Spain Crowned European Champions after 44 years

Champions aren’t made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them — a desire, a dream, a vision. — Muhammed Ali, American Boxer.

Spain finally realised their dream of lifting the Euro Cup after 44 years when they defeated Germany 1-0. Quality football was on display for the 90 minutes and it looked like the Spanish had come with all their guns blazing. Germany, on the other hand, had no answers to the spanish moves. They looked overwhelmed by the big occassion.

Germany, who were looking for their fourth title, started strongly. But the start proved to be misleading as Spain took control of the match and looked dangerous throughout. In the 34th minute Fernando Torress scored the only goal and put his team in the lead. Though there were many chances on offer, Germany failed to pierce Spanish defence.

With this win Spain has ended a long wait of 44 years to win this tournament. The last time they achieved victory was in 1964, when they had defeated erstwhile USSR. Also spain has never gone past the quarters of any major tournament in the past 24 years. Louis Aragones also becomes the oldest manager to win the Euro competition.

Spain had won all their games in this tournament and scored 16 goals while conceeding just 5. Xavi Hernandes was named Castrol Player of the year for this edition.

Germany has played some quality football throughout and failed to cross the final hurdle. They would now go up as runners up and be back for the world cup to be held in 2 years time.

 

Filed under: Euro 2008, Spain Wins Euro 2008 after 44 years, Sports

Euro 2008 – A Flashback

The grand finale of Euro 2008 will be played in Vienna. Germany will slug it out with Spain for final supermacy. Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed some fantastic display of football. Now is the right time to look back at those moments. The opinions and views are entirely mine. If there are any omissions please feel free to comment on the same (Content courtesy:-Euro 2008 Official Website)

Game 1 Group C Netherlands Vs Italy Berne 10th June 2008 (Italy 0 – Netherlands 3)

Italians were the world champions and much was expected of them when they faced Netherlands in this Group C Encounter. The last time Netherlands had beaten Italy, they had reached the finals of the world cup 1978. They had waited 30 years after that.

Ruud van Nistelrooy side-footed the Oranje ahead in the 26th minute, a lead doubled superbly by his Real Madrid CF colleague Wesley Sneijder soon after. Edwin van der Sar, becoming only the third player to appear in four UEFA European Championships, then kept the advantage intact, leaving Giovanni van Bronckhorst to complete the scoring with a headed third in the 79th minute

The Azzuri had succumbed to their worst ever Euro defeat. The Netherlands Team played some brilliant football and it was just the beginning of the Dutch dominance which lasted till the quarter finals before they were halted by Russia.

Game 2 Group D Spain Vs. Russia Innsburck 10th June 2008 (Spain 4 – Russia 1)

Spain were considered to be the underacheivers in world football. They had a lot s of talent in them but somehow they could perform when it mattered the most. But this match is my favourite as it was one of their best performances with David Villa scoring a hat-trick and Fabregas slotting home the last goal. Only the seventh player in finals history to score three in a game, David Villas treble was the first in a EURO since Patrick Kluivert’s against Yugoslavia eight years ago. Though the Russians hit back in with Roman Pavlyuchenko’s 86th-minute header, Spain won comfortably 4-1.

Game 3 Group A Turkey Vs. Switzerland Basel 12th June 2008 (Turkey 2 -Switzerland 1)

Both Turkey and Switzerland had lost their opening games against Portugal and The Czech Republic respectively. Turkey were supposed to be the dark horses in the tournament. It was Switzerland who took the intiative and scored through Hasan Yakin in the 32nd minute. Turkey hit back through Semi Senturk in the 57th minute. The game looked like finishing in a tie and both the teams sharing a point each. But then Arda Turan scored late in injury time to revive Turkey’s hope in euro 2008 and dash the hopes of the hosts. This was just the first of three dramatic comebacks that Turkey was involved in.

Game 4 Group B Germany Vs. Croatia Klagenfurt 12th June 2008 (Germany 1 – Croatia 2)

I have always enjoyed the way the Germans play their football and have been their firm supporter. And after their initial 2-0 win against Poland, this support has always grown. But this match is my favourite because it saw some quality football being played by Croatia eventually ending in a loss for the Germans.

Having won their opening encounters (Germany against Poland, Croatia against Austria) both the teams knew that a win over the other would take them to the quarters. Croatia took lead in the 24th minute through Darijo Srna. Ivica Olic doubled the lead for the Croatians in the 62nd minute. Though Germany hit back through Podolski, they failed to mount a late charge. The match also saw Bastian Schweinsteiger being sent off and missing the game against Austria when he picked up a red card for reacting to a challenge from Jerko Leko.

Game 5 Group C Italy Vs. Romania Zurich 13th June 2008 (Italy 1 – Romania 1)

Though this game ended in a draw, it was a great save by Italy’s goalkeeper Gianlugi Buffon with 9 minutes of play remaining that saved the day for them and they lived to fight another day. Had Buffon been unsuccessful in saving the penalty from Adrian Mutu, then Italy’s fate would have been left hanging in balance.

