The Best XI

Hooray for Spain. I can only hope that I'll be able to have that sort of feeling of triumph after my country wins a major trophy that all of Spain must have felt Sunday night. Well, either that or an Oriole World Series will do, but I digress. Anyway, here's my best 11, what a tournament.

GK- Iker Casillas, He didn't have to do all that much this tournament, but how outstanding were those penalty saves? I think he bested Buffon right there, and took the title of the world's best keeper. Edwin Van der Saar gets honorable mention.

LB- Giovanni Von Brockhorst, Except for the Russia game, he had played essentially a perfect tournament. Its amazing what putting on your country's shirt can do, because he never looked to be half this player while at Barca. There were lots of other solid left backs, Zhirkov, the Croatian, but Gio gets the nod.

CB- Marchena, I kept waiting for him or Capedevilla to screw up, but it never happened. To think that Valencia had him, Villa, and Senna and were that poor is flabbergasting. He was the more confident of the two center halves this tournament, and he wasn't afraid to dribble his way out of trouble unlike the nervy Puyol.

CB- The other Kovac, I was expecting Croatia to be terrible at the back, and a lot more games like we saw against England, but I was wrong. This guy was as steadfast as they come, and he probably could have at least hit the target in their shootout with Turkey, unlike some of their better known stars. Honorable mention is the Russian Kolodin for unleashing those 50 yard daisy cutters vs Holland

RB- Sergio Ramos, Call him Jar-Jar Binks if you like, but for all his shortcomings he makes up for with his pure athleticism. He had his two best matches in the two most important games, and he only gets caught out because he's been given license to go forward because of his undeniable offensive skills. Any team would be lucky to have him. Boswinga was solid as well.

DMid- Marcos Senna, Sure defensive mids are overlooked, and its not a glamorous position, but I don't think its all that demanding either. Not to take anything away from Senna, he might be MVP of the Spanish team for the collective tournament, but if you have the energy, and are decent on the ball, this isn't all that difficult of a role to fill. I see Dirk Kuyt becoming one of these players before its all said and done. Honorable Mention is the dutch pair of Engelaar and De Jong

Attacking Mid- Andrei Arshavin Its pretty remarkable when we consider what he accomplished in three games. He's now a shoe in to sign for Barcelona or wherever. It only speaks volumes to the magnitude of this tournament because think about how good he probably was for Zenit all year long. H-mention- Xavi

RMid- Bastian Schweinsteiger He was the most dangerous German player in the knockout stages, no question. That finish against Turkey oozed of class. Its too bad that he got that red card, but it seemed to help him in the end.

LMid- Lukas Podolski He was more of a midfielder than a striker this tournament, and its impossible to think that he will remain on the Bayern bench to rott after this campaign. He looked much more dangerous than Klose, which makes me wonder. Just how good are Bayern with Klose and Toni as their goal sources. Sure its fine in the Bundesliga, but don't bet on them in Europe any time soon. Libor Sionko gets his honorable mention for being the only worthwhile Czech in the tournament.

CMid- Wesley Sneijder For a while there, it looked like the Dutch would cruise to the title with this man as the tournament MVP. But they found their bogey team in the Russians, and despite his best efforts, Sneijder couldn't find the target in that last desperate push where he had several clean looks at the Russian Goal. H-mention Van der Vaart

Striker- Fernando Torres, I guess he is the best striker in the world right now. He's got some moves in addition to his blazing speed, and he reminds me a bit of a young Thierry Henry the way he slices through not only the Premiership, but international defenses as well. I'll keep it with the countrymen theme and give Villa his honorable mention.

Let me know what you guys think, I'd like to see your opinions too.

Si Si Senor

Hours away from kickoff now, and we're all but certain that this game won't feature Michael Ballack and David Villa. I'm more inclined to think that the Germans will miss Ballack more, but it isn't like he's their creator as much as he is their leader in every sense of the word. I have a funny feeling that this is going to be a strange game, with a few twists and turns along the way.

I can only imagine the legacy of this Spanish team if they capture victory today. They would obviously go down in Spanish history, but more than that, they will be remembered as the ones who pulled Spain out of their almost self-inflicted slump, and readjusted the footballing power scale of Europe.

I'm looking for Lehmann to have a big game, and mix it up a bit. Maybe he'll get in pretty boy Torres' face early like he likes to, and make some good saves thereafter. But the Germans are weak down the left. Aside from that goal, Lahm has been pitiful this tournament, and I look for Ramos, Silva, Iniesta, etc. to exploit him. The only problem is that Podolski and Schweinsteiger have proven that they can counter-attack before, and they'll be even more inclined to break down the right side when Ramos gets out of position.

Spain have been the best team in Europe for almost two years now, with their unbeaten exceeding 20 games. There's no reason to think that they can't beat this less than perfect German side. But I'm not going to get ahead of myself. Germany? In a final? Let's hope it doesn't go to penalties...

Its the Final Countdown

Sorry for the delay, and leaving you blogless, but I was at the beach for a few days, and with a predictable effort from Deyan in picking up the slack, well, here we are. Not that you will anytime soon, but if you ever get a chance to watch Daniel Cabrera hit its quite comical. The guy is 0 for 13 with 13 strikeouts in his career.

Anyway, back to the real deal. What a performance from the Spaniards! They straight up dominated Russia, I couldn't really believe it. Ramos looked awesome, Xavi was his usual self, and Fabregas had a huge impact as a sub. Its a blow that Villa will miss the final, but they have ample options for Aragones to choose from. The same can't really be said of the Germans. So Kudos to Spain and Germany for seeing through their halves of the draw. Spain has been tested by trickier opponents, and been forced to play a little better football, but unfortunately, they don't give trophies for that.

It obviously wasn't the same Russian team Thursday night that disposed of the pick of the litter Dutch in the quarter finals. With no other obvious explanation, I think credit is due to Aragones. He's outfoxed the supposed mastermind Hiddink twice now, both by a healthy margins. He's been one of the many who've kept with the theme of silencing their critics this tournament. (Ibrahimovic, Fatih Terim, Croatia) On that note, I'd like to offer some players, who in my opinion, have opened the doors for criticism, I give you, the First Team All-Dissapointment.

I'm excluding anyone from Spain or Germany, because as bad as Mario Gomez was, you can't really be too disappointed when your country is in the final.

Goalie - Petr Cech - A number of candidates did their best to claim this spot (Ricardo, Rustu, Lehmann), but it was Cech's nightmarish gaffe that handed Turkey their biggest gift and kickstarted their amazing run to the semis. I like Cech, but let's hope he saves some of those blunders for the Premiership.

Defenders - Eric Abidal - Not only his sending off against Italy got him here, but his performance was weak against Romania as well. Granted he was out of position, but if he stopped and thought about who he was tackling, (LVP of the tournament Luca Toni) he might have saved France some blushes.

Paulo Ferreria - Let's face it, he's never been that good, as evidenced in the days when Essien was preferred to him at right back under Mourinho. But he inexplicably seems to hang around and win caps, and at this case at left back?! Whenever I see him, I'm always amazed that there's no one better.

Willie Sagnol / Lillian Thuram - We could have put the entire French backline in here, but these two aged veterans looked out of sorts, and overmatched on numerous occasions. Thuram's subsequent retirement on the day after their defeat with Italy was imminent.

Materazzi - Tough to feel bad for this chump. Call it out of form, but he had a terrible season at Inter from what I understand, and Donadoni's decision to drop him was the right one after that torching at the hands of the Dutch

Midfielders - Genarro Gattuso - He was largely ineffective in the games he played. Maybe its the end of an era in Italy, but with AC Milan's crashing out of Champions league, and the Italians following suit to Spain, it may symbolize the end of Gattuso's mainstay in both midfields.

Massimo Ambrosini - I chose Gattuso's countrymen, not only because I don't like him, but because he too was largely inconspicuous for the Italians. Its easy to laud his performances when they win, but when they lose, you really see what he gave you, and most of the time its nothing.

Simao - Lets hope Scolari keeps his terrible selections coming after failing to choose Ricardo Quaresma over this clown. Normally he's bright, reliable, industrious, but he just had a stinker of a tournament, no two ways about it.

Forwards - Luca Toni - See this entire blog...

Henrik Larsson - He played better than I thought he would, but I think it was his failure to be on the same wavelength as Ibrohimovic that cost the gutsy Swedes. It was also his first major tournament he failed to score in...ever. But what can we expect from a 37 year old.

Old Horsey Face - I know this is a bit harsh, and he had a great tournament. But that game versus Russia was there for the taking. He missed a couple of chances that he usually finishes 10 out of 10 times, that would put the Dutch through. Sure he shouldn't be held entirely accountable, but I was looking to him that game to stick the nail through the Russian coffin and it simply wasn't to be.

