’s side is ready for another shot at the title. Transfer activity with Barcelona has been very common with Alves and Keita arriving at the Nou camp, while Diego Capel is also being linked to the Blaugrana. The goals of the fiery Luis Fabiano and Kanoute will be key to their challenge. They have brought in defensive solidity with midfielders such as Romaric and Acosta and defenders such as Sebastien Squillaci, Abdoulay Konko and Fernando Navarro strengthening the side.

Prediction: Real Madrid 1st, Barcelona 2nd, Sevilla 3rd, Villarreal 4th
The Champions look to have the quality and strength in depth to retain their title. Another season playing together will improve them as well. Barcelona will run them very close and are likely to win a cup instead. It becomes tricky predicting third and fourth place with Valencia also threatening to break into the Champions League slots with a new president and coach and their Euro 2008 stars.

Italy and Germany to follow. Comments are invited as usual.

The Idea Of Seniority Will Hinder Arsenal

2008-08-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

‘Shocking and disgraceful’: These are the words on the lips of many Arsenal fans after a match in which the side were well beaten and echoed the horrendous performance against the Cottagers in November 2005. Fulham were worthy of their 1-0 success and with further shrewd buys, they will avoid a relegation tussle this time around.

The game was a strong reminder of the seasons between 2005 and 2007, where the Gunners were outfought and outmuscled throughout the whole season and lost to mediocre opposition, with respect to Fulham, who played an impressive pressing game, but that is the level where Arsene Wenger’s side dropped most of their points.

Having lost midfield dynamo Mathieu Flamini to Milan, there is no sense of urgency or aggression in central midfield. It was actually only when Song came on that the side looked capable of even creating a chance. Flamini’s running forced others to make up equal ground, with the resultant movement really making it difficult for opposition teams. As the former Marseille trainee moves to Italy his current replacement, the static Denilson, had his worst game for the club, and on current form, Gökhan Inler’s reported arrival will be very well received.

There was no cohesion, with Arsenal’s best chances coming from Sagna’s crossing and the occasional opening created by the fledgling partnership between Clichy and Nasri. Any move that reached the feet of Denilson or Eboue was abruptly ended and forced the forward players to chase back and stop that inevitable second goal.

There is a theory that the one-time successful full-back is only in the side due to his age and thus the idea of seniority comes up. There are more talented, skilful players left on the bench to accommodate this ‘experience’ which Eboue is supposed to bring. It might seem ironic that a club famed for giving chances to youth is being criticised for this trait in team selection but when a lack of experience throughout the side is evident, age is seen as a determinant for experience. This means younger, better players aren’t given a chance which they apparently deserve. Arsene Wenger is a wonderful manager and the best thing that has happened to this club but his sentimental nature is affecting the side.

The quality of Eboue at full-back (even if it seems a distant memory) is certain but anywhere in midfield he is a liability, perhaps barely adequate for games against the likes of West Brom and Hull City, but he had no idea concerning positioning or when pressing the ball today. Denilson’s performance was the worst seen in an Arsenal shirt for a while. He is played as a ‘second volante’, and thus the more attacking and aggressive of his central pairing with Eboue. Yet he was moved off the ball easily and his passing was ‘disguised’ in that it was so obvious a blind man could have anticipated it.

There were no forward balls from the Brazilian, whose stagnation is mirroring the demise of the current ‘Selecao’ every day and is doing nothing to show the flair and ability that the south American nation have been renowned for. He couldn’t turn his man once and should have been subbed within half an hour had Arsene Wenger been a more pro-reactive manager. Aaron Ramsey was criticised for his performance in the win against Twente so one can imagine the poor quality of the Brazilian’s performance.

The balance of the side was poor as Wenger uses seniority of players to fit them in the starting line-up. While the starting eleven looked worryingly ineffective, the substitutions did not do much to quell concerns. Many fans see Song as a ‘donkey’, in the same way that Luzhny and Cygan were once scapegoated and ridiculed, but those who watched him on loan at Charlton and play for Cameroon in the African Cup and Olympics, will have seen a fine, purposeful player. But to bring him on at centre-back where his attacking potential will have the least impact was questionable at least.

This was the first of many problems. Why drop an in-form Djourou for an out-of-sorts Toure, who was still recovering from his bout of malaria? The idea of easing him in at right-wing in a game Arsenal could have easily drawn against West Brom could have also back-fired. These doubts were confirmed as the brittle Gallas-Toure partnership was outmuscled by Fulham’s Brede Hangeland, who poked in past Almunia. While set-pieces still present themselves as a major flaw in the side, there is strong media speculation concerning the club’s most natural defender in Philippe Senderos being touted off to Milan and Newcastle. There must surely be a grain of truth in this; otherwise the Swiss defender would have been in the squad.

Some fickle Arsenal fans have once more knocked down ‘Big Phil’ whenever they’ve had the chance, but his lack of success at the club has purely been down to the issue of seniority. Over the past few years, he has performed much better than Kolo Toure, but has been dropped on every occasion the Ivorian is fit, with Djourou now experiencing that same fate. Every time Senderos has had a sustained run in the side, they have been more secure defensively, with his style complementing one of Gallas and Toure, and forming a cohesive back four alongside full-backs Gael Clichy and Bacary Sagna

In terms of seniority, Theo Walcott is one of the older players at the club now, yet his anonymous showing over the past three games, bar an assist for Adebayor against Twente means that a place at right wing is very much up for grabs. Like Quincy (now at Birmingham), he is threatening to being labelled as a ‘speed merchant’. He clearly lacks footballing intelligence with ex-Gunner Stewart Robson even suggesting that 16 year old Jack Wilshere is the smarter player and has aspects to his game which Theo should pick up on.

If it wasn’t for fatigue after a tough pre-season which neither is accustomed to, one would hope that Ramsey and Wilshere could have played some part in the game at Craven Cottage. Yet, hypothetically speaking, if they were fully fit, why did they not play any part whatsoever, having been on the bench (with a 3rd substitution still available)? And once more the idea of seniority comes up as does the question of squad depth.

This idea extends to tactics and set pieces, with Robin Van Persie taking over all direct free-kicks, and missing every single one of them. Samir Nasri was lining up to take the final one but was denied the chance as profligate Dutchman wasted another decent opportunity. And while many criticise Adebayor for his lack of accuracy upon goal, Van Persie has been equally wasteful, overusing the power in that demonic left foot, and not using the wonderful technique and accuracy that he has when he has an opportunity. The decision to take the short corner with Nasri at a vital point in the match, rather than just hit an in-swinger, was also very misjudged with the result causing the away side to lose the ball as they did several times during the game.

It has been a number of games since the free-flowing football attributed to Arsenal has actually been displayed, and while the average age of the side is young, the call for success is present and Arsene Wenger’s young tyros will have to answer the phone. Twente at home on Wednesday is the perfect stage to begin.

New Stars To Shine In Beijing

2008-08-08T10:24:00.000-07:00

As it was in Athens four years ago, new stars were formed, especially in the shape of one Carlitos Tevez, who accumulated an 8 goal tally, the highest in 32 years. Argentina triumphed then and they are back now to defend their gold medals, with Brazil among others chasing the title which has successfully eluded them since they began they began their participation in the Olympics some 56 years ago in 1952 in Helsinki, Finland.

While some house-hold names are participating in Beijing, greater interest in the Games arises from politics, selection issues and transfer stories. The preliminary rounds began before the actual Opening Ceremony with some potential stars looking to showcase their talents and perhaps win a big money move to a European giant. Brazil have had their fair share of media attention, following the inclusion of Ronaldinho as Brazil Captain, after his high profile move to AC Milan from Barcelona.

Another curious incident is the removal of Robinho from the squad, with his side Real Madrid citing a groin strain as the reason, though the player was deemed fit enough to play in last week’s Emirates Cup. Time will tell whether a move to Chelsea is the reason behind the withdrawal of the flamboyant attacker. No doubt the biggest story concerned Lionel Messi and his club side’s reliance on him, so much so that they don’t want to take on minnows without the diminutive Argentine.

Barcelona even appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and won their case, as did Schalke concerning Rafinha and Werder Bremen concerning Diego. All three sides have allowed their players to remain at the Olympic Games, thus rendering their defence and protest an utter waste of time. The media focus on Messi has led to suggestions that Argentina’s preparations were affected, despite the plethora of talent boasted in their squad, ranging from Juan Roman Riquelme, the Boca Juniors schemer, to Sergio Aguero, Player of the Year in La Liga last year.

Brazil manager Dunga is under immense pressure after poor qualifying results in the marathon South American World Cup qualifying race. A 2007 Copa America win hasn’t been enough to remove the doubters, with the mind-numbing football being played by the side, inspired by a three-man defensive pivot of Josue, Gilberto Silva and Mineiro, which achieves little if any imaginative creative forward play. The Olympics squad is full of dynamic, creative players, such as Hernanes of Sao Paulo.

The name Anderson Hernanes de Carvalho Andrade Lima won’t be familiar at all to European football fans but the man voted best ‘volante’ in 2007 by the respected football magazine Placar. He has the ability to mark without fouling, and has a fine passing range. Oh, and he boasts a great long range shot and can dribble with ease. Trouble is, Barcelona are tracking him, but a reported fee of 25 million euros is likely to put them off. Considering no Brazilian midfielder over the age of 23 has been sold for over 9 million euros, the fee could be exaggerated or simply a reflection of how highly rated the player is.

He already has made a short cameo in the friendly with Sweden at the Emirates, in which he attempted a curling effort from distance. The classy player has already made an impact in Beijing, scoring the winner against Belgium, showing clever feet and a powerful shot to clinch as close game. The two-footed player is thought to eventually fulfil an attacking role, and his style reminds me of Edu as does his upright pose when playing. A fine goal against Cruzeiro in 2007, was very similar to Edu’s effort against Celta Vigo in the Champions League in 2004.

Other names such Pato, the teenager from Milan, his much-criticised team-mate Ronaldinho, and the likes of Diego, Breno all represent a European interest in the Brazilian side. A disappointing opening performance could be an indicator of another failure attempting to land the prize which South Americans rate most highly. Argentina, on the other hand seem quick and incisive in their passing, but the number of small players has caused concerns regard the physical side of the game. Players such as Diego Buonanotte and Pablo Piatti have great technical ability but with a side full of small, tricky players, Argentina may suffer against a physical side, such as the Brazil team they faced in the Copa America final.

Sergio Batista, the Argentina Olympics football coach, will rely on the imagination of Riquelme, a player whose mood reflects his output. Majestic at his composer-like best, and completely ineffective when put off his stride, Argentina are solely at his mercy. Playing the Boca Juniors ‘enganche’ alongside Barcelona’s Messi, has some fans disappointed, concerning the impact of the duo together, but their combination in the victory over the Ivorians, with Messi scoring from a Riquelme through-ball.

Let us not forget Sergio ‘Kun’ Aguero, who makes it a triumvirate, from which most of Argentina’s attacking patterns will emerge. The explosive forward, who has drawn comparisons with Romario scored 19 goals in La Liga, with his most memorable performance, the 4-2 win over Messi’s Barcelona in the Calderon, netting two and embarrassing the Catalonian side’s back-line. Javier Mascherano, Burdisso and Riquelme are the three overage players allowed, with the former two hoping to form a solid defensive spine.

Oscar Ustari, the next bright goalkeeping hope for the Argentinians, has many qualities but his size is an issue, with Cisse’s headed effort looping over him in a 2-1 defeat of the African nation. The Ivory Coast have a youthful squad in Beijing, epitomised by including a 16 year old keeper in the squad. Chelsea fans will be looking for the impact of Kalou, who supported the Ivorian attack, which included Gervinho (or Gervais Yao Kouassi, as he is actually called). The Le Mans striker, linked strongly to Arsenal, has been touted as the new Drogba, and he troubled the Argentineans with his powerful frame.

If it were not for England not taking up their place in the 16-team tournament, Italy wouldn’t be in Beijing. Thankfully, a young and talented side, led by ‘trequartista’ Sebastian Giovinco, should challenge for the crown, having been named as one of the favourites. The young Juventus talent, sadly not on show during the Emirates Cup, due to his Olympic commitments, has been in the middle of a contract dispute, with his agent using the issue to bring in names such as Arsenal to try and get his client a better deal. He scored a fine opening goal against Honduras, helping the side reach a 3-0 score-line. The Hondurans had a late chance to find a consolation, but their 34 year old striker Carlos Pavon blazed his spot-kick over the bar. The young Azzurri have great talent and will look to improve the reputation of the national team with a better showing than the full side did at Euro 2008.

In looking at the big names, Holland boasts the veteran Roy Makaay to lead their attack alongside Ryan Babel. The new West Brom signing Zuiverlooon will also be on display. Yet the most interesting prospect is Ismaïl Aissati, the attacking midfielder, who became only the fourth player move from PSV to Ajax, as the lure of Van Basten and Bergkamp proves irresistible. The Oranje began in a competitive match against Nigeria, but couldn’t force the break-through as it ended 0-0.

And finally, we have to look out for our very own Alexandre Song, who became a star over a fortnight in January this year, making the team of the tournament and helping Cameroon reach the final. Unfortunately, he was unable to complete the final due to injury, but now he has a chance to win the Olympics. Having risen greatly in the estimation of Arsenal fans, many of whom chastise him still based on that horrible performance at Fulham a few years back, forgetting the whole side failed to perform.

In the eyes of Arsene Wenger, Song doesn’t have the stamina to play 60 games in central midfield, but I can’t think of any players who have made that many appearances in the middle of the park. Perhaps he’ll change the mind of the manager with a strong tournament in Beijing. The Boss prefers him at centre-back but as with many of these youngsters, he too has a lot to prove, be it his ability to play in midfield or in the case of others, to prove their quality to earn a big money move. Whatever happens after a promising start, Beijing will see a new star being born.

Archive: Emirates Cup Preview

2008-08-08T10:22:00.000-07:00

Los Blancos going Oranje?

Once it was Barcelona who had the Dutch obsession, starting with Johan Cruyff in the 70s, and rightly so, the widely recognized greatest European player of all time won many trophies in his time in Catalonia and became the bench mark for future generations, much like the late Faas Wilkes before him.

Then came the Louis Van Gaal era, where the Dutch coach tried to recreate his success with a young Ajax team, which won the 1995 Champions League. The trouble is, rather than use training methods and tactics, he bought half the Ajax side and various Dutch players, betraying Catalan tradition and depriving the Barca fans the privilege of seeing local talent thrive in the side.

Players ranging from the De Boer twins to Marc Overmars moved to the Camp Nou, and caused a civil war in the Azulgrana’s minds, torn between tradition and success. And truth be told, it achieved nothing. President Gaspart and manager Van Gaal departed, allowing a new regime to be installed. Laporta brought in Rikjaard, the former AC Milan player, to start the revolution, beginning with removing the overpaid Dutchmen who achieved little in their final seasons.

He brought in fresher legs, but did use his fellow countrymen to form aspects of the squad, with Van Bronckhorst (now Feyenoord) arriving on the cheap and performing heroically at left-back. Then Edgar Davids came on loan from Juventus and added some much needed bite in the Barca midfield, catalysing some brilliant performances in the league, alongside Catalans Xavi, Puyol et al.

And now it is Real who are buying Dutch, with Robben, Sneijder and Drenthe all coming in last year. And if it wasn’t for Ramon Calderon’s obsession with Ronaldo, Van Der Vaart could have joined them in the last week or so. While Huntelaar won’t be arriving at the Bernabeu this summer, having been named captain under the new coach Van Basten and coach Bergkamp, he could do so with the Hamburg playmaker next year with clauses in their respective contracts allowing them to leave for roughly £20m and £1.2m respectively. Yet according to Marca, the Hamburg player will sign for the club next week, after negotiations in London during the Emirates Cup itself.

Perhaps it was the success of clinical attacker Ruud Van Nistlerooy that prompted the hierarchy to sign more of his countrymen, but one thing is for sure, all the signings bar Drenthe have worked very well. The versatile youngster seemed a impulse buy, when Real youngsters, such as Javi Garcia, De La Red, or Bueno, who are equally talented had another block placed in their path to the first team, one that only Casillas, Raul and Guti have successfully reached in the last decade or so.

There were some brilliant performances by Real, not least in the 4-1 mauling of arch-rivals Barca, or the thrashings of Villarreal (0-5) and Valencia (1-5) away, but over the course of the whole season there were several defeats (7) and draws (4) which coincided with Barcelona dropping points consistently in the same period allowing the Whites to extend their lead. Only Manuel Pelligrini’s Villarreal kept a sustained challenge with fewer resources and a smaller squad.

The main objective of achieving a 10th European Cup was not reached for another season as an impressive Roma defeated Real in the second round of the Champions League, thus causing Calderon (who is being challenged by Adriano Galliani of Milan for the Most Annoying Person in European Football) to start a typical media campaign with puppets La Marca, AS and Sport all being used to sign (read: unsettle) Manchester United’s Ronaldo, with the club reporting losses after the departure of Beckham took with him all commercial and marketing opportunities.

The potential big-name signing of Ronaldo is thought to be able to cover that gap and stop the club resorting to emergency loans, as they recently did. The side plays more attacking football than Capello’s cautious side did but has a large amount of defensive solidity with Casillas, Ramos, Pepe, Cannavaro and Henize making up the defence. It is their central midfield which seems to be the weak link, with Diarra and one of Guti and Gago making up the middle. Sneidjer is usually deployed wide on the right, with Robinho or Robben appearing on the left.

Up front is the classy Dutchman Van Nistlerooy, who has scored 41 in just 61 games for the Spanish Champions, who will return to face a side which has been his greatest rival during his Premiership years. Alongside him is Raul, who hit 23 goals last year in his highest scoring campaign for years, and led to the claims that he should have been in the Euro 2008 squad. There is no doubt that Aragones’ victorious squad laid those claims to rest, but the Real talisman will look to reignite them this upcoming season starting at the Emirates Cup.

Madrid have been quiet on the transfer regarding actual signings rather than media-fuelled stories regarding a certain Portuguese attacker, with Ezequiel Garay, the Argentine central defender of Racing Santander, who has a penchant for taking penalties signing before being sent out on loan to his former club. Ruben de La Red has been bought back from Getafe after an impressive season, and is being touted for £9m as Real look to solely profit on his success.

While their second league victory in the last two years looks impressive, one must realise it was the poorest La Liga in years, with perennial underachievers Atletico Madrid actually reaching the Champions league spots. They are continued to evolve their style of possession football, and the indicators point to something that is close to what the Dutch managed to play in the group stages at Euro 2008, but with a stronger holding midfield partnership.

The Spanish Champions won their first fixture 3-2 against Austrian side Linz, and after the Emirates Cup, will face Independiente Santa Fe in Columbia, Frankfurt, Valencia in the Super Cup and Sporting Lisbon in the Santiago Bernabeu trophy, before kicking their season off to defend their title.

It will be a good test for Arsenal, against a style of football which they prefer, with more space afforded to the Gunners, it will be rematch against between two improved sides since the wonderful matches in the Champions League in 2006.

New Guard in for Old Lady

The Old Lady of Turin is proving once more to have her effect on Ranieri’s squad, with a number of hugely talented youngsters either being sold or having to haggle for better contracts despite their great talent, which propelled the side from Serie B to a Champions League spot on their return to Serie A.

It seemed the Calciopoli scandal would have little effect on the football side of things, as Juve continued their tradition of success, even after the departure of several internationals. Yet such achievements and pressure on young shoulders, doesn’t seem to have had any effect on the management, who are buying older, more experienced players instead.

Palladino, who Arsenal were once reported to have an interest in, has moved to Genoa on a co-ownership deal, while Nocerino has moved to Palermo, Rey Volpato has signed for Bari. Giovinco returns from Empoli, having shined on loan, the little trequartista, is currently in contract negotiations, with Arsenal once more reportedly standing by. Others such as De Ceglie and Marchisio are also fighting for their places in the new-look squad. Juventus would be foolish to let these starlets leave as they have let others do so. Unfortunately, these youngsters will be at the Olympics in Beijing, and so the Emirates will not be able to witness their talents.

Albin Ekdal, the 19 year old Swedish playmaker has been impressive since signing from the Swedish side Brommapojkarna (tongue-twister or what?) this summer. It is hoped he will add creativity to the midfield with signings such as Tiago Mendes and Sergio Almiron not being the answer. The latter is being mooted for a move to either River Plate or Napoli, having been unable to make the step up since his move from Empoli. Alberto Aquilani of Roma has been named as a possible transfer target, as Ranieri shapes his squad for a title challenge next year as Serie A looks to have four title competitors for the first time in three years.

Like Real and Arsenal, central midfield is their problem area, with Sissoko and Poulsen both defensive minded players. The latter, famous for his tough approach to the game and spats with Totti and Kaka, was met with a poor reception, as the Juve fans protested against his signing, unaware of his technical qualities, exhibited in the 30 yard lofted pass to Iaquinta for his goal against Inter in the TIM Cup. The Danish battler will prove a tough test for any opponent and will look to win over fans with an impressive pre-season alongside Sissoko, the former Liverpool midfielder, who is one of several players dubbed the ‘new Vieira’. The Italians will have a tactical, structured style on display, one that arsenal will face next year as they look to break teams down with different options.

