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Post by Terry on Jun 17, 2008 7:07:07 GMT -5
Piţurcă wary of improved Oranje by Alex O'Henley & Berend Scholten from Berne & Lausanne Victor Piţurcă may have guided Romania to their first-ever victory over the Netherlands when the countries last met, but he believes the Dutch will prove a much tougher prospect in their final Group C encounter in Berne. 'Extremely good form' It is eight months since Romania defeated the Oranje 1-0 en route to topping their UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying group and Piţurcă believes Marco van Basten's men have taken a significant stride forward in the intervening period. Recalling that triumph in Constanta, Romania's coach said: "We had some experienced players who knew Dutch football well and that helped us with our tactics against them in the qualifiers. However, that wasn't a good time for the Netherlands whereas right now, unfortunately for us, they are in extremely good form." Permutations endless Romania go into the game with draws against France and Italy behind them - and in pole position to take second place behind a Dutch team already assured first place. The permutations for Romania reaching the last eight appear endless but a victory would provide the easiest route although a draw or even a defeat might be enough depending on what happens in the other game between France and Italy. Piţurcă stressed that his focus would be fixed entirely on events at the Stade de Suisse, however. "I don't care about [the other] game," he said. "I don't think I'm going to be able to coach my team if I'm thinking about another game. We know the different scenarios but by the end of the game I hope we will have qualified because we deserve it." Goian missing It does not help Piţurcă to be without centre-back Dorin Goian, scorer of the winner against the Dutch last October, who misses out through suspension. Holding midfielder Mirel Rădoi, meanwhile, has been ruled out of the tournament after breaking his nose and cheekbone in last Friday's 1-1 draw with Italy. "Any loss is a great one for a small country like Romania," said Piţurcă who should give Sorin Ghionea his first start of the finals in place of FC Steaua Bucureşti team-mate Goian. Van Basten pledge The Netherlands' team selection is a matter of debate amid considerable speculation that Van Basten will rest some key players. Yet although the Oranje are already through to the quarter-finals, having won their first two games in handsome fashion over Italy and France, Van Basten insists that whoever takes the field at the Stade de Suisse will give their all to secure a third straight victory. "We are taking the game very seriously and will play the best available team against Romania," said Van Basten who has a fully-fit Mario Melchiot and Klaas Jan Huntelaar at his disposal after recovering from respective pelvic and calf injuries. 'Professional group' Speaking at his pre-match press conference in Lausanne, Van Basten talked up the merits of his whole squad. "I am not saying anything about the starting lineup," he said. "I will tell the players first tomorrow and only after that will I make it public. We have a very professional group of 23 players, so we go into the game with the same concentration and desire as we always do." Midfielder Nigel de Jong and defender André Ooijer are prime candidates to be given the evening off with both players one booking away from a suspension while the likes of Wilfred Bouma, John Heitinga, Melchiot, Demy de Zeeuw, and Ibrahim Afellay are being mooted as possible starters. en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300702/report=pr.htmlHead to Head NED - ROU 11 Played 11 7 Won 1 1 Lost 7 3 Drawn 3 22 Goals For 2 2 Goals Conceded 22 Match officials Referee Massimo Busacca (SUI) Assistant referee 1 Matthias Arnet (SUI) Assistant referee 2 Stéphane Cuhat (SUI) Fourth official Craig Thomson (SCO) Reserve assistant referee Stefan Wittberg (SWE) UEFA Referee observer Jozef Marko (SVK)
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Post by Terry on Jun 17, 2008 7:10:18 GMT -5
Judgement day awaits France and Italy by Matthew Spiro from Zurich
There may be little love lost between France and Italy but their two coaches were in agreement over one matter ahead of the eagerly anticipated Group C showdown in Zurich: for both Les Bleus and their transalpine rivals the final has come early at UEFA EURO 2008™.
Dramatic evening "This is the kind of game every player dreams of being involved in," France coach Raymond Domenech enthused, while his Italian counterpart Roberto Donadoni said: "We know what's at stake and we're ready to put our hearts and souls into it. For us, this is already a final." Few could have predicted that the two 2006 FIFA World Cup finalists would be locking horns on Tuesday knowing that even a victory may not prove enough to reach the quarter-finals. With one point each after two matches, Romania could render their efforts fruitless by beating the Netherlands in Berne to hold on to second spot. It promises to be a dramatic evening, although Domenech is urging his men to focus only on events at the Letzigrund Stadion. "We have to forget the other game completely," he stressed. "We still have a tiny chance but it will only happen if we win our game."
'Find a balance' Like the world champions, who lost 3-0 to the Dutch in their opening game, France suffered their heaviest defeat in UEFA European Championship history in losing 4-1 against the Netherlands – and Domenech admits improvements are needed. "We've been trying to get the Dutch game out our heads for the last three days," the 56-year-old said. "Despite the result, there were positives to take from the performance, notably concerning the number of chances we created. But we need to find a balance. Against Romania we made a lot of effort to defend, whereas against the Netherlands we made a lot of effort to attack. Against Italy we'll need to do a lot of defending and attacking."
Vieira absent Domenech will again be without Patrick Vieira due to a thigh injury and, though he remained coy on the subject of team selection, Eric Abidal, Lassana Diarra and Karim Benzema are being tipped to feature after missing out last time. Italy coach Roberto Donadoni was also keeping his cards close to his chest, saying: "I already have a good idea of my lineup, but this time I won't reveal anything beforehand." The former AC Milan midfielder is not expected to repeat the five changes he made for the 1-1 draw with Romania, although Antonio Cassano may start in place of Alessandro Del Piero, while Massimo Ambrosini and Gennaro Gattuso are pressing for recalls.
Keen rivalry Ever since David Trezeguet's extra-time winner in the UEFA EURO 2000™ final, France-Italy games have been keenly contested. The Azzurri gained revenge for the Rotterdam defeat by triumphing in Berlin two years ago, yet Domenech's side reclaimed the upper hand with a victory in Paris in qualifying. Donadoni suggested the rivalry was not a significant factor, however, saying: "It's just like any other game. It's an important game, but playing France is no different to playing the Netherlands or Romania. Both sides will be extremely motivated and will try to win. It should be exciting. I can't wait for the game to start."