Coach - Raymond Domenech - This debacle looks like it will claim his job. I'm not saying that it shouldn't France were atrocious. But sometimes, coaches are kept on too short of a leash, but I don't think anyone will be too sad to he the professor go.

Let me know if I missed anyone...

The final promises to be entertaining. One thing is for sure, we can throw out all the record books. This Spanish team doesn't care about history, and this German team could care less what type of football they play. I don't see them coming out all tentative like they did against Turkey, its definitely an advantage to the Germans that they are in fact the underdog. Its all about finding a way to win, even if you aren't playing that well, that's all we will remember in the end. May the best team win.

A Gobble of a Chance?

Down to the semi finals and we have two countries that aren't actually considered to be in Europe, and certainly not the EU. The star-crossed Turkish team comes into this game about as depleted as any team could be in a major tournament. Including their third string goalkeeper, Turkey have 13 players available for tomorrow night's clash with ze Germans. And maybe four of them are arguably preferred when the squad is at full strength. Their only reliable player on the pitch tomorrow might be Hamit Altintop, the Bayern man who knows all about German football. Kazim Kazim is much more effective as a sub, but he'll be forced to start alongside their Semih- sub striker who brought their hopes back from the dead with that wonderstrike against Croatia. As for the rest of their team, they will just be plugging holes on the field, and trying to make life difficult for Germany. Luck is again kind to Germans, inexplicably, and they'll waltz into the final with only won real credible win under their belt, that somewhat comfy win over a much maligned Portugal squad who was horrendous in defense.

I'm not giving destiny's darlings Turkey a chance. Germany 3-0 in a rout. Klose hat trick perhaps??

An interesting sub plot to keep your eyes will be the keepers. Maybe they'll get some sort of proverbial H-O-R-S-E game going, to see who can scare their fans the most with their incredulous acts on the ball. Poor Receber Rustu, that guy is gonna have a long night I fear. A wild ride for the Turks but it ends here. I CANT WAIT for the other match, and to see where Arshavin ends up in the fall.

Spain vs Italy: Ray Hudson's Fantasy

I just got back from the river, and there's not much time before kickoff. Phil Ball wrote a quality piece as usual for the buildup to this game that's worth a read. It just seems all to obvious that the Italians would win, but I hope not. I'll be pulling for Spain.

What about yesterday? What a game, it had everything. Hiddink's celebration, Arshavin's dazzling skills, a horsey face tap in, MVB's questionable decision not to use Robben, it had it all.

Its tough not to feel for the Dutch, Croatia, and Portugal, but it just goes to show, that the group stage doesn't mean anything. So conventional wisdom would tell us that Italy should progress over the fourth team that rested players after securing the group only playing 2 games. But its not as if the Spanish team doesn't have enough history going against them already, so what's one more little pattern?

It looks like my man Acquilani will start alongside De Rossi, thats a nasty midfield, I don't care how many Marcos Sennas are in there to try and stop them. And if Cameronesi has a good game, well LOOK OUT.

But still, I gotta keep the bad predictions coming and go with Spain 2-0! Ole...

So Dutch...

I've really been waiting for this one. This should be one of the more exciting games of the tournament because of both teams' styles. One thing I'll mention about Russia that impressed me, is that they did not celebrate like they just won the world series after the beat Sweden. If you saw Croatia after they upset Germany, you would have thought they won the entire tournament. Russia was not like that. They expect to be here, and they know they are capable of beating the Dutch.

We'll see if the Orange can rally around the delicate Bouhlarouz situation, I cannot imagine playing after such a thing, but apparently he is in the squad. And if that storyline isn't enough, of course there's the whole Hiddink being a "traitor" or wanting to be a traitor. Who knows.

I expect a great game, watch out for Arshavin, he is a monster. 2-1 Netherlands.

Berk to start alongside Altintop in Semis?

In all honesty, who the hell are the Turks gonna put on the field against Germany? Well, we won't worry about that for now. But Evrim should be lacing up those boots and that knock off #6 Rosicky jersey he wears. Actually Evrim should be banned from soccer.

Its amazing how much two minutes can change the entire complexion of a game and how you'll remember a game. Up til the 119th minute I think it would be fair to say that this was the most uneventful, stagnant game of the competition so far, at least that I have watched. But when that trainwreck of a Turkish keeper finally got that half a chance he'd been waiting so patiently for to make the costly blunder that he surely must have thought would see Turkey out of the tournament, he took it. Dale Johnson of soccernet most accurately described the keeper's actions as some kind of a safari walkabout. I pray that they revoke the suspension of their real keeper so we don't have to watch that guy play a game again. Horrendous.

The whistle could have easily gone at 122minutes, especially when you consider that the referee blew the whistle to stop the first stoppage when the full fifteen minutes hadn't even expired. But the ball fell kindly to their sub-striker, who will most definitely feature in the semi, and he buried it in the top corner, assuring the game of penalties.

But up to that hectic two minutes, these teams were admittedly disappointing. Neither played with that reckless abandon we saw in the previous rounds, especially the Turks who had flashes of creativity, but were mostly poor. Their defense is bad, both full backs are inconsistent, I thought Croatia should have tried to play some more over the top balls to really test their center backs too because that Emre Asik guy is slow as shit. At least my Ugor Baral finally got on, but he played as an attacker, while in the Champions league he was Fenerbeche's left back. (that'll tell you something about Fenerbeche).

Anyway, if you look at the penalty shootout, you can't help but feel for Croatia. They were probably still in shock from that equalizer, and the magnitude of that goal might not settle in for quite some time. But Turkey were the much calmer of the two teams, and lets be honest, if 2 guys aren't even making old man Rustu make a save, you're probably not gonna win. I really like Modric, but you could see the Spur in him already. Love it. And Rakitic is a nice player too, but I just wonder why you don't let some of your veterans take penalties, especially the Kovac brothers, (I can only assume Niko was #5 taker).

So Turkey moves on, their third come from behind win on the trot, what a run. Remember in the beginning of the tournament when one of their assistant coaches said that they would "put their trust in allah, and let him decide their destiny?" Look how far its taken them. Most people predicted them to come in last in their group, and look at them now. Its a shame that their team will be so hampered by suspensions and injuries. They'll have a few extra days to recover, but Arda Turan will be out as will Tuncay, as will seemingly their entire defense...too bad.

Man of the Match: The Croatian left back (Prajnic?) He's been solid all tournament, and he's just a little energizer bunny over there too. Some big club will likely make a move for him as his stock is soaring.

Gaffe of the Match: Well, do I need to say it, two days in a row, two horrible keeping decisions.

Lady Luck of the match - The ref not blowing the whistle and giving the Turks a chance. You have to ride your luck in this tournament, any Greek will tell you that, although they may not be so happy on the shittier half of Cyprus tonight.

Again, this is a really rough loss on Croatia, and lets not forget that they were missing their star striker, poor old Eduardo, who has seemingly been forgotten by everyone. They at least proved that their England win was no fluke, and they have a good enough core of young players to stick around the European scene for years to come. By the way, my 3-2 scoreline was obviously the penalty prediction, lets not kid ourselves. Tomorrow should be a GREAT game. I don't know who I'll be rooting for, although its hard to root for Russia...ever.

Croatia heavy favorites

Love him or Hate him, but Slavan Bilic, that rockstar of a coach of the Croatian national team sure has them playing some good football. And in lue of their goalkeepers suspension, and a few lingering injuries, the Croats are big favorites to ensure a rematch with the Germans in the semi-final. Bilic is still holding firm to his prediction that Luca Modric will be the player of the tournament before its all said and done. That might not seem so far fetched now, with the way the things have shaped up, but not so fast my friend.

Turkey are coming off 2 incredible come from behind victories. They might have gotten a bit fortunate, but they are the obvious team that the gods have chosen to shine on this tournament. So there are two ways we can look at this. We can say, "Well, its only a matter of time before their luck runs out." or "They are this year's Greece." I'm inclined to go with the latter. Who wouldn't want to see another heartstopping comeback from the rightful Cyprian owners. Plus those warmups are so badass, (you know, the turquoise ones) who wouldn't want to see those again?

So far the Croatian backline has held up alright, but I just think they are on their last legs and going to crumble in a matter of time. I look for Adra Turan to be the difference and I'm taking Turkey in an upset special 3-2.

Feel free to toss your predictions out for the other 2 games, especially Italy Spain, I'm still undecided.

I know that defense...