Having lost their opening match against The Dutch, the Italians had to win this match so that they could make it into the quarters.

Romania scored through Adrian Mutu in the 55th minute. Italy equalised in the 56th minute through Christian Panucci.

But the highlight of the match was the save by Buffon. Panucci was adjudged to have restricted Niculae with his arms in the area, resulting in a penalty kick for Romania. Adrian Mutu had the chance to snatch what would have been a memorable victory. Buffon dived to his left to block the ACF Fiorentinas strikers stinging drive with his arm and foot. Italy now needed to win at all cost to reach the quarters and their next opponents were France, whom they had beaten in the world cup.

Game 6 Group C Netherlands Vs. France Berne 14th June 2008 (Netherlands 4 – France 1)

Netherlands had shown their class when they demolished World Champions Italy in their opening encounter. Their class was there for everyone to see once again when they demolished France 4-1 in their second group encounter thus making it to the last eight with a game to spare.

France was under pressure to perform after they were held to a goalless draw by Romania in their opening encounter. But it was Netherlands who scored first through Dirk Kuyt in the 9th minute. Van Persie doubled the lead in the 59th minute. Though Thiery Henry managed to reduce the lead by scoring for France in the 71st minute, their joy was short lived as the Dutch hit back with Robben re-establishing the 2 goal cushion when he scored in the 72nd minute. The final nail in the French coffin came when Wesely Sneijder scored in the 2 minutes stoppage time.

Game 7 Group A Turkey Vs. The Czech Rep Geneva 16th June 2008 (Turkey 3 – The Czech Rep 2)

Can you imagine this?. Two teams are fighting for the quarter finals slot in Euro 08. The first team is comfortably placed with a two goal lead with 15 minutes of
regular playtime remaining. Then out of blue, the second team scores three goals in 15 minutes time to emerge winners and proceed to the quarters. That, in short, is the story of the match held between Turkey and the Czech Republic held in Geneva. This had to be one of the most dramatic comebacks by a team in the football history.

Prior to this match, both teams had started off after being stuck up with 3 points from two matches. (With one win and one loss each). A draw in this game would have necessitated penalty shoot outs to decide the second place behind Portugal.

Jans Koller put Czech Republic in the lead when he scored in the 34th minute with a thumping header. Jaroslav Plasil doubled the lead in the 62nd minute. With 15 minutes remaining in the match The Czechs seemed to be heading to the quarter finals.

But Arda Turan gave the Turks a fighting chance when he halved the lead in the 75th minute. The Czechs still looked like holding on to the one goal lead, when an uncharacterstic error by Peter Cech (goalkeeper Czech Rep) gave Nihat Kahveci a chance to equalise in the 87th minute. Then again in the 89th minute Nihat scored to take lead and send his team to the quarter finals.

Game 8 Group B Austria Vs. Germany Vienna 17th June 2008 (Austria 0 – Germany 1)

Having lost the previous tie against the Croatians, Germany had to win this match at any cost to proceed to the quarter finals. The Austrians on the other hand needed to defeat their neighbours to proceed to the quarter finals, a feat which they had not acheived since 1986, when they defeated West Germany.

The match was goalless till the 49th minute when Philip Lahm was pulled down by Andreas Ivanschitz. A free kick was awarded to the German team. Captain Micheal Ballack unleashed a scorcher from 25 meters and scored the only goal for his team. Germany proceeded to the quarters where they met Portugal.

Since the stakes were quite high in this match, tensions were rising both on and off the field. Coach Joachim low of Germany, along with his Austrian counterpart, Josef Hickersberger were dismissed to the stands by the referee after an altercation with the fourth official.

Game 9 Group C Italy Vs. France Zurich 18th June 2008 (Italy 2 – France 0)

After losing to Portugal in their opener and playing to a draw with Romania, Italy had to win the game against France and then wait for the results of the Netherlands Vs. Romania encounter. If at all Romania would have managed to beat The Netherlands (who had rested their key players since they had qualified with a game to spare), then Romania would have made it from Group C alongwith Portugal.

Faced with heavy odds, Italy got a chance in the 24th minute when Eric Abidal was sent off for a foul on Luca Toni which resulted in a penalty for the Italians. Andrea Pirlo converted and Italians took the lead. France were already in trouble when Ribery injured his left leg in the 10th minute and had to be substituted.

When De Rossi scored in the 64th minute, the French fate had been sealed. The French finished at the bottom of the table with one points after back to back defeats for the first time in 15 years. Netherlands also helped the Italian cause as they defeated Romania 2-0.

Game 10 QF1 Germany Vs. Portugal Basel 20th June 2008 (Germany 3 – Portugal 2)

Assistant Coach Hans – Dieter Flick was incharge of the German team since regular coach Joachim Low was serving a one match suspension from the technical area due to the altercation with the 4th official in the previous match against Austria. Germany though didnot seem to miss his presence very much. Germany took the lead in the 22nd minute when Bastian Schweinsteiger, who joined the team after serving his one match ban, scored for them. German aerial supermacy was there for everyone to view when Miroslav Klose headed home the goal doubling the lead. Nuno Gomes of Portugal halved the lead in the 40th minute when he scored for Portugal. Micheal Ballack restored the 2 goal cushion when he headed home in the 61st minute. Portugal again halved the lead through Heider Postiga in the 87th minute. But this charge came a bit too late as Germany won and proceeded to the semi finals. This was the only quarter finals that was not decided at extra time.

