Euro 08 Prediction Thread

[rcrook]

Make your predictions:


Group A:
Portugal
Czech Republic
Switzerland
Turkey

Group B:
Germany
Croatia
Poland
Austria

Group C:
Netherlands
France
Italy
Romania

Group D:
Spain
Sweden
Russia
Greece

Portugal over Croatia
Germany over Czech Republic
Netherlands over Sweden
Spain over France

Germany over Portugal
Netherlands over Spain

Germany over Netherlands

Winner: Germany

[iihungrieii]

lakers in 5

[Burning Star IV]

I'm predicting a Greece vs. Italy final with Italy coming out on top.

[Broken Parachute]

I'm going with a Portugal vs. Spain final, Portugal taking it.

[mcfly21]

if spain vs. netherlands is possible. i'm going with that with spain taking it

[SaoMattie]

I hoping the Dutch can pull it off. Either way, I'm just glad every game is being televised. Too bad Beckham won't be missing any PK's this time around.

[Crocodile Logic]

ideally, i'd like to see a spain vs. netherlands final, as well, with spain coming out on top.

i'd also like to see sweden have a good showing.

[deadstar]

I'm probably going to be rooting for the Netherlands. They have some exciting players.

[Aphasia17]

I'm probably going to be rooting for the Netherlands. They have some exciting players.

Yeah they do, and they're a very attacking team. I just wonder if their defense will hold in that nasty group of death.

I'd also love to see Spain against Portugal. As for the winner, I'm going with the kings of underachievement, Spain.

[StandMyBrothers]

If a Netherlands-Germany final is capable I'd love that. the two teams I'm rooting for.

[weezer182]

Italy winning it all.

I'm pulling for Italy and Sweden advancing far.

[tambo41187]

With no England i really don't know who to support....i guess as long as Italy, France, Germany, Spain or Portugal don't win i will be happy.


Think i will cheer for Croatia (modric) and the Netherlands.

[houstoncalls!]

I want Spain, but it could be anyone's really, Greece showed that.

[somethingyellow]

Im pulling for Italy but for them to win it just having won the world cup is probably unlikely. I could see the Germans taking it but like houstoncalls said, it could be almost anyone

[xbrokendownx]

forza azzurri!

[Naenia]

Portugal to beat Croatia
Germany to beat Turkey
Italy to beat Russia
Spain to beat Holland

Germany to beat Portugal
Spain to beat Italy

Spain to beat Germany

... kind of wishful thinking I think but hey.

[S/T]

Espana.

[LV03]

Spain

[whitelines]

My Turks

[entrepy]

I'd love it to be Holland, but I think it'll be France/Italy.

Though I have ended up with Turkey in a sweep - go Sukur

[entrepy]

I'm supporting Holland but the smart money is on Germany to win it.

They were pretty convincing against Poland, probably the strongest team so far. Tonight's games will be good though

[aircourtneys]

Germany = big winner....horray for Ballack

[RedWineSheets]

ITALY!!!!!!! prob germany though.

[williek311]

Germany or Spain

[duffe]

france obviously.

[somethingyellow]

Good see the a lot of Americans getting interested in this.Its very nice and the coverage has been great here for the US. Theres a little pregame show, with a first post game show between matches and a second post game show after the second match. Glad to see we have supported this tournament so well

[entrepy]

They have an easy route through and they are ruthlessly efficient. They have a class act playmaker in Ballack a very solid backline and plenty of goals in Klose, Podolski and Gomez. Never ever doubt the Germans, they almost always do well at major tournaments.

Completely agree, Germany and efficiency seem to be synonymous. I'd like to see how they do against a team with a bit of flair, though like you say they can avoid France/Spain/Italy/Holland 'til the final.

[Broken Parachute]

Its very nice and the coverage has been great here for the US. Theres a little pregame show, with a first post game show between matches and a second post game show after the second match. Glad to see we have supported this tournament so wellYeah, the coverage on television has been great so far.

[williek311]

Luckily I got my boss to switch the station to ESPN2 so I can watch the game coming on at 12

[weezer182]

I'm predicting Portugal will take it all this year, although Germany would be the safe bet.

[princesschad]

france obviously.

Hopefully.

[TheBaroness]

yo, where's the Euro2008 discussion thread?? Azzurri are going to cane those stinking Dutch tonight. Just over an hour now, bring it on!