Head to Head
FRA - ITA 35 Played 35 8 Won 17 17 Lost 8 10 Drawn 10 48 Goals For 77 77 Goals Conceded 48
Match officials Referee Ľuboš Michĕl (SVK) Assistant referee 1 Roman Slyško (SVK) Assistant referee 2 Martin Balko (SVK) Fourth official Viktor Kassai (HUN) Reserve assistant referee Henrik Andrén (SWE) UEFA Referee observer David R. Elleray (ENG)
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Post by Terry on Jun 18, 2008 7:10:25 GMT -5
Dutch bandwagon rolls over Romania by Jim Wirth from Stade de Suisse Second-half goals from Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Robin van Persie ended Romania's hopes of a quarter-final place in Berne as the Netherlands rounded off an impressive Group C campaign with a third successive victory. Netherlands on top Romania knew three points would ensure they joined their opponents in the last eight, but Victor Piţurcă's side were always on the back foot and Huntelaar, having passed up one presentable opening in the first half, clinically guided in Ibrahim Afellay's teasing right-wing cross nine minutes into the second. The win was sealed for a largely second-string Oranje team with three minutes left as Van Persie drove in his second goal in as many games. New-look lineup With progress already assured following victories against Italy and France, Marco van Basten named a much-changed lineup with only Khalid Boulahrouz and Orlando Engelaar retaining their places. That was little relief for Romania, however, given that the reshuffle brought Arjen Robben, Van Persie and Huntelaar into the XI, and the Netherlands started the match showing their usual command of possession, Romania having to hector and hassle for every touch. Nonetheless, the best the Dutch had to offer in the early exchanges was an Engelaar shot from distance which Cristian Chivu bravely charged down. If the key to tackling Van Basten's side was to deny them space, it seemed Romania had found it with everyone chipping in to cut the Oranje supply lines. Near misses The Netherlands were not held entirely in check, as Van Persie headed wide from an Engelaar cross. Romania then threatened for the first time, Adrian Mutu collecting a throw-in and twisting and turning to work space only to pull his shot across the face of goal. Next, Boulahrouz got behind the Tricolorii back line on the right, cutting the ball back for Huntelaar, but the AFC Ajax striker lifted his effort over. Robben was soon guilty of a more glaring miss, running on to a Huntelaar flick only to nudge his attempt wide of Bogdan Lobonţ's right-hand post. Paul Codrea may have been equally disappointed to have missed the target after Răzvan Raţ's teasing pass from the left wrong-footed the Dutch defence as half-time approached. Huntelaar strike The Group C winners took up where they had left off after the interval and might have broken through within four minutes of the restart when a long ball found Van Persie with only Gabriel Tamaş for company. But while the Arsenal FC attacker spun his marker, Lobonţ turned his low shot round the post brilliantly. The goalkeeper had no chance five minutes later, however, Afellay's ball from the right finding its way through a crowded penalty area for Huntelaar to guide in expertly. Late clincher With news filtering through that Italy had taken a 2-0 lead against France, Romania's situation now looked desperate. Still unable to master possession, they continually found themselves on the defensive but while flying interceptions and timely challenges kept Piţurcă's men in contention, it was goals that were needed. Mutu set up substitute Florentin Petre for an overhead kick that looped over but for all their efforts, Romania were not to conjure up a second Miracle of Berne at the stadium that hosted West Germany's 1954 FIFA World Cup triumph, Van Persie underlining the class divide with the fiercely-struck second goal. The Netherlands will play either Sweden or Russia in the last eight in Basel on Saturday, while Romania finish in third position. en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300702/report=rp.htmlMatchCenter
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Post by Terry on Jun 18, 2008 7:14:02 GMT -5
France sunk as Italy grab lifeline by Matthew Spiro from Letzigrund Stadion World champions Italy qualified for the UEFA EURO 2008™ quarter-finals in impressive fashion on Tuesday as they defeated France 2-0 at the Letzigrund Stadion and Romania lost by the same scoreline to the Netherlands. Pirlo penalty Romania had begun the evening second in Group C and would have progressed regardless of events in Zurich had they beaten the already-qualified Dutch. But their reverse opened the door to the Azzurri who clinically grabbed the opportunity, inflicting another painful defeat on France and condemning the FIFA World Cup finalists to last place in the section. The game's turning point arrived in the 24th minute when, after fouling Luca Toni, Eric Abidal was sent off and Andrea Pirlo converted the resulting penalty. Daniele De Rossi's second-half strike added gloss to a wonderful evening for Italy, dampened only by the yellow cards for Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso which mean they will miss the quarter-final against Spain on 22 June in Vienna. Ribéry injury France almost handed Italy an ideal start when Toni pounced on Abidal's slip, only to shoot narrowly wide. Having started slowly in each of their first two matches, Les Bleus were keen to seize an early grip and Franck Ribéry twice fired efforts wide before, to the dismay of the France fans, the winger injured his left leg in the tenth minute and was carried off. Samir Nasri was sent on, yet France's focus appeared to waver and Claude Makelele immediately needed to clear a Christian Panucci header off the line. Red card Italy looked menacing every time they broke and after Simone Perrotta had narrowly failed to collect Pirlo's pass, France finally cracked. Abidal fouled Toni as he bore down on goal, prompting the referee to point to the spot and brandish a red card. Pirlo made no mistake, expertly dispatching the ball into the top left-hand corner. The double blow left France reeling and despite defender Jean-Alain Boumsong replacing the unfortunate Nasri, the two-time champions were in disarray. Toni might have scored three in as many minutes before the half-hour, but after skilfully back-heeling Antonio Cassano's cross fractionally past the post, the FC Bayern München forward twice missed the target with only Grégory Coupet to beat. Gross free-kick Thierry Henry had a chance to raise French spirits in the 34th minute but after racing on to Jérémy Toulalan's slick pass, the FC Barcelona forward directed a cross-shot past the post. With the strikers struggling to find their range, Fabio Grosso looked to show them the way just before half-time, curling a brilliant free-kick towards the bottom corner only for his Olympique Lyonnais team-mate Coupet to push it on to the post. Almighty roar Despite playing with ten men, France began the second period in the ascendancy, with Karim Benzema volleying over before Henry had two shots comfortably saved by Gianluigi Buffon. News that the Netherlands had opened the scoring against Romania prompted an almighty roar from the Azzurri faithful and the celebrating continued when De Rossi scored on 62 minutes. The AS Roma midfielder's 30-metre free-kick took a cruel deflection off Henry, wrong-footing Coupet and effectively ending the French challenge. Although Benzema subsequently saw his swerving shot brilliantly tipped wide by Buffon in the 74th minute, there was no way back for France, who finished with just one point after losing back-to-back matches for the first time in 15 years. en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300703/report=rp.htmlMatchCenter