Game 11 QF2 Turkey Vs. Croatia Vienna 21st June 2008 (Turkey 3 – Croatia 1 via penalty shootouts after both teams tied 1-1 at end of extra time)

The Second quarter finals had all the drama and excitement. Turkey was looking for their first semi final appearance. But the entire regular time was tied at 0-0. The first half of extra time again failed to produce results. The entire drama took place in the last 60 seconds of the second half of extra time.

Ivan Klasnic headed a Lucas Modric cross into the Turkish goal in the 119th minute. But against the run of play Semi Senturk equalised in the death. The turks had already starred in two such comebacks in the league stage.

The game went into penalties and they finally won 3-1 scripting the most memorable comebacks and set up a semi final clash with Germany.

 

Game 12 SF 1 Germany Vs Turkey 26th June 2008 Basel (Germany 3 Turkey 2)

As said earlier, the Turkish campaign was nothing short of a miracle. But when they set off a semi final clash with Germany, this was a fight against all odds. Turkey were missing key players to injury and suspensions. Still they managed to put a fight against the mighty Germans.

 

Turkey went into the lead in the 22nd minute when Ugur Boral scored. But this lead lasted only for four minutes when Bastian Schweinsteiger equalised for the Germans in the 26th minute. It was now Germanys turn to go into the lead when Miroslav Klose scored in the 79th minute. Semih Senturk equalised for the Turks in the 86th minute and the game seemed to be headed to extra time. But Philipp Lahm scored in the dying minutes to book a final spot for Germany and end the dream run of the turks. 

Filed under: Euro 2008, Euro 2008 - A Flashback, Sports

Spain Steamroll Russia to make it to the finals

Spain edge lacklusture Russia 3-0 to reach the Finals.

Spain were termed as potentially underacheivers. Their performance in this edition of Euro cup is their best in 24 years. So they had a thing or two to prove to the world. Russians had beaten the mighty Netherlands in their quarter final clash. After defeating Italy in the penalty shootout, their confidence were high.

On the other hand the Guus Hiddink’s team had defeated Netherlands in their quarter final encounter. But they had lost their initial match to spain 4-1.

The first half was goalless. With 5 minutes in to the second half, the FC Barcelona pair of Andrés Iniesta and Xavi Hernández started the ball rolling by combining to put Spain 1-0 . In the 73rd minute Guiza added another one to put Spain ahead 2-0. Finally David silva scored in the 82nd minute to make it 3-0 in their favor.

Although the game was goalless at the break, the signs were already there that Spain were not about to submit to the one-touch pass-and-move style the Russians had utilised to such devastating effect against Sweden and the Netherlands. There was a general confidence about Spain’s play from the start – as there should have been just 16 days after they had overwhelmed the same opponents 4-1 in Innsbruck. Russia were never allowed to get their passing game going, with Spain surrounding the man in possession and effectively knotting the supply line to the forward pair of Andrei Arshavin and Roman Pavlyuchenko. Arshavin, so dangerous in his previous two matches, barely got a touch. Indeed, he gained possession just 26 times – a meagre total compared with the tallies of the two midfielders operating behind him – Konstantin Zyryanov (55) and Sergei Semak (47). Pavlyuchenko was starved of service to an even greater degree, getting just 20 touches all game.

Spain now meet Germany in the finals on Sunday. The match is going to prove to be a tough one. On one hand is the team that is looking for their 5th Championship and on the other hand is a team that inspite of being competitive and full of talent is making it to the finals after 24 long years. Who wins???????????? Wait and Watch

Filed under: Euro 2008, Spain Steamroll Russia to make it to the finals, Sports , Euro 2008, russia, Semi finals 2, spain

The Turkish Magic Comes to an End

Germany Beat Turkey 3-2 to enter the Finals of Euro 2008

The Turkish team have earned the tag of “Masters of Comeback” They have featured in 3 of the most dramatic comebacks two in the league stages[against The Czech Republic and Switzerland) and one in the quarter final stage (against Croatia). A similar tale was expected of Fatih Terim team in their first semi finals against Germany. The story seemed to be going on similar lines but Germany gave them a taste of their own medicine. A last minute goal by Philip Lahm send Germany through to the finals and brought an end to the Dream run of the Turks in a rather cruel way.

Eventhough Germany won the match, it was Turkey that displayed some quality football in the first half .Missing four players through suspension and a further five through injury, Terim’s hand was forced. So limited were his options that he had to play a midfielder at centre-back and a right-sided player in midfield, but today’s top tactician has to be an alchemist, able to meld his materials to his end. With a patched-up squad, Terim constructed a team playing as a unit, and one that crashed in 15 shots on the German goal in a pulsating first half.