Oh, and if Italy don't take it home I'm predicting Germany, with Spain my roughie

[kafe]

Italy winning it all.

I'm pulling for Italy and Sweden advancing far.

Italy, fine. But Sweden will probably won't even make it through the group play.

[deadstar]

I'm hoping Italy finishes in last. Today's 2nd game will be fun to watch hopefully.

[TheBaroness]

oh my god, what the fuck is going on?? This is horrible. Stupid Italy!

[xbrokendownx]

relax, theyre playing fine. the first goal was a bogus non-offsides call and the 2nd goal was just perfect execution by holland

[wesgemm08]

COME ON Van Nistelrooy

[TheBaroness]

relax, theyre playing fine. the first goal was a bogus non-offsides call and the 2nd goal was just perfect execution by holland

the first one was a disgrace, but already two goals down? All over, rover.

Fuck, Dutch are just running riot.

[ForeverInADay]

COME ON Van Nistelrooy

So fucking offside.

[TheBaroness]

I'd like to say they're going to come back, but I can't see how

[ForeverInADay]

I'd like to say they're going to come back, but I can't see how

Same. Del Piero, Aquilani, and Chiellini need to be subbed on, and Materazzi's ass neds to be on the bench.

[williek311]

Damn I had to leave work and I missed the first half.

[TheBaroness]

it's at least an entertaining game after the France-Romania snore-fest

[ForeverInADay]

Why are Ambrosini, Materazzi and Di Natale starters? It makes no sense. Italy better do something against Romania Friday, with a different starting line up.

[xbrokendownx]

Grosso and Del Piero need to start in place of Di Natale and someone else

materazzi may not be able to go friday so we'll see

[weezer182]

Italy, fine. But Sweden will probably won't even make it through the group play.Italy will have a tough time even advancing out of the group stage now. As far as Sweden I think they can get out of their group and finish second behind Spain. I'd just like to see them go far.

[Broken Parachute]

I still don't understand why Del Piero doesn't start.

[kafe]

Italy will have a tough time even advancing out of the group stage now. As far as Sweden I think they can get out of their group and finish second behind Spain. I'd just like to see them go far.

Are Italy in the "Death group" as our newspapers always call one group?
That would be awesome if that could happen, I support Sweden but I think it'll go shit as it usually goes for us at soccer. Mind me asking why you would like to see them go far? I'm a curious person.

[Lueda Alia]

I have never really understood why they don't take more advantage of Del Piero. He is such an awesome player.

And I knew that Italy would lose it as soon as they counted that first "goal." So lame.

Here's to hoping that France (my second team after Italy) wins the next game.

[weezer182]

Are Italy in the "Death group" as our newspapers always call one group?
That would be awesome if that could happen, I support Sweden but I think it'll go shit as it usually goes for us at soccer. Mind me asking why you would like to see them go far? I'm a curious person.Yea Italy are in the group with France, Romania and the Netherlands. As far as Sweden I just enjoy watching them play. I think they have the talent do well in the tournament.

[Burning Star IV]

Del Piero definitely needs to start against Romania.

[xbrokendownx]

Are Italy in the "Death group" as our newspapers always call one group?
That would be awesome if that could happen, I support Sweden but I think it'll go shit as it usually goes for us at soccer. Mind me asking why you would like to see them go far? I'm a curious person.



Italy is in a group with France, the Netherlands, and Romania

and dont mind me saying this, but you could get it.

[Broken Parachute]

I still think Portugal, Spain, and Germany are the strongest teams overall.

[Broken Parachute]

Italy is in a group with France, the Netherlands, and Romania

and dont mind me saying this, but you could get it.Hahahahahahaha. Yesssssssssssssssssss.

[kafe]

Italy is in a group with France, the Netherlands, and Romania

and dont mind me saying this, but you could get it.

Ah I see. and what?

[xbrokendownx]

i will put it layman's terms for you: you are an attractive female

[kafe]

Who's layman?



Just kidding. Thank you!

[CarlosLunes]

lol floyd with that online swagger...uses you could get it on a girl that doesnt understand it....CLASSIC

[hellogorgeous]

:(

[ForeverInADay]

i will put it layman's terms for you: you are an attractive female

It's because she's Swedish. It's embedded in their genes. I want to marry a Swede, serious.

[TheBaroness]

I still don't understand why Del Piero doesn't start.

I know, he was about the only spark they had for the night, and it came too late.

[TheBaroness]

Who's layman?



