Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 7, 2008 Official Schedule UEFA EURO 2008 Group A Team............Pnts.....Plyd.....W.....D.....L.....GS.....GA Portugal..........6.........3........2......0.....1......5.......3 Turkey............6.........3........2......0.....1......5.......5 Switzerland....3.........3........1......0.....2......3.......3 Czech Rep.......3.........3........1......0.....2......4.......6 7 June 18:00 Basel Switzerland vs Czech Rep. 0 - 1 20:45 Geneva Portugal vs Turkey 2 - 0 11 June 18:00 Geneva Czech Rep. vs Portugal 1 - 3 20:45 Basel Switzerland vs Turkey 1 - 2 15 June 20:45 Basel Switzerland vs Portugal 2 - 0 20:45 Geneva Turkey vs Czech Rep. 3 - 2 Group B Team..........Pnts.....Plyd.....W.....D.....L.....GS.....GA Croatia...........9.........3........3......0.....0......4.......1 Germany........6.........3........2......0.....1......4.......2 Austria...........1.........3........0......1.....2......1.......3 Poland............1.........3........0......1.....2......1.......4 8 June 18:00 Vienna Austria vs Croatia 0 - 1 20:45 Klagenfurt Germany vs Poland 2 - 0 12 June 18:00 Klagenfurt Croatia vs Germany 2 - 1 20:45 Vienna Austria vs Poland 1 - 1 16 June 20:45 Klagenfurt Poland vs Croatia 0 - 1 20:45 Vienna Austria vs Germany 0 - 1 Group C Team............Pnts.....Plyd....W.....D.....L.....GS.....GA Holland...........9.........3........3......0.....0......9.......1 Italy...............4.........3........1......1.....1......3.......4 Romania.........2.........3........0......2.....1......1.......3 France............1.........3........0......1.....2......1.......6 9 June 18:00 Zurich Romania vs France 0 - 0 20:45 Berne Holland vs Italy 3 - 0 13 June 18:00 Zurich Italy vs Romania 1 - 1 20:45 Berne Holland vs France 4 - 1 17 June 20:45 Berne Holland vs Romania 2 - 0 20:45 Zurich France vs Italy 0 - 2 Group D Team............Pnts....Plyd....W.....D.....L.....GS.....GA Spain.............9.........3........3......0.....0......8.......3 Russia............6.........3........2......0.....1......4.......4 Sweden.........3.........3........1......0.....2......3.......4 Greece...........0.........3........0......0.....3......1.......5 10 June 18:00 Innsbruck Spain vs Russia 4 - 1 20:45 Salzburg Greece vs Sweden 0 - 2 14 June 18:00 Innsbruck Sweden vs Spain 1 - 2 20:45 Salzburg Greece vs Russia 0 - 1 18 June 20:45 Salzburg Greece vs Spain 1 - 2 20:45 Innsbruck Russia vs Sweden 2 - 0 Quarter Final Thursday 19 June 20:45 Basel # 1 PORTUGAL vs GERMANY 2 - 3 Friday 20 June 20:45 Vienna # 2 TURKEY vs CROATIA 4 - 2 (Pen.) Saturday 21 June 20:45 Basel # 3 HOLLAND vs RUSSIA 1 - 3 Sunday 22 June 20:45 Vienna # 4 ITALY vs SPAIN 2 - 5 (Pen.) Semifinal Wednesday 25 June 20:45 Basel # 5 - GERMANY vs TURKEY 3 - 2 Thursday 26 June 20:45 Vienna # 6 - RUSSIA vs SPAIN 0 - 3 Final Sunday 29 June 20:45 Vienna GERMANY vs SPAIN 0 - 1 SPAIN EUROPEAN CHAMPION 2008 Thanks to Shaka (Manu) Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 7, 2008 Euro 2008 Preview: Switzerland - Czech Republic What: Euro 2008, group stage Who: Switzerland, Czech Republic When: Saturday June 7 (1800 CET) Where: St. Jakob-Park, Basel Referee: Roberto Rosetti (Italy) And so it begins... The opening fixture of Euro 2008 is not quite the blockbuster everyone would be hoping for by any means, but it could well provide an intriguing clue as to how the tournament unfolds. Will we be in for a dramatic, thrilling Euro 2000, with a clash of the titans in the final being decided by a golden goal, or a slightly less thrilling but nonetheless dramatic Euro 2004 in which Greece managed to pull off one of the greatest upsets in European Championship history, entering as a bottom seed but going on to win the tournament? If Switzerland manage a victory then this could be yet another tournament for the underdog, but the Czechs are hardly giants themselves and are missing the two players who are quite easily their most high profile. Legend Pavel Nedved has of course taken the eventual decision to retire from international football while Tomas Rosicky's never-ending battle with injury is ongoing. They will require yet more work after the Championship when iconic target-man Jan Koller calls time on his international career, but he is sure to give his all in one last push to do his part to get his country its first ever major honour on the international stage. They of course reached the final in Euro 96 and the semi-final in Euro 2004 only to see success elude them - could Euro 2008 be their last chance? They are without doubt perennial underdogs and relish such a position. They have always made their way by disposing of sides beneath them in the pecking order, where more star-studded sides tend to stumble. The real test for them will come in the knock-outs, but first and foremost they must maintain their usual prolificacy in the group stages. Facing hosts is never an easy proposition - particularly in the opening game - and Switzerland are coming into the tournament off the back of a couple of convincing wins in warm-up matches. While it must be noted that Liechtenstein and Slovakia are hardly the stiffest of opposition, winning is a habit and if the Swiss army carry this momentum into their opening game they could spring a surprise on their visitors. This modern incarnation of Switzerland is famous for having been eliminated from the 2006 World Cup without conceding a goal; their woeful penalty shootout against Ukraine proved their undoing after what had been an impressive if not all that entertaining qualification from the group stage. Philippe Senderos is almost like another player entirely for his country, but is no doubt helped by the defensive tactics employed by coach Jakob Kuhn. It is their unit that provides strength - with Inler no doubt set to be a star for them - but their problem may be outstanding individual play to create goals. Valon Behrami may prove a key man in this respect. The outgoing Lazio star has already expressed his enthusiasm leading up to the tournament and will relish the attacking freedom he is allowed on the wing for his country, having been played as a full-back at club level. Gelson Fernandes may also have a fair amount of responsibility to create, and having not enjoyed the most morale-boosting time at Manchester City in recent months, there is a chance he may be found wanting. The key to their attacks will be using the flanks to their full effect. Barnetta, Vonlanthen, Behrami, Degen, Lichtsteiner and Magnin are all able down the flanks as full-backs and wingers, and if they use wide areas to break and try and hit the Czechs where they are somewhat weaker, they may well grab the opening day victory the whole country will be hoping for. FORM GUIDE Switzerland May 30 Switzerland 3-0 Liechtenstein (Friendly) May 24 Switzerland 2-0 Slovakia (Friendly) Mar 26 Switzerland 0-4 Germany (Friendly) Feb 6 England 2-1 Switzerland (Friendly) Nov 20 Switzerland 0-1 Nigeria (Friendly) Oct 17 Switzerland 0-1 United States (Friendly) Czech Republic May 30 Czech Republic 3-1 Scotland (Friendly) May 27 Czech Republic 2-0 Lithuania (Friendly) Mar 26 Denmark 1-1 Czech Republic (Friendly) Feb 6 Poland 2-0 Czech Republic (Friendly) Nov 21 Cyprus 0-2 Czech Republic (European Championship qualifier) Nov 17 Czech Republic 3-1 Slovakia (European Championship qualifier) TEAM NEWS Switzerland Despite having played 4-4-2 in their two recent victories, against tougher opposition the Swiss are likely to revert to 4-5-1, with Alexander Frei the lone striker and fellow front-man Streller withdrawn for attacking midfielder Hakan Yakin. Tranquillo Barnetta has overcome an ankle injury and will be fit to start, though Johan Vonlanthen's impressive performances during his lay-off may make competition for the left-wing slot fairly stiff. Veteran defender Patrick M?ller has looked solid in the warm-up games despite recently suffering a cruciate ligament injury and should prevent Johan Djourou from lining up with Arsenal team-mate Philippe Senderos in defence. Probable XI (4-4-1-1): Benaglio - Lichtsteiner, M?ller, Senderos, Magnin - Behrami, Inler, Fernandes, Barnetta - Yakin - Frei. Czech Republic It is likely that the Czechs will not want to risk too much and will therefore start with a similar system to their hosts. Milan Baros will most likely drop to the bench and come on only if they are pressing for a result, with Sionko having earned his place following a brace against Scotland and Pla?il also likely to start. Full-back Zdněk Pospěch has the flu and will be sitting out the game, with Juventus' Zdeněk Grygera a possible like-for-like replacement, though Ujfalusi could play at right-back allowing Radoslav Kovac to partner David Rozehnal in defence. With the possibilities continuing, Matejovsky's place may also be taken by a more creative player such as Jarolim. Probable XI (4-5-1): Cech - Grygera, Ujfalusi, Rozehnal, Jankulovski - Sionko, Matejovsky, Galasek, Polak, Pla?il - Koller. PLAYERS TO WATCH Switzerland - G?khan Inler The 23-year-old will play a key role protecting the defence in a game where Switzerland, despite being the home nation, will be under some pressure for periods of the game. Has enjoyed a tremendous debut season with Udinese and is likely to carry that form through for his national side in this summer's tournament. For the Czechs, it will be a matter of working around Inler in order to ensure they can break through what is sure to be a packed defence. Czech Republic - Jan Koller The big man is likely to be up front on his own and surrounded by a sea of red shirts for long periods throughout the evening. He will have his work cut out, having to knock down several high balls and attempt to put his aerial prowess to good use when attempting to fashion chances on goal. He has just recently announced he will be retiring from international football after the tournament, and he will no doubt be keen to improve on what is already an incredible goal-scoring ratio for his country. PREDICTION Home support has been known to work its wonders in the past and there is nothing to suggest the same may not happen tomorrow evening. However, the form guide tells a story: the Czechs have been clinical in disposing of all inferior opposition while Switzerland have only managed results against the weakest of opposition. A home win would be quite an achievement - and one that definitely cannot be ruled out - but the Czechs should have enough at their disposal to make it a less than memorable opening day for the home support. Switzerland 1-2 Czech Republic Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 7, 2008 Euro 2008 Preview: Portugal-Turkey What: European Championships, Group A Who: Portugal vs Turkey When: Saturday 7 June 2008, 20:45 CET Where: St. Jakob-Park, Basel Referee: Herbert Fandel (GER) Euro 2008's second match features 2004's losing finalists and a side that failed to reach the last tournament. It's an intriguing clash as Portugal take on Turkey in Basel... Bad Memories Portugal come into this game with their last European Championship game, of course, having ended in tragedy. A last-gasp defeat to the Greeks in front of a partisan crowd in Lisbon put paid to any illusions of gaining their first ever piece of silverware, and some might ask if their best chance ever has gone. It's a fair question - there's nothing like home advantage, after all, and there's a lingering feeling that the squad, now bereft of the likes of Pauleta and Figo, lacks a certain something. But at the same time there are grounds for optimism. After a rocky qualification path there is less pressure on the side than previously, and, of course, the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Ricardo Carvalho and Quaresma are beginning to hit stride. Still, defensive worries continue to dominate, and victory is thus far from assured. Something To Prove Thankfully for the Portuguese, the same applies to the Crescent-Stars. The Turks seem to have regressed since their glory days of reaching the semi-final of the 2002 World Cup, especially given that they have missed out on both major tournaments since then. Even reaching this one was no sure thing: it took a late surge past Norway for the Turkish side to squeeze through alongside hated rivals Greece to the final tournament. Yet here they are, and with a large Turkish contingent living in Switzerland, it's something of a home from home for Fatih Terim's men. That's a positive, for just like Portugal this is a side that tends to play better when surrounded by domestic comforts. And they also seem to look the part up front. Nihat and Erding enter the tournament in massively high confidence; at the back, though, it may be tougher to keep things tight. FORM GUIDE Portugal 31 May 08 - Georgia ( H ) - WON 2-0 (Friendly) 26 Mar 08 - Greece (N) - LOST 2-1 (Friendly) 06 Feb 08 - Italy (N) - LOST 3-1 (Friendly) 21 Nov 07 - Finland ( H ) - DREW 0-0 (ECQ) 17 Nov 07 - Armenia ( H ) - WON 1-0 (ECQ) Turkey 29 May 08 - Finland (N) - WON 2-0 (Friendly) 25 May 08 - Uruguay (N) - LOST 3-2 (Friendly) 20 May 08 - Slovakia (N) - WON 1-0 (Friendly) 26 Mar 08 - Belarus (A) - DREW 2-2 (Friendly) 06 Feb 08 - Sweden ( H ) - DREW 0-0 (Friendly) 21 Nov 07 - BiH ( H ) - WON 1-0 (ECQ) 17 Nov 07 - Norway (A) - WON 2-1 (ECQ) TEAM NEWS Portugal Cristiano Ronaldo, Simao and Quaresma are likely to provide the inventive force for a lone striker - Nuno Gomes, perhaps - while Bosingwa has recovered to play right-back. Predicted Line-Up: Ricardo; Bosingwa, Pepe, Carvalho, Caneira; Veloso, Petit; Cristiano Ronaldo, Simao, Quaresma; Nuno Gomes. Turkey Hamit Altintop is doubtful after his mucle injury but could yet make the side. Coach Terim will most likely stick with a 4-4-2, with either Senturk or on-form Erdinc partnering Nihat up front. Aurelio is likely to be the lynchpin of the midfield. Predicted Line-Up: Recber; Gokhan Zan, Asik, Cetin, Balta; Altintop, Aurelio, Emre, Arda; Nihat, Senturk. PLAYERS TO WATCH Portugal - Cristiano Ronaldo: His last trip to a European Championship ended in heartbreak, but so much has changed since then. The Manchester United man has just enjoyed the year of his life as he helped his side to both the Champions League and Premier League titles, scooping the top scorer award