I mean come on Portugal, did you really expect to beat ze Germans playing like that. And without using one of Europe's highest price tags? (Quaresma) You'd think they might have known better, but their inexplicable dreadful defense of set pieces killed them and allowed a very beatable German team into the semis. The first German goal was on par with that peach of a goal from the Dutch against France. Ballack's to a somehow fully-fit Podolski to the man of the match Swiensteiger, harrowing in to beat a helpless Ricardo.

I know I don't need to say it, but Paulo Ferreira was poor. "He's playing out of position." Well get a left back then, what's the problem. We've seen playing defenders outside of their natural role backfire already in this tournament. (Abidal anyone?) I kind of like Scolari, but his decision to stick with Simao cost him. He didn't do a damn thing in this game/tournament.

If you get a chance watch a replay of some of this game, and check out Deco's defense. I mean, this is an international quarterfinal here, and the guy is on a Sunday saunter through the park when he doesn't have the ball. Whoever inherits him, (please be Newcastle) better be able to make up for his lack of effort off the ball.

Bosingwa is a very solid right back, but his crosses could have been better. But even still, who is in the box for Portugal, their team make-up really let them down, and Germany proved that good defense still beats the smoothest of midfields. At least Germany's coach picked the right team, he looks better up in those stands where we don't have to look at that haircut.

Man of the Match: Sweinsteiger - how did he not start their first match? Ridiculous

Gaffe of the Match: Ricardo - Wouldn't have made a difference, but at least he gave us a laugh when he didn't even get close to the free kick.

Lady Luck of the Match - Klose - that was some good fortune off the shoulder, but he's always scoring in big games, isn't he?

Next up Croatia/Turkey, there should be some goals in that one, but I guess we reached our quota today.

Where did you get ze clapper?

Portugal vs Germany is an appropriate fixture to kick off the quarter finals. Everyone was predicting this clash in the semis, but Germany failed to win their group. boo hoo. Portugal have all the flare and individual talent, while Germany are more of a cohesive unit. They will have a lot to do without the duo of midfield workhorse Frings, and sizzling polish born striker Lucas Podolski. Bastan Schweinstieger will step into the spotlight, and he'll need a huge performance for the Germans to advance. But if their weird hipster of a coach keeps picking Mario Gomez, he's just being stubborn at this point.

Portugal, even though they've been known to lay an egg in these situations, should move on. They are extremely well rested, which could factor in a tournament like this. They will have to be mindful of the Germans on set pieces though, they have a glaring height advantage. I hope Ricardo Quaresma gets a run in this game. He is overshadowed by Ronaldo, and rightly so, but he would be the star of over half the teams in this tournament, but due to his countrymen and team shape, he is still virtually unknown. Portugal to win, maybe in extra time even 2-1.

Au Revoir Les Bleus

Its the final day of the group stage and we're left with Sweden and Russia vying for the right to play the hottest team in the tournament, the DUTCH. I like Russia in this game. People can talk about Sweden's experience, but Russia has come up big when they've had to each time under Hiddink, why should this be any different. Zlatan's knee is ailing, and this isn't the US Open, you need your knees to play this sport. Granted, Sweden has surprised a few people in this competition with their stellar performances, but I think they're going to rue that David Villa late winner that they could have done without. Ljunberg just doesn't have it anymore, and with Wilhelmsonn (no relation) out on the wing, I don't think they're gonna be able to get the required service to their strikers. Russia 2-1.

I know none of you were expecting Romania to move on, but I really thought they had a shot, and I was increibly dissapointed with their effort yesterday. They just never really got going, they lacked the same confidence they had in qualifying becaue they can play nice, free-flowing attacking football, (I've seen it), but in this tournament, it just wasn't to be. Its easy to pile on Mutu, not only from that missed penalty, but his performance in all three games was less than stellar by his standards. He is just one player, and none of their other attacking players ever looked like scoring, but he was always gonna have to be the one to propel them into the next round. He simply could not do it.

No surprises that the Italians sneak in, they never really lost their confidence, and it showed. If there's any good news for Spain its that Pirlo is suspended, and that Luca Toni still cant find the onion bag, but that's about it. Everyone will be tipping the Italians to knock off the Spaniards, but I'm not so sure yet. We've got a few days to ponder over that one.

One last note about the French, maybe this will seem biased, but I can't see how Sagna and Flamini could not have helped them tremendously against Italy. I won't harp on Domenech any more, and it looks like he won't be fired, but I think he made just about every wrong decision there was to make at least in terms of team selection.

Regardless of the winner today, we're gonna have some tasty quarterfinal ties coming up, with Germany and Portugal kicking things off tommorow.

Last Gasp for France & Italy

Its a kaleidoscope of emotions as we head into this final day of the group of death, which looks set to claim two heavyweights of Europe. This is of course contingent on Romania defeating the orange-hot Dutch squad, which will more than likely be weakened severely for their quarterfinal matchup versus either Sweden or Russia. All of the attention will be on Zurich for the highly anticipated World Cup final rematch, but a Romanian victory in Bern would guarantee the little guy's progression into the quarterfinals and a date with Spain.

Much of France is calling for Domenech's head, and who can blame them. His team selection has been dubious in both games, there's no telling who he may call upon today. Benzema should get another chance, and I'd like to see Diarra instead of Makalele, but who knows what the Professor is conjuring. On the Italian side, I look for Luca Toni to keep matching Mario Gomez, in the who can squander more chances competition, that the two are leading at the moment. Charisteas and Pavyluchenko aren't far behind, but Toni, considering his pedigree, has to be at the top of this list at the moment.

But I hope it will be all academic if Romania play a smart game. They showed signs of life in their match with Italy, and unless they play tight and let the pressure of the tournament get to them, I see them winning tonight. A draw would of course suffice as well, if the French and Italians are deadlocked at the final whistle.

I hope that Romania wins. The French are dead and buried in my opinion, although I'd love to see them trounce Italy. I just hope that the Dutch don't hand either team a lifeline, because I don't feel either is worthy of the quarterfinals. From a Spanish perspective, they have to be pulling hard for Romania, but as bad as Italy and France have looked, they shouldn't be too concerned with any of the 3. Then again, they are Spain, and nothing is for certain.

Game of the Tournament - Turkish Delight

Who could resist using that headline? And who could resist that finish? You kind of got the feeling that the Czechs were always going to be on the wrongside of a shootout, as the game wore on, but who could have predicted old Nihat, beating a half-hearted offside trap, and icing the game in regular time. You've got to feel for Petr Cech, I wouldn't wish that upon anyone, that is the kind of gaffe that can destroy a career, but I think Cech will be able to bounce back from it.

The result was no more than the Turks deserved. Adra #14 is extremely skilled on the ball, someone will snatch him up after this tournament as will likely be the case with Czech midfielder Libor Sionko who put in another man of the match worth performance. But the man of this match was Tuncay. I have to say, I've been less than impressed with him at Middlesborough, but he transformed my opinion of him in this game. He was literally everywhere. From running the referee's assistant a new corner flag, to putting the gloves on after their keeper was sent off, and everywhere inbetween. I believe it was his ball that played Nihat through to knick the winner as well.

This was by far the best game the competition has produced so far, and I'm hoping the Turks can keep it going and waltz right into the final.

As for today, I look for Germany to eek one out over an inferior Austrian side, rendering the other game meaningless. There's no reason for Croatia to show up, so Poland should be able to have their way. But if Germany take care of business that game becomes academic. So we know what one half of the bracket looks like. And I'll just take my best guess at the other side. Not what we might have thought at the tournament's outset.

Croatia Turkey
Portugal Germany

Spain Romania
Holland Russia

Sam's All First Round team

If you're not sure who has a chance to qualify still, soccernet spelled it out nice
here
I think Deyan just about covered most of it, but I'll go ahead and mention a few things he did not.
Surprises:
Turkey has been a pleasant surprise, and if they go on to win today like I think they will, this tournament will be considered a huge success for them.

Romania- Sure they were overlooked, but at this point, you have to say that they are the team who deserve to advance of the other three. They held their ground against two giants, and validated their ranking as #12 in the world.

Croatia - After that horrid display with Austria, the Croats woke up and put themselves in great position to reach the semis.

Disappointments: I won't get into the French.
Luca Toni - see pre-tourney prediction, Germany (especially Ballack, Frings, Klose, their coach), Greece - a poor defense of their title.

And here is my all mid-tourney team.

Defence -
Bouhlarouz - He's been outstanding, I don't think he's been beaten once down the right side, and to think, he was barely included in the squad through Babel's injury.
Goian- A gawky rock at the Romanian back, but will miss the Holland match due to suspension,
Gio - Like his fellow fullback, he's been incredible in defence, and he's gotten forward as well.
Pepe - inclusion by default as I have no Portuguese players.