Though Germany won eventually, it was Turkey who took the lead in the 22nd minute. Sabri Sarıoğlu threw the ball to Ayhan who chested it back, and from Sabri’s cross Kazım’s imperfect strike looped on to the crossbar – happily for the Crescent Stars an even untidier finish from Uğur burrowed under Lehmann’s body. Score 1-0 in Turkey’s favor.

Turkey had only led for a combined nine minutes in the previous four games Miracles or not, now omens were in opposition. Of the 19 teams who had taken the lead in a EURO semi-final since 1960, 13 had gone on to win and only three to lose – but ominously for Terim’s team, Germany had never lost when Schweinsteiger had scored. This time the Turkish lead lasted for 4 minutes only as Germany hit back through Schweinsteiger. Lukas Podolski, the left prong in the trident behind Klose, delivered the centre which Schweinsteiger turned in from close range. Score 1-1 and a keen tussle seemed to be at hand.

Miroslav Klose pressed home the German advantage when he scored via his trademark header. The score was 2-1 in Germany’s Favor. But Turkey was not going down without a fight. With just 4 minutes of regular time remaining, Turkey once again looked like making a comeback. This time it was Semi senturk finishing at the near post after a fine play from Sabri. The Masters of Comeback seemed to have done it again.

But destiny had something else in store for the Turks. Their art of coming back from the dead seemed to have deserted them when they needed it the most. A last second goal by Germany’s Philip Lahm, ended their dream run in the most cruelest way. Seconds from the end of normal time, the Turkish defence parted and Philipp Lahm stole in to score and end their odyssey.

Fatih Termi’s men now leave Euro 2008 with their heads held high as one of the most colourful teams to have played in Euro 2008.

Germany have made it to their sixth final appearance and now face the winners of Spain Vs. Russia match.

Filed under: Euro 2008, Sports, The Turkish Magic Comes to an End , germany, semi final 1, turkey

1983- History in the Making

Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Date:- June 25, 1983. Venue:-Lords Cricket Ground England. Occassion:- Prudential World Cup Cricket

History was about to be re-written. The mighty Goliath were humbled by David. Indians lead by Kapil Dev, defeated the all conquering West Indians and lifted the World Cup. This was the first and the only time that Indians won the coveted trophy. The only other time India came close was in 2003, when under the captaincy of Sourav Ganguly, India reached the finals only to be defeated by Australia.

Kapil Dev – Leader Par Excellence

Kapil Dev Ramlal Nikhanj (better known as Kapil Dev) was born on 6th January, 1959 in Chandigarh. He was known as the “Haryana Hurricane”
He was a right arm pace bowler and a right arm batsman. He had a potent outswinger with which he used to trouble almost all the batsmen in the world. In additions he was a natural strokemaker. A geniune all rounder who was India’s savior on many occasions when the Team was in trouble.

Before the World Cup

In the previous season, the Indian selectors had made one of those inspired moves for which they were criticised at the time but which shone like a beacon of common sense in hindsight. They named Kapil Dev captain of the one-day side. Under Kapil, India beat Sri Lanka 3-0, and lost to Pakistan 1-0 but the nucleus of a team took shape. It was a team built on the dual skills of the allrounder, and a team that understood the importance of the medium-pacer. In the 1970s, spinners like Bishan Bedi and Srinivas Venkatraghavan had focused on claiming wickets; now the medium-pacers borrowed from England’s strategy and concentrated on keeping the runs down. In those two series Kapil was assisted by Madan Lal, Mohinder Amarnath, Balwinder Sandhu, Roger Binny and Sandip Patil.

On March 29, with the World Cup 72 days away, India beat twice champions West Indies in Berbice, Guyana. Gavaskar made his first 50 in 52 balls before falling for 90. Kapil Dev made 72 off 38 balls and India 282 for 5 in 47 overs. Madan Lal dismissed Viv Richards for 64, and Ravi Shastri had three wickets as the West Indies finished with 255 to lose by 27 runs. But the statistics of that win were not as important as the impact it had on a team that thought the essence of one-day cricket was simply to turn up and go through the motions.

World Cup Group Stages

When Kapil Dev led against West Indies in India’s opening match of the 1983 World Cup, bookmakers’ odds on India were 66-1. Eight teams were participating in the event. The preliminary matches were played in two groups of 4 teams each with each team playing the other twice and the top two team from the respective group going through to the semi finals.

India started off with a win against the West Indies (by 34 runs) in their first match, followed by a victory against Zimbabwe (by 5 wkts). They lost to Australia (by 162 runs). They met the West Indies again. This time West Indies won (by 66 runs) and avenged their defeat in the first match. They defeated Zimbabwe again (by 31 runs) and defeated Australia in the final encounter (by 118 runs) and proceed to the semis.

Another story that needs to be mentioned here that in their Second Group encounter against the Zimbabweans, it was a majestical knock of 175 by skipper Kapil Dev that bailed the Indians out of Trouble who were 17/5 when he had walked in. Had it not for that knock, Indians would have been knocked off in the group stage itself

World Cup Semi Final Stages

India and West Indies made it to the semi final from Group B while England and Pakistan made it to the last four from Group A.