along the way. Rumours of his impending move to Real Madrid continue to circulate, but he's stated that all he's worried about right now is Portugal. Turkey - Nihat Kahveci: The Villarreal man may not have enjoyed quite as productive a season as Ronaldo, but in his own way he's back in the big time. The ex-Real Sociedad man cut a mean partnership up front with Giuseppe Rossi for Villarreal and proved himself deadly in front of goal, not least on the counter. With Hakan Sukur having stepped back from the national squad, Nihat can stake a claim to being the next Turkish striking legend. PREDICTION These two sides conceded more goals than any other qualifying team except Poland, and at the other end they averaged around two per game. As such this could be one of Euro 2008's more open ties, but it's worth remembering that both teams tend to do better at home than on their travels. It's going to be very, very close, but Portugal might just squeeze it. Portugal 2-1 Turkey Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 7, 2008 Czechs Edge Swiss In Cagey Opener Switzerland 0 Czech Republic 1 The Czech Republic opened Euro 2008 with a 1-0 win against co-hosts Switzerland in Basel. A goal from substitute Sverkos was enough to seal the win although a spirited Swiss side had chances to equalise, despite losing Alexander Frei to injury in the first half. A bright and pacy opening to the game was the perfect start to the tournament. An industrious Swiss side were looking determined and keen to get off to a good start, no doubt helped by a good atmosphere inside the stadium. Spurred on by the home support, the Swiss certainly had their chances with Behrami and Frei both trying their luck with good shots. However, Petr Cech, who earlier in the week had voiced his concerns about the tournament ball moving in the air, certainly had his hands full but saved well on a number of occasions. Whilst the Swiss were enjoying slightly more of the possession, the Czechs did appear to have a little more quality on the ball. However, when it came to chances they struggled to create much with Koller and Sionko being well marshalled by the Swiss defence. Although their first half performance would have heartened Swiss coach Kobi Kuhn, their hopes suffered a huge blow just before half time when Alexander Frei, the Swiss all time record goalscorer and the one player who had looked most likely for the co-hosts, hobbled off with injury. Yet far from looking dejected the Swiss emerged for the second half with renewed vigour. Hakan Yakin, replaced the injured Frei, and helped energise the crowd. Within minutes of the restart full back Magnin had tested Petr Cech from range again, before a Yakin free kick whistled narrowly over. The more positive Swiss approach prompted the Czechs to make a change of their own with the ineffective Koller being replaced by Sverkos. The change almost paid dividends immediately with Sionko only inches away from connecting with a great free kick by Jankulovski. However the Swiss were looking far more dangerous with Yakin up front than Frei and the striker almost put them ahead after 65 minutes when he headed just wide from a Lichsteiner cross. Yet just as the home side were enjoying their best sustained spell of the game the Czechs took the lead. Switzerland failed to clear their lines properly and after the ball was headed back into the box, substitute Sverkos was on hand to finish well past Benaglio for his first international goal. The goal prompted the Swiss into action and they should have equalised with ten minutes to go. A shot from Barnetta was well saved by Cech but the ball fell to substitute Volanthen who slammed his shot against the bar and the Czechs survived. The Swiss dominated possession for the final ten minutes of the game but despite some good approach work failed to trouble keeper Cech sufficiently. An opening defeat leaves them with something of a mountain to climb whilst the Czechs will be in good shape with games against Portugal and Turkey to come. GOAL: 1-0 Czech Republic (Sverkos 70) Switzerland: Benaglio, Lichtsteiner (Volanthen, 75), Muller, Senderos, Magnin, Behrami (Derdiyok, 84), Inler, Gelson, Barnetta, Frei (Yakin, 46), Streller. Czech Republic: Cech, Jankulovski, Rozehnal, Ujfalusi, Grygera, Plasil, Polak, Galasek, Jarolim (Kovac, 87), Sionko (Vicek, 82), Koller (Sverkos, 55). Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 7, 2008 Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 8, 2008 Portugal 2 - 0 Turkey Pepe (61') - Ra?l Meireles (90'+3) 1 Ricardo Goalkeeper - 16 Ricardo Carvalho Defender - 4 Bosingwa Defender - 15 Pepe Defender - 2 Ferreira P. Defender - 20 Deco Midfielder - 8 Petit Midfielder - 10 Joao Moutinho Midfielder - 7 Cristiano Ronaldo Striker - 21 Nuno Gomes Striker - 11 Sim?o Striker *22 Rui Patricio Goalkeeper - 14 Jorge Ribeiro Defender - 3 Bruno Alves Defender - 13 Miguel Defender - 5 Fernando Meira Defender - 18 Miguel Veloso Midfielder - 6 Ra?l Meireles Midfielder - 23 Helder Postiga Striker - 19 Nani Striker - 17 Quaresma Striker - 9 Hugo Almeida Striker *Scolari L. Manager/Coach 23 Volkan Demirel Goalkeeper - 2 Servet ?etin Defender - 4 G?khan Zan Defender - 5 Emre B. Midfielder - 3 Hakan Balta Defender - 7 Marco Aurelio Midfielder - 22 Altintop H. Midfielder - 18 Kazim Kazim Midfielder - 21 Erding M. Midfielder - 17 Tuncay Sanli Midfielder - 8 Nihat Striker *1 R?şt? Re?ber Goalkeeper - 12 Tolga Zengin Goalkeeper - 13 Emre G?ng?r Defender - 16 Uğur Boral Defender - 20 Sanoglu S. Defender - 15 Asik E. Midfielder - 11 T?mer Metin Midfielder - 14 Arda Turan Midfielder - 19 Ayhan Akman Midfielder - 6 Mehmet Topal Midfielder - 10 G?kdeniz Karadeniz Striker - 23 Semih Şent?rk Striker *Terim F. Manager/Coach 90'+4 And that's it! Opening day victory for Portugal and well deserved too! Some shaky moments, but overall they were the better side, overcoming a fairly strong and determined Turkish outfit with goals from Pepe and Meireles! A good start from Portugal. Thanks for joining us here on Goal.com, stay logged on for the official match report, team reactions, player ratings and more! Final score in Geneva: Portugal 2-0 Turkey! 90'+3 GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOLLLLL!!! Fantastic stuff on the break! Ronaldo started things off, darting down the right before feeding in Moutinho, whose 360 spin was sublime, he fed substitute Meireles at the far post and he slotted home! That's his first for his country as well! 2-0! 90'+3 Goal Ra?l Meireles 90'+2 Substitution Deco - Fernando Meira 90'+2 Meira is coming on in place of Deco, meanwhile Nani is injured after a rough challenge from Aurelio. 90' OHHHHH BIG CHANCE! Semih headed the ball down for Tuncay who failed to make a connection with the ball in front of goal! 87' Nani registers his first shot since coming on, a low one from the edge of the area saved comfortably by Volkan. You would have almost expected more from the audacious Man United man. 86' Portugal are looking almost comfortable now and they should see the game out for the victory. 83' Simao is being withdrawn for Raul Meireles in a defensive switch as Scolari looks to see the game out. 83' Substitution Sim?o - Ra?l Meireles 82' Ohhh...a corner flew in and substitute Emre Asik should have done better! He missed the target and that could be Turkey's last chance! 79' Turkey are pressing on and putting the Portuguese defence to work but are not getting any reward. 76' Substitution Altintop H. - Semih Şent?rk 75' Hamit Altintop has been withdrawn for Semih Semturk in an offensive switch as Turkey look to pull back an equaliser in the final 15 minutes. 74' Nihat whipped in a free-kick from the left hand side that Ricardo flapped at before Portugal then looked to hit on the break, but Ronaldo could not quite play through Ricardo Carvalho, of all people, who was up with him. 73' A possible handball from Simao has not been given and Sabri has been shown a yellow for his protestations. 73' Yellow Card Sanoglu S. 71' Turkey are still giving it a go, attempting to peg Portugal back into their own half and launch their attacks, but the Portugese are defending well and moving the ball out with speed. 68' Nuno Gomes is being withdrawn for Nani, meaning Ronaldo will go up front - and also take the captain's armband - his club team-mate Nani will take up the wing position and no doubt provide a showpiece given the opportunity. 67' Substitution Nuno Gomes - Nani 65' OHHH NUNO GOMES HITS THE BAR! Third time the Portugese have been denied by the woodwork tonight! Deco played a cross-field ball to Ronaldo, who attempted a quick cut inside and shot. The shot was blocked, but he retrieved possession, crossing it in for Nuno Gomes, who rose brilliantly only to see his header kept out by the crossbar. 61' OHHH GOOOOOOOOLLLL!!! GOL GOL GOL! Pepe has done it! He's already had one disallowed, and this was a quite wonderful goal from the centre-back! He came darting out of the defence before passing the ball out to Ronaldo. Ronaldo gave it back to him and he surged forward, exchanging a great give-and-go with Nuno Gomes and proceeded to put it past Volkan! There was a deflection but it looked to be going in regardless; great goal, his first for Portugal! 61' Goal Pepe 59' OH! It was taken short, passed across the edge of the area, eventually ending up at the feet of Joao Moutinho, whose powerful effort whistled just over the bar. 58' Hamit has conceded a foul against Ronaldo for what was a fairly light shove out wide on the left. 56' RONALDOOOOOOOOO... SAVED! The Portugese did well cutting in from the left to fashion enough space for a shot. He went for placement over power, but Volkan was wise to it, getting down well to make a low save. 55' Gokhan Zan has been injured in the colission with Simao and has had to come off for Emre Asik. 55' Substitution G?khan Zan Asik E. 54' Portugal's possession game came to an end when Deco's slack pass allowed Turkey a counterattack which they couldn't quite capitalise on, thanks to Bosingwa's lightning pace that saw him get back to close down Tuncay. 51' Simao is in a bad way following the challenge, as is Gokhan Zan, but he should be able to play on. 51' Yellow Card G?khan Zan 50' OHHHH PORTUGAL HIST THE POST AGAIN! Gokhan Zan made a complete hash of a back pass but the advantage was played, with Nuno Gomes slamming a shot into the post and Turkey narrowly escaped going behind there! 49' Turkey are pressing forward well and Nihat took the ball well, threatening to shoot only to overplay it and eventually attempt to win a penalty, but Herbert Fandel was not buying it. 45' Substitution Erding M. Sanoglu S. 46 And we're back! No changes from Portugal, but Mevlut has been withdrawn for Turkey and Sabri his replacement. Whether it's a tactical or enforced switch isn't quite clear. 45'+1 And that's half time! Fatih Terim will probably be the happier of the two managers but Portugal have been the better team. Turkey have had some outstanding performers, though, but are lacking a little quality in the final third. Action has increased steadily as the match progressed and we can only hope for even more in the second half! Stay with us on Goal.com to see if Turkey can emulate the Czechs and nick a victory on the break or whether Portugal will seize the initiative. Second half coverage begins in approximately 15 minutes. Half time in Geneva: Portugal 0-0 Turkey! 42' Nothing doing. Turkey keep Pepe well-marked this time and see out the danger. It looks like we're going into half time with scores level, but Portugal have been the better side. 41' OHHH! Portugal go close! Joao Moutinho made a good run inside the area and was bearing down on goal, but Gokhan Zan made a great saving tackle! Corner! 40' Huyyy! Pepe again a threat from a corner, not making as good a connection aerially this time and it went out for another corner. Simao whipped in yet another ball for Pepe, but he couldn't connect with it. 38' Turkey looked to catch Portugal out, Hamit Altintop had an effort but it whistled wide of goal. 37' OHHHH WHAT AN EFFORT AND A GREAT SAVE! OFF THE POST! Ronaldo hammered it right in the channel and it flew through the sea of bodies, bounced but was tipped onto the post by Volkan! Close call! 36' Zan has been penalised for a handball as he slid in on Moutinho, missed the man and the ball, but stopped the ball from passing him with his hand. It's in a wide area out left, will Ronaldo be shooting? 35' It was a decent delivery from Simao, but Hamit Altintop rose well to head it up in the air before Volkan came and claimed. 34' Deco does well on the right to jink past a couple of Turks before drawing a foul. A good delivery whipped in here could spell danger... 31' Ronaldo's cross fell to the feet of Nuno Gomes, but Gokhan Zan was across to clear the danger. 30' Pepe drilled a pass low and forward, Ronaldo dashed through the middle and dribbled his way through a few players before scraping a shot disappointingly wide of the near post. 28' It's Simao and it loops perhaps a foot over the bar. A decent effort, but lacking in power and Volkan may have saved it even if it had hit the target. 27' Huyyy... Petit's beautiful cross-field ball fell at the feet of Deco. He took it down well but as he cut inside to shoot he was blocked off. He has now just won a free-kick a few yards outside the area to the left of goal. Ronaldo, Simao and Petit are over it... 24' Portugal are beginning to settle into something more of a rhythm now, but Turkey certainly aren't afraid to give Scolari's men a game as they continue to push up at every opportunity. They are, though, lacking the precision in passing of their opponents. 21' Portugal raced away on the counterattack after Deco looped a cross-field ball to Simao on the left, but the winger lost his nerve and did not play the ball early. Turkey survive a scare! 20' It's Niiihaaaaaaaattt and it's low and into the wall, going out for a corner. It could be seen as a poor take from the Turk, but the Portuguese wall was not air-tight and the ball could have and almost did squeeze through. 