Yet while the future of the young, Italian talents are looking bleak, Juventus has strengthened the best strike-force in Italy, with the addition of the Brazilian Amauri for a lofty £18m fee, who is one of the rare battering-ram type forward in the game today, with Adebayor, Drogba and Adriano some of the few attackers in this mould. The Brazilian from Sicily has begun his pre-season with the Old Lady in some style netting five goals against amateurs Mezzocorona, in a 7-1 win, showing his full array of skills in an exhibition of varied finishing, including a back-heel for his fifth.

The Bianconeri defeated Dortmund 3-1 with ease despite being behind in their preparations in comparison to the German side, with Iaquinta (2) and Amauri scoring. And we haven’t even mentioned Trezeguet and Del Piero, who together netted 41 goals in Serie A. The TIM Cup saw Juve face last years Emirates Cup entrants Inter and a rejuvenated Milan, with Iaquinta defeating an anxious Inter, who had new signings Muntari and Mancini debut for the side but not perform well. They only lost to Milan on penalties after a 2-2 draw, and this highlights the strength of the side with two different XIs taking to the field in two 45 minute games.

In defence, Juventus has Giorgio Chiellini, one of few players from Italy’s Euro 2008 squad to come out with any credit, having come in after the disastrous partnership of Barzagli and Materazzi collapsed against Holland. Ironically, he was the man whose tackle put Cannavaro out of the tournament, but several tackles, interventions and clearances from the Juventino’s boots begged the question as to how the Azzurri ever did without him. The converted left-back is now partnered by Mellberg, formerly of Aston Villa, in what looks to be potentially a tough defensive partnership to break down.

And who can forget the £32m man defending the net for Juve in Gianluigi Buffon. The classy stopper became a national hero in 2006, and reaffirmed his class with a fine stop from Adrian Mutu, the Fiorentina striker, in their second Group game against Romania. Smart signings such as Grygera from Ajax have added depth to the side but not all signings have worked out well. Jorge Andrade has been desperately unlucky in fracturing his knee-cap, is out for a second consecutive season.

Juventus will be a completely different proposition from the side dismantled with ease in March 2006, with younger, more agile players replacing the old guard. The match between the two sides is likely to feature younger players and the odd veteran in Juve’s case, with the first-teamers saved for the Sunday. Either way it looks very exciting.

A Familiar Face Returns

The big man returns to the ground of the side against whom he had little to no success (unless you can call a draw a success for Spurs). Yes, Martin Jol is back, but only to face Real and Juve as Arsenal will too. He was an entertaining manager, with his first game that memorable 5-4 win at White Hart Lane, but as any fan would say, his dismissal from Tottenham was handled with a lack of class attributed to Daniel Levy, who reportedly informed him of the news before the game against Getafe which he lost 2-1.

In leaving Tottenham, he gained a certain amount of credibility by taking Hamburg to 4th spot in the Bundesliga, after the previous coach Thomas Doll was sacked after a 1-1 home draw in February 2007 with Energie Cottbus left Hamburg bottom of the Bundesliga table and obviously proved to be the last straw for the club’s board. He inherited a talented side and managed to revive their fortunes, with the main aim probably being a title challenge and Champions League football. His reception will be interesting, that is for certain.

There are a number of well-known players in the side, with many reputations enhanced after Euro 2008. Ivica Olic, the tireless Croatian forward, is supported by the classy Van Der Vaart, who is wanted by Madrid right away, but Hamburg rejected the bid, with Didi Beiersdorfer, the Sporting Director, claiming the offer was ‘absolutely ridiculous’. Others include Joris Mathijsen, the centre-back, who is partnered by the talented but injury prone Vincent Kompany.

The Belgium stopper is what many claim to be the tall commanding centre-back who is needed to stop certain types of goals, namely direct aerial balls, but personally, Cristian Zapata of Udinese is the answer, with Kompany being hyped up by fans of the ‘Football Manager’ series, when it is likely he could be a Younnes Kaboul style mistake, but these are concerns that are probably exaggerated.

Jol, who still has a permanent residence in London, will move to Hamburg this summer. His side have started preparations for the new season well, defeating Manchester City 1-0 at the HSH Nordbank Arena, with Mark Hughes side only recently beginning their pre-season. New signing Jonathan Pitroipa, a left midfielder, scored the only goal of the game in the sweltering heat.

It is easy to argue that Hamburg are the weakest of the four sides, but with practically two different sides taking to the pitch on both days, nothing is certain. The games will be key in preparation for all the teams and goals are likely to come. After this two day event, Arsenal will look to further challenges against sides of European pedigree in Ajax and Sevilla, with one more signing set to be made, and hopefully it is a partner for Fabregas in central midfield.

All that’s left to be said for this coming weekend is: Come on Arsenal!

New Generation Proves Wenger’s English Policy

2008-08-08T10:21:00.001-07:00

One thing the typical spectator will have noticed when watching Arsenal this pre-season is the increased participation of the club’s young English players in first team activities.

A new generation of players, including Jay Simpson (the League One player of the year), Gavin Hoyte, Henri Lansbury, Mark Randall and the wonderful Jack Wilshere have given Arsenal fans even more optimism (well, the optimism one can have bar a defensive midfielder and a central defender) preceding the start of the new season as they slot in beside attacking midfielders Ramsey, Nasri and Bischoff.

Many onlookers have criticised Arsenal’s foreign youth policy but it is hard to argue against it when you see Rafael Van Der Vaart signing for Real Madrid for £10.3m and a footballer who has half the talent in David Bentley signing for Spurs for roughly £17m. In the modern game, Arsene Wenger is right to feel a responsibility for the finances of the club, buying cheap, selling for a profit.

The other option would be to find a billionaire and run the club as a business making loss after loss as Chelsea have done. Peter Kenyon, the Chief Executive has spent his time voicing his concern over ‘gimmick’ players rather than attempt to balance the books for the West London club.

The News Of The World report that the club had to buy cheap and sell one big name each year caused widespread panic, but the patchwork of quotes attributed to Wenger were actually of the Frenchman speaking of the Olympic Lyonnais model and their finances. Yet starting a sentence with ‘The club…’ opened an avenue for the tabloids to report the quote in an incorrect context. And adding actual figures next to this inaccurate quote actually created controversy among Arsenal fans and an unneeded panic spiral.

Yet, while players fail to make the grade at Arsenal, they forge successful careers due to the youth training they receive at London Colney. Players including the likes of Steve Sidwell, James Harper, Fabrice Muamba, Jermaine Pennant, David Bentley, Matthew Connelly, Ashley Cole, Matthew Upson, Stuart Taylor, Jerome Thomas and countless others have successful careers as well in the top two divisions of this country. The club do well from these sales, with sell-on clauses bringing home a tidy sum, with a reported 40% of Bentley’s fee landing in the Arsenal bank account.

Yet it is this new generation that has mouths watering, with Wenger not wanting to limit the development of this new generation. This is evident through handing the 16 year old Jack Wilshere Gilberto’s no.19 shirt as he looks to make an impact on Arsenal’s season. The fleet-footed winger has been compared to many great players; with the hyperbolic claiming he is similar in style to Liam Brady, now Arsenal’s Academy Director, and Barcelona’s Lionel Messi.

Yet the closest comparison seems to be Joe Cole, who can be seen as the most free of the English midfielders in terms of creativity and style. Former Gunner Stewart Robson has even suggested his footballing intelligence has already surpassed Theo Walcott, while his trademark (cut in from the right and play a reverse pass to the striker) has shown his ability to appreciate the weight of the pass and his ball manipulation.

Any fears over his physique were dispelled by his energetic display in the Emirates Cup, as he made a wonderful cameo, embarrassing Javi Garcia, the converted Real Madrid centre-back, whilst also taking on Michel Salgado in a tussle. For an attacking player, his execution of the tackle is very clean and he is infective in his style, urging on his team-mates through his mature actions on the pitch. Do not be surprised if this youngster makes waves in the Carling Cup.

Arsene Wenger has been right in his attempts to shield the schoolboy from publicity, but the impact of his appearances have weakened his manager’s attempts to respect his development in peace. The new generation will prove the doubters wrong. Alongside foreign imports, such as the brilliant Dutchman Nacer Barazite and Spaniard Fran Merida, the depth and quality of Arsenal’s squad will increase as the youth players develop and compete for places in the first XI.

Here are a few others to watch:

Henri Lansbury – The teenager has been likened to Steven Gerrard in his style of play, and is also quite versatile but unfortunate with injuries.

Mark Randall – Alongside Wilshere is the closest to breaking into the first team. He started games against Blackburn in the Carling Cup and Sunderland in the league. Is a classy passing midfielder.

Analysis: Gunning For No.1

2008-08-08T10:18:00.000-07:00

The Goalkeeper. Pull off a remarkable save…you are showered with praise. Make a howler… get cursed to the high heavens. It’s a love-hate relationship. Jens Lehmann should know.

The goalkeeper is perhaps the only player to be defeated in the aftermath of a victory, knowing that the conceded goal could have been prevented. Therefore mental strength is a key factor in playing perhaps the most important role on the pitch. Pundits usually say a great ’keeper can bring at least six points to the cause of occupying a strong league position. In the repercussion of committing errors, a strong mind can erase the mistake and start again.

For example having been dropped soon after the end of the unbeaten run, Lehmann managed to turn his disappointment into his drive to regain his starting place (that and the lure of becoming first choice keeper for hosts Germany in the 2006 World Cup). In his error-strewn 2007/08 campaign, the German had to overcome criticism from the off, in games against Fulham and Blackburn, and later against Croatia at the Euros. Yet he kept his head up and reached the final, despite claims that he didn’t have enough match practice.

Confidence in one’s own ability can spread throughout the whole backline, resulting in assured rearguard performances. Almunia only came in after Lehmann had poor performances but his instalment into the side did not result in the 3-0 win against Birmingham in December 2004, for the Spaniard was shaky and had little communication with his back four. Compare the Almunia of then to now and you’ll see a new man and a new player. More assured in his own ability, the former Osasuna man is a solid base for Arsenal to play their style of football.

While Lehmann had a great mental belief in his own ability, being the old head in a young defence, he did not exactly spread assurance throughout the side. This was evident in his paranoid acts during set-pieces, thrown off his game, through instances as simple as having the opposition put a man on him. In a similar manner, he berated his team-mates for losing the ball in key areas, or if they passed to the wrong option. An example of this was raging at Alex Hleb in a game at Charlton, where Van Persie scored a majestic double.

Organisation skills is another attribute in great goalkeepers, but this can also be worked on the training ground, with each outfield player knowing his role, be it positionally in open play or when defending set pieces. Speed is important in this quality, especially with the worth of set pieces and the ability to take quick free-kicks. Due to the high defensive line, Almunia and Lehmann before him have often been seen as an 11th outfield player, with both having to play of their line, and join the play when necessary, whether sweeping up, like Jan Jongbloed, from the 1974 Netherlands side, who would perform a similar role, or releasing early balls in a more direct route and shifting possession swiftly. The end result is greater possession, with a keeper who is able to add to the side in an attacking sense rather than just in terms of goalkeeping. In the few seasons before this, Almunia had no idea when to come off his line; the worst consequence of this was the 4-2 defeat by Manchester United and being lobbed by John O’Shea of all people. But time on the training ground with coach Gerry Peyton has allowed him to work on this and his general reading of the game.

Fabianski on the other hand has a bravery to go for high balls and one-on-ones, and this quick decision making aids the side in the defensive aspect. But often his quick distribution affects the attacks, with the opposition still high up in our own half, and thus they can close down well, the most destructive instance of this was the defeat to Tottenham in the Carling Cup, while the inexperienced defence didn’t help either. Hesitate as Lehmann did in the first game of last season, and it could result in goals for the opposition. Another example was lack of speed, when Viduka, then of Leeds, charged down a clearance into the net during the unbeaten season, though it didn’t matter then, as we triumphed with ease.

The erection of the defensive wall has now been breached meaning reflexes and reaction of the keeper is important as the ball is not seen until very late. This is trained on vigorously and although reflexes are natural, reaction time can be improved in training. For example, Lehmann made a number of belief defying saves in the last season at Highbury such as the double save from Raul in possibly the greatest ever European match at Highbury. This can be down to improving diet and working on the same moves continuously, whilst building the body up to an optimum, as Lehmann did, being the consummate professional that he is. And so even at this veteran stage in his career, he is still able to make saves that others in this same age group would not be able to attempt.

While one ages, positioning and experience replace reflexes and agility, but eccentrics such as Arsenal’s German goalkeeper are prone to the odd error. Perhaps match rituals affect the mood of the goalkeeper. Lehmann, a very serious character, while he is a leader on the pitch (not necessarily by leading through example as the Stamford Bridge pantomime with Drogba portrays), his relationship with his competition for the number one jersey is less than comfortable to put kindly. Gabor Kiraly wore long bottoms for each game and performed well until a convincing defeat at Chelsea, where he, to Crystal Palace’s horror, wore shorts (the effect of the bottoms wore off soon after and hence Palace were relegated) It is these small beliefs that can affect a player greatly.

And a mention to the reserve: Once this was Almunia, who had played the waiting game for a number of seasons, till the point where he ‘hoped’ for a red card, and naturally not an injury…as is the case now (or not as the cynics claim). The waiting game is difficult; especially as in most cases the substitute keeper comes on the field of play, without a proper warm up and in many cases, he is not mentally prepared as David James claimed in the 4-1 friendly defeat to Denmark a few years ago.

Now it is Fabianski and Vito Mannone, who both will challenge Almunia for the number one spot. The former, is much greater prospect, and will no doubt improve and take the jersey over the next few years, but his Italian rival has less of a chance. His loan spell at Barnsley was riddled with errors, and his decision making seems poor – see his game against Barnet, although it was just a friendly. He is highly rated at the club but hasn’t proven himself yet to have a shot in the fight for Almunia’s newly found spot. There won’t be a new arrival in goalkeeping, so it will be these players who will fight it out. And if these options are exhausted, there is still the brilliantly named Wojciech Szczesny, who has already had a taste of top-flight football having appeared for his former club Legia Warsaw when he was just 15, where he was 3rd choice behind Fabianski himself.

But for now, Almunia looks to be the best bet for this next season. Have faith in the Spaniard, he will repay it.

Match Report: Szombathelyi Haladas 1 Arsenal 1

2008-07-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

The wonderfully named Hungarian side met Arsenal in Hungary as the Gunners continued to build up fitness and continued their match preparations after making a short trip from their Austrian base. Arsene Wenger had no favourites as he picked those who impressed against Barnet, and those in need of match fitness.

An interesting line-up was chosen with the Hoyte brothers paired up at centre-back. But there was no doubt that the majority of Arsenal interest fell upon Carlos Vela, who finally made his debut after loan spells at Salamanca and Osasuna. The impressive Wilshere was handed a starting berth on the left and no doubt was looking to fast-track his route into the first team. Walcott was placed out wide as Vela partnered Bendtner up front. On the bench, the rugged Simpson, who had a key role in the turnaround against Barnet, bagging a goal and an assist, was rewarded with a place on the bench.

Bendtner won the ball on the left and crossed for Vela, who failed to control but the ball fell to Denilson, who shot against the bar. The Dane was involved in the early stages but seemed to have a heavy touch and a lack of mobility as he eased himself into match sharpness. Vela then played in Walcott, who failed to execute his shot as another chance went. Clinical finishing is a must for next season as the usual chances were created.

Denilson, who acknowledged that 2008/09 will be a key one for him, started confidently alongside Ramsey, who seemed to have slotted in with great ease, looking like he had been at the club for years. The Welshman was set up by his Brazilian partner to shot from distance, but his effort was blocked and landed for a corner.

At the back, Gavin Hoyte seemed quite disturbed by any ball that was hopefully played in, completely opposite to the calm Sagna. The young defender grew into the game, making a key interception as the Haladas striker closed in. The number 17 Simon found space on the left flank as the ball ricocheted off Walcott. Kenesei then played in the same man but Sagna read the danger and covered the inexperienced Hoyte brothers.

The former Auxerre man will be hugely important in this upcoming season, with Justin Hoyte not looking positionally sound as a central defender or as a full-back. The older brother lost Kenesei who ran in and lifted the ball over Almunia to give the Hungarians the lead. Gavin Hoyte tried to cover and seemed to hook the ball off the line but the referee gave it in front of the 13,000 sell-out crowd at the Haladas VSE Stadium. Like at Underhill, Arsenal were behind once more. It was this kind of mistake that lost Arsenal points in the run-in last year and they must improve on this kind of direct ball if they are to challenge once more.

In a bid to make amends for his error, Justin Hoyte went up field and found himself a few yards from the net but sliced his kick from the corner in a very poor effort. Clichy, once more captaining the side, showed great energy in supporting the attacks but his end product was lacking. A early cross reached only the arms of the goalkeeper, while when he was played in by Bendtner, he shot into the side netting, when squaring for a team-mate could have resulted in a equalizer. Alumnia was forced into a fine save, as the defenders in front of him were lax in their concentration, allowing a dangerous cross in.

The Spanish stopper blocked the effort from the opposition striker as Haladas got more into the game. Wilshere hit a volley over from the left side of the box in a competitive tempo from the hosts. But the Gunners weren’t behind for long as Bendtner controlled a difficult long ball and played in Walcott with a fine pass to finish with aplomb, as the ball rolled in off the post. Bendtner then suffered a knock as the first half ended in an intriguing contest. Randall, Traore, Lansbury, Almunia came on for Vela, Ramsey, Hoyte and Mannone at the start of the second half, as several changes disrupted the flow of the game, as it became more cage in the opening exchanges of the second 45 minutes.

Randall, who had a goal wrongly disallowed versus Sunderland, on the final day of the season, had an early effort in the second half blaze just over the bar. The Hungarians, dressed in white shirts and black shorts, were still threatening to break the deadlock once more but when the chance came, it was Traore, who covered his centre-back and removed the ball from danger. But the youngsters were by no means being overrun as a curled shot from Lansbury was tipped over by Rozsa, who seemed as eccentric as former Szombathelyi Haladas keeper Gabor Kiraly.

Soon after the 16 year old Jack Wilshere shaped to shoot but crossed for Hoyte who failed to connect. The vision shown by the rookie at such a young age was encouraging. He certainly has great footballing intelligence, with Arsenal TV analyser Stewart Robson even suggesting he has better vision than Walcott currently. Nicklas Bendtner, much more impressive than against Barnet, made a driving run past a number of players. He played in Theo whose shot was blocked. The Dane seemed to be a slow starter who needs games to get into his stride, unlike Clichy and Sagna, who appear to have reached a high level in just 135 minutes of matches.

Soon after Jay Simpson, Francis Coquelin came on for Wilshere and Bendtner as the side found a whole new look. The new French defensive midfielder showed his physical prowess by closing down quickly, as he tried to set a higher tempo by pressing higher up the pitch, a mantra echoed by Perry Groves in commentary. Randall too, often playing second fiddle to Merida in the reserves last season, was playing in a attacking role and tried to dictate play, with many probing passes and a few shots, both of which were off target.

Peter Toth was causing Hoyte and Lansbury problems down the Arsenal right flank, with driving runs from deep buying his team space and even a chance to nick the win. The physical Hungarians were worthy of a point as they battled harder than a young Arsenal side, made up predominantly of reserves. Coquelin was closing down impressively and won the ball for Simpson to dribble and win a free kick, which Clichy whipped wide. Sagna showed why he is the best right-back in England, as he was alert to the danger after Clichy slipped, the man with the braided hair ran across to cover the cross, whilst also showing his versatility, by playing at centre-back.

Henri Lansbury then made a run down the right, beating one man and he went to ground but was denied a penalty after a strong, but fair challenge from his Hungarian marker. Coquelin made a driving run and pulled back for Simpson to shoot but his effort was blocked, as was Walcott’s follow up. The game became more stretched towards the end as both sides went for the win. Theo Walcott made a fine turn away from his man and set up Traore for the cross but the ball was met by no-one as the game ended at 1-1. This game was a good physical work-out and contest for the younger players. Both the first and second half sides had decent performances which can be seen as general improvements on the first game at Barnet.

Next up is a game against a Burgenland XI, followed by a big test against Stuttgart in their new stadium. As captain Clichy stated in a post match interview, ‘the main objective is fitness’, with integration of new signings also an aim for Arsenal. It was good to see a number of the younger players and obviously Carlos Vela’s debut. There are six days until the next game, and one should expect to see the first team then.

The Curse Of Pele...?

2008-07-11T13:06:00.000-07:00

Edison Arantes do Nascimento is widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, with the European view shaped by his amazing performances at the greatest stage of all: the World Cup finals, and not his club form, which may be dismissed by claiming the level of competition was low in comparison to Europe, but his side was run extremely close each year by Sao Paolo, Portuguesa and especially Palmeiras. In terms of the physical element, Santos played 31 times in 1958 between 16th July and 1st November, a run of games involving almost three games every week.