In the semi finals, England met India at Old Trafford, while Pakistan faced West Indies at the Oval.Both the matches were played on the same day ie 22nd June, 1983.

England won the toss and elected to bat first. They scored 213 in 60 overs.Graeme Fowler (33 from 59 balls, 3 fours) top scored, and Kapil Dev took 3 for 35 in eleven overs, with Mohinder Amarnath and Roger Binny taking two wickets each. In reply, Yashpal Sharma (61 from 115 balls, 3 fours, 2 sixes) and Sandeep Patil (51 from 32 balls, 8 fours) made half-centuries, as India reached their target in 54.4 overs, winning by 6 wickets in an upset victory over the previous tournament’s runner-ups. Mohinder Amarnath (46 from 92 balls, 4 fours, 1 six) picked up the man-of-the-match award for his all round performance, which saw him add 46 runs to his earlier bowling success (2/27 in 12 overs).

In the second semi finals, West Indies won the toss and inserted Pakistan, whom they restricted to just 184 (8 wickets, 60 overs). Mohsin Khan (70 from 176 balls, 1 four) fought his way past 50 against the superb West Indies Bowling (he was the only Pakistani batsman to reach 50). Malcolm Marshall (3 for 28) and Andy Roberts (2 for 25) starred with the ball. The West Indies innings was based around a superb innings by Viv Richards (80 from 96 balls, 11 fours, 1 six), who took the man-of-the-match award, and an unbeaten half-century by Larry Gomes (50 from 100 balls, 3 fours) as the defending champions reached their target for the loss of just two wickets.

The Finals

In the final, India lost the toss and were asked to bat first against a West Indies team that arguably boasted the world’s best bowling attack. Only Mohinder Amarnath (26 from 80 balls) and Kris Srikkanth (38 from 57 balls) put up any significant resistance as Roberts, Marshall, Joel
Garner and Michael Holding ripped through the Indian batsmen, ably supported by
Gomes. Surprising resistance by the tail allowed India to compile 183 (all out, 54.4 overs). Only three sixes were hit in the Indian innings, one from Srikkanth, one from Sandeep
Patil (27 from 29 balls), and one from Madan Lal (17 from 27 balls). However, the Indian bowling exploited the weather and pitch conditions perfectly to bowl out the best batting lineup of the era for 140 from 52 overs in return, winning by 43 runs and completing one of the most stunning upsets in cricket history. Amarnath and Madan Lal (3-31) each took three wickets, and one memorable moment was the sight of Kapil Dev running a great distance to take a catch to dismiss Richards, West Indies top scorer with 33 from 28 balls. Amarnath was the most economical bowler, conceding just 12 runs from his seven overs while taking 3 wickets, and was once again awarded the Man of the Match award for his all-round performance. There was no ‘Man of the Series’ awarded in 1983.   

The pictures have been played over and over on television channels and in our minds. Krishnamachari Srikkanth square-driving
Andy Roberts for four; Srikkanth taking a single running backwards in sheer exuberance; Balwinder Sandhu clean-bowling Gordon Greenidge, who had let the ball go; Kapil Dev running to catch Viv Richards over his shoulder after Richards had threatened to take the game away; Mohinder Amarnath bowling his friendly medium pace and then shyly walking up to receive his Man of the Match award; Kapil Dev handing over the World Cup to Amarnath; a bunch of unknowns,fans from India, grinning stupidly on the Indian balcony.

That was the Golden Era of Indian Cricket. From no-hopers to world champions is a huge leap, and led by Kapil Dev, India took it almost casually. Soon they won the Asia Cup in Sharjah and the World Championship of Cricket in Australia. A world cup has eluded us since then. But each and every Indian takes pride in remembering those moments when underdogs India scripted the most remarkable upsets in International Cricket.

Filed under: 1983- History in the Making, Cricket, Sports , gorodn greenidge, india, kapil dev, prudential world cup 1983, west indies

Euro 2008 Semi Finals Lineup – Predictions

The football extravanza is winding down to the last few matches after which a champion will emerge. Touted as the “Next Big Thing” after the world cup, this edition of Euro cup has been excellent. Almost 4 weeks of excellent soccer with the predictions and calculations going haywire. The great guns failing to fire at the right time and the unfancied teams putting up spirited performances and coming through.

The semis will start of with Germany taking on Turkey in the first semis followed by Russia taking on Spain in the second.

Semi Finals Game I Germany Vs. Turkey

Germany

Germany started off as pre tournament favorites. But there were times in the early stages of the tournament when they looked out of form. But they raised their game when it mattered the most and put it across Portugal and thus become the first team to qualify for the Semis.

Route to the last Four

Germany started off convincingly with a victory over Poland. Polish born striker Lukas Podolski struck twice and Germany won 2-0. But the next match against Croatia saw them go down by 2-1, with Darijo Srna and Ivica Olic scoring for the Croatians and Podolski scoring for the Germans. Bastian Schweinsteiger’s late dismissal was an added blow. The match against Austria saw Germany win by a 1-0 through a stunning free kick by Captain Micheal Ballack and finished second in the group behind Croatia.