Just kidding. Thank you!

hey, I was in Sweden the other day (currently in Finland), what an awesome place. I'm definitely going back one day for longer (hopefully to live there, one day...)

Anyway, I'm on the Italy bandwagon this year because I'm living there, and want to see them go nuts if they win the thing (probably not going to happen now). Ordinarily I'd support Germany.

[Zeran]

you're supporting italy and not germany? :-(

[kafe]

hey, I was in Sweden the other day (currently in Finland), what an awesome place. I'm definitely going back one day for longer (hopefully to live there, one day...)

Anyway, I'm on the Italy bandwagon this year because I'm living there, and want to see them go nuts if they win the thing (probably not going to happen now). Ordinarily I'd support Germany.

Sweet! Where did you go? I love Sweden as well :) Never been to Finland though, how's it there?

[entrepy]

Who's layman?





Isn't he the German keeper?

[kafe]

Isn't he the German keeper?


No no, it was a joke. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Layman

Germany's goalie is called Lehmann, that's very close!

[entrepy]

No no, it was a joke. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Layman

Germany's goalie is called Lehmann, that's very close!

Joke wouldn't have worked if Kahn was still knocking about.

I love that you put a link for laymen. That's made my day. Seriously.

[Burning Star IV]

Spain over Russia. Easy pick.

[alice+interiors]

Spain and Portugal always show a lot of potential in the run -up to the international tournaments but it never seems to amount to much, in my opinion

[Biliard]

:(

:-)

[entrepy]

Spain over Russia. Easy pick.

I agree. Also if they could win, have less than 9 corners, and not pick up more than 4 yellow cards that would make me happy (and richer)

[kafe]

Joke wouldn't have worked if Kahn was still knocking about.

I love that you put a link for laymen. That's made my day. Seriously.

Did you even read the post above me when I asked that? I was referring to that, hence my link.

edit; if you were being reaally sarcastic, I didn't catch that.

[hellogorgeous]

:-)
I really wanted Italy to win! Back to the PL forums for me :( You missed a great party btw

[Biliard]

I really wanted Italy to win! Back to the PL forums for me :( You missed a great party btw

What? They lost?! Damn, I am really out of the loop on this. I tend to miss all the good ones, but next time.

[TheBaroness]

Sweet! Where did you go? I love Sweden as well :) Never been to Finland though, how's it there?

Went to Stockholm, I was only there for a day to get the ferry up here, and I'll be stopping off there again to fly home. I really want to come back to explore the islands though, and the mountains. Finland is cold! Lovely, but cold.

[TheBaroness]

Spain look quite impressive against Russia. Hoping Sweden can overcome Greece tonight. I can't stand Greece.

Still amazed how well Holland played last night. Going to be an interesting tournament with Holland, Spain, Portugal and Germany all looking like contenders.

[kafe]

Went to Stockholm, I was only there for a day to get the ferry up here, and I'll be stopping off there again to fly home. I really want to come back to explore the islands though, and the mountains. Finland is cold! Lovely, but cold.

Ah okay :) Stockholm is great. If you get some time over on your way back in Stockholm, go to the Old City (Gamla Stan in swedish). It's beautiful.
Yes the islands and mountains are great, but Norway is better for mountains!

I hope Sweden will kick Greece's ass too! The game starts at 8.45 here I thinnnk

[houstoncalls!]

Still amazed how well Holland played last night. Going to be an interesting tournament with Holland, Spain, Portugal and Germany all looking like contenders.They have plenty of quality players going forward so I'm not totally surprised they got a few, but against a side who are regarded as one of the best defensively it was a very very good result.

Couldn't believe it when I heard the stat that Germany hadn't won a European Championships game since 1996 before they beat Poland.

[entrepy]

Did you even read the post above me when I asked that? I was referring to that, hence my link.

edit; if you were being reaally sarcastic, I didn't catch that.

No, genuinely thought it was funny, sorry if caused offense.

Greece are looking much stronger than I thought they'd be at the minute, though I just keep thinking it should be Northern Ireland playing

[kafe]

No, genuinely thought it was funny, sorry if caused offense.

Greece are looking much stronger than I thought they'd be at the minute, though I just keep thinking it should be Northern Ireland playing

Not at all, just very much confusion haha!
I'm watching the game and it's lovely to see a whole side of the crowd being completely yellow. Damn Zlatan for missing the goal

[houstoncalls!]