19' Bosingwa has conceded a fairly needlree free-kick for having a hold of Mevlut. A bit of a soft award in retrospect but Turkey could cause Portugal a problem here! 16' GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOLLLL---NO!!! Pepe headed home from a short corner whipped in by Simao, but was offside at the time of the delivery! Good call by the official! Still 0-0! 13' Turkey are having more of the possession now, forcing Portugal into some disciplined defending. Tuncay has just gone down in the area as he and Bosingwa went for the same ball. The Middlesbrough man went down very easily, and though there was a huge shout from the Turkish contingent in the stadium for a penalty it was correctly not even considered. 10' Tuncay has won a free-kick from Pepe out on the left hand side, and the Turks will be hoping to whip in a dangerous delivery to cause Portugal's defence some problems, but Nihat's cross, though in the right area, was claimed by Ricardo. 7' A short corner eventually saw Simaro whip the ball into the box but Turkey scrambled it away, with Servet putting his body in the line of fire as Cristiano Ronaldo looked to dink the ball home. The Turk defender is in a bit of pain now and receiving treatment, though he should be able to continue. 5' Ronaldo registers his first shot and it's well over the bar. Bosingwa played it into his feet on the right hand side, he cut inside, shimmying across the edge of the area before flailing his left foot at the ball and watching his shot go way over and wide. 5' Yellow Card Kazim Kazim 4' It's been an energetic start from both sides but Turkey have barely made it out of their half. Kazim Richards has been booked for pulling back Simao as the Atletico star attempted to dart into the box. 2' And we're off! Portugal kick-off and look to keep the ball, to the disdain of the very vocal Turkish support here in Geneva. Servet came across to the right flank to dispossess Ronaldo, but Portugal are still pressing. 0' Welcome to Goal.com's live coverage of Euro 2008. We're in Geneva as Portugal face off against Turkey in Group A. Co-hosts Switzerland were edged by Czech Republic earloer this evening, so neither side will want to draw here, as they will be keen to keep pace with the Czechs. Cristiano Ronaldo will no doubt be the focus of much attention but Fatih Terim's Turks are a hard-working and talented unit capable of causing an update. Stay with us on Goal.com for live, minute-by-minute updates of all the action to see how it unfolds! Kick-off is in four minutes... Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 8, 2008 Determined Portugal Sink Turkey Portugal 2-0 Turkey A wonder-goal from Pepe, and a late strike from Raul Meireles, separated the two sides in the second match of Euro 2008... Portugal deserved their win, although they were made to fight for it by a Turkish side eager to mark their return to a major tournament with a fine performance. However, the team from the East were all too often nervy in defence and rarely troubled stand-in goalkeeper Ricardo, meaning that it was up to the Andrades, who were themselves struggling to test the stopper at times, to find the winner. This they did, midway through the second half. However, it wasn't always easy before that. First Half There was little restraint shown early on, not least in terms of the tackles. Kazim Kazim Richards picked up a booking five minutes in after tugging back Simao on the counter - a sign of things to come, perhaps, as Portugal came forward. Simao managed a cross seven minutes in, but the ball was cleared - albeit at cost. Servet, who got in the way of Cristiano Ronaldo's shot before bundling it away, came out of the incident mildly injured. If anything that spurred his side on, for they enjoyed a few minutes of possession, and a rather lame penalty claim from Tuncay. But the first team to have the ball in the net was Portugal. 16 minutes in, Simao's well-curved corner met the head of Pepe, who fired it past Volkan Demirel. However, the Real Madrid man was just offside. Portugal seemed to have the best of it after that, and although Nihat had a chance or two at their end, the red-and-greens came close through Deco and continued whipping in the crosses from the left. Cristiano Ronaldo had been quiet, but his fine strike 37 minutes in sailed through a forest of bodies, seemingly goalward, before Volkan Demirel pulled off a spectacular save to hit the ball off the post. Moutinho then came close just before the break with a surging run into the box, but Gokhan Zan, seemingly doing the work of two defenders, launched a wonderful saving tackle as he pulled the trigger, keeping it 0-0 at the break. Second Half Five minutes after the break Portugal hit the post again. Gokhan Zan, who was otherwise solid, played a dreadful backpass that could only find Nuno Gomes. The striker, in what might uncharitably be called the curse of a Portuguese forward, could only rattle the woodwork. Zan left the pitch in some distress soon afterwards for Emre Asik, and Portugal seemed to be emboldened. Cristiano Ronaldo cut in from the flank and shot low under Volkan, but the 'keeper got down well to save, and Joao Moutinho came close soon afterwards after good work from a short free-kick. It seemed that a goal was in the offing, and it came on the hour mark. Pepe made it, and this time it was no simple header from a corner. Coming forward from the defence, he sprayed the ball out to Ronaldo, who in turn timed the pass back to the Madrid centre-back. Playing the one-two with Nuno Gomes, the defender fired a great effort, albeit a deflected one, past Volkan to mark his first international goal in style. To their credit Turkey kept plugging away, Emre Asik missing the target from a corner, but overall Ricardo had little to do as Portugal packed the defence. There was one massive chance for the Crescent-Stars, though, Semih heading the ball in the direction of the onrushing Tuncay, but the latter just narrowly failed to connect with the goal at his mercy. He and his side were punished on the counter soon afterwards as Ronaldo strode down the wing, played a through ball to Moutinho, who in turn spun on it acrobatically before playing it to Meireles at the far post for a simple finish. One international goal for the midfielder, two for his side on the night, three points, and now Portugal top the group. Turkey must quickly regroup. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
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Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 8, 2008 Euro 2008 Preview: Austria - Croatia What: Euro 2008 Group B Who: Austria (co-hosts; 101st in Fifa rankings) v Croatia (winners, qualifying Group E; 13th in Fifa rankings) When: Sunday 8th June 2008, Kick-off 18:00 CET Where: Ernst-Happel Stadium, Prater, Vienna Referee: Pieter Vink (Netherlands) Stern Opening Test For Co-Hosts As co-hosts of the tournament, there is extra pressure on Austria to succeed at Euro 2008 - yet the portents are not promising for Austrian fans. Apart from the fact that they are drawn in Group B with Germany, Poland and their first opponents, Croatia, all of whom qualified impressively, Austria lack big tournament experience, competitive preparation and current form going into Sunday's opener. In contrast, Croatia are viewed by many as potential 'dark-horse' winners of Euro 2008. It is 10 years since Austria last qualified for a major tournament - the 1998 World Cup - and their participation in Euro 2008 was secured as co-hosts rather than through a qualifying group. In fact this will be Austria's first-ever appearance in a European Championship, as they failed to qualify on every one of their previous attempts. Their underdog status is underlined by the fact that they are by some distance the lowest-ranked team involved in Euro 2008, having slipped out of the top 100 in Fifa's official rankings following a poor run of just one win in 14 matches up to the start of this year. On the other hand Croatia, who were quarter-finalists at Euro 96 and finished third at the 1998 World Cup in France, looked a fluid and potent attacking force during their qualifying campaign,. the highlight of which was beating England convincingly home and away. However, the Croats suffered a body blow in February, when star striker Eduardo da Silva had his leg shattered playing for Arsenal at Birmingham. The Brazilian-born forward had contributed 10 goals in 12 qualifiers, and his absence is bound to be felt by Slaven Bilic's side. He had been the attacking focal point of an adventurous 4-1-3-2 system deployed by Bilic, a departure from the more physical approach adopted in the three preceding tournaments (World Cup and Euros) when Croatia, having qualified, got no further than the group stages. Hickersberger's Optimism Heavily Qualified Even Austria's coach, Josef Hickersberger, only feels his team have a 40 per cent chance of beating Croatia. But although they have lost all three of their previous matches against the Croats, Hickersberger insists his side should not be written off prematurely, and says home advantage underpins his 40 percent prediction. "Croatia are a world-class team," he said, "so my prediction is very optimistic. But if we have a good day and a little bit of luck, we can beat Croatia." Remarkably for a national team about to embark on the biggest event their history, Hickersberger has had to address poor discipline within his squad this week. He said some of the Austrian players lacked concentration in training, while one arrived late for a team meeting. "The team was not as focused anymore as it was before, the attitude just wasn't right," complained the coach. "We can't afford that, even if the rainy conditions were difficult. If we are not 100 percent sharp against Croatia on Sunday, we have a huge problem." The Austrians were held to a 1-1 draw by Nigeria in a friendly last week before thrashing Malta 5-1, but Hickersberger feels his side can get through a tough group. "We have set ourselves a big goal," he said. "We want to reach the quarter-finals and in the last days I have become more optimistic. "We don't need to go to the betting shop to know our rivals are all favoured ahead of us. However, we have the home advantage and we have a chance of getting points. I know it was not ideal that we let Malta and Nigeria score goals but this happens to teams like Germany too. We will work on it," he added. He has been working on it for a while, struggled to achieve a balanced side that can consistently get results. Bilic Believes For Slaven Bilic, the challenge is somewhat different: he believes his side are capable of winning the whole tournament, but following the loss of Eduardo he has to get his players believing too. He is convinced he has the players available to improve on Croatia's Euro 96 and 04 showings, and possibly spring a surprise. "I believe that we are strong enough to take the title," he said. "The team is both good and solid, we qualified for the Euros from one of the more difficult groups and we most notably of all beat England on two occasions during the qualifiers. "On paper, there are the usual favourites: Germany, France and Italy. You could also include Spain and Holland. And the English too would have also been among the favourites...if they had qualified." One of Bilic's key creative forces, Portsmouth midfielder Niko Kranjcar, claims victory on Sunday is vital. "I always say the most important thing is to win the first game. I think we've proven over the last two or three years that we really have a team that can beat anyone. If we prepare well, we're a team who can give anyone a good game. Hopefully with a bit of luck, we can go pretty far." Bilic is looking to Kranjcar, new Spurs signing Luka Modric, and Mladen Petric to provide the midfield invention that can drive Croatia to a new level of achievement. "Our top three players should be 100 per cent inspired throughout the tournament and the rest of the team will have to be at their best too if we are to progress from our group," said the coach. "We won't reach the quarter-finals just by keeping it tight at the back. We need our three magicians Modric, Kranjcar and Petric to make things happen. These strikers are the best we have, not including Eduardo da Silva, whose absence is obviously a severe blow because the whole team played better when he was with us. However, he didn't take us to Euro 2008 on his own and we must make do without him. I've faith in the players who are here and we are convinced they will start firing on all cylinders at a crunch time. They are top-level strikers who score regularly for their clubs so it's not time to sound alarm bells, but we have to improve." Croatia were less than impressive in beating Moldova 1-0 last week, then drawing 1-1 with Hungary on Saturday, and Bilic knows things will need to improve the moment the tournament gets underway. "We have been a threat to our rivals far too rarely, we have to be more aggressive," he said. "We defend as a team and we have to attack as a team too, meaning that our midfield must carve out more supply routes to the strikers. FORM GUIDE Austria The Austrians had a morale-boosting 5-1 win over Malta in their final friendly before Euro 2008, with goals from Rene Aufhauser, Roland Linz (2), Ivica Vastic and Martin Harnik. It was only Austria's second victory in 16 matches. Prior to that they drew 1-1 with Nigeria when Roman Kienast put them ahead on 13 minutes, only for Kalu Uche to equalise for Nigeria six minutes later. Previously, Holland stunned Austria by coming back from a 3-0 deficit to win 4-3 in a thrilling friendly at the end of March. The Austrians looked sure to notch a famous victory over Marco van Basten's side when they went three up inside the opening 36 minutes through Ivan Ivanschitz and Sebastian Prodl (two). But Klaas Huntelaar pulled one back before the break, and Johnny Heitinga, Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink and Huntelaar again left Austria shell-shocked and beaten. Croatia Niko Kovac scored at either ends as Croatia were held to a 1-1 draw by Hungary in their last match before Euro 2008. Kovac had also headed the only goal of the game as Croatia beat Moldova 1-0 in their penultimate fixture. leading up to Euro 2008. In their Euro 2008 qualifying campaign, Croatia's results were: 06/09/06 v Russia (A) 0 - 0 07/10/06 v Andorra ( H ) 7 - 0 11/10/06 v