Germany next had to face Portugal who had topped Group A in the first quarter finals. They defeated Portugal 3-2 with Schweinsteiger, Klose and Ballack scoring for them.

Semi Final Record

This will be Germany’s 6th semi final in UEFA European Championship history. Their record is good with 4 wins out of five. Their more recent last 4 encounter was in 1996 when they defeated hosts England and then went on all the way to lift the trophy. Their only loss was on home soil in 1988 when they went down to Netherlands after a late Marco Van Basten Goal. In 1980, they advanced straight to the final after winning their group.

Germanys encounter in nutshell

• 1972 Against Belgium Won 2-1
• 1976 Against Yugoslavia Won 4-2 at extra time
• 1988 Against Netherlands lost 1-2
• 1992 Against Sweden Won 3-2
• 1996 Against England won 6-5 on penalties after being tied 1-1 at extra time

Key Moment.

Schweinsteiger returning from suspension to score the opening goal against Portugal.

Key Player

Micheal Ballack, the skipper. His brilliant strike against austria ensured that Germany made it to the last eight. His goal against portugal made sure that Germany ensured themselves a semi final berth.

Injuries and Suspensions

While Germany have no player suspensions, Torsten Frings continues to be a concern with a broken rib. Per Mertesacker has recovered from cold and Macel Jansen is available again after a shoulder injury.

Shoot Out Record

Germany have won five out of six penalty shoot outs including victories at the semi final stage of Euro 96 and world cups 1982 and 1990. Their only defeat came in the 1976 UEFA European Championship final against Czechoslovakia when Antonin Panenka’s legendary chip denied them the trophy in their first ever shoot out.

Turkey

Turkey’s story so far is nothing short of a miracle. Being drawn in Group A with favourites Portugal, co-hosts Switzerland and a cultured Czech Republic team, very few would have backed them to make it past their intitial stages leave alone making it to the quarters or the semis. But Fatih Terim’s side has proved everybody wrong and has the potential to be the proverbial dark horse and cause a huge upset.

Route to the last Four

After losing their first match to Portugal 2-0, the Turkish Team have been involved in three dramatic comebacks from behind to make it to the last four. They overcame a one goal deficit against switzerland and defeated the co hosts 2-1 with Semih Senturk and Arda Turan providing the second half strikes. If that was not enough, then they turned on the heat against the Czech Republic, winning 3-2 after being two goals behind and 15 minutes of play remaining to qualify for the quarter finals. And when the entire world thought that there would be no further drama, they again turned the match on their heads against Crotia when after falling behind in the final minutes of extra time, semih scored on the last second forcing the game into penalties which they subsequently won 3-1 and booked a place in the last 4.

Semi Final Record.

This is their first semi final in this competition, though they did lose to Brazil at the same stage of 2002 FIFA world cup competition

Key moment

Undoubtedly, semih’s equlaiser as a substitute against Switzerland followed by Arda’s winner which transformed their campaign and helped them to craft more spectacular come backs against Croatia and Czech Republic later

Key Player

Though he will not play gain in the tournament due to thigh injury, it has to be Nihat Kahveci, who assumed the captaincy when Emre Belozoglu succumbed to Injury. Even though he experienced frustrating start to his Euro 2008 campaign, his goals against the Czechs in the final group proved to be decisive in providing a passage to his team in the last 8. He worked tirelessly against Croatia till the last minute when injury struck.

Injuries and Suspensions.

Turkeys semi final against Germany could prove to be a tough one as the team is facing serious problems with players suspensions and injuries.

Four players are banned: Volkan Demirel, Emre Asik, Tuncay Sanli and Arda Turan are all facing suspensions and will be missing the semi finals. Nihat has followed Emre Gungor in returning home and the injury list also includes Servet Cetin, Tumer Metin and Emre Belozoglu.

Shoot Out Record

The penalty shoot out against Croatia was their first in a major tournament.

Semi Finals Game II Russia Vs. Spain

Russia

Coach Guus Hiddink’s squad was the youngest at the tournament. After an opening 4-1 loss to Spain, no body would have given this team a remote chance of making it to the quarters. But with a lot of hard work, the players quickly lifted themselves up. They beat Greece 1-0 before overcoming sweden 2-0 and finally beating much fancied netherlands 3-1 in extra time to make it to the last 4.

Route to the last Four

Spain routed Russia 4-1 in their group D opener 4-1 with David Villa and Fernando Torres being their chief tormentors. A meeting with reigning champions Greece ended in a 1-0 victory for Russia followed by a 2-0 victory against Sweden. Against Netherlands, Russia scored a convincing 3-1 victory at extra time when the game was tied 1-1 at regular time.

Semi Final Record.

This is Russia’s first apperance in a major semi final or even a knockout phase, as an independent nation. As part of the former USSR,they were champions in 1960, and finished up as runner ups in 1964, 1972 and 1988 and finishing fourth in 1968 having lost in the last four to Italy on a coin toss, their only semi final reverse in five matches. They were also 1966 FIFA World Cup Semi finalists losing to West Germany.