The legend of the man who scored over a thousand goals has often cast aside players who were equally brilliant or efficient in their end product. Players such as Alberto Spencer or Garrincha, who perished a genius troubled by alcoholism, all fell into the shadow of the idea that was Pele. The former outscored Pele in the Copa Liberadores, while the latter was the star of the 1962 World Cup impressing all with his outstanding dribbling ability. Brazil never lost when the man dubbed the ‘Angel with bent legs’ and Pele were in the same line-up. His myth has become so overwhelming that fans just acknowledge his position as the best ever rather than make a decision based on any footage, meaning that earlier genius such as Di Stefano, Josef Bican and others such as Cruyff and Beckenbauer were never held in such esteem either despite their ability and the size of their trophy cabinet.

Of course, the modern game is more fitness based and less on technique, but there were very rugged defenders not nicknamed ‘Tiny’ in those days, who were fighting for a living in each game unlike today, where a young player can earn £10,000 a week. Pele now earns £18 million annually, based on his image and promotion of various products such as Viagra and Nokia. The great man sadly never moved to Europe, as he was deemed a ‘national treasure’ as Eusebio also was but has had a trail of ‘new Peles’ attempt to follow his exploits. Rarely have many of these players had a similar impact but as Brazilians move to Europe from an ever-younger age any action is strongly examined by the seemingly omnipresent eye of the media, leading to a number of players seen as the ‘second coming’. Unfortunately many of these footballers are more like Matrix Revolutions than the Godfather II.

Here we profile some of those who have tried to meet the (half the) achievements of the phenomenon or have been called the new Pele by the media, even if the comparison is not warranted.

Not as media friendly (not by a long shot) as the legend but Romario became the second man to reach a thousand goals, with a number of controversial goals in matches that weren’t official, like the FIFA joint player of the century (not Maradona, if you’re wondering). He won the 1994 World Cup scoring 5 goals, with his explosive style bringing back fine memories. Fond of caricatures (on the toilets of his nightclub) of those who he has fallen out, he has had arch-enemy Edmundo and Brazil coaching legend Mario Zagallo (after being left out of the 1998 World Cup squad) drawn on. Surprisingly Zagallo failed to see the funny side and sued the temperamental striker.

When one thinks of Rivaldo, they see two sides: the con-artist and the magician. The man who collapsed in a heap holding his face in agony, as the ball was thrown at his chest against Turkey in 2002 is not the Rivaldo we’ve come to expect. It is the man who scores free-kicks with the falling leaf technique, and the one who scored that master-class of a hat-trick against Valencia once upon a time, with the famous overhead kick the pick of the lot. He was one of Barcelona’s best players in recent years, standing out as Catalonia had an influx of Dutchmen.

‘El Phenomeno’ had probably the most chance of becoming a modern day legend. The teenage Ronaldo had a stunning goal-scoring record in Holland with PSV and in Spain with Barca. 54 goals in 58 games for PSV and 47 in 49 games for the Catalan Giants, he was surely about to reach the pinnacle of the world’s greatest sport. Then came that infamous night in Paris (1998). A ‘zombie-like’ Ronaldo took to the pitch having reportedly suffered a fit of some sort in the hours leading up to the match. Since then thousands of conspiracy theories have been formed as to why he took to the pitch despite not being fit to play, such as a clause in his boot deal with Nike.

Then came the injuries in 1999 and 2000, whilst playing for Inter. The rebirth of the phenomenon came in Japan/Korea in 2002, where his goals sent a Brazil side to their fifth title. Another inflated transfer fee took him to Madrid, where he managed over a 100 goals in all competitions along with enduring jibes such as ‘el Gordo’. Even Pele himself got in on the act, to which Ronaldo retaliated calling the Brazil legend a ‘two-bob opportunist’. The descent continued as he moved to Milan, where having scored 7 goals in 14 games, as things began to look up, he suffered another cruciate ligament injury. Then came the mishap with three transvestites and the Brazilian Legend is now a free agent as his contract with AC Milan ended this summer. A seemingly unfortunate end to a man who could have emulated Pele himself.

And finally we come to Robinho, the then 15 year old, ‘a little black boy, very thin and skilful’ who Pele likened himself to. Santos had gone 18 years without winning a trophy, and Robinho, of the same age, came to the fore, in a side full of young Brazilian talent, including Elano, Diego and Alex, they brought silverware back where it belonged. His initial impressions for both Santos and Real have been mouthwatering. A 25 minute cameo against Cadiz had the Spanish press placing Robinho on a pedestal and kneeling before him. But the change in managers at Real affected the youngster as did the new country and initial separation from his family.

The kidnapping of his mother was a key reason of his decision to move abroad with his family. After a 5-0 thrashing of Ecuador in the South American Qualifiers in the Autumn of 2007, the young striker went to a nightclub with his team-mates to celebrate their success. The night out was covered by the local media, Robinho arrived late for Real’s next training session and was left out for the defeat at Espanyol. Despite the controversy, the Brazilian wizard scored twice and got an assist in a scintillating performance against Olympiakos. It was to be the turning point in his career. He has matured and started to fulfil the potential that could propel him to the very top. Having scored 15 from the wing last season, he must add a consistency to his game if he is to reach the top.

Best Of The Rest:

Diego of Werder Bremen was dubbed ‘White Pele’ after his stunning performances for Santos. Tostao claims he organizes the play better than Zico, while others have made the comparison to Deco, due to his slight physique and running style.

Anderson was known as ‘Little Pele’ on the streets as a child playing football. The tenacious midfielder was seen as a natural playmaker, but has seen his position change to a rugged all-action midfielder who only lacks goals from his game

Such was the hype around Alexandre Pato that the Milanese faithful were seeing him as the saviour to their faltering league campaign. No pressure on his 18 year old shoulders then, eh? ‘The Duck’ took it all into his stride and finished his first six months in the side with 9 goals, with more to come.

It is typical of the world press and their obsession to pigeonhole new players as replicas of more established footballers but a new precedent was set when 9 year old Jean Carlos Chera was seen as the second coming of Pele. Interest from Manchester United has been spoken of, but such attention on such young shoulders has had an adverse effect before – Freddy Adu being the obvious example.

Marta Vieira da Silva has 47 goals in 45 games for Brazil and this young star is only 22 years old. Who you ask, well this young striker is the best female footballer in the world and has even been called ‘Pele in skirts’. And when you have your own documentary Marta - Pelés kusin" ("Marta, cousin of Pelé"), especially so early in your career, you must be something special. And Marta certainly is. She has also had 68,000 spectators rise to a standing ovation in the Maracana Stadium. Not many others her age have done that.

The most recognisable face in the world alongside the boxer Muhammad Ali, fittingly, his autobiography read ‘Even people who don’t know football know Pele’. And in this modern world, where we are obsessed with comparisons to the past, we should remember each player is his own man. Pele is Pele and others will always have to suffer the burden of his name (a nickname which incidentally, he hated as a kid).

Is Huntelaar Really The Answer?

2008-07-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

We’ve gathered that he is currently one of the most prolific players in Europe, but is this Dutch striker really the ideal replacement to the seemingly Milan-bound Adebayor? He is a typical poacher, who began at De Graafschap and has worked his way around a number of Dutch clubs before signing for Ajax from Heerenveen in what was a Dutch transfer record at the time (one broken recently by another deal between the two clubs as Miralem Sulejmani arrived in Amsterdam for over 16 million euros).

The stats show his ability in one of Europe’s smaller leagues with the poacher netting 36 goals in the last two seasons. But as we’ve all come to find out, statistics are misleading with the quality of the opposition not taken into account. This is clear as Mateja Kezman actually outscored Ruud Van Nistlerooy in Holland, but upon arriving in the Premiership, we realised who had the talent and adaptability. The elder of the two scores goals everywhere he’s played: Holland, England and now Spain with Real Madrid, where he seamlessly fitted into the set-up, scoring the goals that have lead to two title triumphs after four trophyless years.

While Huntelaar is dubbed ‘the new Van Nistlerooy’, his style is much more restricted to pure finishing and finding space. In fact, he is much closer in his style of play to Inzaghi of Milan than to the Real Madrid striker. There is a common misconception that Van Nistlerooy is only a finisher, and despite his differences with Arsenal players, there was always an admiration for the Dutchman. From the perspective of the fan, even though Henry outshone him on many occasions in the scoring charts, we knew of his danger and prowess around the box. He brings players into the game, can hold up the ball and has the vision for the pass. This was evident in his wonderful displays for Holland in the group stages before their customary failure. Despite failing to score, the game against France confirmed what most doubted of the former Manchester United attacker. He was the focal point of the Dutch counter-attacks as the more mobile players supported him in attack and was lively throughout the games he played.

In comparison, Huntelaar appears to have the physique to play in this league, having bulked up over the past few years. He doesn’t have the pace that is necessary in behind to give different options to our midfield. The Milan game at home demonstrated the number of times Fabregas released Adebayor who tormented the aging Milan defence with his pace (the sheer number of times that we have tried this move has caused Adebayor’s off-side stats to rise enormously), this reported target probably couldn’t provide this option. One could also argue that Huntelaar, had he been in place of Adebayor at the death, would have buried that header, rather than hit the bar, such is his clinical nature. He is basically a more limited version of Eduardo, who has playmaking skills, versatility and pace.

It may seem that this is a critical piece on the Ajax striker but his ability to find space and time to finish would make him a valuable asset to any side. There are potential positives, with the number of chances we create, our efficiency would increase with his prowess in front of goal but would the chance actually come? His first touch is disappointing and his interplay with his team-mates seems to be limited but he certainly knows how to finish and this is predominantly what strikers are judged upon – well efficiency rather than goals, Adebayor scored 30 in all competitions but was still heavily criticised. Rather than prove his doubters wrong by playing another season and trying to better himself, he has decided to depart for ‘greener pastures’, which they won’t be.

The goal against Greece was typical of Huntelaar, finding space at the back post and tapping in, having shifted away from his marker. Dutch international central defender Barry Opdam said of Huntelaar, ‘He can easily move in between defense and our midfield, leaving most of us confused. He is smart. He can predict what his team mates do and what we will do in response. He also uses his body smartly. At the right time, before the cross or pass comes in, he’ll nudge you. That gives him those extra seconds or that extra half a yard. He has grown enormously, in particular physically’. It is this footballing intelligence and ability to lull his defender into a false sense of security that makes him so dangerous.

Klaas Jan Huntelaar is a quality striker but is too similar to what we already have and may not suit our style of play. I think Italy would suit his style of play in a more rigid and tactical game, as equally as I think it will restrict Adebayor’s potential.

There have been other names mentioned, such as Roque Santa Cruz, and while one could claim that he would fit right in due to his injury prone nature, his style of play, like Huntelaar is incompatible to ours. Adebayor seems to have been pigeonholed into the same bracket as Santa Cruz but the Togolese man’s game is far more expansive. Santa Cruz plays in a side, where the favoured pattern of play is to shift the ball wide and cross. The majority of his goals have been from aerial circumstances, much like Nicklas Bendtner this season.

For Bayern, his goals-to-games record was very poor, and it is easy to see that their game is closer to Arsenal’s style than Blackburn’s is. Former Blackburn boss Mark Hughes astutely saw Santa Cruz’s attributes and saw him fit in swiftly into a side that plays to his strengths. The type of chance created at Arsenal and the angles formed for the shot are different due to the way we play (i.e. less direct) and so he would probably be less effective in comparison to a roaming, mobile forward with physical presence, a ‘battering ram’ if you will. It is likely that if we sign a replacement, he will come from France, someone like Gomis (or at a huge stretch - Benzema) seems a realistic target.

One thing that is disappointing is the manner in which our resolve has seemingly dwindled away. This might not actually be the case, as Wenger may have already have found a replacement. The endless list of attacking midfielders being linked to us is worrying, especially with Invincible Gilberto (only Toure and Clichy will remain) set for a move to Greece or to surprisingly rejoin Dennis Bergkamp at Ajax, and with Flamini and Diarra gone, a new defensive midfielder is a priority. Despite all the striker talk and rumours of player departures, one thing is for sure. Denilson and Diaby will have to step up this upcoming season and fulfil their potential and repay the boss, the faith he has shown to them.

Update: According to Spanish tabloid Marca, Real Madrid have secured first option on Huntelaar. And 'according to Marca' means take this news with a huge amount of caution.

Euro 2008: Final Matchday Round Up

2008-07-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

Germany vs. Spain

Everything has to come to an end. Tonight, one of the most thrilling tournaments in football history will end, hopefully in the most enticing, dramatic fashion. There was an Arsenal presence on either side, with Cesc Fabregas supporting Torres in attack against his soon-to-be ex-team-mate Jens Lehmann, who will join Stuttgart on July 1st. Both must have been hoping for their first piece of silverware since the 2005 FA Cup.

Germany disposed of their fellow favourites Portugal with a pressing game and their use of the aerial ball and set pieces, with Klose and Ballack netting with headers. Joachim Low’s side also gave a reminder of their technical ability in Schweinsteiger’s opening goal, showing they have that intriguing quality, we English call ‘grit’ and the necessary technical ability. Moreover Michael Ballack was declared fit to start, a player who has been lavished with praise this summer, averaging 12 miles a game. The German captain is deceptive with his movement on the pitch, especially when viewing the game on television. One hopes he can complete the 90 minutes on a stage with is fitting of his talents, having been suspended for the 2002 World Cup final.

For their efficient style of play, with the needed ball always played accurately and always finished with aplomb, their defensive play has little to be admired, with the fear that Mertesacker and Metzelder likely to troubled by the pace and industry of Torres always in the back of the German mind. Or will they? The psychology of major games is a huge factor, with the white shirts so successful in major tournaments, last triumphing in 1996 thanks to Oliver Bierhoff, now the team manager of the national side. Despite their lack of progress in Euro 2000 and 2004, it is a testament, partly to their history and predominantly their qualifying campaign and their 2006 showing, as to their pre-tournament backing. Spain, who last reached a final in Euro 1984 and lost 2-0 against Platini’s france, and last triumphed in 1964, in a side inspired by Luis Suarez, may have felt under greater pressure to make history.

Against them, the Spanish side were shorn of David Villa, the current top scorer with 4 goals, but Fabregas was brought in to influence the attacking play alongside Catalan duo Xavi and Iniesta. The size of the Spanish team was a concern despite their technique, as Xavi claimed of his fellow midfielders: ‘Passing is in our DNA’, with the short midfield of Portugal overcome by the Germans in a physical contest. Spain have a much more varied approach to their neighbours and this intriguing contest between two differing styles appeared to make for a fitting end to this enthralling three weeks.

Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos has often been compared to the legendary Paolo Maldini but this comparison looks false especially on the basis of his positional play throughout the tournament and his defensive assurance with a poor back-pass to Puyol intercepted by Klose, who overran the ball as he raced into the box. The Germans had more of the ball and pressed hard as they made the more impressive start, with Ballack beating Puyol to the ball and flashing a cross in, which reached no-one. But for all their industry it was Spain, who created the first chance, as Xavi cut open the German defence with a slide-rule pass inside Friedrich, who was beaten by Iniesta as he cut in. The Barcelona playmaker drove the ball into the box and it almost hit the net, deflecting off Metzelder. Lehmann, who has been criticised for error-prone displays throughout the tournament, proved that age is no barrier, with a stunning reaction save to keep the score at 0-0. Aragones’ side grew into the match, using the running of Torres down the channels to create space in the German defence allowing time for the midfield runners to support him in attack. Sergio Ramos crossed at the far post over the head of the giant Mertesacker for Torres, who headed against the post with Lehmann beaten. Fortunately for Low’s side, the rebound evaded any red shirts. Germany countered as Ballack’s effort was blocked in the box by Ramos. Torres made runs from early passes as Spain looked to bypass the German midfield, but on both occasions he was denied by well-timed sliding challenges from Mertesacker.

The Liverpool man, overshadowed by the clinical nature of David Villa, continued to torment the German defence, as he ran onto a fine pass from the ‘quarter-back’ Xavi, and outmuscled Lahm to finish with aplomb over Lehmann’s dive as the net rippled. The Red half of the Ernst Happel Stadium shook the stands with a flare going off and covering a part of the stadium in a mist. They would have been rejoicing once more, as Iniesta clipped a cross to Silva at the far post, but he sliced his volleyed effort high and wide. Germany had a few set-pieces, which we unsuccessful as they attempted to equalize, but the aerial threat of Ballack was not present as he had to be attended to after a cut by his eye. Spain closed down any German attack and countered in numbers with Xavi playing in Iniesta on the left flank, but he could not find the space to cut the ball back to Torres.

The second half began with Marcel Jansen, disappointing in his defensive game in the group stages, but adventurous in supporting the attack, replacing Lahm as Low attempted to perhaps pin back Sergio Ramos, who was supporting the Spanish attack. A Spanish corner reached David Silva at the far post. The Valencia wideman had time to control and shoot and his shot was almost turned in by Ramos. Spain almost doubled their lead with a move involving the same players as Xavi played in Torres once more, but this time Lehmann gathered. Soon after, the Real Madrid full-back stormed forward and lashed in a cross across the goal, but it was Germany who began to take the initiative. Jansen passed to Schweinsteiger in the centre, who laid the ball off for Ballack to shoot into the side netting.

Aragones, in his last game as Spainish coach, showed once more that he was not afraid to take off the big players, as he has done with Torres in the past few games. He replaced Fabregas and Silva with Alonso and Cazorla respectively. Ramos then had a header tipped over by Lehmann at the back post, after horrible defending by Jansen playing on his fellow full-back. Iniesta had a chance from the resulting corner and after it was played short, he hammered a shot to the near post. A combination of Frings on the line and Lehmann denied the Barcelona man, who had another chance soon after. Cazorla fed the tricky attacker but his shot was straight at Lehmann and lacked pace.

Frings then curled a free-kick into the box, but Casillas punched well clearing any danger. The Real Madrid keeper was assured at any high ball, clearing any set-piece or cross with ease, showing why he is rated the best in the world. Xavi released Torres once more, who knocked the ball past Mertesacker, but overhit his touch, allowing Lehmann to gather in what was becoming a typical move for the Spanish. They continued their dominance as Xabi Alonso made a first time volleyed pass to his club team-mate Torres from a lofted ball but the striker couldn’t reach. Low brought on Gomez for Klose in his final throw of the dice but the Stuttgart attacker barely had a touch of the ball. Santi Cazorla of Villarreal crossed to the far post where Guiza stood. The 27-goal Mallorca man headed back across to Marcos Senna, who was inches away from connecting and making it 2-0. Xavi was involved in a late move, but rather than shoot the last man elected to play in Xabi Alonso, who couldn’t reach the ball. The four minutes of stoppage time ended as Roberto Rosetti blew for the final whistle in a score-line that didn’t reflect the Spanish dominance. Iker Casillas held aloft the Henri Delauney trophy as the fireworks began and the champagne rolled.

It was fitting that a side that adopted an attacking philosophy came out victorious in a tournament that promoted attacking football that was aesthetically pleasing. The goals to games ratio increased from 2.30 in the 2006 World Cup to 2.53 in Euro 2008 showing a clear indication of the forward-minded mature of the majority of the 16 sides that began the tournament on June 7th. The organisation by the host nations Austria and Switzerland was exceptional and only added to the viewing experience of the tournament. They last won this tournament 44 years ago, but that elusive World Cup still awaits their talents. We should offer commiserations to Michael Ballack, after an agonizing season, in which he lost three trophies, similar to the 2001/02 season, in which his side was beaten on three fronts, while Germany lost against Brazil in the final. An exceptional player, if not one of the most unlucky.

Aragones celebrates his 70th birthday with this deserved triumph, having been heavily criticised for his decisions throughout his four year reign, such as dropping Real Madrid talisman Raul, but now he is likely to be afforded the freedom of the country after ending so many years of hurt and under-achievement. Finally, our own Cesc, ending his club season on a low, should be very optimistic and on a mental high note come the new season. The Arsenal maestro gave an eloquent interview to the BBC revealing his joy and acknowledgement to their success and its place in Spanish history. In two years time, one is likely to bet the media will compare England’s hopes in South Africa to Spain in 2008, with it being 44 years in 2010 since the 1966 triumph.

A final word goes out to John Motson, who bowed out from live commentary on the BBC, after a long and illustrious career beginning in modest radio roots and ending on the biggest stage. But it was Spain’s day and Spain’s summer. Sport is by no means short in summer 2008, with the Olympics soon to begin and Wimbledon underway.

Germany 0 – 1 Spain

Euro 2008: Matchday Seventeen Round Up

2008-06-25T13:56:00.000-07:00

The Turks were reeling from injuries and suspensions that Fatih Terrim joked that he would have to play a reserve goalkeeper to make up the numbers – a point many media outlets took literally (N.B. Mr. Redknapp, this is correct usage of the word). Nihat, the explosive little striker was ruled out of the tournament with a thigh injury, but his replacement Semih Senturk looks to be a big game player scoring vital equalizers against co-hosts Switzerland and that last minute effort against the delightful Croatians. The Turkish side has a great belief but the number of set-backs may have weakened their psychological state. In contrast, complacency may have crept into the German side, as it did against Croatia, but following consultation with the senior players, coach Joachim Low changed to a 4-5-1 allowing Ballack to thrive in his favoured role.