England ( H ) 2 - 0 15/11/06 v Israel (A) 4 - 3 24/03/07 v FYR Macedonia ( H ) 2 - 1 02/06/07 v Estonia (A) 1 - 0 06/06/07 v Russia ( H ) 0 - 0 08/09/07 v Estonia ( H ) 2 - 0 12/09/07 v Andorra (A) 6 - 0 13/10/07 v Israel ( H ) 1 - 0 17/11/07 v FYR Macedonia (A) 0 - 2 21/11/07 v England (A) 3 - 2 TEAM NEWS Austria Emanuel Pogatetz is expected to be available after suffering a calf injury in training, manager Hickersberger saying there was only a small chance he wouldn't be fit in time to face Croatia. But Hickersberger was forced to make a late change to his squad when goalkeeper Helge Payer suffered a blood circulation problem. Payer was replaced by Ramazan Ozcan, but the coach was coy about whether Alex Manninger or Jurgen Macho would be his first-choice goalkeeper. He was keeping his players on their toes during the week, saying in midweek that although he had a team in his head to play against Croatia, he wanted to use the remaining training sessions for the players to show their best. Squad: Goalkeepers: Jurgen Macho (AEK Athens), Alex Manninger (Siena), Ramazan Ozcan (Hoffenheim). Defenders: Gyorgy Garics (Napoli), Ronald Gercaliu (Austria Vienna), Martin Hiden (Austria Carinthia), Markus Katzer (Rapid Vienna), Jurgen Patocka (Rapid Vienna), Emanuel Pogatetz (Middlesbrough), Sebastian Proedl (Sturm Graz), Martin Stranzl (Spartak Moscow). Midfielders: Rene Aufhauser (Salzburg), Christian Fuchs (Mattersburg), Andreas Ivanschitz (Panathinaikos), Umit Korkmaz (Rapid Vienna),Christoph Leitgeb (Salzburg), Jurgen Saeumel (Sturm Graz), Joachim Standfest (Austria Vienna), Ivica Vastic (Linz). Strikers: Martin Harnik (Werder Bremen), Erwin Hoffer (Rapid Vienna), Roman Kienast (Ham-Kam), Roland Linz (Braga). Croatia Slaven Bilic has named his strongest team to face Austria, and said he will be keeping to the same formation he used in Croatia's recent friendlies against Moldova and Hungary. That suggests the team will be: Stipe Pletikosa; Vedran Corluka, Robert Kovac, Josip Simunic, Danijel Pranjic; Darijo Srna, Niko Kovac, Luka Modric, Niko Kranjcar; Mladen Petric, Ivica Olic. Bilic added that, "The mood is excellent, but the nerves are increasing ? a positive nervousness. Be sure we'll give everything we can; we'll be a top team. We'll be better than Austria as we're capable of controlling the match. Like in Formula 1, a good start is so important in the first game. All the best to women, but football is the most beautiful thing in the world." Squad: Goalkeepers: Stipe Pletikosa (Spartak Moscow), Vedran Runje (Lens), Mario Galinovic (Panathinaikos). Defenders: Vedran Corluka (Manchester City), Dario Simic (Milan), Robert Kovac (Borussia Dortmund), Josip Simunic (Hertha Berlin), Dario Knezevic (Livorno), Hrvoje Vejic (Tomsk). Midfielders: Danijel Pranjic (Heerenveen), Nikola Pokrivac (Monaco), Niko Kovac (Salzburg), Luka Modric (Dinamo Zagreb), Jerko Leko (Monaco), Ognjen Vukojevic (Dinamo Zagreb), Darijo Srna (Shakhtar Donetsk), Niko Kranjcar (Portsmouth), Ivan Rakitic (Schalke). Strikers: Mladen Petric (Borussia Dortmund), Ivica Olic (Hamburg), Igor Budan (Parma), Ivan Klasnic (Werder Bremen), Nikola Kalinic (Hajduk Split). PLAYERS TO WATCH Austria Sporting Braga striker Roland Linz is said to be a summer target for Premier League clubs West Ham, Middlesbrough, Newcastle and Fulham. He will be leading the Austrian attack as he was last week against Malta when he scored twice and was watched by representatives of up to five English clubs. Linz, 26, scored 11 league goals for Sporting and will be hoping to impress would-be suitors during the tournament. A spokesman for his agency was quoted as saying: "There has been interest in Roland from the Premiership and a number of clubs were watching him again at the Malta game. But he is focused on the Euros at the moment and we will see what happens after the tournament." Linz's international team-mate, Martin Harnik, is another one to watch, a highly promising young forward who will turn 21 during the tournament. He has made a name for himself with Werder Bremen and also scored on his international debut as a substitute against the Czech Republic last August. Croatia Midfielder Luka Modric starred for Croatia against England in the qualification campaign and has now agreed to join Tottenham in a ?15.8million deal from Dinamo Zagreb. Before arriving at White Hart Lane, though, Modric wants to make a big impact at Euro 2008. He is seen as the natural successor to Croatian hero Robert Prosinecki and has been compared by some with the great Johan Cruyff, often deployed in the middle of the pitch, but with the freedom to make the sort of penetrative forward runs that unhinged Steve McClaren's England. Modric said: "That game with England at Wembley was not that important to us in terms of needing the points. But we wanted to show all the footballing world that Croatia have a very, very good team. We did our best in that game to demonstrate that. I was sorry for England - but in every game we want to be successful and we want to do well at the European Championships. In our qualification group to reach the finals, we played some very good football and won against some strong teams. I believe Croatia have the qualities to come in the first two in this summer's finals. That is the first goal and after that we will see what happens." Croatia manager Bilic commented: "Tottenham is perfect for Luka. It is better for him than, for example, going to Chelsea. Chelsea could have bought him, Lionel Messi and Ronaldinho and then Luka could have ended up on the bench." In the absence of Eduardo, Modric will have additional responsibility - from central midfield he will be expected to dictate the tempo of the match, but will need strikers to convert the chances he create. Another of Bilic's squad, Niko Kranjcar, is already established in the Premier League at Portsmouth, with whom he won the FA Cup last month. He is being linked with a possible move to Arsenal, although he insists he is happy at Fratton Park. Kranjcar is expected to provide the creativity in harness with Modric and Mladen Petric. PREDICTION Austria legend Hans Krankl suggested that the country's fans needed to be "realistic" about their team's chances. Krankl said getting past the group stage would be a "great, great success." That put their prospects into sharp perspective, and although Greece upset the odds in sensational style four years ago when surprising many by winning Euro 2004, few are expecting Austria to cause a similar shock, even on home turf. The backing of the crowd will be vital to the team, but as the weakest (lowest-ranked) team in the competition without as yet a settled side, Croatia - one of the world's top 13 teams - look the likelier winners. The Croats looked slick and inventive in qualifying, and although expectations are high, which can be a problem, and Eduardo is missing, which is a burden, they should ease past the co-hosts. Austria 0-2 Croatia Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
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Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 8, 2008 Germany 2 - 0 Poland Lukas Podolski (20') - Lukas Podolski (72') 1 Lehmann J. Goalkeeper - 2 Jansen M. Defender - 17 Mertesacker P. Defender - 21 Christoph Metzelder Defender - 16 Lahm P. Defender - 13 Ballack M. Midfielder - 8 Frings T. Midfielder - 4 Fritz C. Defender - 20 Podolski L. Striker - 11 Klose M. Striker - 9 Gomez M. Striker *12 Enke R. Goalkeeper - 23 Adler R. Goalkeeper - 3 Friedrich A. Defender - 5 Westermann H. Defender - 6 Rolfes S. Midfielder - 15 Hitzlsberger T. Midfielder - 14 Trochowski P. Midfielder - 18 Borowski T. Midfielder - 7 Schweinsteiger B. Midfielder - 19 Odonkor D. Midfielder - 10 Neuville O. Striker - 22 Kuranyi K. Striker *L?w J. Manager/Coach 1 Boruc A. Goalkeeper - 6 Bak J. Defender - 14 Zewlakow M. Defender - 13 Wasilewski M. Defender - 4 Golanski P. Defender - 18 Lewandowski M. Midfielder - 8 Krzynowek J. Midfielder - 5 Dudka D. Midfielder - 7 Smolarek E. Striker - 9 Zurawski M. Striker - 17 Lobodzinski W. Striker *12 Kuszczak T. Goalkeeper - 22 Fabianski L. Goalkeeper - 2 Jop M. Defender - 23 Kokoszka A. Defender - 3 Wawrzyniak J. Defender - 10 Gargula L. Midfielder - 15 Pazdan M. Midfielder - 19 Murawski R. Midfielder - 20 Guerreiro R. Midfielder - 11 Saganowski M. Striker - 21 Zahorski T. Striker - 16 Piszczek L. Striker *Beenhakker L. Manager/Coach 90'+2 It's all over here! Germany have made the perfect start to Euro 2008 with a 2-0 victory. Podolski with both goals! Germany 2 Poland 0 90'+1 Substitution Klose M. Kuranyi K. 89' Poland know they are a beaten side. They dominated spells of this second half without really testing Lehmann. 87' Germany are pushing for a third goal here. Podolski almost grabs a hatrick but fires over!!! 84' Hitzlsberger with a thumping shot from the edge of the area that goes over. Thats why his nickname is 'The Hammer'!! 82' OOOHHH! Lehmann with a brilliant save to deny Saganowski's close range header!! 80' Schweinsteiger with a long range shot straight at Boruc. 77' The spaces are opening up now. Lose lifts the ball up to Frings at the back post but he miscontrolls. 75' Substitution Golanski P. Saganowski M. 75' Substitution Gomez M. Hitzlsberger T. 74' Poland are going for it now. Golanski a defender is taken off for Saganowski a forward. 72' GOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAALL! Podolski scores again. Dreadful mistake from Golanski, gifts the ball to Klose whose shot slices into the path of Podolski who blasts a superb volley into the top corner. Germany 2 Poland 0 72' Goal Podolski L. 69' OOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHH what a save from Boruc!! Ballack blasts the ball towards goal from 18 yards, but Boruc flings himself backwards to make a superb tip over the bar. 66' Long range shot from Schweinsteiger, but Boruc gets his body behind the ball. 65' Substitution Lobodzinski W. Piszczek L. 64' Poland continue to dominate possession and they make another substitution. Piszczek on for teh impressive Lobodzinski. 64' Yellow Card Schweinsteiger B. 62' Smolarek clean through but he is flagged offside in a very marginal call. 61' Germany just haven't got going in the second half. They don't look like tournament favourites at the moment. 60' Yellow Card Lewandowski M. 59' OOOOH that was dangerous. Guerriero released down the left, and his cross is crucially cut out by Metzelder. 57' Best play of the second half from Germany. Ballack crosses from the left, Klose heads over, although the referee had whistled for a foul. 55' All Poland at the moment. Kryznowek flashes in a shot from 25 yards that goes wide. Germany meanwhile make a substitution. Schweinsteiger on for Fritz. 55' Substitution Fritz C. Schweinsteiger B. 53' Guerreiro beats his man, and fires in a shot but its easy for Lehmann. More good play from the naturalised Brazilian. 52' Guerreiro has looked very lively since coming on. A beautiful cruyff turn!! 49' It's still a very open game. Guerreiro finds Lobodzinski down the right, but his cross is poor. 47' A flash of a cross from the substitute Guerreiro - promising! 46' Welcome back! One change at half time for Poland. Guerreiro replaces Zurawski. 46' Substitution Zurawski M. Guerreiro R. 45'+1 Half Time here. Poland have come back into it but they trail Germany 1-0. See you back in 15 minutes 45' Lewandowski with yet another long shot, Lehmann gets down and smothers the ball. 44' Its all Poland in these late stages of the first half. Smolarek goes down on the edge of the area but the referee turns his back. 42' Germany have gone off the boil these last 10 minutes or so. They are waiting for the half time whistle. 40' Yellow Card Smolarek E. 39' Lewandowski fires wide again from distance for the Poles. 38' Superb chance for Gomez now! Fritz skins his man down the right and cuts back for Gomez, who also scuffs wide. 37' Lewandowski now tries his luck from range but he shoots wide too. 36' Great chance for Poland. The ball is cut back for Zurawski who scuffs the ball wide from 10 yards. Should have been the equaliser. 34' A bit better from Poland. A couple of shots charged down on the edge of the area! 33' Podolski has looked really bright down the left hand side. Wasilewski can't handle him at the moment. 31' Freekick for Germany 30 yards out. Ballack crashes a shot into the wall! Ouch! 28' OOOOH!! Good play by Lobodzinski who races into the area down the right and fires in a shot from the angle. Smart stop by Lehmann. 26' Some neat football from Germany between Fritz and Gomez to win a corner. Poor corner from Podolski, too much weight on the ball. 23' Poland having a bit more of the ball now, but Germany are looking solid. 21' Poland trying to react now. Kryznowek wins a corner off Lahm, but nothing comes of it. 20' Goal Podolski L. 19' GOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAALLLL!!! Klose released clean through again, and again he squares across the box, but this time he gets his pass right, and Podolski is left with a simple tap-in. Germany 1 Poland 0 16' Important defensive header from Wasilewski to stop Metzelder from having a chance at the back post. 14' Lehmann has looked nervous in these early stages, he fumbles a through pass from Smolarek, but the loose ball falls to a German defender. 12' Germany just upping the pressure now. Cross from the right finds Klose at the back post, but the danger is cleared. 10' Podolski charges through the midfield, plays a one-two and then goes down on the edge of the area. Referee waves play on. 8' OOOOOH dangerous cross from Lobodzinski that flashes across the six yard box!! 6' Excellent opening to this game. There will certainly be goals!! 4' Incredible opportunity for Germany. Klose clean through on goal, but he tries to square to Gomez who can't stretch for the ball. 2' Immediate chance for Poland. Mistake by Lehmann and the ball drops to Kryznowek, who slams the ball over the bar from the edge of the box. Good chance. 