Greece vs Sweden has been awful.

Why are Greece killing time playing it round their defence?

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

God, was I hoping for Greece to slaughter Sweden today...talk about backfire..

[houstoncalls!]

When Greece seemingly go into the game looking to draw (why on earth they've played it that why I've no idea) then it's never really gonna happen, haha.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

When Greece seemingly go into the game looking to draw (why on earth they've played it that why I've no idea) then it's never really gonna happen, haha.

Doesn't really look at all like they are interested in playing, does it?

[houstoncalls!]

Doesn't really look at all like they are interested in playing, does it?Not at all. In the first half when they were just playing it between the three center backs not going anywhere at all, what's the point?

If you're Greece, looking at the group, you'd be aiming for wins vs Russia and Sweden (same for those two) and then hopefully a draw vs Spain. Unless Greece think they can beat Spain why are they going for the draw here..?

[kafe]

Yeeeees 2-0! Beautiful first goal and hilarious second.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Not at all. In the first half when they were just playing it between the three center backs not going anywhere at all, what's the point?

If you're Greece, looking at the group, you'd be aiming for wins vs Russia and Sweden (same for those two) and then hopefully a draw vs Spain. Unless Greece think they can beat Spain why are they going for the draw here..?

They played alot like Turkey did against Portugal. Very static even though Turkey every now and then pulled apart the portuguese defence, which Greece didn't really do at all save for a solo raid orchestrated by Charisteas. I dunno, I was really hoping for Greece to pull themselves together in the second half but no...
Spain didn't impress like Netherlands did yesterday but are without a doubt favourites for the win in Group D.

Yeeeees 2-0! Beautiful first goal and hilarious second.

Typiskt svenskt mål det andra om du frågar mig ;)

[kafe]

They played alot like Turkey did against Portugal. Very static even though Turkey every now and then pulled apart the portuguese defence, which Greece didn't really do at all save for a solo raid orchestrated by Charisteas. I dunno, I was really hoping for Greece to pull themselves together in the second half but no...
Spain didn't impress like Netherlands did yesterday but are without a doubt favourites for the win in Group D.



Typiskt svenskt mål det andra om du frågar mig ;)

Ja, det var ju därför det var så jäkla kul!

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Ja, det var ju därför det var så jäkla kul!

Hoppades faktiskt på svensk förlust idag pga den sjuka jävla hybris folk häromkring verkar ha, men det är lugnt antar jag. Kul att se Zlatan göra mål igen, snyggt var det också. Nu tror alla att vi i princip vunnit turneringen så det blir rätt kul att se vad som händer på lördag, don't you think? =)

[xbrokendownx]

oh jesus christ

[kafe]

Hoppades faktiskt på svensk förlust idag pga den sjuka jävla hybris folk häromkring verkar ha, men det är lugnt antar jag. Kul att se Zlatan göra mål igen, snyggt var det också. Nu tror alla att vi i princip vunnit turneringen så det blir rätt kul att se vad som händer på lördag, don't you think? =)

We better speak english ha. Yes the hype here is insane and we always think we're gonna do good, but I'm freaking happy anyway. Very happy for Zlatan. Saturday will be very intense I hope, Spain right?

[houstoncalls!]

They played alot like Turkey did against Portugal. Very static even though Turkey every now and then pulled apart the portuguese defence, which Greece didn't really do at all save for a solo raid orchestrated by Charisteas. I dunno, I was really hoping for Greece to pull themselves together in the second half but no...
Spain didn't impress like Netherlands did yesterday but are without a doubt favourites for the win in Group D.Turkey have some decent players - Nihat, Tuncay and Emre spring to mind, and I'd say they are still in with a chance of going through that group. They are capable of beating Czech Republic and Switzerland. Czech Republic looked bad I thought, and were lucky to win. The Swiss will miss Frei as well.

You'd have expected them to go out and have a real go in the second half, but nothing really happened. Seemed like they set out to get the draw then when they fell behind just couldn't get anything going upfront. So unadventurous.

I'm a bit iffy about Spain. I don't think there's any doubt that going forward they have a lot of quality and have some world class players, but at the back they don't look too solid, Russia got a fair few chances today. If they come up against a better team I could see them conceding a few goals.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

We better speak english ha. Yes the hype here is insane and we always think we're gonna do good, but I'm freaking happy anyway. Very happy for Zlatan. Saturday will be very intense I hope, Spain right?