Turkey may have been written off but as this wonderful tournament shows, nothing is certain. Germany started confidently as they passed the ball around in the Turkish half, as the red shirts couldn’t roam into the German half in the opening minutes. Topal and Zan seemed uncertain but it wasn’t important as Kazim, the naturalised Turk took an early shot, which was straight at Jens Lehmann. Soon after, the English-born youngster crossed in a ball that was poorly cleared by Lahm as Altintop, his Bayern Munich team-mate (several of the Turks ply their trade in Germany) stole in and shot but Lehmann blocked. The Turks had settled and continued their onslaught as they kept possession and worked the angles with Sabri, the right-back swinging the ball back to the Brazilian born Aurelio, who chipped a pass into the box, which fell by the by-line. The ball was laid back to Kazim, who rattled the bar with his fierce shot.

Terrim’s side was wonderful to watch with a stunning work ethic that dominated Germany, who missed the tempo-setting Torsten Frings, apparently still not fit to start having suffered a fractured rib. A simple cross was worked cleverly from the right flank and reached Kazim, whose shot looped up onto the bar. Boral, equally industrious in his running bundled the rebound through the legs of Lehmann, who seemed helpless, perhaps expecting a harder shot, but no doubt the press was rejoicing at the chance to knock down the controversial goalkeeper. Soon after Semih had his shot from the edge of the box block for a corner that Aurelio almost nodded into the net in a period of sheer dominance. But the stereotype of the Germans came through as they levelled with their first meaningful chance. Podolski crossed from the left to the near post, where Schweinsteiger added the deftest of touches to lift the ball into the net (after ghosting in from the right with a clever run), leaving the veteran Rustu helpless. Topal tried to block but couldn’t make up the ground.

Altintop was very influential in his preferred central role, as his overhit free-kick fooled Lehmann, who managed to stretch out an arm and palm the ball over for a corner. The Bayern playmaker then made a darting run as he continued to control the pace of Turkey’s game. At the other end, Hitzelsperger played in Podolski down the left flank, with Sabri, the full-back nowhere to be found. Klose ran at ‘break-neck’ speed to support him but his club team-mate, having not seen his run, elected to shoot. In another instance, he spread the play wide to Kazim, whose end product was for once lacking as he completely miscalculated his cross and whacked it into the stands. The former Brighton player won a free-kick after another tussle in what was becoming an intriguing battle with Lahm down the Turkish right flank. Lehmann, still of Arsenal until July 1st, made a punch from Boral’s fierce free-kick (from an acute angle), as he partially redeemed himself for his earlier error. Soon after, this highly eventful game took an ugly turn after a clash of heads between Rolfes and Akman, with the former bleeding from a nasty cut.

Friedrich then made a last-ditch, desperate poke at the ball as Altintop was played in after a clever give-and-go with the striker Semih as the static defence was once more exploited. The full-back was at fault like Lehmann for the opening goal as he failed to pick up his man Boral. The half ended with Joachim Low the more worried of the two coaches. He responded by taking a huge risk in bringing on Frings, who was still recovering from his rib injury but the difference was immediately evident as the Germans seemed to press harder. It seemed fine that an Austrian was taking charge of a semi-final but if he wasn’t good enough under the immense pressure, then why appoint him? He bottled a major decision as he denied Germany a penalty (or even a free-kick) as Sabri clattered into Lahm on the edge of the box. The referee tried to stop the boos by booking Semih for a challenge but the question as to why UEFA didn’t appoint the best referees must have surely risen in the minds of some of the fans and the coaches.

One disappointment was the BBC, as they still persisted with John Motson. The man so familiar with the sheepskin coat first mistook Boral for Topal and mentioning Kazim when Semih had the ball. The veteran man had problems distinguishing David Silva and Marcos Senna in the fourth quarter final so this issue was nothing new. A power failure, which affected all television outlets cut the picture showed the difference in the quality of commentating between 5live and BBC One, with Chris Waddle surpassing Mark Lawrenson in every aspect of being a summariser. It’s time to pass the mantle to another commentating team.

Germany were more prominent but the wing play of Turkey still caused immense problems for the opposition defence. Kazim made a wonderful turn from two defenders and appeared to have his shirt pulled by Lahm in the box, but the manner in which he fell meant the claim was waived away. On the other flank Boral ran onto a lofted pass and cut inside Friedrich, who was having a poor game like the rest of his defence. The Turkish winger then shot rather than pick a team-mate, with his effort collected by Lehmann, at the first time of asking. Just as when the game seemed find a new consistency in terms of television coverage, first we lost coverage and then Klose headed in, as Rustu ran out when there was no need) once more disturbing the experience of watching the match. What was encouraging is that the BBC seemed to stick with 5live coverage, which was much more impressive, especially as it included Alan Green commentating in a game with no Liverpool presence.

Turkey just don’t know when they’re beaten do they? Senturk proved his burgeoning reputation as a big game player by stealing in at the near post from Sabri’s cross as Lehmann waited to gather. Sabri was typical of Turkey, poor defensively, great in an attacking sense. The thick-skinned Stuttgart signing seemed most likely bear the brunt of any criticism in the morning papers, but Lahm who let Sabri in down his side atoned for his error in a fine move from the left flank and he swept home confidently from Hitzelsperger’s through ball, as Germany seemed to steal the win in an unconvincing performance. Kazim appeared to turn his knee when tracking Lahm’s run as Metin came on in the dying stages. His only contribution was to fire over a free-kick, their last chance as referee Massimo Busacca blew the final whistle.

As I previously wrote on a previous post, the semi-finals and the final will be the making of this tournament and so far it is adhering to the call, in this brilliant end to the first semi final. While Germany stumbled into the final, it is the brave losers that this tournament willl remember, at least for a while. The Dutch also delighted us, but what this tournament needs is a side playing fine, technical football to triumph. On current evidence, we need one of Spain and Russia to lift the Henri Delauney trophy. But knowing the Germans and their winning mentality, a fourth win is very, very likely.

Germany 3 – 2 Turkey FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Sixteen Round Up

2008-06-22T14:37:00.000-07:00

Spain vs. Italy

It had been well documented in the pre-match build up that Spain had failed to defeat Italy in a major tournament since the 1920 Olympics. Aragones’ side had defeated the Italians in a friendly in the build up to this tournament, but they must do it when it counts as Aragones is only one win away from being statistically the most successful Spanish manager in their history, with the win over Greece, his ninth in a row, a run not matched by the national side since 1927. The manager has been in the news recently for dismissing the absence of Gattuso, getting into an alleged row with Ramos for his off-the-pitch life style, and even getting riled up by a Spanish radio station, which was acting as an Italian one, causing the controversial coach to declare his side would win 4-0.

The Italians always come into form in the latter stages of the tournament, but the blow of Pirlo must have affected their preparation, allowing the promising Aquilani to come in. Aragones, 70 next month, played the side that started against Russia and Sweden. Iniesta dribbled with fine balance and drew in defenders as he reached the corner flag on the left flank, before crossing. The Italians cleared easily and broke with Grosso down their left, but David Villa made up the yards to slide in and win the ball. Toni had a huge physical and aerial advantage against Puyol and Marchena, winning a free-kick, which he failed to connect with as Casillas gathered. ‘La Furia Roja’ searched for angles for the telling ball as Silva played a one-two down the inside-left channel and his deflected shot looped up for Buffon to catch.

The Italians appeared to defend deep and deny Spain their greatest strength, pace in behind. Thus Xavi and his fellow midfielders had plenty of possession but no direction in their play as they patiently waited for any opening. Donadoni’s side soaked up any pressure and looked to break using the volatile Cassano and Perrotta as outlets to supporting Toni. Torres found space on the right flank but Ambrosini robbed him off the ball with a fine tackle. The Milan midfielder then appeared to catch Villa from behind inside the box, as Lyon’s Grosso cleared. Perrotta, who thrives off Totti’s supply for Roma, made a clever run unnoticed to meet Ambrosini’s cross but his effort was tame as Casillas grabbed his header.

Ramos, criticised for his positioning in conjunction with his centre-backs, and his poor judgement as regards when to bomb forward was caught on the ball as he tried to drive forward by Ambrosini, who swiftly crossed for Toni, but the effort was out of the Bayern man’s reach. Villa was then fouled at the other end and took the resulting free-kick, shooting low under the wall for Buffon to clutch gratefully, having seen it late. Valencia’s Silva found himself popping up on the right, before he cut in and shot; Buffon smothered his effort comfortably. His fellow wide midfielder Iniesta then blazed a shot over as the game threatened to increase its pace. It was likely to be more tactical than the three previous quarter finals.

As the first half came to a close, there were a number of good chances as Cassano created space on the wing and crossed accurately to Toni, whose header was blocked by Marchena. Soon after, Torres broke down the opposite end and cut in, fooling Zambrotta with a sharp turn but the Liverpool hitman’s shot was blocked. The rebound fell to Silva, who shifted inside and shot just past Buffon’s right hand post. The clever Spaniard was reminiscent of Rosicky, when fit (if you can remember that far back) when he cut inside and shaped to shoot. While Spain struggled against Sweden, Italy were even more of a challenge. Cassano and Aquilani tucked in with the holding central midfield duo of Ambrosini and De Rossi, to add numbers in their defensive effort.

Panucci’s clearance fell to Silva at the beginning of the second half, who turned but was brilliantly blocked by the imposing Chiellini of Juventus. Torres then chased the ball down the left flank and competed with Panucci for it. He shrugged off the Roma man and turned inside, but his attempt to cross for Villa, free at the far post, was blocked by the first man. As Spain pressed, a Xavi corner was played back to Marchena, who blazed over as he attempted to imitate Denis Kolodin’s long range efforts against Holland. Both sides made changes as Camoranesi came on for Italy and Fabregas and Cazorla replaced Barcelona duo Iniesta and Xavi. De Rossi’s lofted ball into the box created panic as Casillas raced off his line to challenge Toni, who sparked a scramble in the box with his persistence, ending in Juventus winger Camoranesi shooting, with Casillas making a vital block on the line with his feet.

More space was apparent in the game as John Motson showed his age in frequently referring to Marcos Senna as Silva, a mistake non existent in the first half. This adds to the growing belief that Jonathon Pearce should replace him as the main commentator. Villa then took another free-kick that clipped the wall and landed on the roof of the net. Italy were beginning to create more chances as Zambrotta crossed for Toni, who beat two men but headed over. Fabregas began to influence the game positively, playing earlier passes, with one lofted pass out to Torres, who controlled well and forced a corner, and upping the tempo of Spain’s game. Senna then took over free-kick duties, temporarily at least, and his effort was punched away by Buffon, who was behind the goal-line. The Brazilian-born defensive midfielder had another strike, which squeezed under Buffon and touched the post, as the captain made an uncharacteristic error.

At the other end, substitute Di Natale, of Udinese, crossed to the back post, where Grosso was running in but Toni, unaware of the full-back’s run attempted an overhead kick and took away the chance for either to shoot. Aragones brought off Torres, who couldn’t reproduce his Liverpool form against the World Cup winners, for Dani Guiza, the 27 goal Mallorca striker. The big target man appeared to handle the ball as he controlled a cross from Villa, while his effort was blocked by the alert Buffon, although it didn’t matter as he was penalised. In the final minutes of injury time, a ball from the right flank by the brilliant Fabregas went over the Italian defence as Villa looked to pounce but his control let him down. Once more extra time beckoned.

Camoranesi made a fine dribble and attempted to play in Di Natale but his pass was blocked enabling Spain to start a counter-attack, as Villa crossed for Guiza to head back to Fabregas, whose first time effort was saved, as he popped up in the forward positions he frequently adopts for Arsenal. David Silva had a better attempt as he fired just wide from the rebound. Italy attacked as Marchena just knocked the ball away from Toni’s path, while Casillas tipped over Di Natale’s header for a corner. Luca Toni headed over at the near post with a clever attempt. David Villa slipped in the box but had the composure to back-heel the ball into Fabregas’ path, whilst still on the turf but Zambrotta eased the Arsenal maestro off the ball. The playmaker was then found offside as he continued to support the strikers, something Xavi failed to do, but his eventual meaningless effort was slapped aside by Buffon, who simply stuck out an arm, showed a lack of composure in front of goal on Cesc’s part.

Guiza was played down the right flank by a simple ball from the back, but the Mallorca striker dragged his shot wide, as he failed to look up with Villa supporting. In the second half of extra time, Silva played in Villa, whose first touch was poor, but his pace allowed him to atone for his original error and he shot at goal, forcing a corner as Buffon raced off his line. In the final minutes of extra-time the game became very stretched with Ramos having to play inside as Toni began to favour the space between the Real man and Puyol. The long haired full-back was aerially combative and sharp in the key moments. Cazorla of Villarreal broke down the left flank in the final minutes and his cross-shot went wide as Villa tried to connect, causing it to go to penalties. As the BBC came up with a wonderful statistic that Spain had lost three penalty shoot-outs on the 22nd of June (in 1986 against Belgium, 1996 vs. England, and in 2002 vs. South Korea). Now Spain came up against the most impressive keeper in Euro 2008.

Villa was the first to take the long walk to the spot and scored confidently, followed by Grosso, who curled it past Casillas’ right, the same corner Villa went for, as did Santi Cazorla. De Rossi, who scored in the World Cup final in Berlin, had his shot palmed away. Senna fired centrally, while Camoranesi confidently hit the ball into the top right-hand corner. Guiza, who replaced Torres, had his shot saved by Buffon. Di Natale couldn’t capitalise as Casillas guessed correctly once more. And it was up to Arsenal’s Cesc Fabregas to take the deciding kick. He sent the brilliant Buffon the wrong way confidently. I personally didn’t really see the playmaker as a penalty taker, but he sent the Spanish into the semi-finals. A re-match with Russia beckons as all the history and all trivia were proved, well, trivial.

Cesc deserved the glory with his contribution on the game, perhaps winning him a place against a much improved Russia, in a game which should provide an equal, but more balanced dose of entertainment to the viewers. It is the semi-finals and the finals which this tournament will be remembered on. Let us hope they are memorable indeed.

Spain 0 – 0 Italy FT (a.e.t) (Spain won 4-2 on penalties)

Euro 2008: Matchday Fifteen Round Up

2008-06-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

‘Hiddink against his homeland’ - That was how the press had billed it. Arsene Wenger claimed any advantage for the Russians would be a psychological impact on the Dutch players thinking he would have some sort of inside knowledge. Of course these were all theories. Holland were unchanged from the side that overcame the World Cup finalists, with Robben suffering a recurrence of a groin problem. Russia started with a 4-4-2, of course this was only a formation on paper, as it was with the Dutch, during the game, there were likely to be positional changes to create wonderful football. Fitttingly, it was a rematch of the Euro 88 final between the two nations, on the very day which Van Basten scored a stunning volley, in what is seen as the most break-taking goal in Euro history.

Early on Dirk Kuyt, who complemented the technical style of some of his fellow midfielders with sheer running and hard graft, headed over after Van Bronckhorst crossed from the left. His fellow full-back, equally impressive in his attacking power and drive, hit a free-kick after Arshavin was fouled on the edge of the area. It had Van Der Sar scrambling across and the European Cup winner pushed it away for a corner. The Russians looked a slick outfit, as Kolodin’s goal-bound drive was deflected wide. The white shirts attacked once more, finding Semshov on the right flank, whose cross was headed over by the enigmatic Pavlyuchenko, outrageous one minute, frustrating the next.

Holland tried to build from the back but the pressing of the Russians denied them the space afforded to them by the bigger sides. The set up of the game allowed Russia to play their typical counter-attacking style, while Holland were forced to play a possession style unsuited to their set-up. The Russians looked more defensively aware from their naïve display in their opening game against the Spanish. Aniukov made a poor defensive header and Van Nistlerooy headed back in towards Sneidjer, who shot with the outside of his foot to the far corner but Ignashevich came across to made a vital block to keep the scores level.

The Dutch got in behind by a long ball, so unlike the style typically associated to them, as Bouhalrouz won a corner, which was cleared to Engelaar who steered his shot wide. Soon afterwards, Kolodin was unfortunate to give away a free-kick on Van Nistlerooy. Sneidjer took it and both De Jong and the Real Madrid striker both missed it by a whisker. At the other end, Arshavin broke and cut in and forced Van Der Sar into a world class save, tipping it past the post. Soon after Denis Kolodin tested the Dutch captain with two vicious strikes from long range, the former forcing him to knock it over, the latter causing him to scramble across as it threatened to dip.

Boulahrouz then played in a pass to Van Nistlerooy, who turned his man, and despite almost slipping, he kept his composure to shoot across Akinfeev, who parried straight into the danger area, but the defence cleared as the Dutch were about to pounce. Kolodin, impressive as he pushed up for any chance of a pot-shot at goal, displayed his defensive flaws by poking the ball when under pressure straight to Van Der Vaart, who shot immediately, albeit straight at Akinfeev, who elected to punch as usual. The second half began as the industrious Kuyt was taken off for Arsenal’s Van Persie, who appeared to add mobility and attacking flair immediately as he drifted in to end a finely crafted Dutch move, but unfortunately sliced his volleyed effort from Van Nistlerooy’s flick.

Once more Van Der Vaart’s deliveries from set-pieces troubled the Russians, whose defensive frailties were evident on occasion despite a huge improvement since their opening game. On this occasion, De Jong ran around the back and failed to connect once more. Heitinga was then brought on for Boulahrouz, who ran off to rapturous applause after the tragic death of his daughter ealier in the week. Holland fell behind as their right flank was adapting, with Arshavin cutting in and then playing a reverse pass down the same flnak for Semak to cross. Pavlyuchenko connected with a first-time shot past Van Der Sar as the Russians extended their fine performance to goals.

It was this situation the Dutch had not found themselves in previously. This was the first occasion in which they were a goal behind. The question of character came to the fore, with Van Basten’s side against arguably a weaker team (based on reputation alone), who afforded them little space. Van Persie cut in from the right and blazed a shot over, while later he won a corner and headed wide under pressure from Zhirkov, with Akinfeev stranded. The Russians showed their fluid movement as Pavlyuchenko lifted the ball into Anuikov’s path, and as he controlled, the angle closed but he forced the keeper into sharp stop. Van Nistlerooy was fouled on the edge of the area, as Kolodin was booked, meaning he will be suspended from any potential semi-final involvement. Sneidjer looked to take the free-kick but it was Van Persie who blazed it over, as he struggled to make his frequent involvement count.

Holland weren’t able to get in behind Russia and had possession in areas far from Akinfeev’s net, and thus, they were reduced to shots from long- range, with Van Der Vaart having one such attempt straight at the 22 year old keeper. Russia continued to attack as Pavlyunchencko exploited Mathijsen’s error but his attempted lob was blocked by the brilliant Van Der Sar. The eastern European nation tried to walk the ball in, creating brilliant angles as Zhirkov’s final ball was taken off the target as the net gaped. Sneidjer continued to take shots from long range but they all fell wide or were blocked by the white shirts. Only five minutes remained when Pavlyuchenko was penalised for using his hand to control the ball. Sneidjer whipped a brilliant ball in to the far post to Real Madrid team-mate Van Nistlerooy, who nodded in for his 33rd international goal to equal with Johan Cruyff, arguably the greatest ever to play the beautiful game.

Zhirkov’s driven cross cleared off the goal-line by Ooijer, as Russia reminded their opponents of their clear attacking threat and intent. Lubos Michel appeared to send off (for a second booking) Kolodin for a challenge on the brilliant Sneidjer, but to his credit reversed the decision following consultation with the linesman, who was focussed for a vital decision, as extra time loomed. The tireless Sneidjer, who Real Madrid would be idiotic to sell (especially after he confirmed his desire to stay, just recently), burst past a defender and shot, as his team-mates failed to support his run, only to Akinfeev’s chest. Once more the former Ajax playmaker found his club team-mate after a sharp turn, but Van Nistlerooy aimed his shot over. Van Persie cut in and played a one-two with the prolific Real striker, but his weak shot was deflected by Ignashevich but Akinfeev gathered.

Pavlyuchenko cut in from the left flank and hit a fine right-foot shot at the near post that rattled the crossbar as the Russians showed their flair. The brilliant Arshavin, burst past his marker and cut back precisely for the substitute Torbinksy, who side-footed into Van Der Sar’s clutch. Kolodin smacked a free-kick just past the post as the game opened up with chances at both ends. The first half of extra-time ended as penalties loomed with the record of one success in five looming over the Oranje. Zhirkov beat Heitinga with ease and cut into the penalty area. He appeared to be felled but Lubos Michel ordered him to get up.

Arshavin dribbled with wonderful balance, constantly changing pace and unhinging Heitinga as he reached the by-line to cross. The ball stayed in play and bent over Van Der Sar to fall for Torbinsky, who tapped it into a open goal, having been booked earlier meaning he’d miss the semi-final. The world class Arshavin, who surely has increased his range of suitors from Everton and Newcastle to the likes of Arsenal and Bayern, turned in the box and slotted home through the legs of Van Der Sar at the near post, a disappointing end to a illustrious international career. The little maestro cared until the final minute, showing brilliant character as he fought for every ball. A quarter final in the Euros had always gone to penalties when it went into extra-time – until now that is. Hiddink’s ‘Russian Revolution’, (yes, get used to it, it’s a phrase you’ll be hearing for some time) deservedly put out Holland, who seemed strangely disjointed as Van Basten’s reign ended.