1' Hello and welcome to Goal.com's Euro 2008 Group B coverage of Germany against Poland live here from Worthersee, Klagenfurt. This game promises to be an explosive affair following the well-publicised pre-match build-up, and due to the fact that both teams clearly are not the closest of friends. As for team news, Germany coach Joachim Low opted for Lukas Podolski on the left of midfield, with Miroslav Klose and Mario Gomez up-front. Poland have been hit by the injury of the talented Jakub Blaszczykowski, who has been ruled out of the tournament. Number two goalkeeper Tomas Kuszczak has also gone home due to a back injury but Michal Zewlakow has recovered from a leg problem and plays. 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Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 8, 2008 Podolski Double Sees Germany To Opening Win Germany 2-0 Poland Two goals from Poland-born German striker Lukas Podolski settled this Group B opener in Germany?s favour. Despite starting wide on the left of midfield, the Bayern front man applied the finishing touch to two flowing moves to hand the favourites a valuable win. German trainer Joachim L?w chose Mario Gomez and Miroslav Klose as his forward line with Clemens Fritz and Lukas Podolski given the wide berths in midfield. Poland had former Borussia Dortmund forward Ebi Smolarek as their lone striker as well as Krzynowek from Wolfsburg in their line-up. First Half Poland kicked off and within the first minute had the Germans on the back foot and looking far from confident in defence. A cross from the right saw Mertesacker and Lehmann going for the same ball. Krzynowek let fly from the edge of the penalty area, but luckily for the Germans his effort flew well over. The lively opening continued and Germany should have taken the lead after four minutes. Michael Ballack played a superb ball through the Polish defence which Klose latched onto. Rather inexplicably, the Bayern Munich forward squared the ball to partner Mario Gomez, and the glorious chance to score passed as the Stuttgart man was unable to get the vital touch to the ball. Lukas Podolski had a lively start to the game in his unorthodox left midfield role. A super individual run on 10 minutes came to nothing, before he fired in a volleyed effort following a fine cross from the right from Clemens Fritz. The next Polish attack of note found the German defence alert but far from secure. A through ball to Smolarek was cut-out by Per Mertesacker, but Jens Lehmann came rushing out to clear the ball weakly, but luckily no Polish attacker was on hand. Despite dealing with the first few German attacks, the Polish defence was sliced open after 20 minutes for the opening goal. A fine passing move saw Gomez flick a clever pass to Miroslav Klose, who beat the offside trap. The Bayern striker found himself through on goal and again squared the pass rather than shoot himself. This time however the ball was the right one and Lukas Podolski was on hand to convert and give the Germans the lead. Both of Germany?s Polish-born players were involved in the goal. Poland?s next venture forward saw Lobodzinski given far too much room by full back Jansen. His shot from inside the German area was held well by keeper Jens Lehmann. Poland seemed to be really struggling with Lukas Podolski and just after the half hour mark Mario Gomez played a good ball from deep and Podolski fired in an inviting cross that Golanski had to head away. Leo Beenhakker?s side however were enjoying some joy down the right hand side against Marcell Jansen. The Bayern Munich full back rather jumped in against Lobodzinski and the Polish wide man?s cross found Zurawski in the centre, but he made the wrong contact and fired wide of the German goal. Germany responded on 38 minutes with Fritz beating Bak out wide, before cutting a fine ball back to Mario Gomez. The striker however was unable to make a proper contact and Klose was also unable to get a last ditch foot to the ball. Second Half Leo Beenhakker chose to make a substitution at half time bringing on recently naturalised Pole Roger Guerreiro for Zurawski. The Brazilian born midfielder wasted no time in getting into the game as he crossed from the left into the six yard box, but nobody was on hand to profit. Germany looked to find it difficult at the start of the second half to find any rhythm. Poland meanwhile were finding more space out wide but were making little headway from it. Lobodzinski wasted a good effort to cross on 50 minutes after delivering better efforts previously. Poland were pressing the Germans backwards in the first ten minutes of the second period and Guerreiro fizzed an effort wide of Lehmann?s goal after 54 minutes. Jogi L?w responded by sending on Bastian Schweinsteiger for Werder Bremen?s Clemens Fritz. Despite looking second best for the first twenty minutes of the second half, Germany carved Poland open on 70 minutes and were denied only by a top save from Boruc. Philipp Lahm found space down the right and played a great ball to captain Ballack in the middle. The midfielder let fly from 13 meters but Celtic keeper Artur Boruc pulled off a great save to deny him. Boruc however was helpless two minutes later as Lukas Podolski fired past him to make it 2-0. Mario Gomez played a superb pass into Schweinsteiger in the area, and the Bayern midfielder squared the ball to Klose in the centre. His wild swipe at the ball luckily teed up Lukas Podolski, who fired a clinical shot into the Polish net. Poland must have known the game was up, but they continued to press and Jens Lehmann had to be alert to after substitute Marek Saganowski got his head to a Guerreiro cross on 83 minutes. The German keeper produced a fine reflex save. Two minutes later Thomas Hitzlsperger let fly with an effort which didn?t trouble the Polish goal. Then a minute from time Lukas Podolski had a half chance to complete his hat trick after Schweinsteiger had played the ball to him inside the Polish area. In the end Podolski?s goals were enough to see the Germans open their campaign with a comfortable win. Goals: 1-0 Podolski (20) 2-0 Podolski (72) Yellow Cards: Smolarek (40), Lewandowski (60) / Schweinsteiger (64) Germany: Lehmann, Lahm, Mertesacker, Metzelder, Jansen, Frings Fritz (Schweinsteiger 55), Ballack, Podolski, Klose (Kuranyi 91), Gomez (Hitzlsperger 75) Poland: Boruc, Wasilewski, Zewlakov, Bak, Golanski (Saganowski 75), Lobodzinski (Piszczek 65), Lewandowski, Dudka, Krzynowek, Smolarek, Zurawski (Guerreiro 46) Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 9, 2008 Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 9, 2008 Euro 2008 Preview: Romania-France What: European Championships, Group C Who: Romania vs. France When: Monday 9 June, 18:00 CET Where: Letzigrund Stadion, Z?rich Referee: Manuel Mejuto Gonz?lez (Spain) Group C, the ?Group of Death?, begins in Zurich on Tuesday afternoon when Romania meet France. With both sides looking to start the tournament in a positive fashion particularly as Italy and the Netherlands lie in wait. Romania Aim To Avoid Horror Show Even the country that brought the legend of Dracula to the world could not have envisaged such a nightmarish draw at the European Championships. If Group C is considered the ?Group of Death? then many believed rigor mortis had set in on Romania?s challenge when the draw was made last December. Captain Christian Chivu thinks that this attitude may play into the Romanian?s hands explaining that, ?Our opponents respect us, but probably think we have no chance of qualifying. It will be an advantage for us to start out in the shadows, as we can count on the element of surprise.? The Inter Milan defender is not the only member of the Romanian party to be upbeat over their chances of making progress. Head coach Victor Piţurcă has also been remarkably bullish over his side?s chances stating that, ?If the players are healthy and at a high physical and psychological level, they can achieve a lot.? ?We can reach the final, even win it, but we could also lose all our matches. At this level everything can happen.? Romania out-qualified Group C opponents the Netherlands, beating them in Constanta less than twelve months ago. Unlike the French, Romania have kept their pre-tournament warm-up matches to a minimal, playing only one friendly match. Montenegro were hammered 4-0 last week by a powerful Romanian side. One of the goal scorers from that match, Adrian Mutu has dubbed Group C as ?the hardest group ever? and will recognise that there will be a massive step up in class from Romania?s sole friendly. An experienced Romanian squad should not be dismissed lightly. There is a great deal of international know-how in the team and, with Mutu leading the line, they possess a striker with a fine pedigree at this level. If Chivu, Contra and co. can adequately organise their defence then French could be shocked. France Ready For Euros Test Two weeks of preparation will finally be examined on Monday when France will kick their Euro2008 campaign off against Romania in Zurich. Going into the game off the back of three strong friendly results, if not performances, against South American opposition the World Cup finalists will start as warm favourites to claim all three points. Preparations have gone relatively well for Raymond Domenech?s charges. A 2-0 victory over Ecuador was followed by a scoreless draw with Paraguay and then a narrow 1-0 triumph over Colombia. It has now been four entire matches since les Bleus lost a goal, although their back four did look distinctly suspect at times during a hat-trick of friendlies that highlighted France?s weaknesses as well as their strengths. Domenech will have decisions to make regarding his back four. Most pertinently the form of right-back Willy Sagnol has been well below par. Lyon full-back Fran?ois Clerc lurks on the sidelines ready for a call to arms. The backbone of the French side has remained relatively untouched for several seasons now. William Gallas and Lillian Thuram guard the centre of the French defence stoically while Patrick Vieira and Claude Mak?l?l? patrol, and generally dominate, the centre of midfield. But there will be no Vieira against Romania should reports be believed. The Inter Milan midfielder has picked up a thigh strain and, although he has returned to training, will not be risked on Monday. J?r?my Toulalan will have a chance to make an impression in the centre of the field. Domenech is also sweating on the fitness of Barcelona striker Thierry Henry, who missed both of the team?s training sessions on Friday. Medical staff treating the Barcelona forward have managed to keep particularly quiet about the injury?s nature although it is not thought to be a lasting blow. With the Netherlands and Italy to come a repeat of their Euro ?96 opener against Romania would be most welcome. France won by a Christophe Dugarry goal to nil in Newcastle. FORM GUIDE Romania 17/10/2007 ? Luxembourg 0-2 Romania (European Championship Qualifier) 17/11/2007 ? Bulgaria 1-0 Romania (European Championship Qualifier) 21/11/2007 ? Romania 6-1 Albania (European Championship Qualifier) 06/02/08 ? Israel 1-0 Romania (Friendly) 26/03/08 ? Romania 3-0 Russia (Friendly) 31/05/08 ? Romania 4-0 Montenegro (Friendly) France 21/11/2007 ? Ukraine 2-2 France (European Championship Qualifier) 06/02/08 ? Spain 1-0 France (Friendly) 26/03/08 ? France 1-0 England (Friendly) 27/05/08 ? France 2-0 Ecuador (Friendly) 31/05/08 ? France 0-0 Paraguay (Friendly) 03/06/08 ? France 1-0 Colombia (Friendly) TEAM NEWS Romania Romania suffered a duo of pre-tournament blows with the news that reserve goalkeeper Danut Conman and squad midfielder Ovidiou Petre would miss the entire competition through injury. Since arriving in Switzerland the fortunes of Piţurcă?s side have improved. Dorin Goian remains a slight doubt but should feature in the centre of defence after the initial prognosis was that he would miss the Romanian?s opening fixture. Meanwhile Stefan Radu may well drop to the bench after a bout of flu. In attack Stuttgart?s Ciprian Marica is likely to be favoured over Inverness Caledonian Thistle?s Marius Niculae. Predicted line-up: Labont; Contra, Rat, Goian, Tamas Chivu; Radoi, Dica, Petra; Mutu, Marica France Last Tuesday?s friendly may prove to have been a draining experience for the French despite Domenech?s original assertions that his squad had picked up no injury concerns. Key attacking players Thierry Henry and Franck Rib?ry both acquired bumps in that fixture that have caused them to miss training; however it is the fitness of the former that remains in greatest doubt. Henry has been the only member of les Bleus? squad to miss every session in Switzerland to date and is a very significant doubt. With the attacking talent at Domenech?s disposal the Barcelona forward may be rested on the bench allowing Anelka to start alongside Benzema. Alternatively Benzema could start alone at the head of a 4-2-3-1 system. Patrick Vieira has been ruled out of France?s opener despite training with increasing confidence while Samir Nasri has struggled with illness but should be able to play a part. Predicted line-up: Coupet; Sagnol, Abidal, Gallas, Thuram; Toulalan, Mak?l?l?, Rib?ry, Malouda; Anelka, Benzema PLAYERS TO WATCH Romania The Romanian squad arguably looks weak when placed in comparison to the pools available to their Group C counterparts, but with a great deal of organisation and tenacity they could disrupt France. Key to their defensive line will be Inter Milan stopper Christian Chivu, who also doubles up as Romania?s captain. With over 50 caps to his name the well rounded defender can play either at the heart or on the left of what is likely to be a back five. France It seems like taking an easy option but Franck Rib?ry is absolutely vital to the French cause. A winger that plays a consistently high level the Bayern Munich man can sometimes seem the only player in the blue of France capable of breaking down stubborn defences. In recent friendlies he has been France?s stand-out player and if les Bleus are make a great impression in this tournament then exciting attacking-midfielder will have to be at his dangerous best. PREDICTION Labelled by many as pre-tournament favourites, France have often found it difficult to break down obstinate defences in recent fixtures. Romania will wish to follow the model displayed by Paraguay as they earned a scoreless draw in Toulouse little over a week ago. While this is not a far-fetched possibility by any means France?s