Yeah I know, I tried my luck at swedish, apparently moderators are sleeping at the moment. I'm glad for Zlatan mostly for Zlatan's sake but I really want the hubris to end. Thankfully, it probably will against Spain. And even more thankfully, I'm seeing Queens of the Stone Age and Foo Fighters right after the game. Gotta love it.

Turkey have some decent players - Nihat, Tuncay and Emre spring to mind, and I'd say they are still in with a chance of going through that group. They are capable of beating Czech Republic and Switzerland. Czech Republic looked bad I thought, and were lucky to win. The Swiss will miss Frei as well.

You'd have expected them to go out and have a real go in the second half, but nothing really happened. Seemed like they set out to get the draw then when they fell behind just couldn't get anything going upfront. So unadventurous.

I'm a bit iffy about Spain. I don't think there's any doubt that going forward they have a lot of quality and have some world class players, but at the back they don't look too solid, Russia got a fair few chances today. If they come up against a better team I could see them conceding a few goals.


We've got some good players in Turkey and even a good enough team to go pretty far in the tournament. Problem is, they don't really know how to work properly as an efficient team. The Czechs were extremely tame against Switzerland and without Frei the Swiss are weak as you correctly pointed out.

Spain are not as good as the better teams on the tournament (Germany, Netherlands, Portugal to some extent) but we'll see if they slaughter Sweden on Saturday or not. By the way, don't you die a little inside for every second of England-less EURO2008 you watch?

[houstoncalls!]

Spain are not as good as the better teams on the tournament (Germany, Netherlands, Portugal to some extent) but we'll see if they slaughter Sweden on Saturday or not. By the way, don't you die a little inside for every second of England-less EURO2008 you watch?It will be tight, Sweden have a good defence and Spain, as we saw just today, can always concede.

Haha, I guess so. Perhaps it's what we needed after so many years of being mediocre though, if we had qualified we'd still have McClaren in charge, and I really don't think we would've done too well in the tournament. As long as there are some good games this year I'll be happy. It's quite good looking at it from a neutral point of view.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

It will be tight, Sweden have a good defence and Spain, as we saw just today, can always concede.

Haha, I guess so. Perhaps it's what we needed after so many years of being mediocre though, if we had qualified we'd still have McClaren in charge, and I really don't think we would've done too well in the tournament. As long as there are some good games this year I'll be happy. It's quite good looking at it from a neutral point of view.

I'm a Gunner so I want more goals from Fabregas, don't mind him scoring a pair against my homeland to be quite frank. We'll have to see I guess.

I actually think that England with Mr.Capello in charge are pretty terrifying though...

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Oh, that reminds me, here's the (delayed) schedule created by me and my folks:

In JPG (http://bearsville.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/euro2008.jpg)
In PDF (http://bearsville.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/euro2008.pdf)

[TheBaroness]

good result for the Swedes, it's amazing what happens when you actually put the ball on net!

Looking forward to getting my first look at Portugal (missed the first game) tonight.

[TheBaroness]

I think Czech Republic are holding their own pretty well so far, but Ronaldo keeps threatening to break the game open with his foot

[S/T]

ha That Gomes shot would've been an insane goal.

[entrepy]

I think Czech Republic are holding their own pretty well so far, but Ronaldo keeps threatening to break the game open with his foot

Nice prediction

[houstoncalls!]

Portugal didn't look good from corners and free kicks.

Portugal to go through as winners and Czechs second.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Why the referee doesn't postpone the Switzerland-Turkey-match, I really don't understand...

It's like watching waterpolo. The ball doesn't even bounce anymore.

[houstoncalls!]

As I said in the Soccer thread, I think if this was a league match it would be called off by now. I don't see why this should really be that different though. It's dangerous and no football can really be played.

I feel sorry for Turkey really because players like Arda (I like the look of him) and Nihat won't really be able to show what they can do.

[houstoncalls!]

Turkey have come into it more now they can play it around and there's a lot less water on the pitch. Still an open game though, hard to call who will win, if either.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Stuff like this makes me proud to be a Turk.

[houstoncalls!]

Half time helped a lot, there was a lot less water on the pitch during the second half a Turkey could play it around a lot more. Nice to see Arda getting a goal - he's being linked to the Premier League with quite a few teams.

[pshh]

man i feel bad for swiss, host country out and about.

heart breaker

[xglassjawx]

Yeah, the rain stopped like 15 minutes before the end of the game, so it really wasn't too bad in the end.