Midfield - Sneijder, van Der Vaart,- A true joy watching these two combine in the midfield, and when MVB brings on Robben or Robin they are a big orange wrecking ball, LOOK OUT!
Modric - This little Croat is striking fear into the hearts of Arsenal fans everywhere, (haha, if only that were true)
Sionko - In an otherwise disappointing Czech team he's been a bright spot.

Fowards - Podolski, Villa - They've been head and shoulders above the rest, despite old horsey sauce/face van Nistelrooy's solid displays, its his teammates basking in the limelight, Ibrahimovic has also silenced his critics.

Keeper- No one has really stood out, Cech has been solid, maybe the Polish Keeper for those crazy saves vs. Austria, The Turkish guy had a huge save against the Swiss too. Check out the length on his goal kicks, good lord...

Coach - MVB - He can do no wrong for Holland.

Goal of the Tournament - Sneijder vs Italy. It was a perfect team goal, Gio's long ball to find Kuyt, the subsequent cushioned header down, and Sneijder's finish, it just doesn't get any better. Tic - Tac - Toe - KABOOM!

Deyan's Mid-Tournament Review

It is a great time to be a soccer fan. While there hasn't been a game that has blown our minds away like Netherlands vs.Czech in last Eurocup or a goal on par with Ibrahimovics running floating back heel, it is still very early and there has still been many bits of brilliance that show why soccer is THE BEAUTIFUL GAME. Here are some things I have noticed so far that are worth pointing out.

5 Things I Already Knew About Before And Nothing Has Changed My Mind
1. Having a good goalkeeper matters a lot. When before the tournament started, Germany were the oddsmakers favorites to win it all, the only thing i could do was laugh. Surely they are in by far the easiest group (AGAIN!!! CONSPIRACY???) but without a steady goalie i would never put my money on them even if the other 11 players were named Christiano Ronaldo. Even though Lehman has had a fantastic career in goal, if he is benched for a relatively no name keeper it has to be for a reason (i can watch him kicking the ball into his other foot a million times over it has to be one of the top 10 funniest soccer goofs of all time), and if he is benched the entire season for his lack of form then why is he playing for his national team at all? On the other hand Casillas, Czech, Van De Saar (i gotta say he just keeps getting better and better with age), and Buffon (not as much so but there was really nothing he could have done on the first two goals against the dutch oven when its co!
oking
soo well) have shown why they are the cream of the crop in net.
2. Christiano Ronaldo is by far the best player on the planet. I dont need to say much except that even when he loses the ball its when he is triple teamed and it either goes out of bounds and/or he has no help. He also is the best player I have ever seen (including my beloved Zizou) at taking the pressure of his defence by attacking the ball upfield. O ya he can also score goals every which way possible.
3. Every team has at least one position of weakness. The powerhouses of the tournament- France (striker), Holland (defensive mid), Italy (left mid), Portugal (left back), Spain (left back), and Germany (Goalie) need improvements at at least one position before i can agree that they are 100% the best team in the world. Henry, Saha, and Anelka have either been injured or off-form all year and Benzema, Gomis are too young and inexperienced. Ambrosini should not be playing for any team regarded as the defending world champions. Ferreira barely played for Chelsea this year and I cant recall one game where he played left-back. Capdevila is rubbish. Enough said above of Lehman. The only team/player that has made me second guess is Holland (especially the play of De Jong) because there is not much bad one could say about a team that has demolished the two finalists from the last world cup. Only if Fabregas could play for Italy, Evra could play for Spain/Portugal, etc.
4. Sneijder is a superstar. Not only was his goal brilliant, his defense stubborn, and his passes perfect. He can shoot/pass with both feet, has speed/quickness, is a tenacious ball-winner, and do just about everything great. I would put money that he could probably be the starting keeper of Germany by next world cup if he wanted to. Arguably (with his teammates Van De Vart and Van Der Sar) he has been the best player of the tourney.
5. Scorelines and goalscorers can be very misleading. When i told my friends that Spain beat Russia 4-1 and Villa scored 3 goals, the replies were "Damn Russia sucks" to "Villa needs to go the Premier League, he's the best striker in the world" and everything in between. But for those who watched the game we all know that the first two goals were essentially tap ins, and that Russia is a very strong squad who didn't play up to par and were a little unlucky. Similarly, the Swiss have zero points and are already out of the tournament but were by far the better team against the Czechs and lost to Turkey in the last minute by a crazy deflection. My point is that dont judge the best team by the final score or the best player by the amount of goals, watch the game and see who the best really is. Christiano of course!

3 Things That Have Suprised Me or You
1. The refs have not been horrible. After the last World Cup where yellow cards were given out like money and that the Intramural Refs at Tulane seemed better equiped for the challenge, I was expecting the worst. However, all we have gotten is a blown call here or there. The offsides against Italy and particularly Greece were horrendous (did it not seem like the linesman in the Greece game was pulling a Donaghy in order to guarantee a Russia win? I know that Nick will at least back me up on that one)
2. The amount of fantastic players rarely or not playing due to coach's bad decision making and/or quality of their respective teams- Fabregas, Quaresma, Miguel, Huntelaar, Van Persie, Clichy, Clerc, Diarra, Nasri, Cassano, Shweinsteiger, ENGLAND, etc. Some teams have so much quality and depth that they can field an entire starting eleven from their bench that would be favored over the US's best squad. Only if Rossi wasn't so young and stupid we could have had a very nice attacking threat for the next 2 or3 World Cups (can you imagine Rossi and Altidore forming one of the most profilic partnerships up top for both Villareal and the USA and winning championships for both at the same time??? Well i refuse to let myself so lets move on)
3. Germany is not very good. Arguably, in any other group Germany would be done. Toast. Finito. Couput. Instead they will somehow find a way to win against very inferior opposition tomorrow, make it to the next round, get a huge lucky break against the powerhouses of Portugal and keep advancing. It seems to happen all the time. I just hope it wont this time and Christiano crushes them like Kobe did to the Celtics in Game 4. Haha only if dreams were reality.

Best Players of Tournament so Far
Goalie- Van Der Sar
Defence- Pepe
Midfield- Van DerVart/Sneijder
Forward- Christiano (For those who would say Villa i laugh at you and Ronaldo is far more a forward then a midfielder (its like those who argue that Duncan is a power forward because he is listed as one but how can he be a power forward when he does the tip, gets the most blocks and rebounds, is the biggest player on the team, and guards the other teams biggest player??? Someone please explain to me how.))

Biggest Disappointments so Far
Goalie- Buffon (while he hasn't been dreadful and only one goal was arguably his fault, he has officially lost his title as best goalie in the world)
Defence- Metzelder/Ramos (for some reason i see Pepe starting EVERY game for Madrid next year)
Midfield- Ballack (Modric or shall i say mini-Rosicky dominated this matchup)
Forward- Toni (way too many good crosses from Zambrotta, Ambrossini, and especially Grosso to have not have scored a goal against Romania)

Best Team so Far
While Portugal has looked amazing and Spain cant stop scoring, this is the Netherlands by a mile.

Worst Team so Far
While everyone could wuss out and pick Austria because they are the worst team on paper, I have to go with France. In the last month when I watched France play in its friendlies, they looked dreadful. However, because I love Henry, Ribery, and co. i still picked them to come out of the Group of Death. And instead they repay my faith in them by having the least attacking threat of any team in the tournament. Sorry Ribery, but you are going to have to play out of this world in order for you to advance now.

New Predictions
Still Spain over Germany 2-1, not because thats what I believe will happen but because it is too late to change my predictions now.

day 8, beauty and the beast

Spain will look to take control of the group against the Swedes on the last day of 2 separate match times. I guess they will have the matches coincide on the last day so that there is less of a probability that games will be meaningless, although Portugal Switzerland is academic already, as Spain versus Greece is likely to be after today if Russia plays like they are capable of. For Sweden, there are some concerns over Zlatan's fitness, needless to say, they don't have much of a chance without him. I'll look for Spain to match the Dutch effort, and we might have all 4 group winners decided after 2 games. Spain 3-0.

I'm completely off the Greek bandwagon. They don't have any kind of attacking threat besides Charisteas, there best chance of a goal might be off a Karagounis free kick. Samaras is washed up, and they are unlikely to throw caution to the wind with their team selection. Even if Russia can only manage a draw, its likely to set up another game 3 showdown between them and the Swedes for the last spot. Russia 1-0.

I'm attending my first ever MLS game tonight in DC. I don't even know who they are playing...

Day 7: Dutch Master, Dutch of Class, Dutch Oven, etc.etc.