tournament experience may just prove decisive in a tight match. Romania 0-1 France Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 9, 2008 Euro 2008 Preview: Holland - Italy What: European Championships, Group C Who: Holland vs Italy When: Monday 9 June 2008, 20:45 CET Where: Stade de Suisse, Berne Referee: Peter Frojfeldt (SWE) The first of the big clashes in the ?Group of Death? sees World Champions Italy take on Holland at the Stade de Suisse in Berne. Twenty Years On Twenty years have now passed since Holland?s one and only major international trophy, when Rinus Michel?s outstanding side won Euro ?88 following a 2-0 final success over the USSR. In that team was current Dutch manager Marco Van Basten, who scored probably the best goal in European Championship history, with a stunning volley from Arnold Muhren?s raking pass. At Euro 2008 Van Basten, who has already announced that he will be leaving at the end of the competition to take over at Ajax, is hoping to become the first person in history to win the Euros both as a player and as a coach. However the former Milan striker knows he faces an extremely difficult task even to get through the group stages, having been drawn alongside Romania, France, and Monday?s opponents Italy. The relatively youthful and inexperienced Dutch struggled at times during their qualification, eventually finishing second in Group G, behind Romania. However their form in 2008 has been good, albeit not against the strongest of opposition. The Oranje have won four of their five matches this calendar year, drawing the other, and in their last warm-up test, defeated Wales 2-0. Italy Going For The Double World Champions Italy are attempting to repeat France?s feat from 2000, and hold both major international trophies at the same time. The Azzurri, now coached by Roberto Donadoni, would be the favourites for this competition had they not been handed such a tough draw, in which there is the possibility of them also playing Spain in the quarter-finals, and France or Holland again in the semis. For a while it seemed as if the Azzurri were not even going to make it to the Euros. Coach Roberto Donadoni, who replaced the legendary Marcello Lippi after the success in Germany, had a dreadful start to his reign, picking up just one point from his first two qualifiers. However Italy then went on an outstanding run, picking up 28 points out of a possible 30 to finish top of a tough qualifying group including Scotland, Ukraine and rivals France. Italy have largely impressed in their three friendlies this year, beating both Portugal and Belgium 3-1, and losing somewhat unfortunately 1-0 in Spain. Past Meetings Holland and Italy have only met twice in a major international tournament. The first was in the second group stages of the 1978 World Cup, when the Oranje came from behind to book their place in the final with a 2-1 win. Since then the Dutch have actually failed to beat Italy, losing six and drawing just two from eight games. One of these was the epic Euro 2000 semi-final in Holland. The hosts were strong favourites to win the match, and they were boosted after just 34 minutes when Gianluca Zambrotta was sent off. However some heroic defending from Dino Zoff?s men, not to mention two penalty misses from Frank De Boer and Patrick Kluivert ensured the game went to penalties, where Italy emerged victorious 3-1, with Francesco Toldo saving another two spot-kicks to crown a man-of-the-match display. The last time the two teams played was in a friendly in November 2005, with Italy winning 3-1 in Amsterdam thanks to goals from Alberto Gilardino, Mauro Camoranesi and Luca Toni, with Ryan Babel hitting the Dutch goal. Van Basten and Donadoni were part of the all-conquering Milan side of the late 1980s and early 90s, but it was the latter who had the upper hand in clashes between Holland and Italy. As a player Van Basten lost three and drew one of his four matches against the Azzurri, never once finding the net. FORM GUIDE Holland 01/06 (Friendly): Holland-Wales 2-0 29/05 (Friendly): Holland-Denmark 1-1 24/05 (Friendly): Holland-Ukraine 3-0 26/03 (Friendly): Austria-Holland 3-4 06/02 (Friendly): Croatia-Holland 0-3 Italy 29/05 (Friendly): Italy-Belgium 3-1 26/03 (Friendly): Spain-Italy 1-0 06/02 (Friendly played in Zurich): Italy-Portugal 3-1 21/11 (Euro 2008 Qualifier): Italy-Faroe Islands 3-1 17/11 (Euro 2008 Qualifier): Scotland-Italy 1-2 TEAM NEWS Holland Holland have been dealt a number of blows coming into the game, the biggest of all came on Saturday when Arjen Robben was ruled out after picking up a groin problem. He will probably be replaced by young PSV player Ibrahim Afellay. Clarence Seedorf had already long pulled out of the squad citing personal reasons, while Ryan Babel suffered an ankle ligament injury on the eve of the tournament and was replaced by Khalid Boulahrouz. Robin Van Persie is not fit enough to start, and will probably play no part in the game. Mario Melchiot faces a race against time due to a pelvic complaint, but Wesley Sneijder should play despite an injury scare in training. Italy The Azzurri have some problems in defence, having been robbed of the services of inspirational captain Fabio Cannavaro, who injured his ankle in training and has been replaced in the squad by Alessandro Gamberini. Christian Panucci had been a doubt for the game too due to a knee problem, however he should be available. Donadoni will probably employ a forward trident of Mauro Camoranesi, Luca Toni and the in-form Antonio Di Natale. PLAYERS TO WATCH Holland ? Edwin Van Der Sar Given Holland's defensive shortcomings, it is likely that Van der Sar will be called into action on more than one occasion, so the Manchester United man will be hoping for a more assured performance than he gave during normal time of the recent Champions League final against Chelsea. Italy ? Luca Toni Toni is the focal point of every Italy attack, and will have a lot to say if the Azzurri are to go all the way in Austria and Switzerland. The Bayern Munich bomber hit a stunning 39 goals in all competitions for his club, and will be the favourite with the bookmakers to score first in this game. The last time these two teams met in 2005, Toni bullied the Dutch defence all night, scoring in a 3-1 win. The 31-year-old will surely fancy his chances against what, on paper, looks like a rather shaky Oranje backline. PREDICTION With both sides hit by problems in defence, one thing that seems certain is that there will be chances and goals in this game. Italy are slow starters usually in tournaments, but nevertheless if their forwards are on form it will be difficult for a weak Dutch defence to cope with them. The absence of Robben is also a massive blow for the Dutch, as he is the one player whose pace could have really hurt the Cannavaro-less Azzurri.. Holland 1-3 Italy Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 9, 2008 Romania 0 - 0 Francia 1 Lobonţ B. Goalkeeper - 2 Contra C. Defender - 4 Tamaş S. Defender - 3 Raţ R. Defender - 15 Goian D. Defender - 5 Chivu C. Defender - 16 Nicoliţă B. Midfielder - 11 Cociş R. Midfielder - 6 Rădoi M. Midfielder - 10 Mutu A. Striker - 21 Niculae D. Striker *23 Stăncioiu E. Goalkeeper - 12 Popa M. Goalkeeper - 14 Ghionea S. Defender - 17 Moti C. Defender - 22 Radu S. Defender - 13 Sapunaru C. Defender - 7 Petre F. Midfielder - 20 Dică N. Midfielder - 8 Codrea P. Midfielder - 19 Cristea A. Midfielder - 18 Niculae M. Striker - 9 Marica C. Striker *Piţurcă V. Manager/Coach 23 Coupet G. Goalkeeper - 3 Abidal ?. Defender - 5 Gallas W. Defender - 15 Thuram L. Defender - 19 Sagnol W. Defender - 6 Makelele C. Midfielder - 7 Florent Malouda Midfielder - 22 Rib?ry F. Midfielder - 20 Toulalan J. Midfielder - 8 Anelka N. Striker - 9 Karim Benzema Striker *16 Frey S. Goalkeeper - 1 Mandanda S. Goalkeeper - 13 Evra P. Defender - 17 Squillaci S. Defender - 2 Boumsong J. Defender - 14 Clerc F. Defender - 4 Vieira P. Midfielder - 11 Nasri S. Midfielder - 21 Diarra L. Midfielder - 10 Govou S. Striker - 12 Henry T. Striker - 18 Gomis B. Striker *Domenech R. Manager/Coach 90'+3 Substitution Rădoi M. Dică N. 90'+2 Mirel Radoi goes off and Ncolae Dica of Steaua comes on asRomania take a last ditch free-kick which Thuram managers to hack clear 90' Three minutes of added time are signalled - can anyone break the deadlock? 86' Ribery wins a corner on the by-line and takes it himself, it comes out to Jeremy Toulalan on the right, but his deep crossis to nowhere, which does not impress Gomis 80' Romania win a corner with 10 minutes to go but Rat's shot is deflected for what should have been another corner, but instead a goal-kick is given. 78' Substitution Mutu A. Niculae D. 78' Mutu is promptly replaced by Marius Niculae of Inverness Caledonian Thistle - not to be confused by DanielNiculae who has been on fromthe start. 77' France have looked short of inspiration but now they replace Manchester United target Karim Benzema with Arsenal target Samir Nasri as Romnia take a free-kick which Mutu wafts well over. 77' Substitution Benzema K. Nasri S. 74' Abidal intercepts a poor ball from Mutu but fires his diagonal shot wide of the far post. 73' Razvan Rat clears fromRibery, who jinked into the box and though about going down but stayed on his feetr, only Rat to tackle him 72' Substitution Anelka N. Gomis B. 72' Anelka is withdrawn in favour of Bafetimbi Gomis - the reason Djibtil Cisse isn't in the France squad 70' Malouda tries to jink his way in down the left but the Romanians stand tall and calmly dispossess him. 67' Contra plays it off Malouda for a Romanian throw after RIbery tries to force a way through 66' From a corner Makele cleverly finds Sagnol, who took the kick, on the left, but his cross is awful - way to high, and to nobody near the far touchline. 64' Benzeam shows good footwork and control to turn defly and get a shot in from the edge of the area despite the close attention of defenders, but his shot goes wide. 63' Paul Codrea replaces Cocis for Romania 63' Substitution Cociş R. Codrea P. 61' Dorin Goian dispossesses Benzema as the highly-prozed Lyon youngster tries to burst into the Romanian area 57' There is an incisive move by France, Ribery breaking frominside the Romanian half and squaring the ball to Benzema on the edge of the area, but Benzema hits his low shot straight at Lobont, who nevertheless fumbles it but recovers. Benzema should probably have done better 55' The chorus of whistles from the crowd suggests that the customersare not over-impressed with France, or indeed the match 54' Romania are on the front-foot suddenly, enjoying their best spell of the game 53' Sagnol holds off Mutu under pressure from a Nicolae pass, but Mutu fouls him 53' Now Romania have a free-kick on the right but it is hit wastefull long and deep. Poor delivery 52' France win a free kick deepin their own half. 51' Mutu's free-kick is straight into the wall and France clear,but Romania win a throw 51' Yellow Card Sagnol W. 50' Sagnol fouls Mutu on the edge of the area and Romania have a dangerous free-kick 48' Malouda takes on the full-back for the furst time, beats and shoots from a tight angle but it goes justn over 46' The second half gets underway in the evening sunshine, with France needin to pres more and show greater urgency while Romania are probably happy with the way things have gone and could yet nick the game froma swt-piece 45' The half-time whistle blows, bringing an end to a fairly sterile first-half. France have been over-cautious and lacking in urgency. Romania have their established (and effective) way of playing, with two solid banks of four behind the ball. But France have not shown the pace - or speed of thought - to pose problems for the Romanians. Given that France need to win this because of the presence of Italy and Holland, they wil need to rouse themselves after the break here. 44' Razvan Rat on the left diaginally in for Mutu, but Gallas gets there to concede a first corner for Romania. The flag kick is eventually cleared by an anxious looking Bleus' defence. They betrayed a few moments of real uncertainty under pressure. 43' Yellow Card Goian D. 42' Benzema and Ribeery combine dangerously on the right and when the Bayern Munich man plays it back to Benzema, Chivu intercepts but his touch is like a shot and forcves keeper Lobont to get down and save. 41' France are not exactly on fire as yet, despite vtheir possession. 40' Makelkele concedes an unnecessary free-kick on the right wing, Chivu takes it but Anelka, bacvk in defence, clears it. 40' Yellow Card Contra C. 39' Contra earns a wasteful yellow card for kicking the ball away at a throw-in. Daft. 38' Ribery is in lively form, working hard from flank to flank to get in behind. But he need to have a go at Contra with the ball, take him on and get beyond him. 36' Mutu is robbed in a dangerous position by a superb Thuram tackle, and France launch a counter which ends with Anelka firing into the side netting from a very tight angle on the right. 35' Ribery slips the ball to Abidal on the left, but the ful-back's deep cross ois too deep and Romania clear, but again they can't keep possession and France come back 33' Chivu, Cocsis and Mutu combine to try and find a way through but the French defence snuffs out the danger and clears 32' Now France win a corner, Ribery's short kick is returned to him and his excellent cross from the left comes through to Anelka whose header flies over the bar 31' Ribery's enterprising run finds Anelka who produces an asturte first0-time pass 'round the coirner' to Will Sagnol, but his right-wing cross is too high and drifts harmlessly wide of the far post 29' Benzema wins a free-kick which Malouda fires straight into the wall 28' Ribery shows some class on the right wing for France with a deft turn into space, but after his pass to a team-mate the move breaks down 27' Yellow Card Niculae D. 26' Daniel Niculae is booked for pointless handball under pressure from Gallas at his back 25' Penetrative run down the left by Malouda ends with his dangeepus centre is intercepted and cleared by Dorin Goian 22' Banel Nicolita should have done better as a cross comes into the box and William Gallas misses his header. Nicolita had already given it up and the ball goes out for a goalkick. 