Neither team complained whatsoever which I thought was awesome.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

I dunno what I feel about him playing in the Premier League. Obviously it's good for any player to play there but Tuncay was just horrific to watch today...

[houstoncalls!]

I dunno what I feel about him playing in the Premier League. Obviously it's good for any player to play there but Tuncay was just horrific to watch today...Do you mean that like because of Tuncay's move to the Premier League it's made him worse? Because he's actually not done bad at all in the league. That said he's not done much in this tournament so far.

Turkey vs Czech Republic should be a good game, both teams are about the same I'd say, but both have to win. We should see quite an attacking game.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Do you mean that like because of Tuncay's move to the Premier League it's made him worse? Because he's actually not done bad at all in the league. That said he's not done much in this tournament so far.

Turkey vs Czech Republic should be a good game, both teams are about the same I'd say, but both have to win. We should see quite an attacking game.

I know that he's been good in the league but it's also given him an annoying level of nonchalance that makes the Turkish attacking formation much less efficient or deadly. He has to be taken out of the starting 11 if Turkey want to make it through to the quarterfinals because Turkey vs Czech Republic will be a very interesting game, just like you very correctly point out.

[houstoncalls!]

He's certainly the weakest of the attackers going by the past two games. Perhaps Nihat and Arda with Semih up top? That looks pretty dangerous to me. I'm not really an expert on who should replace him though, haha. Who would you replace Tuncay with?

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

He's certainly the weakest of the attackers going by the past two games. Perhaps Nihat and Arda with Semih up top? That looks pretty dangerous to me. I'm not really an expert on who should replace him though, haha. Who would you replace Tuncay with?

Well...I can't really complain on your suggestion to be honest, that would be the best way to go unless you want to save Semih for emergencies. Then I'd go with Gökdeniz Karadeniz who's quick and very technical. But away with Tuncay. Away away away.

I'm missing Croatia vs. Germany tomorrow so I'll be back on Friday with comments about all that has passed in the short day I'm away to see Rage Against The Machine.

[houstoncalls!]

Well...I can't really complain on your suggestion to be honest, that would be the best way to go unless you want to save Semih for emergencies. Then I'd go with Gökdeniz Karadeniz who's quick and very technical. But away with Tuncay. Away away away.

I'm missing Croatia vs. Germany tomorrow so I'll be back on Friday with comments about all that has passed in the short day I'm away to see Rage Against The Machine.Those three with what you're saying about Karadeniz, I don't know anything about him personally, should certainly be enough to worry the Czechs. What happens if the game's a draw? Will there be extra time/a penalty shootout or something?

That should be a lot of fun, have a good time :-)

[entrepy]

Due to their equal goal difference/goals scored, if Turkey and Czech Rep draw then it goes to penalties, which would make for great viewing.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Those three with what you're saying about Karadeniz, I don't know anything about him personally, should certainly be enough to worry the Czechs. What happens if the game's a draw? Will there be extra time/a penalty shootout or something?

That should be a lot of fun, have a good time :-)

Karadeniz is someone I like very much. His surname is the Turkish name for the Black Sea which is adjacent to the city both of us are from, Trabzon. So he is a hometown hero. I'd love for him to score a goal in the next game and take us through to the quarterfinals.

I sure will! I'll take a bunch of photos for the reviews so I'll make sure that I post the links here afterwards.

Due to their equal goal difference/goals scored, if Turkey and Czech Rep draw then it goes to penalties, which would make for great viewing.

Really?

[entrepy]

Really?

Yep. The interesting thing is if they finished on equal points/head-to-head/goal difference/goals scored, but weren't playing each other in the final round then they'd just draw lots.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Yep. The interesting thing is if they finished on equal points/head-to-head/goal difference/goals scored, but weren't playing each other in the final round then they'd just draw lots.

Haha, yeah I just got that confirmed by my contact down there...that's hilarious but very odd all at the same time. It will definitely be a very interesting game.

[Zeran]

i feel bad for switzerland. they're a pretty decent team, but they were really hampered by losing frei. they only lost the games by one goal. it's tough.


portugal is looking really good.

[Zeran]

Yep. The interesting thing is if they finished on equal points/head-to-head/goal difference/goals scored, but weren't playing each other in the final round then they'd just draw lots.

interesting. should be a great match.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Anybody dare beat against Germany today (Thursday over here), even if the opposing team is Croatia?