I believe it was Nigel Powers who said, "Theres only 2 things I hate in this world...people intolerant of other people's cultures, and the dutch." But even he would have to put aside his bias after these two masterful performances against two of Europe's best from the so called "brilliant orange." Much like the Italians in their first match, France just simply could not handle the multi-pronged Dutch attack. The Dutch stars all mesh very well together. The combination of Van Der Vaart and Sneijder has been sublime and integral to their success. One of those two is the player of the tournament so far for me. Their passing is just so sharp and measured, and they don't know any two ways to play the game. They are always looking to attack or counter-attack, at any point in the match, which is what makes them such a joy to watch.

To France's credit, they did open up and play some decent football and were much more positive than their first match with Romania. It wasn't as if they had a choice in the matter after Kuyt outmuscled the undersized Malouda for the first goal from a corner. Then France were denied a penalty and a chance to tie the game, and it was 2-0 through some horsey face magic from Ruud, Robben's run and ball to find fellow sub Van Persie who did just enough to beat Coupet. Henry's squandered a golden opportunity to make it 2-1, only to convert a far more difficult one on 70 minutes with a touch of class of his own.

But before Domenech could even get his breath, Lilian Thuram was kicking himself and the turf, but not Arjen Robben and he rifled a shot past Gregory Coupet who committed the cardinal sin of goalkeeping in Aaron Segel's mind, and was beaten to his near post. It was game over at that point, Sneijder's goal was just the icing on the cake, but what an icing it was.

The Dutch were always the better team today, but you still have to ask questions of Domenech. Its almost as if he's trying to make the wrong decisions and seal his fate of being fired at the end of the tournament. Babefite Gomis? What? Maybe for the Jamacain national team, but not for France. Benzema, Anelka, Diarra, Cisse, anyone would have been better than Gomis who played like one might expect. And why leave on Maka, who seems to be getting more reckless in the twilight of his career. I just don't get it.

As for the fate of the group, it remains very much in the balance. There is no reason why the Dutch should try to come out and get a result versus Romania, they have no reason to do either France nor Italy any favors. But supposing they draw with Romania, it would let the winner, if only there is a winner progress from the World Cup final rematch. And starting on Sunday, the games are simultaneous, for reasons unbeknown st to me, so it will all be interesting to see how it unfolds.

day 7 that's your bigboy

Italy v Romania. Friday the 13th, the 13th match of the 13th European Championships. Good thing Italians aren't superstitious, or are they? Apparently 17 is their 13, but in any case... You can expect more of the same from Romania who will sit back and try to counter-attack with essentially a lone striker and Mutu giving him support. You have to question their tactics to an extent. They are playing for draws, but they must know that 3 points will not be good enough to advance. I guess they figure if they can be on 2 points and the Dutch win today, they might just have some good fortune in this group of death after all.

Italy will feel like they need to win this game, and will be chasing it from the beginning. Hopefully Donadoni will go with the youth over experience, but I wouldn't bet on it. Still I am not convinced the Italians are dead until I see them getting on a bus and crossing the alps leaving the tournament. Sitting back won't work forever for Romania, I hope there is an early goal to open up the match, but I wont bet on it. Luca Toni still cannot find the net. Another goalless draw.

The other match SHOULD be a classic. We know what the Dutch are capable of now that they have announced themselves so authoritatively, taking the reigns of this group. But France could snatch them right back tonight, if only Domenech wants to. Hopefully Henry and Viera will both be fit, and push the French to attack tonight. They should also feel like they need to win this game. Sitting on two points and facing Italy in the last match is not where they want to be. I just wonder if there won't be a letdown for the Dutch, who came out flying so high. 3 points will not take them to the next round, and I look for the French to wake up this match and get their result. 1-0 les bleus.

Surprise, Surprise

look who's walkin...no not samson from half baked. Somewhere Oliver Kahn is smiling. It was a real stinker today from the Germans, but its has to be a feeling of ecstasy for Croatia who just flat outplayed their opponent. What a difference 4 days makes too, because these were two completely different sides than we saw in their first match.

This wasn't the well-oiled machine that we saw dispose of Poland. This German side laid an egg, in every sense of the expression today. They will be dissapointed to concede both of the goals. Jansen was slow to react to the cross for the first, and Lehman made a meal of the deflection for the second. The German coach, Yogi bear, or jogi whatever they like to call him selected a horrible team. Mario Gomez was poor, at best, and yet he left him on for close to an hour. Sweinsteiger changed the game immediately and its still a mystery to me how he was not starting in favor of Fritz? who is Fritz? Its too bad he couldn't keep his composure and picked up that red card, thats uncharateristic of him, from what I've seen at Bayern.

But even still, it should never have come to that. Odonkor was ineefective on the right, and everything the Germans had was coming down the left flank through Sweinsteiger. I still don't know why he waited until the 80th minute to bring Kuranyi on, I hate it when managers do that. If you expect a player to make an impact, then give him a proper chance to do so. None the less, Germany simply couldn't get the ball back from Croatia in the last 10 mins. After Podolski rifled home another golazo, his 3rd of the tournament they couldnt get their hands on the shifty Croatians. Ballack and Frings were dreadful as they would have to admit the Croatians were better in the midfield. They have a few men who are tough to get a hold of, Srna, Cranjar, Rakitic, and Luka Modric is a nice little player himself. He reminds me a lot of Rosicky the way he twists and turns through defenders. They are also both of similar smaller stature. I look forward to seeing him at Spurs, maybe he will be the final piece they need to push them over the hump and get into the upper half of the table in the premeirship.

Portugal won't be too happy to face Germany, but I think they are getting the second best team from the group. Let's not forget that in any other group, Germany's tournament would likely be over, but they have that nice little cushion and margin for error with their draw. Croatia might have even surprised themselves a little with that victory, beacause from their reaction, they didn't appear as if they expected to win. Sure their coach is a little over jubilant in his celebrations, but they were always going to be a love em or hate em kind of team. Germany will be doing some soul searching and who knows what troulbe Austria might give them, especially if they are playing for pride.

I'm watching the first half of Poland Austria as I write this, I kind of want to put on an Austria shirt and tap one home for the guys. How many chances do these Austrians want, and free beer for life?!? geez...

Day 6 take the day off

If you feel like missing a day, this might be it. Although the first game of the day, Germany versus Croatia, does have some potential to be a dandy. I'll look for the Germans to keep sending on those exquisite balls from both flanks, which is all their towers of strikers need. One thing I noticed in their first game was how everyone can cross the ball with either foot. There wasn't one skewed effort I can remember. Its little things like this that make the Germans so efficient, they don't waste opportunities. Croatia won't need any extra motivation, they know that if they can get a result today, they have a chance at avoiding the Portuguese in the quarterfinals. But the insertion of Kevin Kuranyi, the Shalke star will be too much and Germany will punish a mediocre Croatian defense. 3-1 to ze Germans.

As for the other game, I like Poland. Despite the promise of beer for life to the first Austrian who scores, I think the Poles will keep them off the score sheet. 1-0 behind a Smolarek scorcher.

I guess I'll throw a Vijay prediction out there for the US open too. Why doesn't he get the love he deserves, he's always under the radar. I'll be pulling for him, and the Celtics tonight, to shorten up that NBA series before the refs start fixing games again like in 2002.

Turks Send Swiss packing

well at least they wont have far to go. But what a hard fought game. It had it all. Blood, torn jerseys, lakes on the field, and I don't think you'll ever see a ball begging to be booted across the line as the one Yakin almost yanked goofed, it was surreal how the ball stopped for him. None the less, I couldn't help but feel a bit sorry for the Swiss after the effort they put in only to see a deflection beat their keeper in stoppage time. Neither side deserved to lose, but to be fair, the Turks were at least the classier if not the better side. It may be a bit early, and they might not have earned it yet, but I think I'll go ahead and call them cinderella, maybe even this tournament's Greece if you will. They still have to face a still dangerous Czech team who are not firing on all cylinders. If they are going to have such an impotent attack midfield again (save Sionko, who's been brilliant), I'll put my money on Evrim & company in a heartbeat.

Portugal was impressive again, but they do look vulnerable at the heart of their defense, and for their overall lack of height. I was surprised that Koller did not start, even though he is not playing well, I think he could have given Carvalho and Pepe some trouble. And what about Bosingwa's unibrow, that thing is absurd, it puts Frau Farbissina's LPGA friend to shame.

Day 5 - Group A Coming Into Focus

Two more games on the menu today, one will likely reveal the group winner and the other will likely leave someone out in the cold. In the first, and more attractive of the two games, there isn't much to suggest that the Portuguese should falter other than the Czechs relatively decent track record against them of late. The Czechs will have to play much better than they did against Switzerland, but they know this and I expect a good performance. Brueckner supposedly will shake things up which might mean inserting Milan Baros, the golden boy of 2004 to play alongside Koller. Unfortunately Scolari will be unlikely to change things which leaves one of my favorites, Ricardo Quaresma, rotting away on the bench. Hopefully the Czechs will get an early goal and open up this match. Portugal to win 2-1.