They couldn’t cope with another counter-attacking side, which played with the pressing reminiscent of their group stage games, and the off-the-ball running that was compatible with the vision of the more creative players. They may be defensively vulnerable, especially aerially, but their attacking play, with Anuikov and Zhrikov bombing down the flank, mobility in midfield and attack. They had the threat from long range, with Kolodin, while not so assured defensively, hit long range free-kicks, like Koeman, Witschge and De Boer in Dutch history. The Russians were giving reminders of Holland circa 1974 as they claimed revenge against their 1988 conquerors. Hiddink claimed that he would willingly become ‘traitor of the year’ for a Russian win, and with a £400,000 bonus for reaching the quarter finals, another healthy dose of roubles must have been added to his bank account.

Once more the Dutch choked when it mattered, the only comfort an Arsenal fan can take is the early return of Robin Van Persie. The ‘inferiority complex’ in Dutch football culture was further emphasised, as a side of great team spirit appeared to break down when their usual game could not be administered to the situation at hand. One would expect the Russians to give anyone a run for their money, but their aerial weakness could be exploited by the giant Luca Toni if the trend of Group Stage runners up proving victorious in the quarter finals, Spain could once more fall to the Azzurri as they have done for almost 100 years.

He has done it with South Korea, Austrailia and Holland. Now he has led Russia to the latter stages of a major international tournament. Whatever he has, it is frightening to think Chelsea could have signed him once upon a time.

Holland 1 – 3 Russia (a.e.t) FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Fourteen Round Up

2008-06-20T14:52:00.000-07:00

Croatia vs. Turkey

Turkey, a side who have only led for two minutes in the whole tournament, and won two matches came into the match with great confidence and a sense of belief that they could reach a first semi-final, a target Croatia were also looking at. Bilic was confident enough to name his side, unchanged from the one that overcame Germany, to the media the day before the match. Turkey can only play at a high tempo, while Croatia’s team suits matches against the bigger sides, where more space is available to attack. It seemed to make for an intriguing contest.

Arda Turan, who has a wonderful balance and dribbling ability, beat a number of men, when given the ball in the opening seconds but his final cross into the box was behind the intended target, giving an indication of a end to end game as Sabri played a poor pass out from the back, which Modric intercepted. The Tottenham schemer drove forward and his shot was blocked by his own man when the pass to the left flank was available. At the other end, Altintop, a creative playmaker, was finally given a midfield berth as he was laid off by Nihat, but the Bayern man shot wide of the mark. Sabri gave the ball away once more after Rustu, the veteran hesitated once more, and a last ditch block denied Srna in the six yard box as the ball was played back in.

At the other end Nihat won a fortunate free-kick after Croatia Captain Niko Kovac won the ball. Altintop drove the ball but Kovac blocked bravely as he led by example. Croatia had two brilliant chances as Modric skipped down the right channel and crossed perfectly for Olic, who fired his shot against the woodwork with the goal gaping. The ball fell quickly to Kranjcar but the Portsmouth attacker couldn’t react swiftly enough and headed over. Soon after Pranjic, arguably the full-back of the tournament together with Van Bronckhorst and Zhirkov, worked space deep in the Turkish half as Fatih Terrim’s right flank was continually exposed but his cross was cleared.

Rakitic, the Schalke player continued to disturb the Turkish right flank as his cross was punched away by Rustu as Olic waited to pounce and atone for his earlier miss. At the other end, Turan’s backheel played in Tuncay who didn’t have the strength to brush off his marker. One would think he’d try twice as hard having been booked causing him to miss a prospective semi-final. Soon after, Altintop burst past Kovac and was looking to play Nihat in for a one versus one situation, but he mis-kicked the ball at the critical moment. Turkey came back into the game as Topal shot from long-range, in a strike which had Pletikosa scrambling across goal.

Turkey added comedy to the game with horrible defending as Olic broke after a poor headed clearance. Rustu met him but his punch was weak. The defender Asik came over to cover but misjudeged the bounce allowing Olic to head towards the goal from the end-line but Balta was back to clear to Tuncay who ran it away from danger. Modric was becoming increasingly influential, with a smart turn and pass playing in Kranjcar, who managed to squeeze away a shot despite being closed down swiftly by Sabri and Asik. The former Zagreb man, started a counter-attack and found himself in possession on the left flank, turning his marker several times, he crossed for the off-side Olic, who controlled and finished but couldn’t control his run at all.

Pranjic passed inside to Rakitic, who played a one-two with Olic, to find himself only against Rustu, with pressure from the Turkey defenders running back but he blazed his shot over as Croatia looked to take the game by the scruff of the neck, while Turkey looked content to hold on and look for the odd counter-attack. Terrim then took a risk by bringing on Semih Senturk, a striker, for midfield workhorse Topal to partner Nihat, who had little service throughout. Petric, brought on for Kranjcar in an earlier substitution, went past a number of men to win a free-kick on the edge of the area. Srna had a curling effort but Rustu saved it acrobatically, while Petric headed wide soon after. Turkey entered the final minutes with a sense of destiny as Altintop’s thread pass reached its target but the cross was immediately blocked. The game became stretched as Croatia attacked, with Modric played in down the right flank by a clever back-heeled pass and his cross reached Olic, who, squeezed in a shot, albeit straight at Rustu. The keeper was forced to make a save from a 40 yard free-kick from Srna, which almost squeezed under him.

Olic has hit by Robert Kovac’s shot but he was quick to react and fired a volley over in the final action of the 90 minutes. Extra time beckoned. Tuncay burst past a number of blue shirts and tried to angle in a cross from the by-line but rather than find a red shirt, the attempt troubled Pletikosa at the near post, who punched it away for a corner. Klasnic (yes, he of the double kidney transplant) was brought on for Olic, who was wasteful in front of goal despite his endless running and energetic display. Semih Senturk blazed over after being playing in by Arda Turan from the right flank. Turkey continued a good spell of possession, as Tuncay fired in a shot from the edge of the area and it flashed wide as only 15 minutes remained.

Asik joined Tuncay and Turan in the book as he would be the third Turk to be suspended from any semi-final involvement, as Fatih Terrim’s side further weakened themselves. The exhausted players were surely roused to that extra yard of running or inspiration by the great atmosphere created, which was even more prominent in the final stages, with no-one wanting penalties. Croatia were the fitter and better rested side, with their first-choice side having not played since the second matchday of Group B. Turkey caused some panic in the Croatian box as the ball fell to Turan wide on the right, but his cross was blocked. At the other end Modric battled for the ball but Rustu gathered. Sabri was fouled on the right flank of the Croatian area, allowing Nihat to take the free-kick. He injured himself in taking the dead ball as it went out for a throw in. The captain and explosive Villarreal striker went off injured four minutes before penalties. Was it worth keeping him on?

But Croatia attacked in the dying seconds and the first cross was blocked and Modric gathered as Rustu ran out pointlessly, and the schemer of slight build crossed with the veteran in no position to save as Klasnic headed in. Was it won? Not with Turkey in the game. A long ball up from Rustu bounced and the substitute Semih, who scored against Switzerland, smacked it in with aid of a slight deflection. Bilic went from ecstasy to shock, complaining about the time keeping and the refusal by the referee for him to bring on Jerko Leko. He had to gather himself to lift his players for a penalty shoot-out.

Modric took the first spot-kick and the delay of getting the ball may have affected him as he shot wide to the left of Rustu, having scored against Austria inside 3 minutes in their opening game he missed here (0-0). Turan, the confident youngster hit it low and opted for power and it crept under Pletikosa (0-1). Srna sent Rustu the wrong way and slotted home (1-1). Semih took a powerfully struck penalty into the left corner (1-2). Rakitic, the 20 year old Schalke player, wilted under pressure in the Turkey end (1-2). Hamit Altintop slotted home to Pletikosa’s left, beating the keeper with ease (1-3). Petric shot to the left but Rustu guessed correctly and beat it away to turn from villain to hero (1-3).

The Turks prevailed in one of the most stunning finales to a game as the huge psychological blow of Semih’s goal gave the Turks the advantage. Terrim’s side reach the semi-finals as Bilic tried to lift his shattered players, with images of the inconsolable Srna evoking sympathy from the stunned fans. 66-1 at the start of the tournament, Turkey may struggle to reach the final, with key players suspended against Germany. But if we’ve learnt anything from this brilliant tournament, one of the best ever, never ever rule Turkey out. Having been out of games for its majority, they showed it takes a second to succeed. The last gasp goals are becoming a trademark. As one forum member claimed: Alex Ferguson said in one of his more lucid moments: "Bloody Hell. Football, eh?!" That phrase is no more fitting in any situation than this one.

The stunning end to a tense, cagey encounter will predictably allow the BBC to roll out the pun ‘Turkish Delight’. They along with several tabloids surely won’t be able to resist, will they?

Croatia 1- 1 Turkey FT (a.e.t) (Turkey won 3-1 on penalties)

Euro 2008: Matchday Thirteen Round Up

2008-06-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

Germany, a side shorn of Manager Joachim Low and midfield workhorse Torsten Frings out injured, brought in Rolfes, the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, while Hitzelsperger also came in. Hans Flick, the assistant coach took charge of the technical area as Low watched from a box, apparently under watch from a UEFA official.

Ronaldo had an early run down the left and crossed but it was too close to Lehmann, who claimed that Arsenal have a formula for dealing with the winger, one dismissed by Clive Tyldesley, the ITV commentator. There must have been an element of truth with Gael Clichy, Bacary Sagna, and Emmanuel Eboue all dealing with the attacker with ease, with his dangerous moments coming in central areas in a roaming role. Portugal started confidently with decent possession bypassing strong pressure using the wingers to relieve any pressure, with Simao taking one raking ball confidently into his stride. He was played down the right channel but his shot at the near post was caught by Lehmann.

The first big chance fell to Moutinho, the Sporting Lisbon playmaker, after Boswinga’s burst of pace and swerving cross, but the young schemer was undesicive and lifted his knee to connect with it, only to see it blaze over. A diving header could have given the Portuguese the lead. They failed to take their chance as wonderful interplay between Podolski and Ballack found the former in space down the left flank and he outpaced one to score accurately for Schweinsteiger who slid in to round off a wonderful move

Then Bastian Schweinsteiger’s free-kick was floated in for Miroslav Klose to head in unmarked as the red shirts were static in their marking for the Bayern Munich striker to double their lead, with a second in four minutes. The Portuguese were stunned as the Germans used to counter-attack and their physical style to keep the ball well and attack in numbers. Clive Tyldesley called for the ‘real Ronaldo’, but obviously he was in Brazil recuperating from a serious injury. They used the running of Ronaldo, who was more involved in a central role, in behind more frequently to gain a foothold in the game. But it was a brilliant piece of possession play that cut open Germany, as Deco won the ball in his own half, and played in Simao, who spread the play to Ronaldo, who sprinted down the left channel to the box. His effort was blocked well by Lehmann who rushed out but the ball fell to a central area, where Nuno Gomes turned and fired in past the last-ditch attempt to block the shot from Metzelder, with Lehmann stranded.

ITV’s obsession and continuing hype of Ronaldo was tedious; the Real Madrid target was more prominent in the later minutes, but lost his marker for the second Germany goal and was well marshalled by the Germans. He did come close as the half drew to an end but his shot was wide as he burst into the box. Portugal were still in the ascendancy in the second half, as Ronaldo run forward past a few men, and was brought down by Friedrich, who then stepped on the winger as he returned to his position. He was booked only for the original foul, while the hilarious reaction from Ronaldo, who writhed around as if he had been shot, did not affect the referee, who might not have seen the incident.

Deco, revitalised after an apparent decline, was dominating the midfield, with mobility and incisive passing into space. The Barcelona midfielder, soon to on the move, flicked on a corner to Pepe, who headed over, with the ball coming quickly to him. Perhaps Lehmann’s outstretched form distracted the Real Madrid defender who headed over. The naturalised Portuguese defender then was booked for a shoulder charge on Klose. Schweinsteiger took the resulting free-kick and Ballack headed in past the flapping Ricardo to reinstate their two-goal lead. He was adjudged to push Ferreira away to connect with the ball.

Scholari brought on Nani for Gomes, who gave the armband to Ronaldo, whose first duty as captain was to further feed his ego and puff his chest before wasting a perfectly good free-kick opportunity by blazing the ball over instead of crossing. The younger United winger made one fine run as his side chased the game. The new Chelsea manager took the final throw of the dice by bringing on Helder Postiga, the £6m Tottenham flop, for Petit, the defensive midfielder, as four attackers were on, with their midfield light as Germany threatened to counter. Deco probed and lifted a pass to the Porto striker, who was challenged bravely by Jens Lehmann, who took a blow to the thigh. Nani troubled two defenders on the left flank, before shifting back away from goal before hitting an inswinging cross for Postiga to head home past Lehmann with little defensive pressure.

Germany were attacked with heavy pressure as Carvalho ran forward too but their pressure was stopped on two occasions by Postiga fouling the centre-back, while Nani wasted another opportunity by blazing high. Bosingwa provided width and endless energy down the right flank, but wasn’t given the pass to exploit the space in behind as crosses were frequently put in but headed away by Mertesacker and Metzelder. Germany had the final chance as Podolski broke down the left wing, cut inside his man, but his shot was easily caught by Ricardo. The Germans had prevailed once more as Ballack knocked out his new manager, as Metzelder knocked out his rival Pepe for the centre-back position at Real. A tense finish was epitomised by Jogi Low lighting up a cigarette. Apparently he doesn’t smoke.

Hopefully Jens Lehmann can round off a frustrating season with a triumph in the Euros. Tomorrow they will find out who their semi-final opponents will be. A rematch between Croatia and Germany looks enticing as another brilliant match appears to be in the prospect.

Portugal 2 – 3 Germany FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Twelve Round Up

2008-06-18T14:09:00.000-07:00

With their place secured in the quarter finals, Aragones decided to rest the first choice players and give a run-out to the fringe players as he tested his squad out, like Marco Van Basten and Slaven Bilic in the past few days, with Pepe Reina, Fabregas and 27 goal Mallorca striker Dani Guiza all starting. Reported Arsenal targets Raul Albiol and Ruben de La Red also started. Many of those playing were all supported by the Spanish media and fans to start in the first choice side with a fine performance likely to be used as a justification for why they should start more frequently. Greece were only fighting for pride having been eliminated without much of a fight. Surely they must leave having at least scored a goal?

Fabregas broke down the right hand side and crossed for Ruben De la Red, but the ball was taken away from his path after Sergio Garcia, also running into the box took a touch. The incisive Spanish passing appeared to trouble Greece early on. Fabregas was playing early balls to Guiza to exploit his height, in a faster pace in comparison to perhaps Xavi and David Silva. Xabi Alonso attempted to lob Nikopolidis from his own half, with the veteran having no idea of his angles as he back peddled into the post as the Juventus target’s shot was just wide. The Liverpool man was then played in by Fabregas but his low shot lacked the required bend to creep in.

The two Premiership stars combined once more as Fabregas laid off a free-kick to his compatriot, whose side-footed strike from distance whizzed past the post as Nikopolidis left the ball. After Iniesta’s penalty appeal was rejected, Greece won a free-kick at the other end. Karagounis whipped a ball in and Charisteas was afforded a free-header which he bulleted into the net as Greece finally got their goal, with their first decent chance. It appeared that the Greece of old had returned with the main change the placement of Karagounis in a central role allowing Rehhagel’s team to lead despite having little possession.

Alonso then hit the post with a rasping drive that deserved to be an equaliser, as Spain used further chances up but failed to register a goal for all their possession. The Greeks seemed to be troubling Spain even more so but a moment of brilliance allowed the Spanish to equalize. A fine floated ball from Fabregas reached Guiza, who headed back to De la Red, whose rocket of a shot slammed into the net, despite the firm hand of Nikopolidis, who was taken aback by the speed of the shot. In Spain’s possession play, De la Red was over shadowed by his fellow midfielders, such as Iniesta on the wing, but his graft went unnoticed until this fine goal.

Soon after Fabregas’ ball reached the head of Juanito, who headed wide. Guiza was played in down the channel and steadied himself before shooting across goal, as the ball edged past the post. Soon after Sergio Garcia lifted the ball over Nikopolidis from an acute angle as the Greek captain committed himself by rushing out but the effort trickled wide. The Zaragoza man, looking for a move this summer after his side was relegated, might have put off a few, by ghosting in from the right to hit a shot that was rising at a great angle, an effort fitting for rugby rather than football. But the wideman showed his better side, with a curling ball towards Dani Guiza, who obliged at the opportunity to score his first international goal with a simple header and to win the game for Spain.

Spain enter the quarter finals with a perfect record as once more rotation pays off in Euro 2008 after a long club season, freshness and fatigue are key factors. Some brilliant footballing nations will meet in a mouth-watering round starting with Germany and Portugal tomorrow.

Greece 1 – 2 Spain FT

In the more important game of the night, Russia played Sweden, with the winner of the two qualifying naturally, but Sweden can qualify with a draw due to a better goal difference. A simple target, with none of the complicated permutations from yesterday made this game more accessible. Arshavin, a brilliant playmaker of Zenit St. Petersburg returned in place of Torbinsky as Russia were given a boost. Shame his club team-mate Pavel Pogrebnyak, a clinical striker was ruled out of the tournament altogether with injury. On the opposing side, Ibrahimovic, who finally came into scoring form for his national side in the last two games, was deemed fit enough to play, after his dominating 45 minute appearance against Spain threatened to cause an upset.

Arshavin showed his vision by picking out Pavlyuchenko’s run on the left flank with a raking long-range pass. Soon after the mobile dibbler headed wide and failed to fully connect to a cross from the right. The Russians were dominant in their ball manipulation, creating fine angles to work the pass as they stretched Sweden. Arshavin’s misjudged cross troubled Isaksson, who was forced to tip over for a corner. A clever ball past the crowd of players waiting to head it reached Zhirkov, a brilliant full-back whose volley edged past the post and almost swerved back in threatening to ripple the net thus Isaksson was scrambling across the goal.

The Russian dominance paid off as Sweden’s defence was in disarray, with Anyukov crossing for Pavlyuchenko to sweep home as Hiddink’s influence once more appeared to give success in a wonderful footballing display. Their possession was assured and confident but Henrik Larsson gave a reminder with a flicked header to the far post that hit the upright. Soon after order was restored and the lead nearly doubled as Pavlyuchenko hit the bar after another sweeping move while Zyryanov’s follow up was patted away for a corner by Isaksson.

Akinfeev added to the Russian collective performance with two important saves, one from Ljungberg as the Swedes stepped up their efforts, while the second was at the feet of Ibrahimovic, with both running out for corners. They were not utilised by the Swedes as the half ended with an Arshavin-inspired Russia in front. The brilliant attacker slotted home after a deadly counter-attack on 50 minutes, once more involving the rampaging Zhirkov. Sweden were more prominent in their attacks, using crosses more frequently realising the tendency of Akinfeev to punch rather than catch the ball caused concerns in the Russian defence.

Ibrahimovic headed downwards at the far post after a cross from the left flank, but the bounce caused the power of his effort to be lost as it fell into Akinfeev’s hands. Another Russian attack saw Zyryanov’s shot deflect onto the post as they chased a third. The Russians attempted to keep the move alive as a cross was chipped up for Ivan Saenko, who, with the goal gaping, headed across goal. Then Pavlyuchenko headed into Isaksson’s arms. Another chance passed by as Saenko crossed for Pavlyuchenko but the cut-back was behind the striker who couldn’t connect well enough, despite the fact that he had time to control and shoot after the Saenko had drawn two defenders to him.

Hiddink and his group of technical footballers reached the quarter final for the first time since the Soviet Union disbanded and meet Holland in a tie where the sides with a brilliant brand of counter-attacking football meet. Holland, being the bigger side will be obliged to take the game to Russia, who’ll thrive in their usual set-up. It appears to be a wonderful game in the making as Hiddink plays his homeland.

Russia 2 – 0 Sweden FT

Below is the full quarter-final draw with a kick-offs at 7.45pm.

Thursday - Germany v Portugal (ITV)
Friday - Croatia v Turkey (BBC)
Saturday - Netherlands v Russia (ITV)
Sunday - Spain v Italy (BBC)

One would see a Portugal – Netherlands final as likely but with so many results in this tournament against the trend, we should not be surprised to see a dark horse triumphing in Vienna on June 29th.

Euro 2008: Matchday Eleven Round Up

2008-06-18T11:11:00.002-07:00

Raymond Domenech was under intense pressure, having played tactics and personnel that have made his side take only a point in their opening two games. The Frenchman, prone to astrological factors in his decision-making, a point highlighted by the media only recently whereas as we Arsenal fans, realised his flaws when Robert Pires was dropped after Euro 2004. A changed side was put out, with Thuram, apparently not playing due a poor mental state to play, with Abidal playing in central defence with Gallas. Clerc and Evra were the full-backs as Sagnol made a similar claim. Donadoni, under the threat of being sacked if he doesn’t reach at least the semi-finals due to a clause in his new contract, brought in the wonderfully talented but hugely temperamental Cassano, now of Sampdoria.