[tambo41187]

Crotia looked very mediocre against a really bad Austria team, but i think they will play better verse Germany. That being said i really don't see the Germans dropping that game.

[Zeran]

i think it's a toss up. most likely outcome is a draw.

[TheBaroness]

Turkey v Swiss actually turned out to be an interesting game. That goal in the final minute, my god, what a heartbreaker.

Wouldn't be surprised if Germany v Croatia is a draw. Looking forward to seeing the game (last couple of teams I haven't watched yet) to make a more accurate prediction about the outcome of the tournament. Having seen Portugal yesterday I think (and I suspected as much earlier) that they're a little overrated, there's a lot they need to work on if they're going to win the whole thing. Even so, fuck Deco is a great player.

[houstoncalls!]

I think Germany will be too strong for Croatia. They're a bit suspect at the back and when the Germans have players such as Ballack, Klose, Gomez and Podolski I can just see them being too much.

[Lueda Alia]

I think Germany will be too strong for Croatia. They're a bit suspect at the back and when the Germans have players such as Ballack, Klose, Gomez and Podolski I can just see them being too much.
It looks like Croatia proved you wrong. :-)

[houstoncalls!]

It looks like Croatia proved you wrong. :-)Haha, yes indeed. Croatia do have some good players themselves - Kranjcar and Modric in particular, but considering Germany are favourites to win the thing overall and have a generally very strong team you'd have expected them to win. But without Eduardo they don't have a really good goalscorer, Olic only has something like 10 goals in 60-odd caps, Petric has a decent record I think but Eduardo's a very good finisher.

Germany vs Portugal in the quarters now. That should be good. I want Turkey and the Czechs to draw so it goes to penalties, would be a nice bit of excitement.

[ESundy36]

Damn, just watched the Germany/Croatia game on the TiVo and they looked rather awful today. As well I really started to get annoyed with Ballack today, he did such a great job of getting on my nerves.

I also noticed that most of the kids who came out with the teams seemed to be singing the German anthem while looking clueless when the Croatian anthem was being played which I found humorous seeing as German is a national language and in Klagenfurt I would suspect Croatian to be spoken as well.

[Zeran]

fucking a germany


atleast austria tied

[TheBaroness]

Germany were TERRIBLE last night, absolutely terrible

[Lueda Alia]

Germany were TERRIBLE last night, absolutely terrible
Which is a good thing!

If Italy loses today, I will be so heartbroken.

[SaoMattie]

Holland will destroy the French tomorrow, just like they did the flopping Italians

[Lueda Alia]

Holland will destroy the French tomorrow, just like they did the flopping Italians
I'm not so sure about that. France really need to win, and I can see them destroying Holland if they wanted to.

I hope they do, as they're my second favourite team.

[Lueda Alia]

France played really bad last time but they still have world class players and Holland still have a weak defence.
Yeah, which is why I'm not writing them (France) off yet. They have a chance.

[Lueda Alia]

I hate Group C so much, because my three favourite teams are competing against each other: Italy, France, Holland (in that order). I hope Holland is the team that doesn't make it out of the group. :-D

[entrepy]

France played really bad last time but they still have world class players and Holland still have a weak defence.

Yes, but it seems to be that classic Brazil set-up where no-one cares about the defence - if someone puts three past them they'll just score four in reply.

[TheBaroness]

Which is a good thing!

If Italy loses today, I will be so heartbroken.

if Italy loses again, I will be rioting in the streets with the rest of the Italians

Tipping the Dutch to get over the French, who looked tres ordinary last game out

[rerelease_]

i hope that romania and holland will win today

[nhoium]

Finally France vs Netherlands at 2:30
both of are my tournament hopefuls,
for different reasons.
I'm kind of hoping the Netherlands pulls through

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

I really want Netherlands to go through, I've always liked them and they really impressed me against Italy. I'm hoping they tie France today in an amazing game and that Romania beat Italy like they've done oh so many times before. Then France vs. Italy will be even more important and the winner will most likely be the team that goes through to the quarterfinals.

Well..no, it will then be between Romania and France.

[houstoncalls!]

Romania need to be more adventurous vs Italy, because a draw really isn't enough for them. Should be a good game with both teams needing a win.

[weezer182]

An Italian win today and a draw between the Netherlands and France.

[Lueda Alia]

An Italian win today and a draw between the Netherlands and France.
Both Italy and France need to win!

