The heart break saga at Euro 2008 quarter finals continues. First it was Portugal who crashed out courtesy a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Germany. Then an inspired Turkish Team sent the Croatians packing 3-1 via penalty shootout. It was the turn of the Dutch team to be at the receiving end of the painful blow, when its campaign in the euro cup came to an end courtesy a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Russians.
Coach Marco van Basten was bidding to become the first person to taste Euro Success both as a player and as a coach. But that was not to be. Prior to this match, Dutch had scored 9 goals and had successfully topped group C. Their confidence was also high from the fact that a second string Netherlands team had managed to beat Romania 2-0 in their last league encounter.
From the off, Russia never allowed Marco van Basten’s previously imperious side space and they attacked with vigour. Roman Pavlyuchenko’s 56th-minute volley seemed to have won the game but with four minutes remaining Ruud van Nistelrooy headed an equaliser. The scores were tied 1-1 and the game headed into extra time.
The first 15 minutes of extra time was goalless. But in 112th minute the tireless Arshavin set up substitute Torbinski to restore the advantage from close range. Score 2-1 advantage Russia. Four minutes later Arshavin sealed a semi-final place with the goal his play deserved as his shot deflected in off John Heitinga. Final Score 3-1 in Russia’s Favor. Russians now await the winners of the spain vs italy match in the second Semi Final
This was the last season for Coach Marco van Basten with the Dutch national team after which he steps down to take charge of former club AFC Ajax. Also Edwin Van der Sar equally decided that, aged 37, it was time for him to leave international football, his Dutch-record 128th cap being his last as he equalled Lilian Thuram’s mark of 16 UEFA European Championship outings.
It would be a sad day for these two stalwarts of the game as they make their exit from the international set up with regret .
The next match is between Spain and Italy. Lets hope that the hatrick of heartbreaks ends here
Filed under: Euro 2008, Sports, The Heartbreak Saga Continues , Edwin Van der Sar, Marco van Basten, netherlands, quater final 3, Roman Pavlyuchenko, russia, Torbinski
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