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Post by Terry on Jun 18, 2008 7:16:44 GMT -5
Rehhagel out to restore Greek pride by Graham Wood from Salzburg Greece coach Otto Rehhagel wants his players to deliver a performance "worthy of the team" and finish UEFA EURO 2008™ on a high against Spain in their final Group D match in Salzburg. No holding back With their reign as European champions over following defeats by Sweden and Russia, Greece are aiming to restore pride when they meet Luis Aragonés's section winners at the Stadion Salzburg Wals-Siezenheim. And Rehhagel is keen to see his team conclude their involvement in the competition on a positive note. "It's my intention, and I've told my team the same, to play at 100 per cent, not to hold back," said the 69-year-old German. "We must finish the tournament in a way that is worthy of our team. The new faces who will come into the lineup will have to show they deserve to play for the national team." Differing fortunes While Spain are already through to the quarter-finals after collecting six points from wins over Russia and Sweden, Greece lie fourth after failing to take a point or register a goal so far. Rehhagel, who confirmed he would be making changes to his team, admitted the Spanish had impressed him. "I think the Spain team is exceptional," he said. "They have proved their quality in the last two matches and we will have to be at our best tomorrow, even if their coach makes changes. It's important for us to play along the same lines as we did against Russia." With Fanis Gekas out after fracturing his cheekbone against Russia, Rehhagel confirmed that striker Dimitris Salpingidis would start up front, while full-backs Loukas Vintra and Nikos Spiropoulos could replace Giourkas Seitaridis and Vassilis Torosidis. Spanish changes Spain have enjoyed themselves thus far, building on their opening 4-1 win over Russia with a last-gasp 2-1 victory against Sweden – performances which have made them one of the tournament favourites. Aragonés is expected to make up to ten changes to his lineup, with FC Barcelona midfielder Andrés Iniesta likely to be the only player to keep his place. "The changes are both to rest players and to give a chance to others to show why there are in the national squad," explained the coach. "We already have some problems with fatigue with [Carles] Puyol for example, so the most important thing is to rest players. Italy next "As coach I must have the intelligence to think, 'We are already in the next stage and I should also give players a chance'," he added. Especially with world champions Italy awaiting them in the last eight in Vienna on Sunday. That said, the 69-year-old Aragonés maintained that his players would be fully motivated to continue their sparkling form. "I expect my players to give a great performance against Greece, to show why they are in the squad and to win." en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300704/report=pr.htmlMatch officials Referee Howard Webb (ENG) Assistant referee 1 Darren Cann (ENG) Assistant referee 2 Michael Mullarkey (ENG) Fourth official Stéphane Lannoy (FRA) Reserve assistant referee Markus Mayr (AUT) UEFA Referee observer Sergey Zuev (RUS)
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Post by Terry on Jun 18, 2008 7:19:25 GMT -5
Hiddink on the attack for Sweden clash by Paul Bryan from Innsbruck Guus Hiddink is adopting a positive approach as he prepares his Russia side for their do-or-die UEFA EURO 2008™ Group D game against Sweden in Innsbruck, iterating: "There's no other way to play than by trying to win from the first minute." Three points required The sides are level on three points in the section having each lost to Spain and defeated holders Greece although Sweden have a superior goal difference, meaning Hiddink's side will be eliminated if the game at the Stadion Tivoli Neu ends in anything but victory for them. With a quarter-final against his native Netherlands the reward, the coach is keen to accentuate the positives, saying: "We're happy to have the opportunity to play this decisive game, especially when you see that other teams have gone home already. I'd have preferred the option to go for a draw but it's OK." Arshavin available Andrei Arshavin is available for the first time in these finals after serving a two-match ban yet there are no guarantees the FC Zenit St. Petersburg playmaker will start as Hiddink ponders possible changes to a team he believes did a "decent job" in defeating Greece 1-0 on Saturday. "There's a lack of rhythm to Arshavin's game because he hasn't played recently. He's not match-fit so I don't know if he'll start," said the coach. Yuri Zhirkov and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov are also likely to be available, despite bruised knees picked up against the deposed holders and Dmitri Torbinski is recovering from fatigue. 'Easy to read' The 61-year-old Hiddink has never before encountered Swedish opposition in his long coaching career, though with Russia having failed to beat the Scandinavian side in five attempts as an independent nation, he is under no illusions as to the task ahead. "Despite a population of eight or nine million, Sweden always manage to be in the big tournaments. They're easy to read; they're very clear in the way they play and have always had good results playing like this. We like to play very attacking football when possible but the dirty work – the defensive work-rate – also needs to be done. [Sweden] aren't easily upset nor do they panic. It's a very controlled and concentrated squad." Ibrahimović in doubt Sweden have progressed to the knockout stage at their last three major tournaments, although coach Lars Lagerbäck found himself fielding more questions about the state of Zlatan Ibrahimović's knee – which forced his half-time substitution in Saturday's 2-1 loss to Spain – than on how his team would go about gaining the point they need to advance. "We're not sure about Ibrahimović. We have an individual training plan for him," said Lagerbäck, already without Christian Wilhelmsson due to a hamstring problem while Niclas Alexandersson is struggling with a calf strain. 