The two World Cup finalists of two years previous now met in a match with their fates in the hands of Romania, who played a Dutch side making nine changes. When the replacements include Robben, Van Persie and Huntelaar and Afellay, who Arsenal reportedly had a bid of £10 million rejected, they could hardly be accused of playing a weakened team. In Zurich, Abidal, a questionable choice at centre-back, let in Toni, who broke free but appeared to shoot early when time was on his side, as the ball was fired past Coupet’s right hand post. Franck Ribery appeared to injury himself in the aftermath of a collision with Zambrotta, and the Bayern’s wing wizard was in considerable pain as he was taken off the pitch on a stretcher. Arsenal target Samir Nasri replaced his former Marseille teammate.

Pirlo’s corner was headed goalwards by Panucci, whose effort was blocked by a combination of Coupet and Makelele on the post as Italy pressed sensing an advantage with Ribery’s injury affecting the French, while the weakness in their defence also aided Italy. Evra was booked for a poor challenge, while Toni had another effort from the resulting free-kick taken by Pirlo. At the other end Govou broke with space on the right flank, but ignored the supporting run from Clerc and dragged his shot well wide. Pirlo played a one-two with Toni and chipped in a wonderful pass to Perrotta, who failed to control as he was through on goal.

Toni controlled a long ball beautifully with an outstretched leg, but the bumbling Abidal denied him a clear goal scoring opportunity, with referee Michel did not hesitate to send off the Barcelona full-back, as France’s night went from bad to worse. Pirlo fired home the spot-kick into the top corner to send the Italians into the lead. Nasri was taken off after only 16 minutes to allow Boumsong replace Abidal in the defence. One would question Domenech’s faith in Boumsong, as he preferred to start a full-back in his place. The former Newcastle man is famous for his participation on Newcastle’s comedy defence, with English fans assuming that the result for Italy was looking more likely. Arsenal fans must have been disappointed by the French coach’s decision to take off Nasri, who rarely had the ball, with only one run lacking penetration made, with two fouls made to break up Italian dominance.

De Rossi fired over as the Italians used patient build-up play to move the French players around and tire them as quickly as possible. Then a back-heeled flick from Toni went agonizingly past the post after a deep cross from the right flank. This was one of five chances the 38 goal Bayern man had in a few minutes. Henry was then played in by Toulalan’s finely weighted ball but he fired wide in a great chance to level.

In Berne, Mutu teased his man and crossed from the left flank for Niculae to control and volley wide. Arsenal’s Van Persie headed high and wide from an Englelaar ball, which he struggled to direct. Soon after a throw-in reached Mutu and turned his marker to create half a yard of space to cross but it narrowly evaded his target. Soon after, Van Persie ran to the left to meet another Engelar ball but couldn’t direct his header back at goal as it once more went wide. Huntelaar headed over, while Robben was played in soon after by Huntelaar’s deft touch but touched it wide when one on one with Lobont as the Dutch threatened to take the lead. But Romania, having heard of Italy’s goal, were forced to take the initiative as Mutu hit a rising shot from the edge of the area but it whirred wide. Then Rat bombed down the right flank and pulled back for Codrea but he blazes over in a fine chance.

Benzema hit a free kick against the wall, while his second attempt was volleyed over.
De Rossi fine run forward and turned Toulalan brilliantly but was fouled on the edge of the box. Grosso, who scored the winner against Germany in the 2006 semi-final hit the base of the post with a bending effort with a touch from Coupet preventing the Italians doubling their lead. The second half began with the Italians playing deep and on the counter-attack in a typical defensive manner as they looked to hold their lead. Henry had two efforts on goal which Buffon grabbed with ease. Toulalan, dubbed the ‘white Makelele’ in some quarters, was dictating the French play impressively as both sides were given fresh incentive with news filtering through into the stadium that Huntlelaar had scored in Berne from an Afellay cross stepped over by Engelaar, who deceived two Romanian defenders with his decoy run. Previous to this Van Persie latched onto a long ball, turned and shot, but Lobont was equal to it, with a fine reaction save.

Coupet rushed out to deny Toni but the Italians doubled their lead after Cassano was fouled. De Rossi took the free-kick and the net rippled following a wicked deflection of the outstretched leg of Thierry Henry, which fooled Coupet who had already dived to his right. The goal was marked down as an own goal for the Barcelona striker with De Rossi’s original effort looking to end up closer to the corner flag than the net. With the game practically won, the Italians resorted to delaying the game with a small foul on Cassano causing the former Bari man to collapse dramatically and needing treatment on the pitch as the French players waited to try an unlikely fight back. Buffon made a wonderful save from a curling effort by Benzema. Arsenal captain William Gallas appeared to hurt his back after a collision, but the tough defender dared not go off and reduce his side to nine men as Anelka came on as a third and final substitute.

It seemed the end of an era for France after a particularly cruel end, with Vieira, outstanding in the closing stages of Inter’s third Scudetto triumph, despite what Mark Lawrensen may think was a huge loss, while the mental state of Thuram and Sagnol the age of the defence and injury to Ribery, poor tactics all contributed to the fall of this onc great side. But the future is bright, with youngsters such as Benzema (who made a fine run in the last action of the game), Nasri and Ben Arfa, who failed to make the final cut, all three won a U17 youth tournament together for France. 2010 is the objective for France, with or without Domenech, probably and hopefully without. Deschamps may be the man to take the Blues forward in a qualification group containing Romania.

Arsenal’s Robin Van Persie scored in clinical fashion and reminded fans of his vast potential when match-fit after he collected a pass from the right and lashing into the net at the near post with a bullet of a shot. Like Croatia, Van Basten’s side showed a winning pattern despite wholesale changes in personnel, and face one of Sweden or Russia on Sunday. Romania, despite a spirited effort in drawing with France and Italy will no doubt look towards Mutu’s missed penalty as the predominant factor concerning their elimination. The playmaker was no doubt their best player but it was his action that made the difference for the worse unfortunately for the Fiorentina man.

A mouth-watering match ha now been set up between Spain and Italy in the pick of the round. A wonderful tournament with such entertainment continues with pure footballing sides all progressing so far as it threatens to surpass Euro 2000, the last great tournament of recent times.

France 0 – 2 Italy FT
Holland 2 – 0 Romania FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Ten Round Up

2008-06-18T11:11:00.001-07:00

Germany and Austria is a match with huge history, with politics, and being geographical neighbours creating an intense rivalry and a stunning atmosphere in the Ernst Happel Stadium. Austria defeated the ‘enemy’ in 1978 in a 3-2 thriller dubbed the ‘Miracle of Cordoba’, the 1982 game was controversial with the sides accused in some quarters of not ‘competing’ and keeping the score favourable for both sides as the game ended 0-0. That apparently is the reason why the final group game is always played at the same time to avoid future accusations, at least according to the BBC.

Jansen was dropped after his poor defensive performances at left back. Friedrich was reinstated to the starting eleven as Low returned to the World Cup 2006 defence. Klose ran down the right flank and checked his run to beat his marker. Then the Bayern Munich man shifted a yard to create space to roll the ball to Gomez, who had the simple job of tapping in from a yard. But the highly rated striker continued a disappointing tournament as he mishit the ball and it looped up high into the air and the Austrian defence managed clear. The German pressure continued as Podolski, who must be wondering why he cannot seem to start up front ahead of the luckless Gomez, had his shot blocked. Soon after Austria were denied a penalty kick as Metzelder grappled with his striker and brought him down.

The static German defence struggled as Hopper failed to control the cross from the right as the ball rolled through to Lehmann, who clutched it gratefully. Aufhauser then shot from long range as Lehmann had to parry to his left with a diving save. The Germans then took their turn to attack as Podolski, who looked to add to his 3 goals, shot from outside of the box but Macho saved. The tensions were high as Aufhauser appeared to raise his hand to Podolski in an off-the-ball incident. Soon after both Hickersberger and Low were sent to the stands as the referee Manuel Gonzalez lost patience with their protests against the 4th Official.

Germany began the second half with renewed vigour, as they played with a higher tempo and more urgency with Lahm frequently bursting forward from left-back aiding the attack. The greater attacking pressure from Lahm resulted in a free-kick as he was brought down by Ivanschitz. Michael Ballack obliged to fire into the top right-hand corner past the dive of Macho, from the dead ball as he ended a run of poor, direct set-piece taking in the tournament.

Bayern Munich’s Lahm continued his influential second half display with a driving run past several Austrian players but he lacked end product as his shot was dragged wide. Some decent interplay down the left flank between Ballack and Podolski allowed the latter to shoot, but his shot whirred just wide of the right hand post. Austria fought back as Ivanschitz hit a tame shot, which rolled to Lehmann. The substitute Kienast almost levelled but his effort was blocked, while a few seconds later, the same striker’s header went wide.

The Germans tried to extend their lead, by substituting the ineffective Mario Gomez for Hitzelsperger, famous for his long range shots and their power. He played in Klose, who was challenged by Macho, who bravely dived it his feet and won the ball but was injured in the process. Ivanschitz had a lucky break as the ball fell in his direction after a block on his original run by Metzelder and he closed down on goal but was denied the opportunity to shoot as Lahm cleared over his own bar with a sliding clearance. Hoffer then had the chance to turn and shoot but sliced his hit wide as the co-hosts pressed for an equaliser. Germany tried to break as Klose was played in but his shot was too close to Macho who batted it away. Soon after Torsten Frings drove forward and shot low, inches wide.

In the final seconds of stoppage time Kormaz’s cross was headed away by Metzelder, who was brilliantly positioned as two strikers waited in behind in what was Austria’s final opportunity to equalize. They managed to work the ball to the wide areas on several occasions but the quality of the final ball was always poor. Oliver Neuville broke forward as Germany had a chance to kill the game off shot wide, despite having many options on either side of him.

Low’s side set up a mouth-watering quarter final with fellow favourites Portugal, as the hosts went out in respectable fashion, and not the humiliating manner, which many of their fans dreaded.

Austria 0 – 1 Germany FT

Bilic started with essentially a second choice side with a few regulars as Modric was rested in a game which Poland had to emerge victorious to stand any chance of progressing to the next stage. Beenhakker moved Dudka into defence

Poland almost took the lead as Lobodzinski crossed but Runje punched the ball away, while the returning ball into the box from the left was cleared for a corner. Rakitic whipped in a dangerous free-kick from the right flank, which Werder’s Klasnic, the first kidney transplant patient to play football almost stole in, after Vejic headed agonizingly wide. Schalke 04’s Rakitic showed his importance in the side by taking set-pieces and dictating their play. Lewandowski then fired a shot high and wide as Poland looked to seize the initiative. The fine left footed Pranjic of Heerenveen continued to bomb down the left and crossed for Petric, who failed to connect but was flagged offside anyway. Previously he tried a chip to the far post, but the left footed strike meant it curved away from the post in another chance.

Ivan Klasnic ran clear of the Poland defence and looked primed to break the deadlock, but Poland keeper Artur Boruc raced off his line and did brilliantly to smother the Croat's strike. Minutes later the Celtic stopper repeated the feat against Ivan Rakitic's effort from the left-hand side of the box. Krzynowek hits a free kick into the wall and the same man had a volley blocked as the ball set up nicely. Jerko Leko then shot wide as Croatia dominated. Klasnic was played in after a simple flick beat the Polish defence but his shot was blocked by Arthur Boruc, who rushed out expertly, as Rakitic’s follow up was hit well wide of the goal.

Boruc was finally beaten as Pranjic cut back for Klasnic, who shot into the far corner to send the Croats into the lead and driving seat for the top spot in Group A. Pranjic continued to bomb forward and hit the bar after getting his angles wrong. Roger Guerreiro, the naturalised Pole, received a simple pass when in space, which he used to turn and shoot to the far post, and it trickled despairingly wide as he held his head in his hands. Saganowski headed at the far post, which was caught by Runje after a floated cross from the left flank. His replacement Zahorski was then denied by Croatia reserve Runje as Poland desperately went for an equalizer but it was in vain.

Ivan Klasnic’s brilliant recovery from a kidney disorder to score the winner and set up a quarter final with Turkey, was fitting of a player who worked incredibly hard to bring back his career from the dead. His goal brought an easier route to the Semi-final with two colourful managers meeting in Slaven Bilic and Fatih Terrim in what should be an entertaining contest.

Poland 0 – 1 Croatia FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Nine Round Up

2008-06-18T11:10:00.000-07:00

The stage was set for a great game as the Czech Republic and Turkey with the two sides level on points and sharing defeats to Portugal and victories against co-hosts Switzerland, the match had to be won by one side or penalties after 90 minutes was a very real possibility. The main change was bringing in Koller for Baros, whose mobility and smart movement gave Bruckner’s side a strong focal point in comparison to the slow, static beanpole striker. But his stature was the main reason for his selection as he competed with Cetin physically.

Libor Sionko then returned the ball into the box from the right after great work down the left from the brilliant Marek Jankulovski and with Jan Koller set to pounce, Servet Cetin made a fine interception, showing he can match Koller on the ground, despite struggling aerially. Grygera then stormed down the right flank and crossed for Koller, who accepted the invitation to finish and guided the ball into the net off the underside of the bar via the hand of Volkan. Koller, who looked very unfit in the opening game, was totally dominant in this decider heading another ball over and volleying high and wide as the Czechs had the larger influence on the game.

Nihat tried an acrobatic scissor kick as the ball looped up into the air from a poor Jankulovski clearance but it was overhit. The Turks came back into the game as Tuncay Sanli headed goalwards but Cech was equal to it. Sabri, worked hard on the right flank and tricked his marker to allow him to advance to the box but his cut-back was blocked. Soon after the lively Libor Sionko swung in a deep cross from the right and Jaroslav Plasil met it at the far post to double the Czechs advantage, with the pace of the ball beating Volkan, who got a touch onto the ball in vain.

Jan Koller ran through, despite being marginally offside, only to shoot tamely wide from 10 yards, in an awkward fashion with mobility never being his strong point Fortunately for the Czechs, it wasn't too costly. Fatih Terrim was furious as Turkey were down to ten men, looking to bring a substitute on in the build up due to injury. Polak then hit the post after a fine cut-back and tried to head in the rebound with Emre Asik almost catching him fully on the head as they competed for the same ball. The Turkish defender then was booked for hauling down David Rozenhal, who was at the time strangely the furthest man up-field for the Czechs.

At the other end, a dangerous cut-back from Altintop, the right-back, normally an attacking midfielder for Bayern and it passed a crowd of players at the near post and ran to Arda Turan, who arrowed his shot in at the far post. Cech got a hand but it wasn’t enough. Kazim Kazim found himself in space but couldn’t control and eventually got into a tangle with his own team mate, resulting in the Czechs regaining the ball. Petr Cech continued a season of apparently uncharacteristic errors as he failed to catch a seemingly harmless cross and the untiring Nihat took advantage and tapped in to level the scores very late.

Nihat hit a wonderful curling shot in off the underside past Cech after being played in by a simple ball from Altintop through the Czech defence as the pint-sized Villarreal striker made it two in two minute to destroy Czech hopes and cement this night as one of the worst in Petr Cech’s career. There was still enough time for more controversy the Czechs almost equalized as Volkan shoved Jan Koller to the ground after the ball ran out for a goal kick, with referee Frojdfeldt not hesitating to send off the Turk, who should be the proud in the sense that he is capable of flooring the 6ft 7inch giant. But he will now miss the quarter final with Slaven Bilic’s Croatia. Tuncay went into goal for the remainder of injury time.

A most exhilarating denouement to this group stage match in this wonderful tournament showed the enigmatic nature of the Turks, who will make one half of an intriguing quarter final.

Turkey 3 – 2 Czech Republic FT

Portugal fielded essentially a reserve side as Fernando Meira, predominantly a centre-back for Stuttgart, came into midfield. The highly rated Miguel Veloso, a defensive midfielder started too in place of his Sporting Lisbon team-mate Joao Moutinho. To The Swiss had nothing to play for apart from pride and to give veteran coach Kobi Kuhn a fine send off as he went into retirement after their final group stage match.

The Portuguese started confidently, epitomised by an eye-catching cross from the exuberant Ricardo Quaresma, who executed a Rabona to float a fine cross that Helder Postiga, once of Tottenham headed over. Portugal's Nani fired in a low free-kick and Pepe deflects it on to the crossbar, via a brilliant reaction save from Pascal Zuberbuehler. The Manchester United youngster took on the role of his team-mate Ronaldo in influencing the proceedings from the wing. Yet as Portugal seemed to dominate possession, Inler reminded the audience of his ability with a long range shot that Ricardo had to tip over. Nani then broke into the area and passed sideways to Postiga, whose goal-bound shot was brilliantly blocked by Senderos.

Nani’s free kick was then punched away by Zuberbuehler as Portugal continued to search for the opener. Behrami of Lazio was caught by Paulo Ferreira, after the winger beat him for pace, and the Swiss man was caught on his ankle and was carried off by stretcher but fortunately came back on. Hakan Yakin then headed at goal from an Inler free-kick but was denied by Ricardo as the Swiss almost stole into the lead, after Scolari typically kept three men up-field for a chance to counter as set pieces continued to show themselves as a weakness in Portugal’s impressive arsenal of talents. Meira fed Postiga, with a slide-rule pass, and he slotted home but was incorrectly flagged offside (Lichtsteiner played him on) as Portugal continued to dominate.

Nani then hit the outside of the post having been found by a fine pass from Veloso. Ricardo Quaresma, who once more seemed to be playing second fiddle in this Portugual side, this time to Nani, drilled in a shot from 20 yards that Pascal Zuberbuehler punched the ball away, unable to gather. Gokhan Inler, who has attracted many suitors through his commanding displays in centre midfield, hit a sensational right-foot shot from 30 yards that clipped the outside of the post, as the Swiss began to take the game to Portugal. Their pressure was rewarded when Hakan Yakin latched onto a great clipped pass from Eren Derdiyok and kept his composure and smashed his shot between the legs of Ricardo. Hakan Yakin hammered a left-foot shot into the top corner from the penalty spot as Basel went mad as they went closer to what would be their first win at a European Championship finals as Tranquilo Barnetta was fouled through a challenge from Fernando Meira, who was already booked for dissent but escaped a second yellow.

The game ended, overshadowed by events in Geneva, but the scenes were as jubilant as those from the Turkish team and fans as the co-hosts bowed out with their pride in tact, and Kobi Kuhn could retire on a climax defeating one of the favourites, albeit a weakened Portugal side.

Switzerland 2 – 0 Portugal FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Eight Round Up

2008-06-18T11:09:00.002-07:00

While the whole of Europe spoke of the Brilliant ‘Oranje’, the other outstanding performer of Euro 2008, Spain were preparing for a game to settle the winners of Group D. Unchanged from the 4-1 destruction of Russia, Spain were not overconfident, knowing that a bright start doesn’t necessarily mean a bright finish, as their 4-0 opening win against Ukraine in Germany 2006, a tournament that ended early, as seems to be the norm with ‘La Furia Roja’, with a defeat to France. Sweden, on the other hand, rarely have sides of outstanding individual talent, but a team of grafters, who always seem to reach the big stage. This time, however, they have the temperamental Zlatan Ibrahimovic leading the line alongside with veteran Henrik Larsson, who always seemingly accepts his call for his country after the tedious process of qualifying, to play on the big stage.

An early conceded free-kick by Spain, saw Ibrahimovic receive the ball, but he failed to control and shoot. Torres raised a similar warning as he dribbled down the right side of the box and cut back, but it was blocked. Sweden countered, as one would expect them to, when facing the patient possession football of Spain, as Larsson set Ljungberg free down the left flank, but his shot was weak as it rolled into the arms of Casillas. A finely worked corner, as the ball was played short and cut back to David Silva, who chipped a delicate pass into the run of Torres, who touched the ball in while stretching to take the lead for Spain. The celebration however, left great room for improvement. Elmander could have helped restore the lead but lacked the composure to find Ljungberg at the far post and instead shot into the side netting as he raced into the box.

Larsson made a cleverly timed run from Ibrahimovic’s floated pass but could only direct his shot high over the bar. Yet for all of Spain’s dominance, Sweden hit back as a simple move beat Spain with a cross-field pass to Stoor, who crossed from deep to Ibrahimovic, who controlled well, turned Sergio Ramos with ease and slotted home past the despairing hand of Casillas, who got a touch, which fortunately for Sweden was not enough to deny them a goal, as the ball trickled over the line. Ibrahimovic was controlling the tempo of the attack and dropped deep to play in midfield runners in a typical playmaker role as Spain were rattled. Aragones’ side had more to complain about as Pieter Vink denied them a penalty with Elmander clearly barging David Silva in the penalty area. Furthermore, he blew for half time when Silva had a chance to cross into the box, denying them an advantage.

Swedish hopes took a blow as Markus Rosenberg came on for Ibrahimovic at half time, after the Inter talisman was hampered by a knee injury. The Spanish had Silva through on goal but he elected to pass, as did Villa, with their side reminiscent of Arsenal in the 06/07 season, wasting a great chance to retake the lead. Aragones decided to bring off Barcelona duo Iniesta and Xavi for Arsenal’s Fabregas and Santi Cazorla of Villarreal to bring different ideas to refocus the Spanish attack, with urgency and a higher tempo needed. Villa cut in from the left and fed Silva, who checked back and shot and Isaksson saved but could not gather as Villa won the ball back and cut back for Torres, whose shot was blocked off the line by Daniel Andersson as Spain pressed for another goal.