21' Razvan Cocis is victim of a horrible lunge by Makele but to his credit doesn't make a meal of it. The Chelsea midfielder was lucky not to pick up a card there 20' With Italy and the Netherlands to come, both these teams need to get off to a good start 18' Romania have been struggling tostring passes together when they do get possession fromthe French 16' A superb ball with the outside of his boot by Malelele for Maloud is just reached first by keeper Bogdan Lobont but breaks for Anelka whose cross from the left to re-find Malouda goes oput for a goal-kick, but it was the most incisive French attack so far 15' After the first quart of an hour, France have dominated possession, but Romania have not been over-troubled 15' Niculae tries a speculative shot from 30 yards out, and it flashes harmlessly wide 12' Gallas, under pressure from Niculae, getsaway with an unconvincing back header as he recovers to clear 9' Benzema lets fly from 25 yards but the shot soars high and wide 8' Mutu tries to weave a way through when Abidal's wayward clearance finds him, but Thuram block. France break and Anelka , in the inside right channel, breaks intothe area but shoots wide as he's cliosed down 6' Romania are getting men behind the ball in numbers to make it difficult for France to work openings 5' Nicolita fouls Abidal to concede a free-kick that Ribery takes, and it is only half-cleared, but France are forced back to therir own half, though keeping possession 2' Romania, all in yellow, and France,allin blue, are off to a rousing start fromthe crowd 1' The game gets underway - without Thierry Henry... 0 Good evening and welcome to the latest contest of Euro 2004, as Romania take on France in Zurich in the 'Group of Death', which alsop includes Italy and Holland who clash later today. France coach Raymond Domenech has sprung a few surprises by picking Eric Abidal ahead of Patrice Evra, a well as the Chelsea pair Florent Malouda and Nicolas Anelka. Les Bleus also have experience - but possibly reduced pace - in defence with William Gallas and Lilian Thuram. Franck Ribery is fit thiugh, and Karim Benzema also gets a chance to justify the hype. Thuram could break the all-time appearance record at the European Championship, as his current tally stands at 14. He is now joint record holder with Zinedine Zidane, Karel Poborsky and Luis Figo. France: Gregory Coupet, Eric Abidal, William Gallas, Willy Sagnol, Lilian Thuram, Claude Makelele, Franck Ribery, Jeremy Toulalan, Florent Malouda, Nicolas Anelka, Karim Benzema. Romania: Bogdan Lonut Lobont, Cosmin Marius Contra, Dorin Goian, Razvan Rat, Gabriel Tamas, Mirel Matei Radoi, Cristian Chivu, Razvan Cocis, Adrian Mutu, Daniel Niculae, Banel Nicolita. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 9, 2008 Spirited Romanians Hold France France 0-0 Romania Despite a positive start from the French, Romania finished the game on a strong note to hold Raymond Domenech's misfiring men to a 0-0 draw... After all the hype about the dreaded ?Group of Death? the opening game between Romania and France finished goalless in a dull stalemate. France, without both Vieira and Henry, looked a shadow of their former selves, and couldn?t break down a disciplined Romanian side who will have a major say in who qualifies from this group. As expected, France started the game without either Patrick Vieira or Thierry Henry. Toulalan replaced Vieira in midfield with France coach Raymond Domenech opting for a front line of Anelka and Benzema in Henry?s absence. Yet the match failed to live up to the excitement that had preceded it and a first half devoid of chances will not have thrilled the Zurich crowd who had been hoping for so much more Whilst France dominated possession, Romania seemed content to allow Les Bleus the ball while looking to hit them on the break. Yet despite the presence of Ribery, Malouda, Anelka and Benzema the French struggled to create anything in the way of clear cut chances and looked like a side short of urgency and ideas. A couple of half chances for Anelka was about as good as it got for the French in the first half whilst Romania had just enough with the likes of Mutu and Niculae up front to suggest they may just nick a goal if France weren?t careful. The Romanians emerged for the second half looking slightly more adventurous however it was France who fashioned the best chance of the second period, Ribery breaking down the right and crossing for Benzema who could only put his shot straight at keeper Lobont. However the second half settled into much the same pattern as the first with France bossing possession but lacking penetration and Malouda and Ribery struggling to get behind the Romanian defence. Romania meanwhile flickered sporadically as an attacking force with Mutu and Niculae looking the most likely however neither troubled goalkeeper Coupet unduly who had a quiet game. Undoubtedly frustrated by his side?s performance Domenech tried to change things bringing on Gomis and Nasri for Anelka and Benzema but still Romania looked comfortable while France continued to toil. Eventually the game meandered to its close with Romania by far the happier team taking a point against a side they had never previously beaten in a competitive match. France, meanwhile, require a vast improvement if they are going to escape the group, let alone go far in this tournament. With fixtures against Holland and Italy to come they will want Henry back, and back to his best, as soon as possible. France: Coupet, Abidal, Gallas, Sagnol, Thuram, Makelele, Ribery,Toulalan, Malouda, Anelka (Gomis, 72), Benzema (Nasri, 76). Romania: Lobont, Contra, Goian, Rat, Tamas, Radoi (Dica, 90), Chivu, Cocis (Codrea, 64), Mutu (Niculae, 78), Niculae, Nicolita. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 9, 2008 Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
CST 0 Joined: 18-Jul-2007 48 messaggi Inviato June 9, 2008 I'm crying.. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
hijjawi 0 Joined: 17-Aug-2007 227 messaggi Inviato June 9, 2008 European Championships, Group C Holland vs Italy Monday 9 June 2008, 20:45 CET Stade de Suisse, Berne :: PreMatch Videos :: Match Preview Click Here for Video Pes 2008 Predicts Click Here for Video :: Goals :: 1st Goal for Netherlands - van Nisterlrooy 26' Click Here For Video 2nd Goal for Netherlands - Sneijder 31' Click Here For Video 3rd Goal for Netherlands - van Bronckhorst 79' Click Here For Video :: Extras :: National anthems Click Here for Video van Nistelrooy driblles past Buffon but fails to score 18' Click Here for Video di Natale shot is saved by van der Sar 33' Click Here for Video van Nistelrooy's shot is saved by Buffon 43' Click Here for Video di Natale's shot goes over the crossbar 45+1' Click Here for Video 1st half highlights Click Here for Video Zambrotta skill 54' Click Here for Video Toni lobs the ball over the crossbar 76' Click Here for Video =========================================== EUR0 2008 - 3rd Day's goals Compilation Holland vs Italy , Romania vs France Monday 9 June 2008 Click Here for Video Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 11, 2008 Ibra Magic Sparks Sweden Win Greece 0-2 Sweden After watching Spain rip through Russia in Group D?s early kick-off, both Lars Lagerback and Otto Rehhagel knew that only a win would keep their respective Sweden and Greece teams in contention to top the group. A typically stubborn Greece side kept Sweden at bay for over an hour before the frustration was lifted by a magnificent strike by Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Peter Hansson added a second to secure the win for the Swedes. For over 60 minutes, this game could have been mistaken for a meaningless end-of-group kick around. Greece showed little attacking intent and were happy to move the ball across their considerable back line. Sweden, eager to conserve the energy of the veteran Henrik Larsson and the tender Zlatan Ibrahimovic, could not close their opponents deep in their territory. A subdued first half, memorable for a sole Zlatan header, preceded a second which eventually saw the game open up. Just after the hour, a generous Swedish defence offered Giorgos Karagounis an spurned opportunity to score before a piece of magic from Ibrahimovic alleviated the tedium. Receiving the ball on the right from a Larsson lay-off, Ibrahimovic rocketed a first-time drive high into Antonis Nikopolidis? top corner. Peter Hansson added an ugly second for the Swedes as they put themselves out of sight. Both goals stemming from uncharacteristic gaps on the right side of Greece?s rear guard. The Greeks, their resistance broken, looked bereft of a plan B. The Swedes continued to keep their opponents at arms length to get their Group D campaign off to a winning start. However, Lars Lagerback will not welcome the sight of Christian Wilhelmsson hobbling hamstrung from the pitch late in the game. First Half: Otto Rehhagel started with six of his trusted charges who played in the 2004 final, and also included Giorgos Karagounis, who missed that showpiece occasion due to suspension. Into the breach stepped Sotirios Kyrgiakos, Paraskevas Antzas, Vasilis Torosidis and Theofanis Gekas. Although the starting XI had some modifications made to it, this was very much a side in the mould of their 2004 predecessors. For long spells after the half hour, Rehhagel?s side were content to pass the ball between their three central defenders, without a hint of attacking intent. Angelos Charisteas, booked for a overenthusiastic first-minute lunge on Peter Hansson, made most of the penetrative running for the Greeks, his fine dribble and shot early on forced Andreas Isaksson into the first save of the match. The Swedes, who included 36-year-old Henrik Larsson from the start, seemed more purposeful in possession. Anders Svensson fired a volley narrowly wide from a corner for their first chance of the half. Fredrik Ljungberg was full of lively and inventive running and almost created a goal for Zlatan Ibrahimovic as the half wound down. The West Ham winger crossed from the left to find Zlatan ahead of Antonis Nikopolidis and Kyrgiakos with a flicked header. Unfortunately for the Swedes, the ball grazed the wrong side of the crossbar. The Inter striker was deployed as a front-line pivot by coach Lars Lagerback, his imagination and trickery seen as a weapon to crack an obdurate Greek rear guard. With Kyrgiakos, Antzas and Traianos Dellas forming a three man defensive barrier, the Swedes struggled to pressure Nikopolidis into making a save. The Greek goalkeeper can thank the judgement of the veteran Larsson for his largely inactive first half, the Helsingborg forward elected to provide for Ibrahimovic when presented with two shooting chances of his own. Despite their stand-still play and their contentment to let Sweden play in front of their back line, the Greeks did provide a glimmer of attacking threat early in the first half. Charisteas was industrious wide on the right, while Karagounis went through his repertoire of mid-range passing. Second Half: Without having conceded, the Greeks were not coaxed out to compete against the Swedes. The frustrating game-plan continued with purposeless possession and an increasing dependency on the set pieces of Karagounis. The 31-year-old was almost gifted a goal by a jittery Swedish defence just past the hour; Olof Mellberg?s horrendous forward pass was intercepted by the Benfica schemer, who failed to beat Isaksson in a one-on-one duel, despite having two bites of the cherry. The Greeks again went close shortly after as Traianos Dellas crossed from the right; Peter Hansson, running towards his own goal, nodded a hair?s breadth past Isaksson?s post. The frustration was soon to end for Sweden however, despite the Greeks looking assured and solid. A Niclas Alexandersson throw found Zlatan Ibrahimovic unmarked, but a long way from goal. His prompt forward pass found Henrik Larsson who squared the ball back into Ibrahimovic?s path. The striker, without an international goal since October 2005, dispatched a rifling drive across Nikopolidis and into the top corner. Truly a special goal to prize the stubborn Greeks open. The Swedes were soon to double their advantage, with a goal as ugly as Ibrahimovic?s was beautiful. Freddie Ljungberg failed to convert Henrik Larsson?s through ball and Nikopolidis parried into the path of Jonas Elmander. The substitute managed to hook the ball goalwards and towards the on-rushing Peter Hansson, of all people. The centre-back put Krygiakos and Seitaridis under pressure on their own goal line and some inept defending saw the ball cannon off Hansson, and apologetically into the net, to secure the 31-year-old?s second goal for his country. With a two goal lead, the Swedes? frustration melted away and their supporters once again found their voices. The whistling and jeering of ten minutes previous had been superseded by song and dance. A hamstrung Christian Wilhelmsson soured the victory for the Scandinavians late on, but there was to be no come back for the Greeks. Charisteas continued to make a nuisance of himself but to no avail. A relatively dull meeting, enriched by an outstanding goal by Ibrahimovic, ultimately set Sweden on their way to match the points total of Group D rivals Spain. Line Ups: Greece (5-4-1): Nikopolidis - Seitaridis, Kyrgiakos, Antzas, Dellas (Amanatidis 71?), Torosidis - Charisteas, Basinas, Katsouranis, Karagounis - Gekas (Samaras h/t). Subs not used: Chalkias, Tzorvas, Patsatzoglou, Spiropoulos, Vintra, Goumas, Giannakopoulos, Tziolis, Salpingidis, Liberopoulos. Sweden (4-4-2): Issakson - Alexandersson (Stoor 74?), Mellberg, Hansson, Nilsson - Wilhelm son (Rosenberg 77?), Svensson, Ljungberg, Andersson - Ibrahimovic (Elmander 72?), Henrik Larsson. Subs not used: Shabaan, Wiland, Majstorovic Granqvist, Dorsin, Linderoth, Kallstrom, Sebastian Larsson, Allback. Goals: Sweden: Ibrahimovic, 67?, Hansson, 71? Cards: Sweden: none Greece: Charisteas, 1?, Seitaridis, 52?, Torosidis, 62?, Referee: Massimo Busacca Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 11, 2008 Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 11, 2008 Euro 2008 Preview: Czech Republic - Portugal What: Euro 2008, Group A Who: Czech Republic (2nd, 