'Nothing dramatic' "Russia have a strong team offensively and we have to be very focused on that," the Sweden coach added. "All their players are good; they're very strong on the left side in particular. We always prepare in a similar way. There's nothing dramatic, it's just about being ready for all the eventualities that may arise. What we need to improve on is keeping the ball in the final third. It's very difficult to say who are the favourites as it's such a decisive game. It starts at 50-50 I think." en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300705/report=pr.htmlMatch officials Referee Frank De Bleeckere (BEL) Assistant referee 1 Peter Hermans (BEL) Assistant referee 2 Alex Verstraeten (BEL) Fourth official Kristinn Jakobsson (ISL) Reserve assistant referee Egon Bereuter (AUT) UEFA Referee observer Jaap Uilenberg (NED)
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Post by Terry on Jun 18, 2008 23:05:39 GMT -5
Güiza goal completes Greek misery by John Atkin from Stadion Salzburg Wals-Siezenheim First international goals for Rubén de la Red and Daniel Güiza earned a second-string Spain team a 2-1 comeback victory as Greece's hopes of ending their UEFA European Championship title defence on a high were spoiled at the last. Comeback RCD Mallorca's Güiza rose unmarked with two minutes remaining to head in Sergio García's cross and complete an impressive second-half revival by Spain, who had fallen behind to Angelos Charisteas's header just before the break. However, after a tepid first half, Spain began the second with renewed vigour – Xabi Alonso hitting the post before Real Madrid CF's De la Red made it 1-1 on 61 minutes, rifling in after Güiza had nodded the ball into his path. The same pair almost added gloss to this third successive win for Spain, while Charisteas grazed the outside of the post at the other end. Nikopolidis nerves With the fate of the two sides bookending Group D already decided, and given the belated arrival of the Austrian summer, an end-of-term feel prevailed early on in Salzburg. For Greece's captain for the day, goalkeeper Antonis Nikopolidis, it was exactly that, with the 37-year-old having announced his international retirement in the wake of his error against Russia that sealed the holders' elimination. But while he may have been forgiven a few pre-match nerves at the Stadion Salzburg Wals-Siezenheim, these were quickly eased. The cheers of the Greece supporters behind his goal had barely died down when Nikopolidis was presented with a comfortable save, collecting Güiza's dinked cross after the forward failed to realise how much time Andrés Iniesta's expertly disguised pass had given him. Alonso special It was a false dawn in terms of attacking spectacle. Stung by the premature end to their campaign, Greece were circumspect at first despite the wide threat of recalled pair Giorgos Karagounis and Dimitris Salpingidis. Spain had the better of the possession, even if García and Cesc Fàbregas in particular did not make the most of it. Alonso offered a more serious threat midway through the opening period when he almost caused Nikopolidis embarrassment after spotting that he had been drawn off his goalline. The Liverpool FC midfielder nearly added another to his collection of goals from his own half, but with Nikopolidis scrambling, his attempt dropped just the wrong side of the upright. Charisteas strike If Spain were not exactly peppering Nikopolidis's goal, however, it was still more than Greece were mustering. Yet Otto Rehhagel's UEFA EURO 2004™ winners in Portugal were hardly renowned for their attacking play either – instead neutralising opponents and making their few chances pay, often from dead-ball situations. They found exactly that route to goal three minutes before half-time, with Karagounis's free-kick finding Charisteas all alone and the No9 burying his header into the top-left corner. Turnaround Goaded into action, Luis Aragonés's team were almost level soon after half-time as space opened up for Alonso to rifle an unstoppable effort that Nikopolidis was grateful to see come back off his post. It was a brief let-off for the Blue and Whites, and just after the hour De la Red restored parity with a fulsome finish. Both sides had opportunities to add to the scoring but the stage was set for Güiza, who ensured Spain would go into Sunday's quarter-final against Italy in Vienna on the back of a 100 per cent record in Group D. For Greece, it is home time. en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300704/report=rp.htmlMatchCenter
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Post by Terry on Jun 18, 2008 23:07:56 GMT -5
Arshavin stars as Russia oust Sweden by Paul Bryan from Stadion Tivoli Neu Guus Hiddink's gamble of taking the previously suspended Andrei Arshavin to UEFA EURO 2008™ paid off in spectacular fashion with the forward putting in a fine performance as Russia downed Sweden 2-0 to set up a Basel quarter-final against the Netherlands on Saturday. Back in style The FC Zenit St. Petersburg player was a constant menace to a Sweden side requiring only a draw to stay above their opponents on goal difference, scoring Russia's second goal and striking the post in the second half. If Arshavin showed what Russia had been missing in their first two games, his team-mates displayed class of their own when a fine move resulted in Roman Pavlyuchenko's breakthrough strike after 24 minutes in Innsbruck. Guessing game over With much of the talk in the build-up to the Group D decider centring around Arshavin and Zlatan Ibrahimović, the news that both were starting came as something of a surprise. Hiddink had hinted that Arshavin was not match-fit while the condition of Ibrahimović's knee meant the target man was a doubt until the last minute. The Russia coach was at least true to his promise that his side would chase victory from the off. Arshavin's pass into the middle of the Sweden area saw Igor Semshov and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov collide with the goal at their mercy, although Lars Lagerbäck's men threatened in return soon after. Anders Svensson's cross found Ibrahimović, only for the No10's downward header to be collected by Igor Akinfeev with Henrik Larsson lurking. Fine opener Arshavin and Bilyaletdinov missed chances as the quarter-hour approached before the former sent in a cross-shot that goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson tipped over. From