As it will be for Poland and Austria tomorrow, the second match today is essentially an elimination game. These two teams are no strangers, as they vied for that final world cup spot two summers ago, with the Swiss triumphing. I look for the Turks to avenge that loss today, with Alexander Frei's absence up front haunting the Swiss. 2-1 to Turkey.

As good as these first two groups were on the first matchdays, I really cannot help but look past them to Friday and Group C and the second go around for les bleus and the azzuri. Talk about two countries and managers with some pressure on them...

day 4 recap, Villa is lights out

David Villa will probably be the first to credit his teammates for his hat trick today. He owed his thanks to: Torres after he put the first one on a platter for him, Iniesta, who looked uncharacteristically sluggish up to that point (maybe still shaking off that food poisoning) until he played that sweet little through-ball, and Fabregas with a similar trademark past to catch the defense for his third. I thought it was cute of Mr. Villa to go over and give Torres a kiss after the second goal in a show of solidarity. I personally don't think too much of Aragones, but I'll admit that he got it right today in terms of tactics, team selection and the lot. Hidink was livid on the touch lines with his players, but there wasn't much they could do, they were simply outclassed. But with that bad taste in their mouth, I would not like to play the Russians next. That unenviable task falls to the Greeks.

Apart from that cracker of a goal from Ibrahimovic (and good for him), what stands out the most from this match was that first half. How bizarre was it when the Swedes were visibly restraining themselves from chasing the ball into the Greek half, and the Greek defenders (yeah all 5 of them) were content to just pass it back and forth? Adrian Healy appropriately called it a Mexican standoff of sorts, just puzzling from the Greeks. It is too early to count them out, much like with the Italians, but I am extremely discouraged if I'm a Greek supporter right now, and I'm praying lady luck revisits us, because Russia will be playing with a chip on their shoulder no doubt.

day 4 group d preview

Well, its the day all you fliers of the Spanish flag have been waiting for. They kick off their Euro 2008 campaign with Russia in 20 minutes followed by the Greeks, who will start their quest to defend their title against Sweden. Aragones appears to have decided to go with a 4-4-2, with that dream pairing of Torres and Villa up top at the expense of Arsenal playmaker Cesc Fabregas. This is a depleted Russian squad, Spain shouldn't have any problems, I don't think Russia will win a game this tournament. Spain 2-0.

As for the other game, Henrik Larsson is what, 38? There has to be a better option to play alongside Zlatan. But Sweden are somehow the favorite in this match, which goes against all logic I can conceive. Greece look poised to make another run deep into this tournament. We won't know their names, well Nick might, but they'll find their goals. Greece 1-0.

Your USA vs Argentina thoughts

I didn't watch all of the US Argentina match, but from what I saw, it looked to be the opposite of the Spanish match. Argentina carving us open in the first, and then losing interest in the second. A good result for us no doubt, but I can still count our goals in those three matches (England,Spain,Argentina) on Jim Abbot's right hand. Something Needs to be done up top, Altidore anyone? What would your guy's preffered 11 be for qualifiers (assuming altidore is healthy) here's mine.

Altidore
Adu
Beasley Donovan Dempsey
Mastroeni
Bocanegra Onyewu Demerit Cherundolo
Howard

Day 3 Shocker: Oranje Crush

For the third straight day, the second match proved to be the more entertaining of the two games. France and Romania almost put us to sleep, this was due largely in part to Domenech's team selection. France was lacking in the creativity department. Toulalan and Makelele did their jobs, albeit wreckless at times, and Anelka looked uninterested and one might have thought he was still at Bolton playing in a meaningless Premiership game. Romania was who they thought they were and they'll be pleased with the result. They might not be so pleased to play the Italians though, fresh off that trip to the cleaners courtesy of a fiery Dutch side.

I'm still not sure about that first goal, Van Nistelroy was certainly offside, but I don't even know what the rule is if the defender is off the field like that, help me out guys. But no one can take anything away from the second goal. What a cushioned header by the world's most underrated defender Dirk Kuyt and what a finish by Wesley who looks pretty good in that 10 shirt. Teams have been known to peeter out after ridiculous starts like this, but no dutchie will want to hear that talk right now.

Both Donadoni and Domenech will have to be considering major changes, hopefully injecting some youth into their teams if they are gonna get out of this group. Daniele De Rossi will surely replace Ambosini who looks like he might be better suited as a sculpture model than a football these days. Di Natale wasn't so bad, but he was sacrified for experience in Del Piero, who had some positive chances, but didn't score none the less. I'd even like to see Aquilani break into one of their next two games.

As for the French, there was just no urgency about them. Did they not realize how difficult things would be if they were to only get a point from their first game. If you saw Domenech half-heartedly clapping at the final whistle you would have to think that he knew. But I just can't see why you would rather reserve your best effort for the two better teams, in games that were always going to be more important, versus coming out all guns a blazing versus Romania where the pressure is relatively minimal. They might have been thrown askew by Henry's pinched nerve, but there is a plethera of attacking French players at Domenech's disposal, you figured he might have used them/. Anyway, hindsight is 20/20, and I was just about to toot my own horn too about how well I've been picking the games, so much for that.

Matchday 3: le groupe de mort

Ah yes, the group of death. If today doesn't wet your footballing pallet nothing will. In a perfect world, with electric scissors, I'd like to see France and Romania come out of this group for nothing more than my personal allegiances. I'm a huge fan of Ribery. He really is one of the world's best, and I hope he can carry on his good form for France from the world cup and have a big tournament. Romania were close to perfect in qualifiers and they are a very dangerous team that most of Europe is surely underestimating. I took to the team pentru ca fata mea, and they certainly have a shot at progressing. If the Romanians can conjure the upset today, France can still bounce back, while I don't see any way back for Holland today if they are to falter. That being said, I'm gonna go with our first shocker of the tournament, with hopefully many more to come. 2-1 to Romania behind the goals of Dica and Marica.

The other game will be about who can impose their will on the game. If the Dutch can inject that bit of pace with all of their attacking options who like to go forward, and open the game up, they'll have a decent shot. But if the Italians do what we all know they will, and take the sting out of the game, and frustrate the Dutch, its their game to lose. I really feel that its the Italians tournament to lose for that matter. But the Dutch will no doubt be a good test in our first major clash of European giants. Italy 1-0 and Luca Toni does his silly celebration.

day 2 euro synopsis

Austria surprised everyone yesterday, myself included, and proved that they just might be worthy of participating in this competition after all. At the same time, you never really got the feeling that they were going to score. They were able to get their crosses into the box time and time again, especially down the right side, but their strikers were M.I.A., were they even on the field? On the other side of the coin, Croatia was a major disappointment. It was appropriate how the Croatian left and center backs both collapsed to the ground at the final whistle, absolutely exhausted. But let's not forget that a win is a win, and Croatia did what was required of them to get the three points. They still have the young and fiery Rakitic waiting in the wings too as an offensive weapon to call on. Winning ugly can be effective, just ask Greece.

In the other match Germany came out roaring and should have had a goal in the first few minutes if not for (not so) Super Mario Gomez's finishing. But they always looked to be in control and handled the Poles with relative ease. I thought it was a nice touch from Podolski not celebrating his goals because he's polish. I always thought him to be a little arrogant, but he sure knows what to do when he puts on that Germany shirt. 50 caps at his age is impressive.

I don't know if anyone agrees, but I think this group is shaping up eerily similar to group A. You've got your clear favorites who look to be in control: Germany Portugal. Their opponents and losers of the first game look to be the second best side of the group: Poland, Turkey. And if all goes according to plan, they will be playing for the final spot on their third match day with the respective two who had the good fortune of playing the weaker host nations on day 1: Czech Republic, Croatia.

I was pleasantly surprised by Group B, particularly Austria and Poland. It was a nice precursor into today, as this tournament excitement is mounting perfectly. Maybe today there will be a game where both teams score, something we haven't had yet.

day 2: probably a group B snoozer

I've got to mention the French Open as it is my favorite major ever since I can remember, although I'm not really sure why. Maybe its that bright red clay and all the sliding, but I digress. As accomplished as Federer is (the best player of all-time, in my opinion) it is just that much more absurd how Nadal continues to dismantle him like this in Paris. He's on the verge of winning a grand slam without losing a set. wow.