Senna, then drove forward and forced Isaksson to parry his long range shot as Spain struggled to open up the hard working Swedes. The defender Hansson hit a free-kick from deep back across goal as Larsson agonizingly stretched to make the goal-bound touch in vain. Yet the substitution of Ibrahimovic had hampered Sweden who sat back behind the ball to prevent Spain from playing their way through to goal. Werder Bremen’s Rosenberg was not as effective in holding up the ball or influencing the play. And it was not possession football that shocked Sweden in stoppage time but route one as a hopeful long ball from Capdevila evaded the leap of Torres, but found its way into the path of David Villa, who turned from the defender and fired low in the far corner to practically confirm Spain a place in the quarter finals and make himself the leading scorer (with 4 goals) once more.

The Valencia striker added more pounds onto his already vast transfer value with this goal and showed why he is regarded as a better finisher than compatriot Torres. Despite not really deserving this victory in terms of their performance, a clinical finisher at their disposal could take Spain far in this competition. Ramos, so highly rated in European football after a wonderful season with Real Madrid had a poor game in an attacking and defensive sense. This gritty side might just be what the Spanish need to finally add to their 1964 success in the same competition. What Luis Suarez inspired then, David Villa could do now.

Sweden 1 – 1 Spain FT

Russia were destroyed in their opening game by attempting to play football against the Spanish, but their possession football may prove more successful against the defensive Greeks. Still deprived of their star attacker Andrei Arshavin, they’ll need to use the majority of the possession to open up Otto Rehhagel’s side instead of the counter-attacking style which Zenit St. Petersburg held in such good stead in their UEFA Cup success. Their poor defensive performance has to be improved upon with more pressure needed high up the pitch.

On the other hand the defending champions have to prove they are worthy of the title which they won with organisation and steel in Lisbon four years ago. After a performance with almost no adventure a few days ago, they switched to a 4-3-3, with Ansas, the third centre-back against Sweden being dropped. And Amanatidis almost stole in after Kolodin slipped by the highly rated, 22 year old Igor Akinfeev rushed out to deny him by clearing quickly. Bilyaletdinov countered for the Russians in what what shaping out to be a scrappy match but his shot was high and wide. Greece managed to show some invention as a fine reverse pass released full-back Seitaridis, whose cross was too near to Akinfeev. At the other end Pavyluchenko, cut in and shot but his bending effort was tipped over by veteran Nikopolidis. The same man whose brace dampened English hopes in Russia, appealed for a penalty for handball of Dellas but his claims by countered through his original offside position as the cross came in from the right.

The Russians were looking more threatening but the direct Greece, won a free kick, in which Angelo Charisteas missed the ball completely as a free heading opportunity came his way. The ball hit Semshov on the line and he awkwardly cleared it for a corner. The Greece striker was guilty for wasting another opening as Patsatzoglou. Zhrikov had been instrumental in the majority of Russian moves as he bombed down the left flank continuously and tormented his marker. This was evident as he passed to Torbinsky, who crossed to the back post drawing out Nikopolidis, who was taken out of play by a wonderful flick by Russia captain Semak, for Zyryanov to tap into an empty net. The Champions were on the brink of elimination. Greece were able to reshuffle after the injury of Seitaridis, as playmaker Karagounis was brought on. His first action was to a hit a poor free-kick and then to take a booking to stop Russia countering his original error.

Angelo Charisteas continued his poor finishing by showing a complete lack of composure when one versus one against Akinfeev, he lamely lifts his shot into the air so that the CSKA, one time arsenal target could simply catch it. Where was the power in that shot? Pavlyuchenko then shot hard at the near post to remind the viewer how to hit a ball when required. The same man then was found ploughing a lone furrow down the left flank and cut inside with a brilliant turn of pace past Kyrgiakos but he dragged his shot wide at the near post when a curling effort around Nikopolidis would have fared him better. Zhrikov then crossed to Pavlyuchenko, who backheeled it into the path of Bilyaletdinov, who lashed it wide, as Russia wasted another chance to extend their lead.

Bilyaletdinov had another chance after Nikopolidis’ outstretched hand patted away a dangerous cross but the danger was imminent as the Russian stole the ball and his goal-bound shot was blocked by Dellas’s brilliant block to add some gloss to further shambolic defending. Four years ago, they were the epitome of defensive solidity, now, ages has weakened them significantly, as it as many defences in Austria and Switzerland, the French a clear example. The substitute Saenko made a fine dribble beating two players as he carried the ball out of defence and played a wonderfully weighted through ball to Pavlyuchenko, who shot high and wide, once more lacking composure.

The lively Karagounis, who was willing to shoot as shown earlier in the match, turned away from two players before being chopped down to win a free-kick. Charisteas had the ball in the net but the Greeks were contentiously flagged offside as Russia continued to dominate the closing stages. Fine counter-attacking, and aesthetically brilliant passing patterns were insignificant with a lack of composure in the final third, be it the assisting pass or the shot on goal. Semak broke after Greece threw a number of players up the pitch and fed Pavlyuchenko, who fired over the bar as Russia’s lack of attacking end product was evident once more. Roberto Rosetti blew his whistle and Greece were no more.

A shadow of the victors that shocked the whole of Europe, they went out without having scored a goal. This Russian win means that Spain will go through, while all depends on the final matchday encounter between Sweden and Russia. While the entertainment wasn’t as compelling as yesterday, it was still of a high level but ITV’s coverage was very disappointing. The constant repetition of Sweden-Spain highlights, Andy Townsend’s constant stream of clichés when analysing the match and appointing Sam Allyardyce as a pundit (who by the way looked like a tacky, low level mob boss) further emphasised BBC’s superiority in every department of football coverage on free-to-air television. Oh, and I forgot the adverts every other minute. Things will be low in the autumn when Internationals and the FA Cup arrive on the channel.
Greece 0 – 1 Russia FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Seven Round Up

2008-06-18T11:09:00.001-07:00

After a heavy, unexpected defeat to the Dutch, the World Champions Italy reinstated veteran attacker Del Piero and broke up the Milan midfield trio torn apart in the first leg by swapping Gattuso with De Rossi and also removing Ambrosini. The five changes expected to exploit Toni’s strength and aerial ability, by using the width and running brought by left back Fabio Grosso and Simone Perrotta of Roma. Romania kept the same formation which brought them a draw against France, once more looking to counter attack with the Italians likely to be presented the majority of possession just like France.

Romania’s biggest threat in Adrian Mutu made an early impression as he challenged for a cross in the opening stages but headed over. Later the Fiorentina man was found to be offside as the Romanians broke again. Yet Italy tried to take an early advantage as Toni played in Del Piero, top scorer in Serie A this past season, whose shot was deflected for a corner. Camoranesi chipped in a weighted pass in the path of the Juventus trequartista but the ball was taken away from him. Yet Perrotta, as every commentator will mention him being born in Aston-under –Lyne, the birth place of Geoff Hurst, crossed the ball back across goal but Del Piero headed wide at the near post. The same man played a delicate back-heel into the direction of Perrotta but the pass was intercepted. While Del Piero was involved in most of the early Italian attacks, Mutu broke and shot towards the far post but Buffon rushed out swiftly and denied him well.

Defender Gabriel Tamas hit a rasping long range drive, which he did well to keep low as Buffon pushed it away from his left. Soon after Chivu whipped in a dangerous free-kick, with which Niculae connected well and it hit the base of the post with aid of a deflection of an Italian defender. Zambrotta cleared and two Romanian players collided head on in a bid to knock the ball back into the box. Radoi was worse off and was taken off by a stretcher cart with Dica replacing him. Yet the Italians hit back as Grosso curled a dangerous ball into the six-yard box, with which Del Piero almost connected in what would have been a sure goal. Later Toni headed wide as Italian pressure continued.

Yet the Romanians reminded the fans of their threat as Razvan Rat hit from long range after some decent possession, with the ball whirring just past the post as Buffon scrambled across the goal. Soon after, Del Piero was fouled and hit the resulting free-kick high and wide as Pirlo also competed to have a try. Pirlo played a fine pass down the line, which his new AC Milan team-mate Zambrotta controlled and crossed to Toni, who knocked down for Perrotta to hit, but a fine recovery challenge denied him. Then came three successive corners, from which Romania were stretched and seemed to forget their defensive strategy as Toni wreaked havoc with a powerful header that was saved and knock-downs into dangerous areas, as Lobont bravely cleared the ball.

The Italians used their set pieces in a creative manner as the ball was played deep on the stroke of half time by Pirlo to Zambrotta who chipped the ball into the box to Toni who headed in but was wrongly flagged offside in a poor decision by the linesman as Italy’s luck deserted them. Italy began the second half with patient possession but were shocked after a poorly weighted back-header to Buffon fell into the path of Mutu, who swept home with great confidence past Buffon to send Romania into a unexpected lead. Just two minutes later Giorgio Chiellini headed the ball back across goal from a corner and Panucci stabbed home to equalize and relight Italian hopes. Yet the Romanians had further chances to retake the lead with Petre’s shot blocked by Grosso. The Lyon left-back then made a last ditch sliding tackle to stop Nicolita shooting as the Italians were short at the back.

Soon after, Cassano lifted a ball into Toni, who chested down to De Rossi, whose diving header was well saved by the athletic lunge of Lobont to his right. Yet Panucci’s fine performance had a turn for the worse as referee Tom Ovrebo gave a penalty for pulling. In the most tense of moments, Buffon showed why he is rated as the finest keeper in the world in some quarters with a wonderful save from Mutu’ well struck penalty. The Romanians appeared to rock the Italians, with Ambrosini brought on to steady the Italian ship. Toni went down under pressure when competing for a Cassano cross and appealed for a penalty but all Italian claims were waived away. Soon after a lofted pass from Pirlo was directed to Quagliarella via a Luca Toni knock-down but the Udinese striker failed to connect and was also called off-side.

In injury time the Romanians won a free-kick but it was wasted as Tamas fired over from distance ending the match in a draw, which adds great need of a win against France on the final Group C Matchday (which doesn’t guarantee their progress), while Romanian hopes are looking up as one of the favourites’ hopes linger by a thread after a fascinating encounter in Zurich.

Italy 1 – 1 Romania FT

After a footballing master-class against Italy, this most anticipated of matches is set to decide if all four sides can still progress on the final matchday. Marco Van Basten started with the same eleven players who provided a balance that played to their counter-attacking strengths and refuted claims from those such as Johan Cruyff, the Oranje legend and one of the pioneers of ‘totaalvoetbal’, who claims their rich footballing heritage is being betrayed with the use of two holding midfielders in Engelaar and De Jong. The duo performed heroically.

France on the other hand had to step up their pedestrian tempo and provide defensive pressure from the front. The return of Henry with both Benzema and Anelka dropped meant two similar styles as France kept their two holding midfielders, providing defensive stability. This time they were not expected to create with Ribery in an attacking trio alongside Govou and Malouda in a bid to support ex-Arsenal attacker Henry. Holland started aggressively with two foul in quick succession to halt any prolonged French possession. Soon after the bounce of the ball beat the experienced Lilian Thuram and found its way to Van Nistlerooy, who turned and shot rather than set up Kuyt. The Liverpool man was body checked by the wily Makelele in an action which deserved a booking, but Herbert Fandel did not caution the Chelsea man.

Soon after, France’s decent start continued as Malouda crossed to the far post for Ribery who headed wide. Yet Holland continued their fine form as Kuyt headed in Van Bronckhorst’s corner after easily fending off the poor aerial challenge of Malouda to give the Dutch a 1-0 lead after nine minutes. France almost hit back as Ribery dispossessed the giant Engelaar and drove at the Dutch defence, as Henry ran wide to create space for his compatriot but the Bayern man was stopped in full-flow. Some wonderful possession football by the Dutch created an opening for Sneidjer, whose shot was blocked, as France failed to pressure the orange shirts. A long ball from Van Bronckhorst beat Thuram with alarming ease and Kuyt pounced on the loose ball but shot over as with the defence in trouble.

The Dutch appeared to be in control as Van Nistlerooy turned wonderfully but France suddenly pounced into life as Sidney Govou shot from an acute angle at the near post under pressure but Van Der Sar saved sharply with his feet. France came back into the game to a certain extent as Govou had another shot blocked and soon after Malouda hit a shot from distance, which the Dutch keeper gathered. Soon after the veteran clutched onto Govou effort, while Ribery and Makelele also strode forward with the former using the run of the latter to create space for a shot, which the Manchester United keeper saved well once more. These three efforts in quick succession swung the momentum of the tie as Ribery broke down the right flank and crossed only for both Henry and Govou to evade the ball. Later, the busy Makelele fed Henry who turned and shot just wide.

Engelaar’s tendency to lose the ball in the first half caused him to be replaced by Arjen Robben, so impressive in the closing stages of Real Madrid’s season, as Van Basten tried to stem the tide of French attacks. Henry, quiet in the first half, beat two players and crossed for Ribery to win a corner off Van Bronckhorst. The Dutch were rocked after many deflections as the ball fell to Henry whose shot was brilliantly blocked by Oojier at point blank range. Henry was brilliantly played through be Malouda’s overhead kick but his lob was too long, and the finish was not typical of what one expects of the Barcelona man. Perhaps a season of playing on the left flank has taken away his sharpness in front of goal, despite scoring 19 last season (mostly against lesser sides).

Later Robben dribbled down the left flank and crossed for Sneidjer, who headed straight into the arms of Coupet. A world class goal from Holland stunned France as Van Nistlerooy did a roulette playing the ball into the path of Robben, who drove down the wing with electric pace and found Van Persie, who at the far post fired in with what seemed to be his first meaningful touch to double the Dutch lead. Soon after Robben switched to the right flank and dribbled with menace but his shot was too close to Coupet, who gathered well. Soon after, Robin Van Persie intercepted a lax Makelele pass, and advanced but was without support and his cut-back found no-one.

Sagnol bombed down the right and provided a brilliant cross for Henry to direct into the goal with the faintest of touches to bring France back into contention. Immediately, Arjen Robben, wonderfully dribbled in the box, shifted the ball to his left and fired a totally unexpected bullet of a shot past the shell-shocked Coupet to retake a two goal lead. The brilliant, but injury prone Dutchman stood totally perplexed, amazed at his own ability in this enthralling game. After Anelka and Gomis were brought on, Ribery beat De Jong with ease and pulled back only for Makelele to be the recipient, a more composed finisher would have made it 3-2 as the Chelsea man fluffed his shot. At the other end, a fine floated pass from midfield found Ruud Van Nistlerooy, who headed towards goal as Coupet scrambled back to knock it past the post. Soon after fine interplay between Van Bronckhorst and Sneidjer played in Van Persie with a cross-field pass, but Coupet rushed out and cleared the danger. Ribery fired a free-kick over after Makelele was fouled and with his miss went any hope of a France comeback. Evra’s cross was blocked and the Dutch countered once more as Robben sped up the pitch and fired in a shot from the edge of the area, but it flashed wide. Sneidjer topped off a stunning performance with a turn and shot into the top corner. Comprehensive victories over the two World Cup finalists and scoring 7 goals in turn, showed why this Netherlands side are true contenders for the Henri Delauney trophy.

France and Italy are now contesting for survival in Euro 2008, with their chances not in their hands, even with a win, while two years ago they were competing for the World Cup. Such has been their demise. The brilliant Dutch have qualified for the quarter finals, alongside Portugal and Croatia and have surely gained thousands of new fans with their stunning counter-attacking football. Van Basten’s substitutions were very attacking and bold, when another manager would have put on a defender to stem the French attacks, he went for broke and it paid off. Surely he’d rather stay on than leave to become Ajax coach this summer?

This was definitely the game of the tournament so far and the entertainment bar a few matches has been of high quality. Who needs England to make a tournament sparkle when we have the Oranje?

Holland 4 – 1 France FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Six Round Up

2008-06-18T11:08:00.002-07:00

Once again, the two contenders for the top spot met, this time in Group B. The Germans were unchanged following their relatively comprehensive defeat of Poland, while Petric, ineffective in the first game against co-hosts Austria was replaced by Rakitic, as they changed into a more cohesive formation. A generally lacklustre performance by the whole side reduced the expectations of the fans especially with match against the tournament favourites up next.

Naturally both sides were looking to exploit each others weaknesses, with German left-back Marcel Jansen the focus of much criticism along with Jens Lehmann’s capability with the long-range shot. In contrast, Luka Modric’s consistency in controlling the tempo throughout a game and the capability of the whole side to withstand a fast paced game was also questioned. The Germans looked to use Ballack’s vision to progress further up the pitch as Jansen’s cross reached the box and Gomez nicely set it up for Podolski to volley, but his effort was blocked. The Croatians looked to make their own impact on the game with a fine passing move ending in Mertesacker heading the ball clear under heavy pressure earning the centre back a free kick. Later Metzelder, the injury prone Real Madrid player, had to execute a perfectly timed sliding tackle on Olic, as he ran onto a testing through-ball from Modric.

The Croatian pressure continued as Kranjcar spread the play to the left flank where fine interplay involving Rakitic, Pranjic and Olic drew the German defence deep into the box allowing space for a fine cross to the far post to be made. Srna connected ahead of Jansen who was poor positionally, and fired past Jens Lehmann, who had no chance. Further Croatian possession saw Rakitic work the ball into the box and an Olic knockdown into a large hole in the German defence allowed Kranjcar to shoot but pressure from Jansen saw him fire over in a fine chance. But the Germans came back as Ballack’s free-kick, perhaps the second decent dead ball shot since Pirlo against Holland a few days back, was saved by Pletikosa.

After a much delayed corner, due to the referee attempting to stop any shoving and shirt pulling, Frings whipped in a decent corner, only for Metzelder to head over. Corluka beat Jansen with ease and ran down the line with no opposition. The Manchester City full-back passed across the edge of the box and the ball ended up at the feet of Olic who lifted a pass into the stride of Kranjcar, who controlled with his chest and volleyed, albeit it straight at Jens Lehmann, who saved brilliantly. From the resulting corner, Lehmann was forced to punch under pressure as Bilic’s side were on the ascendancy as the first half ended. The lack of urgency in the German midfield in comparison to their competitive, hungry opponents was perhaps the key reason as to their lack of success in the opening 45 minutes.

The poor Jansen was replaced by ‘speed merchant’ Odonkor as Germany looked to assert their influence on the game. This was evident in the early stages of the second half as Lahm’s cross was awkwardly punched out by Pletikosa as Ballack lifted the rebound over. Modric then tested Lehmann with a dipping shot after a move involving Ballack broke down for Germany. There was possession but a lack of end product as Gomez ran towards the box, after Corluka mistimed his interception, but his cross was behind Klose. But as they began to improve on their first half showing, a cross from Rakitic deflected off Podolski towards the goal. Lehmann managed to touch it onto the post but the ball rebounded fortuitously for Olic to tap into an empty net as the tournament favourites were thrown into despair.

Yet they almost drew level as Ballack spread the ball wide to substitute Schweinsteiger, who teased his marker and fired a low shot across the goal mouth which Pletikosa did well to divert from the goal. Yet the Germans hit back once more as Lahm crossed from the left and Ballack headed back across the goal with aid of a deflection and Podolski volleyed in past the keeper to level with David Villa, who also has 3 goals as the Germans mounted a late fight back. Yet any hopes of scoring an equalizer were dashed as the volatile Schweinsteiger reacted to Jerko Leko’s cynical challenge.

The German shoved his fellow substitute, who held his face as he collapsed dramatically, despite no contact being made against his face, but referee Frank De Bleeckere did not hesitate to send off the left winger as Joachim Low’s side suffered their first defeat, which significantly reduced their chances of them finishing top and avoiding Portugal in the quarter finals. The game ended as Germany tried to launch the ball into the Croatia box from a free kick after Luka Modric was booked for a poor challenge on Torsten Frings, a reported Arsenal target. The 31 year old Werder Bremen man broke up play well on occasions but was unable to stop the tides of Croatia attacks as his side failed to really make an impact until the dying moments.

Croatia celebrated with their charismatic lawyer-guitarist-manager Slaven Bilic as the side progressed into the quarter finals, adding their name to a list of favourites including Portugal and Holland (after initial impressive showings), whilst temporarily chalking off Germany’s hopes, at least in the eyes of the tabloid media. The ineffective performances of Gomez and Klose will see calls for Podolski, best young player in the 2006 World Cup, to be used in a striking role rather than the left win position he currently occupies. There he doesn’t provide the defensively frail Marcel Jansen protection as shown frequently as the Bayern Munich full back was repeatedly beaten in Germany’s opening two games. Fritz was anonymous on the right flank while Odonkor is unnecessary unless a counter-attacking formation is utilised. The loss of Bernd Schneider now appears to be revealing itself against greater opposition.

Perhaps this first upset of Euro 2008 will be the first of many concerning Europe’s giants as the Croats try to win it for the injured Eduardo. Bilic looks very tactically sharp following his very effective changes from the opening game. The Croatian Football Federation president Vlatko Markovic must be privately congratulating himself on securing Bilic’s signature until 2010.