Konstantin Zyryanov's corner, Yuri Zhirkov's thunderous shot zipped just wide. Then Russia's moment arrived. Arshavin released Zyryanov down the right and the midfielder in turn found Aleksandr Anyukov's run inside the box. The right-back rolled a pass to Pavlyuchenko and the tall striker calmly finished for his second goal of the finals. Sweden almost levelled moments later but Larsson's clever header from a Mikael Nilsson cross bounced back off the bar. At the other end, Pavlyuchenko's next effort struck an upright after another slick interchange involving Arshavin and Bilyaletdinov. Lead doubled Five minutes after the break and Russia had their second goal. Makeshift left-back Zhirkov found himself racing away from the Sweden defence before he crossed for the returning hero – on the run, Arshavin had no problem directing the ball past Isaksson's right hand. Sweden were visibly rocked and although their players began to react in the final third of the pitch, the best they could manage was an Olof Mellberg header that flew harmlessly over Akinfeev's crossbar. It was turning into the Andrei Arshavin show and after the little maestro was booked for upending substitute Kim Källström, he was almost through on goal again but was finally outmuscled by Fredrik Stoor. Spurned chances With the contest entering its closing stages, Russia should have enhanced their advantage as their enterprising attacking play produced several late chances. Zyryanov went close when his deflected attempt came back off the post before Pavlyuchenko spurned two great opportunities – first heading straight into the grateful hands of Isaksson, then mis-hitting a shot with only the goalkeeper to beat. No matter: the 2-0 scoreline was enough for them to overhaul Sweden by three points and finish second behind Spain. en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300705/report=rp.htmlMatchCenter
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Post by Terry on Jun 18, 2008 23:12:20 GMT -5
Scolari wary of Germany danger by Simon Hart from Basel Luiz Felipe Scolari put his hand into his pocket, pulled out a piece of paper and started reading to the packed room of journalists: "No17 Germany – 1m98, No13 – 1m88, Klose – 1m82, No21 – 195. I have to worry about that – and that my players are 115cm, 120cm." It was a moment of comedy yet it illustrated one of the Portugal's principal concerns about their UEFA EURO 2008™ quarter-final opponents Germany. Aerial threat For all Portugal's powers of self-expression, Scolari said he was anxious about their ability to handle Germany's aerial threat. "I have to worry about finding some way of dealing with their free-kicks," said the Brazilian, whose players – taking the probable starting XIs – concede on average seven centimetres to their opponents. Yet Scolari also recognised the Germans' ability on the floor, starting with a player he will soon be working with at Chelsea FC. "He is a great player, with a lot of technical quality. He is one of the great players in this tournament," he said of Germany captain Michael Ballack, scorer of the goal against Austria that earned a quarter-final place on Monday. Löw suspended Ballack was suspended when Scolari oversaw Germany's 2-0 defeat by Brazil in the 2002 FIFA World Cup final and the Mannschaft enter this contest with another absentee on their minds in coach Joachim Löw, who will watch from the stands after his dismissal during the Austria game. Löw's assistant Hans-Dieter Flick and goalkeeping coach Andreas Köpke will relay his plans, and team manager Oliver Bierhoff admitted: "Coaches act on instinct as the game progresses and this won't be possible, so it is important for him to be able to set things up properly before the match." That will include instructions on handling Cristiano Ronaldo. "The best player in the world" is how Bierhoff described him before adding: "You can never stop him for 90 minutes but it is very important that the defence and midfield stay very close together when he has the ball." Scolari's own comments underlined Ronaldo's significance to his team. "He has a strong will to win that I've not seen in anyone else and this rubs off on others." Fitness doubts Germany have Bastian Schweinsteiger back after suspension, though it remains to be seen whether he will replace Clemens Fritz on the right or fill the left-wing slot with Lukas Podolski, calf problem permitting, moving up front alongside Miroslav Klose. Another fitness doubt is Torsten Frings, who broke a rib against Austria. Bierhoff said the midfielder was "very positive" and though Thomas Hitzlsperger could deputise, Germany fans will not need reminding how Frings was missed in their World Cup semi-final defeat by Italy two summers ago. For his part, Scolari will select "the same team" that beat Turkey and the Czech Republic. Portugal's coach insisted the decision to rest eight players from Sunday's 2-0 loss to Switzerland had not harmed their momentum and was optimistic about securing a third successive EURO semi-final. "Let's see if we can improve our finishing – if we do, we have a good chance." Yet he will not need telling, as Bierhoff noted, that "Germany often become stronger when facing good teams". en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=301699/report=pr.htmlHead to Head POR - GER 15 Played 15 3 Won 7 7 Lost 3 5 Drawn 5 14 Goals For 21 21 Goals Conceded 14 Match officials Referee Peter Fröjdfeldt (SWE) Assistant referee 1 Stefan Wittberg (SWE) Assistant referee 2 Henrik Andrén (SWE) Fourth official Kyros Vassaras (GRE) Reserve assistant referee Dimitris Bozatzidis (GRE) UEFA Referee observer Marc Batta (FRA)
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Post by Terry on Jun 20, 2008 7:03:04 GMT -5
Portugal ousted by German power show by Simon Hart from St. Jakob-Park Germany progressed to the semi-finals of the UEFA European Championship for the first time since 1996 as goals from Bastian Schweinsteiger, Miroslav Klose and Michael Ballack secured a 3-2 victory over Portugal in Basel. Heads, you win The Mannschaft ended up lifting the Henri Delaunay trophy that year and the way they raised their game to meet the challenge of a Portugal side that refused to lie down – halving a two-goal deficit twice through first Nuno Gomes and then, in the dying minutes, Hélder Postiga – augurs well for Joachim Löw's team. By contrast, it was a night when the worst fears of Portugal's Chelsea FC-bound coach Luiz Felipe Scolari were realised, his pre-match nightmares about Germany's aerial superiority materialising in the form of headed goals by Klose and Ballack. Portugal were semi-finalists in 2000 and runners-up in 2004 and Scolari had hoped to take that final step at UEFA EURO 2008™ but his farewell party fell flat at St. Jakob-Park, where Portugal were overpowered by