Anyway, back to the meat and potatoes of this blog. No surprises yesterday really. I was a bit disappointed with the Czechs and their failure to create basically anything, save that one chance that their substitute luckily finished. But Petr Cech looks to be in top form so that's good news for them. As for the other game, it was a comfy result in the end for Portugal, but there were times when Turkey looked dangerous. If the Turks get their three points against the reeling Swiss team, which I now think they should in light of Alexander Frei's tearful injury, it would set up quite the showdown on the last day with the Czechs.

These group B games are the least likely to impress. These might be the best days to get out of the house and hit the links with some buds, or play tennis with Albu. But since its like 95 degrees here, I guess I'll see if this Austrian team is a complete joke or not. Croatia to win 4-1.

A lot of people are tipping Poland as the surprise of this tournament. Its plausible enough, because I don't think Croatia are that strong. But it might be hard for them to recover from a good old German beatdown if they suffer one today. 3-0 to the Germans.

Don't forget to watch US Argentina toning ht, if you wanna make it 3 beatdowns in one day, at 7:30 et.

Day 1, lets get the ball rolling

Finally, the opening day is upon us, praise Allah. That's at least what Turkey should be doing, and they might need every prayer they have to test Portugal. Portugal cruise 2-0.

The earlier game is much more intriguing. Don't expect a similar opener like that of the World Cup where the goals were flying in from every angle when Germany beat Costa Rica 5-2, but this has the potential to be a barn-burner. I'm kind of torn because of my allegiance with the Czechs, but I know the Swiss will come out ready to show they are for real. Gotta go with the draw 1-1.

See you tomorrow.

Deyan's Predictions

Group A-Portugal, Switzerland, Turkey, Czech
B-Croatia, Germany, Austria, Poland
C-Italy, France, Holland, Romania
D-Spain, Russia, Greece, Sweden

Germany over Portugal (penalties)
Croatia over Switzerland (penalties)
Italy over Russia
Spain over France

Germany over Croatia
Spain over Italy

Spain over Germany 2-1
Spain finally delivers in the big stage due to the once in a lifetime goalkeeping performance of Iker Casillas.

Golden Boot- Torres
Player of Tournament- Casillas

some observations from our friendly vs Spain

Instead of playing Kanawha basketball yesterday, I tuned into another one of ESPN2's expertly covered U.S. friendlies vs. Spain. I didn't used to mind Harkes that much, but it really is painful to listen to JP Dellacamera butchering just about everything he can, so I usually just turn it all the way down to a barely audible volume. And every time we give the ball away Harkes keeps on saying, "I'd just look for the US to knock it around a few more times before they try and play that kind a ball." Well that's a nice tactic when you can't even get out of your own half.
Anyway, observation #1.
Eddie Johnson is not good. Has he ever done anything remotely impressive against a real opponent? He didn't have much of an impact at Fulham at all this year, and Ill be surprised if his deal gets extended. He really doesn't possess the requisite skills to feature as a lone striker. His touch is awful, and holding the ball up is quite difficult for him (something the US desperately needs their strikers to do to relieve the pressure on the defense). His only asset is his speed which does fit in to our counter attacking style, but he just doesn't cut the mustard when we're talking about what you want in a striker.

#2. Freddie Adu is probably already better than Donovan. I'm not sure if he came off at halftime due to injury, but he was absolutely tearing it up in the first half. I haven't seen that much of him, but all my doubts have been erased. He's got some nice little stepovers, we know he can shoot, but he was impressive as a passer last night as well. My only worry is that he'll be stuck in the shadow of the poster boy of American Soccer Landon Donovan, and not be allowed to play in that center attacking midfielder role, where he really shined last night.

#3. We really miss Reyna. We desperately need some stability in the midfield, someone who can take the pressure off the defense. Edu was ok, but I'm not sure that's the kind of player he is, I haven't seen enough of him.

#4. We are too slow. I mean that in every sense of the word. Our players don't think fast enough, nor are they physically quick enough to keep up with superior opposition. It was painfully obvious in our backline as Xavi carved past Onyewu for the goal, and with Fragile Frankie Hejduk, and Heath Pearce on the back foot for almost the entire second half. And Michael Bradley isn't too swift on his feet either, he didn't look like he had any business on that field.

#5. Spain don't look like a championship side to me. I don't know what it is, but I don't like it. They are almost too flashy in their matador uniforms with those golden numbers and blood red shirts. I wouldn't mind seeing them succeed, but with all the expectations they have this year, its almost more of a reason to expect them to fold as per norm.

The Tournament Structure

Lets take a look at this tournament for a second. Why the heck are the semi-final matchups not switched. It doesn't make sense. What I mean is, the way that the tournament is set up, teams in groups A and B will play each other all the way into the semis without a sniff of either of the Group C or D teams. This would seemingly give them a much easier road to the final, but lets ignore that fact.
Why would a tournament structure not encourage different matchups, but potential rematches of group games in the semis and not the final? I guess there is a case to be made there, that the teams who meet in the final shouldn't have played yet, but when there is an obvious group that is superior to the rest, it significantly reduces the chances of those teams of reaching the final and kills the parity of the tournament. For example, if France and Italy (World cup finalists, need I remind you) do escape the group of death, and win their subsequent quarterfinals, they are rewarded with each other yet again in the semis. Where as Portugal for example, will avoid playing the likes of Spain, France, Italy, or Holland to the final. Portugal and Germany must fancy their chances, at least on paper. But I guess you have to beat everyone at some point, so THATS WHY THEY PLAY THE GAME!

Euro 2008

For soccer enthusiasts June could not come soon enough. The excitement that the Championship brings is matched only by the world cup. Falling in between world cups every four years, the Euro 2008 showcases 16 of the continent’s best countries. This year, both Austria and Switzerland qualified automatically as hosts leaving 14 spots open for the rest of Europe. After trimming down the number of countries to 50 after a preliminary qualification teams were split into 7 groups with the top 2 from each group moving on to the championships. The most notable absence from this year’s tournament is England who failed to qualify after squandering their lead twice to Croatia on the final matchday. The 16 teams are split into 4 groups of 4, with the top 2 advancing from each group to play in a single elimination style tournament, culminating on June 29th in Vienna. Here are how the groups break down.

Group A
Portugal- Runners up as hosts in 2004, Portugal find themselves in a tricky group. They have more than enough firepower to handle any team in the world, but their worst enemy is often themselves as their superstars have been known to look out of sync with each other. The likes of Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Ricardo Quaresma (Porto FC), Simao (Atletico Madrid), and Deco (Barcelona FC) provide the attacking flair, while Ricardo Carvalho (Chelsea FC) and Miguel (Valencia FC) have plenty of experience at the back. If they play together and find enough room on the field for everyone, they have a considerable chance to repeat their run to the finals as hosts in 2004 and maybe even take it to the next step.

Man to Watch:
Ronaldo - No doubt, all eyes will be on the 24 year old, who is currently on top of the soccer world, after winning the Champions League, and netting 42 goals in all competitions this season. He had an impressive international debut at Euro 2004 but then he was only a boy. He returns a man, possessing one of the deadliest free kicks in history and hoping to cap off a dream season with Euro success.

Czech Republic - The Czechs were the consensus best team and unlucky not to win this tournament in 2004, bowing out to Cinderellas Greece in the semi-finals. There are some serious pieces missing from that team and there are questions as to where the goals will come from. That being said, they are still an intriguing team, full of experience and talent. They also possess one of the best goalkeepers of the world in sure-handed Petr Cech (Chelsea FC). If the Czechs can find goals, they could make another run to the semis.

MTW:
Jan Koller - With the absence of midfield playmakers Tomas Rosicky (injury), and Pavel Nedved (retirement), much of the offensive pressure falls on the shoulders of Koller. As their most reliable scoring threat, he will need to score along with strike partner Milan Baros who will look to recapture his Euro 2004 form.

Turkey- There must be a bit of uncertainty in the Turkish camp coming into this tournament. They barely qualified finishing only one point ahead of Norway, and their highest profile player, Hamit Altintop of Bayern Munich is likely out due to injury. This is a dangerous team no doubt, but their lack of consistency and ability to defend suggest that it would not be wise to count on the repeat success of their third place finish in the 2002 World Cup.
MTW:
Belozoglu Emre- The midfielder is a force to be reckoned with at only 5’7”. Inexplicably out of favor at Newcastle, he wields one of the most dangerous left foots around and will look to link up with fellow playmaker Nihat of Villareal to jumpstart the Turkish team.

Switzerland – They did not concede a goal in the 2006 world cup, and were only sent out on penalties. There is bad blood between the Swiss and Turkish teams inlue of their brawl after the playoff for the last spot for the 2006 World Cup. Whether or not the Swiss will be able to harness their home field advantage will depend on their ability to score, or lack thereof. Alexander Frei is their lone striker with international experience and the tall task to find the net against superior opposition will be his.
MTW:
Tranquillo Barnetta- The Bayern Leverkeusen midfielder’s game is as smooth as his name. He came on to the international scene at the World Cup and was nominated for the tournament’s best young player award. He will need to bring everything he has to the table if the Swiss are going to have any chance of moving out of this complicated group.