Key Moment

Arshavin’s return from his 2 match suspension provided a massive boost to the Russian cause going into the must win game with Sweden

Key Player

Arshavin again. In Russia’s last 2 games against Sweden and Netherlands, he has been sensational. He scored Russia’s second goal against Sweden and also scored the third goal against netherlands. Also he was instrumental in Torbinksi scoring the second goal that put Russia into the lead after Rud Vaan Nisterlooy had equalised for the Dutch

Injuries and Suspensions

Torbinski and Defender Denis kolodin will miss the match after being booked for the second time in their quarter final match against The Netherlands.

Shoot Out Record

Russia have never taken part in a penalty shoot out at a major tournament and neither did the erstwhile USSR.

Spain

There is no greater test of managing a knockout game in modern football than outplaying World champions Italy and then winning on penalties. Spain just managed to do that and in the process silenced many critics who believed that inspite of having talent, Spain would never make it to the final stages. With Luis Aragones saying no to an extension as a national coach, this team would definitely have a point or two to prove and shake off the underacheivers tag.

Route to the Last Four.

Spain is the only team in this tournament to make it to the semis after topping their Group. All others group toppers have been eliminated. They started off with a 4-1 victory against the Russians with David Villa scoring a hattrick. The then put it across Sweden 2-1 and made it to the quarters with a game to spare. Luis Aragones then rested ten of his starting line up players and still managed to score a 2-1 comeback victory against Greece. Then against Italy, they won 4-2 on penalties with Iker Casillas being the hero.

Semi Final Record.

The game against Russia will be only their third such test at this level in 48 years. They have a perfect record though. Having beaten Hungary in 1964, the went on to win the final against USSR. They waited another 20 years to return to the last 4 before losing to hosts France. They reached the FIFA world cup semi finals in 1950 and finished Fourth. The semi finals were played uniquely as a round robin group in Brazil.

Spains encounter in nutshell

• 1964 against Hungary won 2-1 at extra time
• 1984 against Denmark won 5-4 on penalties after being tied at 1-1 at extra time.

Key Moment

Iker Casilla’s save against De rossi and Di natale in the quarter finals against Italy that allowed them to make it to the last 4

Key Player.

David Villa who is the leading goal scorer of the tournament with 4 goals. His hattrick against Russia is the only one so far in the Tournament.

Injuries and Suspensions

Carles Puyol and Santi Cazorla are nursing foot injuries and David Silva has recovered after twisting his ankle.

Shoot out Record

Three wins from Six and ironically all their defeats came in 22 june quarter finals against Belgium, England and South korea respectively.

Filed under: Euro 2008, Euro 2008 Semi Finals Lineup - Predictions, Sports , Euro 2008, germany, russia, semi final, spain, turkey

The end of ‘Spanish Curse’

Spain beat Italy 4-2 to enter the semi final of Euro 2008. First appearance in the semi finals of a major tournament in 24 years.

When Spain took on Italy in the last of the quarter finals there were several odds against them

1.  The first meeting of the two took place in February of 1920, at the Summer Olympics in Antwerp. That match ended in a 2-0 win for Spain, and was the last time Spain beat Italy in a competitive match. Yes, Spain had never beaten Italy in 88 years in any competitive tournament other than the Summer Olympics of 1920.
2. Spain had a terrible history with June 22 – the date of their quarter final match against Italy. The Spaniards had lost three penalty shoot-outs – in the World Cup of 1986 (against Belgium), Euro ‘96 (against England) and the 2002 World Cup (against South Korea)- all on June 22.

So the underacheivers of world football had something to prove. And prove they did when they beat Italy 4-2 in a penalty shoot out thus becoming the only team to get past the quarter finals after topping their group in Euro 2008. Other toppers in their respective groups (Portugal in Group A, Croatia in Group B and The Netherlands in Group C) have already been eliminated  This was the third match of the quarter finals that went into extra time (previous ones being Croatia vs Turkey and Russia Vs. Netherlands) and the second one to be decided on penalties (previous one being Croatia Vs. Turkey Match).

We have seen Spain promise much and deliver little in the past, though, most recently at the 2006 FIFA World Cup where they started with a 4-0 win against Ukraine only to bow out to France when the going got tough in the first knockout round. So much was expected of this team.

Luis Aragonés’s team enjoyed the better of the play on a humid night in Vienna. Italy were struggling to gain a foothold, unable to fill the sizeable void left by suspensions to their usual suppliers of industry and finesse, Gennaro Gattuso and Andrea Pirlo.  Spain enjoyed most of the possessions but were unable to make any headway through the Italian defence. With the scores level 0-0 during half time, the match progressed into extra time. After 30 minutes of extra time went goalless, it was time for the dreaded penalties which had gone against Spain quite often. 

David Villa, who is the leading goal scorer of the tournament scored for Spain alongwith Santi Cazorla, Marcos Senna and Cesc Fabregas. Italy replied with goals scored by Fabio Grosso and Mauro Camoranesi.