opponents who shrugged aside impressively their occasional first-stage torpor. Debt paid With Simão probing down the right, Scolari's men appeared to be finding their stride as they offered the first threat on goal when Bosingwa crossed and João Moutinho, free of his marker but seemingly caught in two minds, steered the ball over at the near post with his knee. Yet in the 22nd minute they fell behind. It was a wonderfully worked goal too, swift passing between Philipp Lahm, Ballack and Lukas Podolski advancing the ball down the left, with Podolski bursting clear to drive in a low cross which Schweinsteiger converted with a sliding finish. Schweinsteiger's coach Löw had told the midfielder he had a "debt" to his team-mates after his red card against Croatia and here, in his first start of the finals, he resembled a man on a mission. Scoring feat Scorer of two goals against Portugal at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, Schweinsteiger was the architect of their second here too, drifting a free-kick into the Portugal box which Klose, ghosting clear of the red shirts, headed past Ricardo. Raul Meireles replaced the injured Moutinho and Portugal went in search of a lifeline. It came via captain Nuno Gomes five minutes before the break. 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. Tense finish Ronaldo was a whisker away from an equaliser moments before half-time, flashing the ball past Lehmann yet just wide of the far post. Deco did find the net shortly after the interval but was in an offside position and the little midfielder then flicked on a Simão corner to set up Pepe, only for the defender to nod over. Ballack showed him how it should be done in the 61st minute when – to the displeasure of his future manager – he shrugged off Chelsea FC team-mate Paulo Ferreira and beat Ricardo to another Schweinsteiger free-kick to head home. Scolari sent on Nani and Postiga as Portugal chased the game and the pair combined to ensure a nervy finale when Postiga headed in from Nani's left-wing delivery but the glimmer of hope was soon extinguished. en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=301699/report=rp.htmlMatchCenter
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Post by Terry on Jun 20, 2008 7:06:06 GMT -5
Bilić wary of the Turkey factor by Chris Burke from Vienna "There is no 'but'," says Slaven Bilić, adamant that his Croatia team will confound doubters and maintain their excellent forward momentum in Friday's UEFA EURO 2008™ quarter-final showdown with Turkey. Positive pressure Consecutive wins over Austria, Germany and Poland not only gave the Croatians first place in Group B, they also sparked theories that Bilić and his charges might become victims of their own success. Traditionally more comfortable when cast as underdogs, Croatia head into the match at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion with many expecting them to prevail. "We're not complacent and we won't stop," said Bilić. "It's our intention to go as far as possible. Of course we're under pressure and the pressure's rising, but it's a positive pressure. We welcome it. It can only motivate us more and make us play better." Turkish comebacks The 39-year-old was a player when the sides first met at EURO '96™, in a game that marked both countries' tournament debut. Croatia emerged 1-0 winners thanks to a late Goran Vlaović strike, but it is Turkey who have been registering the last-gasp goals recently. Remarkable comeback victories over Switzerland and the Czech Republic booked their passage to the knockout phase from Group A, and Bilić is wary of their never-say-die spirit. "That shows how strong they are," he said. "We must be fully concentrated until the final whistle. They have good morale and they don't give up. It's praiseworthy but it also shows their weakness. Nobody wants to trail in a match and to have to come back." Injury problems The Croatians are yet to go behind in this tournament and are likely to field the same lineup that overcame Germany 2-1, with Ivan Rakitić and Darijo Srna both back in training again after picking up slight knocks. Croatia cannot boast a totally clean bill of health as fringe players Igor Budan and Dario Knežević will miss the rest of the competition with knee injuries, although compared with Turkey they are positively fighting fit. Emre Güngör (calf), Servet Çetin (hip and knee), Emre Belözoğlu and Tümer Metin (both groin) are all unavailable to Fatih Terim for fitness reasons, while goalkeeper Volkan Demirel and defensive midfielder Mehmet Aurélio are suspended. On the plus side, Emre Aşık (head) and Gökhan Zan (knee) appear to have recovered and will pair up in central defence. 'No excuses' "We have no excuses," said Terim, who was also coach when Turkey succumbed to Bilić and co in 1996. "It doesn't matter who plays at the back, in midfield or up front. What's important is how the players perform, not their names. All our injured players are important to us, but their replacements can do a good job." The 54-year-old nonetheless expressed his support for stand-in goalkeeper Rüştü Reçber: "We believe in him. He has lots of big tournament experience." Unsurprisingly enough, however, the priority for Terim will be to avoid the need for yet another stunning comeback. "For once, we hope we can start the game well, but we're ready for 90 minutes, 120 minutes or penalties and we've lost none of our bravery." en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=301700/report=pr.htmlMatch officials Referee Roberto Rosetti (ITA) Assistant referee 1 Alessandro Griselli (ITA) Assistant referee 2 Paolo Calcagno (ITA) Fourth official Manuel Mejuto González (ESP) Reserve assistant referee Juan Carlos Yuste Jiménez (ESP) UEFA Referee observer Jozef Marko (SVK)
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Post by Terry on Jun 21, 2008 10:18:06 GMT -5