Group B

Germany- It isn’t difficult to find reasons to dislike this German team. (American fans will remember the U.S.’s cruel exit out of the 2002 World Cup against Germany) For the second straight major tournament the Germans have seemingly lucked out again and find themselves in the softest group of the competition and are the odds on favorite to capture the trophy because of this. If they can get past Croatia, they should enjoy a relatively smooth ride to the quarterfinals, and from there it is anyone’s tournament to win.
MTW:
Michael Ballack- After missing most of the first half of the season due to injury, Ballack hit his stride and played a large part in Chelsea’s resurgence and push to the Champions League final. The midfielder is the heart and soul of the German team and his teammates will feed off of his energy.

Croatia- The Croats proved their medal in capturing that famous draw at the Wembley which prevented England from participating in the tournament. They have plenty of attacking options even without Arsenal striker Eduardo who suffered that horrific broken leg this February. Niko Kranjar and Ivan Rakitic are two players who will have to produce in the final third, because they will likely give up goals as their defense has been known to be suspect.
MTW:
Luka Modric - Fresh off his £16.5m transfer to Tottenham Hotspur, the midfielder will look to impress and justify his hefty price tag with his skills on the ball. If Modric and their other stars get off to a good start, their momentum and confidence could carry them deep into the tournament.

Poland- It’s difficult to believe that Poland has never qualified for a European championship considering their prominence in the World Cup, but none the less this is their first trip and they are excited to be here. But their players will quickly realize that they probably will not have a better opportunity to reach the quarterfinals for many years to come than this year. Assuming they can handle Austria, they would only need to win one of their other two games to assure progression. If Poland play with the discipline that got them here, they just might be able to pull that off.
MTW:
Ebi Smolarek- He may not be a Ronaldinho, but the striker is as close a thing to a star that Poland have to offer, and the Racing Santander (Spain) striker apparently knows where the net is grabbing 9 goals in qualifiers. .

Austria- Many are questioning whether the Austrians even belong in this showcase of world class soccer. They have never qualified for the championships on their own and they come into Euro 2008 with a FIFA ranking of over 100 and have won only 1 of their last 14 friendlies. Their main goal will be to avoid any blowout defeats, but they could not be in a better group to potentially shock the continent.
MTW:
Sebastian Prodl- The 21 year-old center back has just signed a deal that will move him to Germany’s Werder Bremen in the fall. He lead the U20 national team to the semi-finals in last summers U20 World Cup in Canada, and was the only Austrian named to the all-tournament team. His future looks bright, but the same outlook cannot be shared for his country’s chances in this tournament.

Group C

Romania- Despite most critics not giving them a chance, the attitude in the Romanian camp has been confident in the build up to these championships. They should be familiar with their Dutch groupmates whom they beat and tied in qualifying, and that only leaves giants France and Italy for them to deal with. In any other group, they would have to be seriously considered, and they still must be, as any one of these four teams is capable of beating another on any given day.
MTW:
Adrian Mutu - After a nightmarish stint at Chelsea, the forward has settled in nicely at Fiorentina, and has enjoyed a fine season scoring a few fantastic goals in the UEFA cup and helping them guarantee Champions League football for the club next season. Romania will need him to be in top form to have a chance to advance.

France- France has been known to start slow, something they can ill-afford to do in this tournament. But if they get going they are extremely difficult to overcome as they have not lost a game in which they take the lead in under Coach Raymond Domenech since 2002. The loss of captain Zinadine Zidane is obviously a blow, but they have enough talented players with the proper experience to persevere through this monster of a group.
MTW:
Franck Ribery - he's quietly emerged as one of the games’ most exciting players, albeit out of the international limelight, playing for Bayern Munich in Germany. His tireless running and ingenuity on the ball make him a joy to watch. France will need all Ribery can give them to win their second Euro crown in the decade.

Holland- Champions in 1988, the clockwork Orange are no stranger to European success. But team selection has always been an issue under coach Marco Van Basten, and this year's squad is most notably missing 32 year old journeyman Clarence Seedorf. What the Dutch lack in defense they make up for in the attacking third with the world class talents of Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder (both Real Madrid), and Robin Van Persie (Arsenal). They have reached the semi finals in the past two tournaments, but it will take a tremendous team effort for them to escape this group of death and end their twenty year drought.
MTW:
Ruud Van Nistelrooy – Ruud had an impressive tournament four years ago, and coming off his second consecutive La Liga title at Real Madrid, he looks poised to have another big tournament. After finally mending the fence with Van Basten, Van Nistelrooy should be able to do what he does best and solidify his status as the world’s best goal-poacher.

Italy- Coming off their world cup glory two summers ago, they have to be considered one of the favorites. Always under composure, the Italians are incredibly frustrating to play against because breaking them down is close to impossible. With every game in this group almost being an elimination game in itself, the Italians will need to win the early games in order to avoid the same fate they suffered in 2004 where they were unbeaten but did not progress out of the group stage. If they have a weakness it has to be up front. Despite his domestic success in Germany and Italy, Luca Toni hasn’t scored in many big games in his relatively young international career.
MTW:
Andrea Pirlo - The man who pulls all the strings for the Italians, Pirlo is one of the world’s best passers. Always creating space and time for himself he seems to never make a wrong decision or lose the ball. He also is dangerous from set pieces where the Italians have been known to punish napping opponents. This team is so deep, experienced, and well-rounded that it is difficult to imagine them not progressing, but if there was ever a group to bring them down, this is it.

Group D

Spain- Experts are tipping the Spanish team to pull it all together this year, and why shouldn’t they? Spain are overflowing with talent, they posses arguably the best goalkeeper in the world in Iker Casillas, endless offensive options, and their defense is anchored by Barcelona captain Carlos Puyol and rising star Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid). But like their Iberian neighbors their biggest opponent may be in-between their ears.
MTW:
Xavi - He may not be as heralded as some of his teammates for club (Barcelona FC) and country alike. But time and time again Xavi is the man behind his team’s success. His ability to pick out the pass to set the likes of David Villa and Fernando Torres through on goal will be necessary for Spanish success. Fabregas, Silva, and Iniesta will be counted on as well in the midfield.

Greece- Imagine if George Mason had won the NCAAs, and not just made the final four. This was about the magnitude of the shock that came with the Greek triumph in 2004. The world is now wary of their footballing prowess. On paper, they don’t look to be much, but what they lack in superstars, they make up for in intangibles. They have two vital qualities of a great team: great defense and timely offense. Their only weakness may be in-between the posts, as 36 year-old and counting goalkeeper Nikopolidis (Olympiacos) must have lost a step since the last tournament.
MTW:
Angelos Charisteas- The Nurenburg striker was instrumental in the 2004 tournament and scored the game winning goal in the final. Europe should now be wary of him and the threat that the Greeks present. It will most likely take two wins to escape this group, and they will need his ability to find goals in the box.
Russia – Make no mistake, Russia deserve to be here. They accomplished what England could not, and they are eager to make a splash on the European scene, and distinguish themselves from the USSR teams of the past. They have a coach who many consider to be the best in the world in journeyman Gus Hiddink, who has a remarkable track record in big tournaments in the last 20 years.
MTW
Andrei Arshavin- He’s the best of the six players from the Zenit St. Petersburg squad who absolutely tore through the UEFA cup competition leaving Bayern Munich and Rangers in their wake. He will miss the first two games due to suspension however, and will have to make his mark against Sweden in a likely decisive game.

Sweden- The Swedes will look to build on their quarterfinal appearance in 2004 and add to their relatively brief history in the competition. They have a wealth of experienced players Olof Mellberg (Juventus), Kim Kallstrom (Lyon), Freddie Ljunberg (West Ham United) and Henrik Larsson (Helsingborgs IF).
MTW:
Zlatan Ibrahimovic- The Randy Moss of European soccer: incomparable skills, but questionable temprament. Despite his success at Inter Milan in Italy, he did not score a single goal in qualifying nor at the World Cup in 2006. The Swedes will only go as far as the naturalized Croat will take them, and with second place seemingly up for grabs in this group, he could be the difference.

Predictions
This may be one of the hardest tournaments to predict in all of sports. There are nine or ten countries with a legitimate chance to win the title. I’ll make myself look foolish none the less.

Quarters:
Portugal over Croatia
Germany over Czech Republic
Spain over Holland
Greece over France

Semis
Greece over Spain
Germany over Portugal

Final-
Germany over Greece