But the hero of the day was the Spanish Goalkeeper and Captain Iker Casillas. He blocked the shots by Daniele De Rossi and Antonio Di Natale to clinch a semi final berth for Spain. The heroics of Gianluigi Buffon went in vain as Spain finally managed to exorcise the ghosts that had haunted them previously.

They now setup an interesting semi final clash against Russia. The Russians have emerged as a surprise package after making it to the semi’s at the expense of The Netherlands.

We have another keen tussle on cards as both the sides have a point to prove. But who comes out on top? Lets wait and watch………

 

Filed under: Euro 2008, Sports, The end of 'Spanish Curse' , italy, quarter final 4, spain

The Heartbreak Saga Continues

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

The Art of Coming back from the ‘Dead’

Turkey Beat Croatia 3-1 via penalty shootout

The season of upsets continues again in the quarters of Euro 2008. If the exit of much fancied Portugal was termed as an upset, then what happened in Vienna could be termed as the mother of all upsets. After playing a goaless regulation time and the better part of extra time, two last minute goals one from Croatia and then from Turkey forced the game into penalties. And then, Turkey won on penalties after Croatia missed two of their penalties and the Turkish keeper saved the Third one. Croatia was touted to be one of the contenders for the cup after toping group B.

After failing to score in regular time, the game was forced into extra time. The first half of the extra time was again goalless. The second half also was goalless for the better part of the time and the game seemed to be heading to penalties with score 0-0.  With a minute of the overtime period to play, Ivan Klasnić headed in Luka Modrić’s cross & Croatia looked to have booked their place in Wednesday’s semi-final against Germany. However, for the third game running, Turkey sensationally hit back at the death to force the first shoot-out of these finals when Semih Şentürk drove in, with the aid of a deflection, from just inside the area. They went on to win 3-1 on penalties after Rüştü Reçber saved Mladen Petrić’s kick following earlier misses from Modrić and Ivan Rakitić. They have now set up a semi final clash with Germany.

The next clash between Netherlands and Russia will be interesting. With the favourites dropping out from the tournament, will it be Netherlands Turn next????????????  It seems we have another upset coming our way. Lets keep our fingers crossed…………………..

Filed under: Euro 2008, Sports, The Art of Coming back from the 'Dead' , croatia, euro2008, second quarter final, turkey, upset

All Round German Supermacy

Edge out Portugal 3-2 in a thriller to book place in Semis

It couldnot have come at the right time. Criticized for their lacklusture show in the Euro 2008, Germany came out with one of their best performances so far to edge out Portugal 3-2 and book a place in the semis. They now face the winners of Croatia/Turkey Match.

Germany dominated the proceedings right from the beginning and took lead in the 22nd Minute when Bastian Schweinsteiger found target from a low cross by Podolski beating Ricardo. The score 1-0 in favor of Germany. More was in store later when a free kick was awarded to Germany four minutes later. The free kick taken by Schweinsteiger was headed home by Miroslav Klose and Germany lead 2-0 as early as 26th Minute of the first half.

Everyone must have felt that there would be no further twists to the tale and Germany would win with a 2-0 margin. But that was not to be.  With just five minutes left for the first half to end,  Nuno Gomes, the portugal skipper pulled one back for his team. Simão’s crossfield ball sent Ronaldo racing clear of Per Mertesacker down the inside-left channel and though Jens Lehmann blocked his shot, Gomes was first to the rebound, striking first time into the net via the foot of Christoph Metzelder, defending desperately on the line.  It was Gomes’s sixth goal on the European stage over three tournaments – a scoring span only achieved by Jürgen Klinsmann, Thierry Henry and Vladimír Šmicer before him.  Half time score 2-1 in favour of Germany and an exciting match ahead. There were many missed chances like when Ronaldo came close to scoring moments before half time but put the ball wide off the far post.

Portugal came close to scoring again in the second half when Deco netted the ball but the goal was disallowed as he was offside and again the  little midfielder flicked on a Simão corner to set up Pepe, only for the defender to nod over.

In the 61st minute however, Germany restored their 2 goal lead when Micheal Ballack headed home a Schweinsteiger free kick. The score line read 3-1 in Germany’s favor. But that was not the end of the tale. Scolari sent on Nani and Postiga as Portugal chased the game in search of two goals that would force the game into extra time. The pair combined to ensure a nervy finale when Postiga headed in from Nani’s left-wing delivery and reduced the lead with just 2 minutes left for the final whistle. The Scoreline 3-2 in favor of Germany. There were no further twists to the tale as Germany won the match and advanced to the semis where they await the winners of Croatia V/s. Turkey match.

In the absence of  regular coach Joachim Low, who was serving his one match suspension from the technical area by UEFA, it was his assisstant Hans-Dieter Flick who was in charge of the team. Joachim Low will join the team for the semi final clash

Filed under: All Round German Supermacy, Euro 2008, Sports , germany, portugal, quarter final, quarter final euro 2008