Turkey triumph in Vienna shoot-out by Michael Harrold from Ernst-Happel-Stadion Turkey made it through to their first UEFA European Championship semi-final at Croatia's expense after a thrilling match in Vienna was decided on penalties after the two sides had swapped goals in the final moments of extra time. Sensational comeback When Ivan Klasnić headed in Luka Modrić's cross with a minute of the overtime period to play, 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. Turkey coach Fatih Terim, though, will struggle to get a team together to play Germany with Emre Aşık, Tuncay Şanlı and Arda Turan all suspended along with Volkan Demirel after being booked here. Nervy start Terim, without the banned Volkan Demirel and Mehmet Aurélio and with injuries also taking their toll, made four changes from the side that defeated the Czech Republic dramatically to reach the quarter-finals. The 35-year-old Rüştü, who had played against Croatia coach Slaven Bilić at EURO '96™, started in goal, while Bilić reverted to the team that had beaten Germany en route to topping Group B. With so much at stake, both sets of players made nervy starts. On five minutes Turkey right-back Sabri Sarıoğlu's misplaced pass allowed Rakitić to dart to the byline and he pulled the ball back for Darijo Srna whose shot was blocked by Hakan Balta. It was a portent of things to come as Croatia probed with success down both flanks with Terim's reshuffled back line struggling to cope with their slick passing. Olić denied For Turkey, Hamit Altıntop flashed an early effort wide and Robert Kovač bravely blocked his free-kick, but Bilić's men were soon in the ascendancy and should have gone ahead on 18 minutes. Croatia fans had descended on Vienna en masse during a baking hot day and they roared as one when Modrić raced clear on the right. His low centre singled out Ivica Olić who crashed a shot off the crossbar before Niko Kranjčar headed the rebound over. Just as against Austria, however, Croatia lost their way when it looked like they were ready to take a stranglehold on proceedings. Turkey began to enjoy more of the possession and though chances were few, Mehmet Topal drew a gasp from the crowd with a 30-metre drive that whistled just wide. Rüştü saves The traffic was soon flowing back towards Rüştü, with Croatia almost given a goal four minutes after the restart. Gökhan Zan's weak header let Olić in and the veteran goalkeeper had to race off his line to get a finger to the striker's headed attempt. Rüştü saved from Kranjčar moments later and then, on 70 minutes, Rakitić fired over after a neat one-two with Olić had given him a clear sight of goal inside the box. Knowing their side's propensity for late goals Turkey supporters grew in confidence as extra time loomed. But as the clocked ticked down Croatia again came close, Rüştü brilliantly tipping away Srna's curling free-kick on 83 minutes, then blocking from Olić. Incredible climax Having taken the match to added time, Turkey started to show more adventure. Stipe Pletikosa did well to parry after Emre Aşık had skipped through the Croatia defence and the goalkeeper was then grateful to see Tuncay's drive flash wide on 102 minutes. In an incredible climax, Klasnić would head Croatia in front in the final minute – Modrić capitalising on an error by Rüştü to provide the assist – only for Semih to hit back with the last kick of the game. His deflected strike flew past Pletikosa, leaving it to a shoot-out to finally tilt the balance in Turkey's favour. en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=301700/report=rp.htmlMatchCenter
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Post by Terry on Jun 21, 2008 10:20:56 GMT -5
Hiddink aims to beat Dutch at own game by Paul Saffer from Basel "I want to be the traitor of the year in Holland," joked Guus Hiddink. For this evening in Basel, Russia's Dutch coach will attempt to beat the Netherlands in the UEFA EURO 2008™ quarter-finals. Contrasting form The Netherlands sailed through the group stage with three wins and nine goals in Berne, while Russia, having lost their opener 4-1 to Spain, needed a last-day 2-0 defeat of Sweden to reach the last eight. That game was only on Wednesday, while the Oranje beat Romania by the same score the night before – when they were able to rest almost all their regular starters, having already clinched Group C. Despite laughing about knocking out the land of his birth, however, the man who led the Netherlands to the 1998 FIFA World Cup semi-finals knows Marco van Basten's squad have the ability to advance themselves against opponents playing in their first major knockout phase since the end of the Soviet Union. Attacking promise "The Netherlands are far ahead in experience, in how to play a tournament," Hiddink said, although the 61-year-old also emphasised that his attacking style would not change. "I am scared as well, that's why I have to attack – if you drop back, you get even more scared. In recent months and weeks in Russia, we have tried to install the sort of play people love to watch. For Holland it is a brand, for Russia we had to impose it but we are on our way." Full rosters Hiddink has a full-strength team to pick from in the first competitive game between the Netherlands and an independent Russia, including forward Andrei Arshavin who returned from a two-match ban with a goal against Sweden. The talisman, though, is a booking away from another suspension. The Netherlands also have come through their injury problems, with Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben starting against Romania and showing no ill-effects, giving the hero of the 1988 final victory over the USSR a wealth of options. Defender Khalid Boulahrouz has made himself available despite the death of his prematurely-born baby daughter. The Oranje will wear black armbands. Improving Russia Reflecting on his side's campaign, Van Basten said: "We are satisfied up to now. But it is only the beginning and we have to play a few more games hopefully. We saw Russia play very well against Sweden but we also saw the matches against Greece and Spain. So it is our task to play like the Spain team did. [Russia] had problems with [Fernando] Torres and [David] Villa. But then they changed a few players and became a better team, so that is what we are expecting." Positive approaches The former striker, who was encouraged to go into coaching by Hiddink when the latter was in charge of the Netherlands, noted his compatriot's vow to press forward, and mused: "I wish him good luck. These are two teams who try to attack. We have the same idea so we will see who is stronger." But Van Basten, who masterminded a 4-1 friendly win against Hiddink's Russia in February 2007, is not thinking of a certain encounter and goal in 1988. "That's a long time ago. Doesn't help me now." en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=301701/report=pr.htmlMatch officials Referee Ľuboš Michĕl (SVK) Assistant referee 1 Roman Slyško (SVK) Assistant referee 2 Martin Balko (SVK) Fourth official Massimo Busacca (SUI) Reserve assistant referee Matthias Arnet (SUI) UEFA Referee observer Vladimir Sajn (SVN)
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Post by Terry on Jun 22, 2008 2:01:32 GMT -5