3pts), Portugal (1st, 3pts) When: Tuesday, June 10 (1800 CET) Where: Stade de Gen?ve, Geneva Referee: Kyros Vassaras Winner Takes It All Or qualification, at least. Both sides won on the opening day - the Czechs fortuitously and the Portuguese most convincingly - and should there be a winner tomorrow in Geneva, they will have secured qualification to the quarterfinals. As such, Portugal will most definitely be looking to go all out and secure qualification so that in their final game against co-hosts Switzerland they may focus simply on finishing top of the group and perhaps affording one or two key men a rest. The Czechs, though, would probably be satisfied with a draw, and that mentality may prove their undoing. Missing both Pavel Nedved and Tomas Rosicky has robbed the Czechs of much of their creativity on which the domineering Jan Koller used to capitalise. With Tomas Galasek also getting on in years, the midfield in general is lacking in all areas it was once fairly formidable. It will be up to coach Karel Br?ckner, then, to tactically discipline his players to work as a unit that will remain strong in defence as well as suitably quick and creative to enable attacking play. Portugal's unit, meanwhile, looks like being almost complete. Nuno Gomes and Deco are hitting form at just the right time and are crucial cogs in the system. Gomes' presence in the box looked like that of his prime and Deco's passing was at times sublime, with the only question mark over him being his fitness. Lesser known talents such as the sought-after Moutinho and particularly Petit put in top class performances.. The defence, too, is looking stronger than in recent years. Pepe seems to be the perfect partner for Carvalho, who sweeps in behind the roving centre-back. Meanwhile, Paulo Ferreira provides some defensive stability at left-back while Jose Bosingwa roars up and down the right. The wings need no introduction, with Cristiano Ronaldo, Ricardo Quaresma, Simao Sabrosa and Nani making up a magnificent quartet of wide men. Having gelled as well as they did, the Portugese will be hoping to exorcize the demons of 2004 and not only go all the way to the final but win as well. A win here will be crucial, as they should surely like to avoid Germany for as long as possible so they are able to gather strength and confident in the meantime. FORM GUIDE Czech Republic 07/06/08 Switzerland 0-1 Czech Republic (European Championship) 30/05/08 Czech Republic 3-1 Scotland (Friendly) 27/05/08 Czech Republic 2-1 Lithuania (Friendly) 26/03/08 Denmark 1-1 Czech Republic (Friendly) 06/02/08 Poland 2-0 Czech Republic (Friendly) 21/11/07 Cyprus 0-2 Czech Republic (European Championship qualifier Portugal 07/06/08 Portugal 2-0 Turkey (European Championship) 31/05/08 Portugal 2-0 Georgia (Friendly) 26/03/08 Portugal 1-2 Greece (Friendly) 06/02/08 Italy 3-1 Portugal (Friendly) 21/11/07 Portugal 0-0 Finland (European Championship qualifier) 17/11/07 Portugal 1-0 Armenia (European Championship qualifier) TEAM NEWS Czech Republic No injuries reported from the Czech camp. Coach Br?ckner has suggested he was happy with the defence but will make a change in the forward line. Replacing the legendary Jan Koller in his final tournament would seem too drastic a move, despite the country's all-time leading goal scorer having a poor first game. Marek Matejovsky is thought to be coming in to replace Jarolim in midfield, with neither the wily Plasil or the in-form Sionko likely to be replaced. Milan Baros' inclusion as a second forward is a move probably too bold against opposition as dangerous as Portugal, but he is likely to be used from the bench. Probable starting line-up (4-5-1): Cech - Grygera, Ujfalusi, Rozehnal, Jankulovski - Sionko, Matejovsky, Galasek, Kovac, Plasil - Koller Portugal Again, no injuries reported from the Portugese camp and Luiz Felipe Scolari is likely to go with the same side that dominated against Turkey. However, wingers Simao and Nani picked up minor knocks and therefore could make way for Ricardo Quaresma, who did not make an appearance on Saturday. Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Ricardo - Bosingwa, Pepe, Carvalho, Ferreira - Moutinho, Petit, Deco - Quaresma, Nuno Gomes, Ronaldo PLAYERS TO WATCH Czech Republic - Sionko The lively Sionko's runs down the right hand side have proved a valuable outlet for the Czechs in the past couple of games, scoring twice against Scotland and a regular threat against Switzerland in the opener. He will be up against Paulo Ferreira - a makeshift left-back - and could well cause problems. Portugal - Quaresma Should he start, he will have a point to prove and will no doubt bring his box of tricks with him. An energetic and audacious player - much like Ronaldo in that respect - and in the shop window as well, with Porto having been suspended from the Champions League. He will have it all to prove, hoping to win a permanent spot in the team for the remainder of the tournament. Should he not play, the one to watch is Ronaldo for, well, quite obvious reasons - he hasn't scored yet! PREDICTION The Czechs certainly did not look like scoring in the opening game, but a change in personnel and ideas may see them grab one tomorrow evening. However, the midfield battle is only going one way, and what could well be incessant pressure from Portugal will surely see them overpower Br?ckner's men and make it two wins out of two. Czech Republic 1-2 Portugal Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 11, 2008 Euro 2008 Preview: Switzerland - Turkey What: Euro 2008 Group A Matchday 2 Who: Switzerland (3rd, 0/3pts) vs Turkey (4th, 0/3pts) When: Wednesday 11 June 2008 20:45 CET Where: St. Jakob-Park, Basel, Switzerland Referee: Ľubo? Micheľ (Slovakia) The two losers from the first matchday go head-to-head for what is surely a last-chance game for both sides. It's Switzerland versus Turkey and it's sure to be a pressure-filled occasion... Wounded Losing out to the Czechs was crushing enough for the Swiss, but just as bad was the first half injury to talismanic captain Alexander Frei. Not only did the number 9 miss the rest of the game, but he's out for the whole tournament. The party atmosphere among the confederation, then, has already fallen flat, although it won't fully end until all hopes of qualification are extinguished. For all intents and purposes, though, this could be as early as Wednesday night. Anything less than a point against the Turks will see the Swiss fall at the first hurdle: hard to take for a side that excelled defensively at the World Cup of 2006. Disappointed Turkey, meanwhile, were largely overrun by a Portuguese side that overcame much of their qualifying nerves to put on a decent, but not world-class showing. That was still more than the Crescent-Stars managed. Turkey, who had themselves only snuck into the tournament in second place, lacked the touch of class required to pick up all three points in their first game, or even come close to doing so. Still, they can draw comfort from the fact that, with a large fanbase in Switzerland, they won't be put off by the 'away' nature of this match. This is realistically their best chance to get all three points, and they will surely go for it. Nonetheless, much has to change on the pitch - not least the sense of confidence and the ability for the likes of Nihat to test the 'keeper. Tasty History Last time the sides met was in 2005 in a World Cup qualifier in Istanbul, one remembered less for its outcome than for the ugly scenes that followed. Violence erupted in the funnel after a fraught match, and with kicks and shoves raining in left and right, the continent's cameras looked eagerly on. The Turks were punished with a five-game home stadium ban - albeit one mitigated by appeal - while FIFA boss Sepp Blatter (a Swiss) fumed openly over the incident. The event has largely been forgotten now, but no doubt fans of the two sides will remember it as kickoff approaches. FORM GUIDE Switzerland 07 Jun Switzerland 0-1 Czech Republic (EC) 30 May Switzerland 3-0 Liechtenstein (Friendly) 24 May Switzerland 2-0 Slovakia (Friendly) 26 Mar Switzerland 0-4 Germany (Friendly) 06 Feb England 2-1 Switzerland (Friendly) 20 Nov Switzerland 0-1 Nigeria (Friendly) Turkey 07 Jun Turkey 0-2 Portugal (EC) 29 May Turkey 2-0 Finland (Friendly) 25 May Uruguay 3-2 Turkey (Friendly) 20 May Slovakia 0-1 Turkey (Friendly) 26 Mar Belarus 2-2 Turkey (Friendly) 06 Feb Turkey 0-0 Sweden (Friendly) TEAM NEWS Switzerland Frei is out for the tournament after picking up an injury in the opener. Everyone else is fit and ready for the Swiss, who may retain their 4-4-2 look as they go looking for three vital points. Yakin could support streller in an 'old-but-gold' forward line. Probable Starting XI: Benaglio; Magnin, M?ller, Senderos, Lichtsteiner; Barnetta, Behrami, Fernandes, Inler; Streller, Yakin. Turkey Gokhan Zan is out and Servet Cetin is doubtful, meaning that it could be an all-new central defence that lines up. Nihat will likely get the nod up front again. UPDATE: Emre is out injured and could miss the entire tournament. Coach Fatih Terim has yet to confirm his replacement. Probable Starting XI: Volkan; Sabri Sarioglu, Asik, Emre Gungor/Cetin, Boral; Altintop, Aurelio, Karadeniz, Turan; Nihat, Erding. PLAYERS TO WATCH Switzerland - Marco Streller: Coach Kuhn is likely to put his faith in the veteran once more despite his poor showing against the Czechs in the first game. He's likely to retire after the tournament, and unless he goes out with a bang here this could be a disappointing final game for him. Turkey - Mehmet Aurelio: The naturalised Brazilian-born midfielder will have to both provide for those further forward and also make sure that he guards what is likely to be a rotated defensive line. With his continental pedigree and experience, though, it is surely not too great a task for him. PREDICTION The Swiss, who lack cutting edge, may meet their match against a Turkish side with so much to prove. It will be a heated occasion and could even see the first red card, but it is with the Crescent-Stars that victory will lie. Switzerland 0-1 Turkey Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
Socrates 8231 Joined: 04-Apr-2006 132458 messaggi Inviato June 11, 2008 Portugal Power Past The Czechs Czech Republic 1-3 Portugal Portugal produced a strong display to overcome a much improved Czech Republic side. Having been pulled back to 1-1 after taking the lead, they finished strongly to make it two in two and a place in the quarterfinals... It was a tightly contested game which the Portugese failed to dominate in midfield due to the Czechs' strength and work rate, but their creative superiority and sharpness in the final third proved the difference. First Half The game looked like it may be fairly open from the beginning and there was not much of a wait for the first goal. On seven minutes, Cristiano Ronaldo linked up with Nuno Gomes, who played him a delightful return pass that he almost converted but for Petr Cech diving at his feet. Deco was first to the rebound and could not quite scramble his initial effort in, but at the second time of asking he put the Portugese into the lead. However, good play from the Portugese was only coming in short intervals and they were handing possession back to the Czechs too easily. Marek Jankulovsky went close on 10 minutes, and just after a quarter of an hour they were level. It was a corner played in by Jaroslav Plasil and Libor Sionko was on hand to head home his third goal in his last three games. In the 25th minute, Deco almost added his second when he took aim from distance, but his shot whistled over the bar. Portugal were intent on giving the Czechs their share of chances, though, as Ricardo came out to flap at a corner and was almost made to pay for it, but the ball was cleared. Milan Baros looked dangerous and justified his selection ahead of Jan Koller, running tirelessly and even showing the ability to turn his man, with his eventual ball across eluding his team-mates. The last few minutes of the half saw the good and the bad of Cristiano Ronaldo, as he rifled a long-range shot on his left foot that forced Petr Cech into a decent save, before later going down after minimal contact from Tomas Ujfalusi's flailing arm. The half ended with a Portugal free-kick, which Ronaldo wound up to hit in trademark fashion, but it was straight at Petr Cech, whose slight fumble went unpunished. Second Half The first chance of the second half was for the Czech Republic, with Matejovsky's smart through ball fed Sionko down the right, who waited to put a ball across goal which none of his team-mates could reach instead of shooting. Portugal then began to string some passes together, with a good move coming to an end with Nuno Gomes' shot that ended up flying straight at Cech. Simao soon put another shot straight at the Chelsea goalkeeper as Portugal were beginning to pile on the pressure. The Czech Republic almost nicked a goal from a Plasil corner, which Ujfalusi headed on across the face of goal, but neither Sionko or Baros could quite reach it to apply the finishing touch. And it was then, shortly after the hour mark, Portugal took a deserved lead. Deco found himself out on the right and waited patiently before sliding a perfectly placed ball across goal, which Ronaldo drilled home from the edge of the area. The Czechs introduced Stanislav Vlcek and Jan Koller to try and force the issue, but Portugal's defence remained fairly strong, though they not without the odd close call. Plasil's neat ball into the box was siezed upon by Milan Baros, who headed wide when Sionko was better placed. Sionko came incredibly close moments later, when he rose highest to aim a header at goal which Ricardo did well to tip over. Sionko was once more the man in the thick of it for the Czechs on the stroke of 90 minutes, when he met a Jan Koller knock-down to fire an effort over the bar. Portugal added insult to injury at the death when Deco's through ball caught the goal-chasing Czechs cold at the back. Cristiano Ronaldo ran beyond and unselfishly tapped the ball across goal for Ricardo Quaresma, who had just come on, to tap in a third. Condividi questo messaggio Link di questo messaggio Condividi su altri siti