Croatia 2 – 1 Germany FT

The Austrian side performed heroically in their opening game and were by no means humiliated by Croatia as expected by most viewers. After co-hosts were knocked out yesterday, they will be wishing for a different fate with all hopes the hosts of resting on the lowest ranked side in the tournament. Both sides need a victory to remain within a chance of qualifying, while a loss would have been disaster. Obviously we have to mention the sole English presence with Howard Webb and his team of officials refereeing this seemingly unglamorous tie.

A change from the 3-5-2 formation to the standard 4-4-2 allowed Hickersberger greater defensive stability in what was expected to be a physical contest. Austria could have countered as Korkmaz found room on the left flank but the winger delayed as Austria built up some possession with playmaker Ivanschitz taking the first shot of the game, but it dragged wide. The influential midfielder then tried his luck from 32m out, as he curled a free kick over the wall but Boruc gathered well. Later, the Polish defence, still playing a high line were caught out with a terrible back pass as Martin Harnik ran through but Celtic’s Boruc got a vital touch on his slide rule shot. The same man was denied from a few yards out after Korkmaz dribbled down the flank and cut back as the Austrian striker shot straight down the middle of the goal.

The Polish keeper was having a brilliant game as he denied the Austrians a third time with Poland cut open with a finely weighted ball as Leitgeb was played onside by the defence but his shot was too close to Boruc, who rushed out swiftly to close the angle once more. Soon after Ivanschitz hit a rising shot from the edge of the area as Austria looked to take the lead in this open game, where defence was obviously not the priority. Once more Boruc came to the rescue, rushing out and denying Garics the chance to cross back into the danger area.

Even the Austrian centre back Stranzl roamed forward and he beat his markers when surrounded in the corner with a delightful nutmeg but his pull back was behind everyone. The lack of defensive pressure and slow tempo allowed Leitgeb to rush forward but he failed to control the cross as it ran away from him. Immediately the dominant Poles were shocked as Roger Guerreiro, who scored his first goal for his adopted country after a smart ball to the back post was controlled by Saganowski, who then cut inside and shot but goalkeeper Jurgen Macho’s touch moved the ball away from the goal and unfortunately the last defender as the Brazilian-pole tapped in the rebound. There were claims of offside despite the keeper and the last defender getting a touch before it reached Roger.

The dominant Austrians regressed as the momentum swung and Poland began to see more of the ball with Krzynowek taking a shot from distance, which the ex-Sunderland man Macho saving to his left with ease. The first half ended as Austria saw another sight of goal with Stranzl at the far post stretching for Leitgeb’s over-hit free-kick. In a bid to improve on their lead, Leo Beenhakker swapped the suicidal defensive capabilities (or lack of) for Golanski, who struggled against Germany’s Fritz in their opening game, a player who was anonymous in today’s earlier kick-off. The substitute brought down Ivanschitz causing penalty claims which Howard Webb rejected.

A fine pass from Guerreiro released Ebi Smolarek, whose shot was spilled by Macho but cleared on the second attempt. Jurgen Macho saved from close range after Bak volleyed from a Guerreiro cross, and he added to this one with a punch from Lewandowski’s follow up. As Poland pressed, it was Macho that was busy once more, having to tip over Krzynowek’s long range free-kick. Austria had six minutes left to salvage a draw as Proedl headed wide from a corner. Fatigue set in as their play was never as aggressive or high-paced as their opening 30 minutes. Yet in the dying minutes of injury time, Howard Webb gave the host nation a penalty, after pushing and shoving in the box, and the veteran Ivica Vastic, Austrian player of the year, smashed home the penalty to equalize. Apparently the lucky chap will receive a lifetime supply of beer just for scoring. Yet Hickersberger and his side will rue their missed opportunities in the opening half, hich could have given them a priceless win.

The host nation will play Germany in a local derby in their final group match with need of a win to have any chance of qualifying but have defender Proedl suspended. An exciting finale aided the Austrians and added further excitement to a tournament that has burst into life. Imagine the scenes if they qualify for the next round. Just imagine.

Austria 1 – 1 Poland FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Five Round Up

2008-06-18T11:08:00.001-07:00

After opening day victories over Switzerland and Turkey, Czech Republic and Portugal came head to head in the second match day of Group A. The collective play of Scolari’s side meets a Czech side that hasn’t reached its peak with a lack of direction in attack, shown by using the selfless running of Milan Baros preferred to the static Jan Koller as the neat passing of Karel Buckner’s side looked to secure a quarter final spot.

The eastern Europeans started the brighter with Libor Sionko’s shot being blocked as he dribbled into towards the box from the right flank. Yet Portugal cut open the Czech defence as Ronaldo ran into the box after a deft touch from Nuno Gomes. Ronaldo appeared to round Cech but the brilliant Chelsea keeper denied him, and blocked Deco’s follow up, but the out of favour Barcelona man shot on the third opportunity his side were presented and the ball crept in after deflecting in off a Czech defender. The Portuguese played a patient build up as space opened up for Armando Petit to rush forward and shoot from distance, but Cech gathered well

Yet the Czechs rushed forward as Baros headed over, and Sionko dribbled to the byline getting the better of Pepe, but his cut back was met by none of his team mates but Petit anxiously cleared for a Czech corner. The former Rangers’ man, his country’s best performer in the last match, timed his run perfectly to beat Petit to the ball from Plasil and headed past Ricardo into the net to level the score. As the Czechs began to influence proceedings more with a higher tempo and the earlier ball to lone frontman Milan Baros, Polak was booked as he overran the ball and lunged in a 50-50 with Real’s Pepe. Yet Portugal showed why they are considered one of the favourites as Deco strode forward and aimed for the top right hand corner but fired over while countryman Ronaldo shot through a crowd of players in a bid to surprise Cech, who once more was unfazed.

The Portuguese struggled with set pieces as Plasil whipped in a ball from the left to the far post, which was knocked back into the danger area. As Portugal slowed the game down, Chelsea’s new signing Boswinga showed fine strength to win the ball back having lost it, but lacked the composure to lay the ball off. This was evident as his over exuberance in the tackle earned him a yellow card having once more lost the ball. The ‘Republic of Czechoslovakia’, according to David Pleat, began to break frequently as another early tackle, this time by Simao prevented this forays into their half. Yet a fine dribble by Baros, having not scored once in 16 appearances for Portsmouth on loan, allowed him to trick his way down the right wing beating several Portuguese players, but his final pass was lacking as he aimed a cross for team mates gathering at the far post.

Then Ronaldo hit another, left footed this time, powerful shot at Cech, who palmed the ball away at full stretch. Then bursting forward towards the Czech defence, he fell dramatically, as the fans glimpsed the unsavoury side of the Real Madrid target and stayed down clutching his face. Immediately, as the play resumed to normal after Paulo Ferreira received a nasty cut by his eye, Ronaldo fired a dipping free-kick, which Cech was once more equal to. The game was typical of a recent upturn in the quality of the games with chances at both ends and a fascinating contest between two contrasting styles: neat possession and the swift counter attack.

Pepe, having tackled Baros, strode forward with ease to the opposition box and crossed to win a corner. Yet the Czechs continued their improvement as the very lively Sionko dribbled to the byline, from a brilliant pass from Matejovsky, once more and cut back, with Baros not reading the direction of the cross as it trickled across the goalmouth before being cleared. The slow build up of Portugal almost broke through the wall of red that is the Czech defence, as a pass from Simao luckily found Nuno Gomes, who improved well by turning well from three defenders before firing on target but at Cech. The Benfica striker stole the ball from Lazio defender Rozenhal but his shot was blocked as the former Newcastle man recovered well.

Deco drove forward and poked a pass through to Simao, whose shot was blocked by Cech while Grygera blocked Ronaldo’s follow up. The Atletico Madrid winger then ran forward in another attack but his pull-back was too close to Cech. While Scolari altered his tactics when defending set pieces, reducing the chance to counter attack by bringing back more players, still Ujfalusi’s flick on attracted two players who couldn’t connect in a very good chance highlighting a fragility in this aspect of his side’s play.

Yet it didn’t matter as Ronaldo hit a low, early shot from Deco’s square pass and it passed through the legs of Grygera, to disguise it from Cech until late on when he was helpless, allowing Portugal to take the lead. The Czech Republic brought on Jan Koller alongside Milan Baros to provide an aerial threat, as Ricardo flapped at another dangerous free-kick. Soon after, Bruckner’s side threatened once more as an early cross from Baros was touched on by Koller, but the finish was lacking from Sionko, who played in an advanced role late in the game. The set-pieces of Plasil always disturbed Portugal, but it was their quick thinking that allowed a quick free kick to be played on towards Ronaldo, who ran free and faced Cech but squared to Porto’s Quaresma, who slotted home to confirm their place in the quarter finals.

The fine combination play of Portugal allowed them to overcome an improved Czech side but the sycophantic and hyperbolic presentation of Ronaldo did once more overshadow the ITV coverage, mentioning him once in every minute of playing time (93) and 27 times during the half time break. They must really find another angle to their coverage of Portugal to appeal to all aspects of their varied audience.

Czech Republic 1 – 3 Portugal FT

When Turkey and Switzerland last met, the game ended on a sour note in a 2006 World Cup play-off as television showed images of fighting in the tunnel as Switzerland qualified through the away goals rule despite losing 4-2 on the night. No doubt the game would have had revenge and a shot at qualification high on the list of priorities. The hosts had already lost captain and star striker Alexander Frei and Kobi Kuhn was under pressure to restore pride lost in the opening day defeat to the Czech Republic. Erin Derdiyok, of whom commentators will be so swift as to remind us of his debut goal against England, replaced the Dortmund man.

Arda Turan, chased by Newcastle among others, showed a flash of skill as he did the roulette, moving away from two Swiss players in the opening stages. Decent possession football by Turkey pressured the Swiss into deeper areas with the four attacking players involved heavily. The Swiss looked to up the tempo by taking the quick throw or the early forward pass to throw Fatih Terrim’s side from their stride.

As the rain poured down in Basel, Inler decided to use the pitch to fire a low shot that could have troubled Volkan, who gathered. Arsenal’s Senderos made a perfectly timed sliding tackle on Tuncay after Arda Turan had mad headway through the Swiss defence. The young defender had a lapse in concentration having gathered he ball in the left back area, he blindly passed down the line to a white shirt, sparking goalmouth scramble. Inler found Hakan Yakin wide on the left and he drove forward and hit a stinging drive which was palmed away by Volkan, who bettered himself with a diving save from a Yakin free-kick once more.

Turkey increased their pressure following a Swiss spell of possession, as Tuncay turned well on the edge of the box but was fouled to win a free-kick, from which Nihat crossed only for Benaglio to clear onto the head of Galatasaray youngster Turan who hit the post. Senderos played a long ball to Derdiyok, who ran past the keeper and cut back accurately for Hakan Yakin to tap in as the ball was held up in one of the many puddles on the pitch. Yet the same man became the villain in the following minute as Behrami crossed for Yakin, who was in an identical position to his goal but hit his shot wide, as the Swiss frequently played the ball in the air to progress without the disadvantage of the pitch, which hindered the more cultured style of the Turks. This tactic brought out the best in the more physical Swiss with Erin Derdiyok pressing well from the front.

Turkey seemed to have adapted to the wet pitch after half time but their improvement was dampened by Hakan Balta’s blatant handball and he was rightly booked. Barnetta countered as the Swiss looked to extend their fragile lead but his shot never looked like troubling Volkan as he sliced it wide. Lazio’s Behrami stole the ball deep in the Turkish half and drove to the byline where he did well to cross albeit to no-one. Yet Turkey equalized from a simple cross as Senturk headed straight at the keeper Benaglio, who was at fault by slapping the ball into the net, rather than lifting it over his goal. The centre backs were also poor in holding the line throughout the game.

Nihat then shot from the edge of the area; he tried to claim a penalty for handball from Senderos, whose hands were firmly behind his back. With their hopes predominantly resting on this game, Turkey almost went ahead, as a fine Turan pass reached Tuncay, whose cross evaded his strike partner as he stretched for it. As the game came into the final ten minutes, Aurelio found an opportunity as the ball broke in the area but his shot was valiantly blocked. Turkey piled forward for a free-kick but Nihat’s dead ball was cleared by the first man and Switzerland broke with three attackers against one as Derdiyok slid the ball through, and it was knocked it back to Vonlanthen, whose shot was saved while Volkan bravely grabbed the loose ball as well before Yakin could follow up.

There was blood and panic as Turkey rushed to bring Emre Asik back on the pitch, who suffered a deep cut and the Swiss drove forward to find a winner but Asik was waved back on and the Turks broke and the brilliant Arda Turan, whose suggested £13 million transfer value has surely risen, ran down the left and cut in and scored the winner with the aid of a deflection. The improvement in conditions surely aided the Turks and sadly the co-hosts are knocked out just five days into the tournament despite their spirited performance. Now what is sure is the winner between an interesting game between the Czech Republic and Turkey will join Portugal in the quarter final.

Switzerland 1 – 2 Turkey FT

Euro 2008: Matchday Four Round Up

2008-06-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

Perennial underachievers Spain took on Russia as they finally look to add to the 1964 European Championship success inspired by Luis Suarez. As they attempt to find the correct balance to win the tournament, Arsenal’s Fabregas started from the bench as Xavi started as playmaker with Villarreal’s Marcos Senna supporting him in the holding role. Against them Gus Hiddink leads a Russia side shorn of star striker Pavel Pogrebnyak and playmaker Andrei Arshavin in hope of upsetting one of the tournament favourites as Romania did so to France yesterday. A national hero in South Korea and having also led Australia to the World Cup, his international achievements cannot be questioned.

Despite being unbeaten for 18 months with victories over Italy and France, Spain played with Villa up alone being supported with a creative midfield. The inclusion of Torres may have affected the style of play according to some (having only scored twice in 18 months for his country), despite his qualities as they strained to wins in their build up to the Euro. The Liverpool hit man cut in from the left flank but hit his shot weakly. Soon after Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos played a lofted pass to Villa, looking to find a new club, who shot over under pressure from the Russian defenders. As the Russians looked to break up the Spanish monopoly of the possession with a few hard tackles, which Referee Konrad Plautz allowed, Russia almost stole the advantage with a fine spell of passing in the channels behind the full-backs and cutting the ball back across goal as Semshov nearly swept in, if not for the Spanish defence who closed in swiftly.

Torres ran down the channel from a wonderful Capdevila pass and lost his defender with a lucky break but had brilliant composure to find Villa, who slotted home into the empty net with the keeper already committed. Any criticisms of their partnership appeared to disappear, yet as Spain were celebrating, Russia caught Spain asleep as the cut-back evaded all of the Spanish defence and fell to Zyryanov, who sidefooted his shot against the post. Immediately Spain countered and Torres was found one on one against Akinfeev but the angles were against him. Villa was found by an Iniesta through ball and shot at the Russian keeper despite an acute angle, drawing a corner.

Iniesta was beginning to find room to run into and their ‘tika-taka’ passing patterns created openings for ‘La Furia Roja’ but Torres shot weakly at Akinfeev. Spain patiently passed at the back for an opening until Xavi played Torres in down the flank and he turned his man with ease and passed to David Silva whose shot was blocked for a corner. Pavluchenko first hit a free kick into the wall then fired the ball against the bar, which didn’t count as he fouled his marker. Yet from another poor Russia dead ball, Spain broke with wonderful agility as Capdevila gathered the ball and laid off the ball to Iniesta, who dropped his shoulder one way than the other, confusing his marker as he slipped a perfectly timed pass into Villa, who slotted home a second time, through the keeper’s legs.

As these Group D sides threatened to match yesterday’s fine performance between the Dutch and the Italians, with the Russians playing their part with adventurous forward play, the tournament has shown signs of bursting into life. The Russians started with a high tempo and plenty of possession as Bystrov headed softly into the arms of Casillas. As Spain’s influence in midfield waned, Aragones brought on Arsenal’s Fabregas for Torres, who did not appear satisfied at all, concerning the early timing of the substitution. The young Spaniard made a fine run to open up space for Villa to run into as he shot into the grateful arms of Akinfeev. Yet Russia’s increasing influence allowed Bilyaletdinov to shoot, albeit wide of Casillas’ goal. David Silva almost added a third for Spain if not for a final, tackle to allow the ball to be gathered by the Russian keeper.

Iniesta made way for Santi Cazorla of Villarreal, as Aragones perhaps used the second half to find other styles of play to use later in the tournament. As Villa played in Fabregas, who made the run but showed his lack of pace as Akinfeev stole the ball before him. Later Ramos burst down the right flank and crossed for Villa, but Aniukov cut the ball out in an example of fine defending. Senna headed at Akinfeev from the resulting corner and had another attempt which the 22 year old Russian keeper caught with ease.

The Spanish queue for a shot, with Cazorla having the best opening but he delayed and eventually David Silva fired high over the bar. After their slow start, Spain came back into the game and ended it as Fabregas found Villa with a wonderfully weighted pass, and he turned his defender before slotting home at the near post fooling the keeper. As they dropped off the tempo with the game won, Russia grabbed a consolation goal with a well worked corner as Pavluchenko thumped in a header at the far post. The Spanish relaxed in defence as Semak controlled and tamely volleyed the ball straight at Casillas after the ball was pumped back in.

Then the man of the match David Villa broke and held the ball before lifting the ball over his defender to Xavi, a wonderfully weighted pass, with the Barcelona midfielder volleying at Akinfeev, and Fabregas headed into an empty net to round up a wonderful performance by the Spanish. Cesc’s passing and off the ball running created space for his team-mates before scoring in a fine 35 minutes of play. No doubt Villa raised his transfer value by £10 million or so, that is certain but, in looking at Spain, we have seen false horizons before, is this another?

Finally both sides scored in a Euro 2008 game, while this game was also the highest scoring game in the tournament so far, with plenty of entertainment. Hopefully it continues.

Spain 4 – 1 Russia FT

The holders Greece were written off once again despite improving since their triumph four years ago. Otto Rehhagel has a tough job to repeat his success in Portugal, yet a collection of tough defenders, a deep-lying midfielder in Basinas and a free-scoring forward in Fanis Gekas could spring another surprise. Yet an inconsistency in their performance has made Otto’s job more about striking a balance between Jekyll and Hyde. In contrast, Sweden relied on the evergreen Henrik Larsson and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who hasn’t scored for his country in his last 14 games, with injury-prone ex-Arsenal player Freddie Ljungberg captaining the side.

Charisteas, who scored the winner in 2004, was busy in the opening stages, as he was booked for an excited lunge on Hansson, while soon after he burst down the right side and cut into the box, but ended a fine run with a scuffed shot. The Swedes reacted with some patient possession football and a Svensson volley from a cleared corner. Another fine move was made by the recipient of the final ball was clearly offside. As the Swedes looked to create the openings in this clash of the counter-attacking sides, Ljungberg chipped the ball forward for Ibrahimovic to help on, but his flick fell just over the bar. After a very slow tempo opening in a match between two counter attacking sides, the Greeks went forward as Juventus-bound Mellberg was forced to head over his own bar.

Wilhelmsson back heeled to Larsson, who was unwilling to shoot and made one pass too many as another move broke down. As the Greeks were content at sitting deep and soaking up moderate Swedish pressure, with the crowd booing their cautious passing across the back four, it was up to their opponents to score to bring the defending champions more into the game. They countered as Charisteas ran down the right and shot high at the near post but Isaksson had it covered. To be honest the most interesting moment in the first half was a seemingly painful injury to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, as Wilhelmsson’ cross from the left caused few problems to a side, which is in its element when defending.

Sweden finally got in behind the deep lying Greeks as Wilhelmsson ran in and lobbed the veteran Nikopolidis, but lacked the composure to finish accurately as the ball landed behind the goal. There wasn’t much action as almost every Swedish attack was ended by the wrong pass or movement as the Greeks looked to counter with Giorgios Samaras replacing Gekas at half time to provide a focal point with which to release any prolonged pressure on their defence. Sweden appeared to forget all defensive duties as Karagounis was allowed to shoot on two occasions but the defence recovered sufficiently to block both attempts and the ball to land in Isaksson’s arms on the latter occasion.

Yet as all were about to fall into a boredom induced coma, Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored with a stunning strike after a one-two with Larsson, to score his first international goal since October 2005. So disappointing against English opposition, perhaps British viewers could see ho highly rated the Inter attacker is on mainland Europe. Rehhagel threw on another striker to regain the lead but Sweden attacked once more and Ljungberg should have made it two but his shot was saved and Elmander attempted to lob the (for once) disorganised Greek defence and the panic which this induced allowed Hanssen to score in the scrappiest goal this tournament so far.

Four years ago, the Greeks were seen as the freshest side in Portugal, yet as Ansas fell victim to cramp on 82 minutes, one could see all the omens turning away from them. Torosidis almost brought a goal back as he burst into the area and shot from a narrow angle, when perhaps going down to gain a penalty would have been the better option. Zlatan’s goal was naturally the high point of a woeful game.

While we may despair of Greece’s tactics, these were similar to what won them the tournament in Lisbon and they still have an outside chance of reaching the quarter finals. The two winners on the opening match day of Group D will meet on Saturday in an intriguing prospect.

Greece 0 – 2 Sweden FT