Classy Russia leave Oranje crushed by Paul Saffer from St. Jakob-Park Dmitri Torbinski and Andrei Arshavin struck in the last eight minutes of extra time to take Russia into the UEFA EURO 2008™ semi-finals at the expense of the Netherlands as Guus Hiddink eliminated the nation of his birth. Russia dominance 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. However, Russia dominated the additional half-hour and the tireless Arshavin set up substitute Torbinski to restore the advantage from close range in the 112th minute. The No10 added another himself to book a semi-final against Spain or Italy in Vienna on Thursday, although Torbinski and Denis Kolodin will miss that match through suspension. Robben ruled out Having rested most of his first-choice lineup in Tuesday's win against Romania, Van Basten returned to the selection that started the impressive defeats of Italy and France, Arjen Robben's hopes scuppered by continuing groin problems. It was Russia, beginning as positively as Hiddink had promised, who had the first chance when Yuri Zhirkov's free-kick forced Edwin van der Sar into a diving save and Igor Semshov then crossed from the right for Pavlyuchenko to head over. Russia's outnumbered fans made most of the early noise as the Netherlands took time to get to grips with their opponents' pressing game, although Van Nistelrooy did nearly get a decisive touch on Rafael van der Vaart's free-kick. Kolodin denied Suddenly the Netherlands started to produce the flowing football that lit up their group games in Berne, and their supporters responded accordingly. But if many Dutch players were fresh after sitting out the Romania match, Arshavin was also relatively rested having been suspended for the first two games and from a solo run he forced Van der Sar to save. The goalkeeper then tipped over Kolodin's ferocious shot before the Netherlands attacked again at the other end as Khalid Boulahrouz, whose late baby daughter was remembered by his team-mates' black armbands, sent Van Nistelrooy through for an effort that Igor Akinfeev blocked. Pavlyuchenko finish Russia looked sharper as the second half got under way, Arshavin nearly scoring with a swerving free-kick, and a minute later Sergei Semak sent in a cross from the left that Pavlyuchenko gleefully turned in. Russia were allowing the Netherlands little of the ball and attacking at pace, Van der Sar using instinct and one hand to keep out an Aleksandr Anyukov strike. The goalkeeper also saved when Pavlyuchenko was put through while Torbinski was unfortunate not to turn the ball in soon after. It seemed the Oranje's campaign was over but with four minutes left Wesley Sneijder curled in a free-kick for Van Nistelrooy to head in and force an extra half-hour. Extra-time decisive However Russia were unbowed, Semshov forcing a diving stop from Van der Sar while Arshavin blazed over and Pavlyuchenko's dipping shot was only kept out by the crossbar. Arshavin then burst through and crossed for Torbinski, only for Van der Sar to block again. The second extra period continued in the same vein, Pavlyuchenko just failing to turn in Arshavin's cross but finally the breakthrough came when the FC Zenit St. Petersburg playmaker delivered another looping centre for Torbinski to volley in. Four minutes later Arshavin sealed a semi-final place with the goal his play deserved as his shot deflected in off John Heitinga, confirming that the Netherlands would follow fellow group winners Portugal and Croatia home. en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=301701/report=rp.htmlMatchCenter
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Post by Terry on Jun 22, 2008 2:08:35 GMT -5
Azzurri aim to halt Spanish march by Richard Aikman from Ernst-Happel-Stadion Italy coach Roberto Donadoni knows his side must take care of the pace in Spain's attack when the teams meet in the last UEFA EURO 2008™ quarter-final in Vienna on Sunday – but is urging his players to "enjoy themselves" on the ultimate stage. Friendly encounter Having conceded four goals in the tournament so far, the Azzurri will next try to thwart the feared strike force of David Villa and Fernando Torres, who shared five goals between them as Spain won Group D with a perfect record. Although Donadoni recognises the strengths of a side that beat his own 1-0 in a March friendly, he is confident Italy can build on Tuesday's Group C victory against France by prolonging an undefeated run in competitive matches against Spain stretching back 88 years. Spanish praise "We played Spain recently and they are a great team," the coach said. "They haven't always done well in big tournaments but this will spur them on, so we must be just as motivated as them. They are not very physical but they have great pace. We've learned a lot from each other but you can't compare a friendly with the quarter-finals of a EURO. And we have our strengths too. The boys must remember to enjoy themselves, because to enjoy yourself you have to play well. If they do that they can achieve anything." Conundrum Although Donadoni insists the Azzurri will not alter the way they play, one conundrum looms large for the 44-year-old, and that is how to replace Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso. Both AC Milan midfielders, who played so well in the triumph over France, are suspended for the Ernst-Happel-Stadion encounter. Massimo Ambrosini should return while Pirlo's place could go to AS Roma midfielder Alberto Aquilani – a decision Donadoni will only make on the morning of the match. Italy's sole injury concern since their last outing is the knee problem that has ended defender Andrea Barzagli's tournament. Perfect record Spain coach Luis Aragonés also concedes he is in a quandary over team selection but for very different reasons. While Italy lost their first group game and drew their second, La Roja have a 100 per cent record in the finals so far. The same XI won their first two matches, against Russia (4-1) and Sweden (2-1), before Aragonés made ten changes for Wednesday's 2-1 defeat of holders Greece. On the eve of Sunday's contest, the 69-year-old said he has "no team in mind". He is, however, sure of victory. 'Convinced' "I am convinced we will win," he asserted, as Spain aim to put six UEFA European Championship quarter-final defeats behind them. "I have no doubt these players are ready to give 110 per cent. We have to think positively, and this side is doing just that. My glass is half-full and inside I am sure we are going to go through." Aragonés, who cites Fabio Grosso and Luca Toni as potential danger men, will be buoyed by defender Carles Puyol's return from a foot injury and now believes Spain can lift the Henri Delaunay trophy for the first time since 1964. "I believe this squad can put an end to our problems once and for all," he concluded. en.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=301702/report=pr.htmlHead to Head ESP - ITA 27 Played 27 8 Won 9 9 Lost 8 10 Drawn 10 28 Goals For 36 36 Goals Conceded 28 Match officials Referee Herbert Fandel (GER) Assistant referee 1 Carsten Kadach (GER) Assistant referee 2 Volker Wezel (GER) Fourth official Frank De Bleeckere (BEL) Reserve assistant referee Peter Hermans (BEL) UEFA Referee observer Sergey Zuev (RUS)
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