[zizou1790]

pleasssse win today France

[zizou1790]

lakers in 5

lolllllllllllllll

[Lueda Alia]

Ugh, I can't believe they didn't count Italy's first goal. These referees are a disgrace.

Thank God for Buffon.

[zizou1790]

France is really getting worked so far

[entrepy]

That was brilliant by the Netherlands. Robben's and Sniejder's goals were incredible

[houstoncalls!]

Robben's brilliant. Chelsea shouldn't have sold him, yes he's injury prone but he's so dangerous.

[SaoMattie]

Some of you owe me an apology...for being wrong

[Broken Parachute]

The Dutch are amazing,

[NJUNDERDOG]

i loved how the italians kept going down with every touch inside the box looking for a penalty kick in the second half. thats they way to play.

[nastyneste]

calling it right now a Netherlands Spain final.

[somethingyellow]

calling it right now a Netherlands Spain final.bad call, unless its the semis. spain and netherlands cant meet in the finals

[StandMyBrothers]

bad call, unless its the semis. spain and netherlands cant meet in the finals
lol

[TheBaroness]

If the Dutch win Euro I will cry

[houstoncalls!]

How comes?

Anyone still in can win. It's about hitting form just at the right time. Traditionally the team who look on fire in the group stages don't actually end up winning it.

[somethingyellow]

How comes?

Anyone still in can win. It's about hitting form just at the right time. Traditionally the team who look on fire in the group stages don't actually end up winning it.exactly! If the italians dont get out of the group I wouldnt mind seeing the dutch win, they have played amazing football

[TheBaroness]

I just can't stand the Dutch team, haha. Actually, Croatia is probably my outside roughie at the moment. If Italy don't win (pretty positive of that fact) I'm on the Germans, since that's my heritage, but they're not looking too flash at the moment...

[entrepy]

How comes?

Anyone still in can win. It's about hitting form just at the right time. Traditionally the team who look on fire in the group stages don't actually end up winning it.

Very true, just look at Greece four years ago

[tambo41187]

wow that must be gut retching for Sweden

[kafe]

wow that must be gut retching for Sweden

It is, and I'm not even playing. We so deserved 1-1

[houstoncalls!]

Spain always looked more dangerous. When Ibra came off Sweden didn't really show much going forward.

[kafe]

Well Spain has a better team, so they should have beat us with like 3 goals, but we held it pretty tight so I think we would have deserved that. But I agree about Zlatan, we sorta died a little.

[houstoncalls!]

Sweden's not that bad a side, I don't think you're giving yourselves enough credit. Your defence is strong and difficult to breakdown. Effective at what you do it what I'd say.

[TheBaroness]

What's wrong with Holland? They play the best football.

can't stand Van Nistelrooy, and know some real turds who are Dutch so don't want them to be happy!

[entrepy]

Sweden's not that bad a side, I don't think you're giving yourselves enough credit. Your defence is strong and difficult to breakdown. Effective at what you do it what I'd say.


Aye you'd still fancy Sweden to progress from that group, a draw with Russia will do it

[mcfly21]

man this is an awesome tourney... i'll be sad when its over

[S/T]

Tight finish today. Sooo glad Villa stepped up. Wasn't much of a game for he or Torres outside of the two goals. Senna had a few really nice attempts, Ramos was still a little reckless. I didn't here anything about Puyol, hopefully he'll be fine, but I wouldn't mind seeing him sit the next one if he needs to.

Oh, and I really love watching Ibrahimovic.

[mcfly21]

Tight finish today. Sooo glad Villa stepped up. Wasn't much of a game for he or Torres outside of the two goals. Senna had a few really nice attempts, Ramos was still a little reckless. I didn't here anything about Puyol, hopefully he'll be fine, but I wouldn't mind seeing him sit the next one if he needs to.

Oh, and I really love watching Ibrahimovic.


i really think ramos hurts spain more than he helps, maybe move him up to mid but his defense has been pathetic

[S/T]

His crosses have been nothing special, either. I suppose they could use him as a defensive mid from the bench if Senna comes off.

You're right, though - he was totally responsible for Ibra's goal, and I'm afraid those mistakes aren't totally out of his system.

[mcfly21]

they could use him as a winger too, i dont know much of his finishing touch but he's got some good speed and a nice touch from what ive seen

[S/T]

He's got decent touch with the ball, but the problem is that he thinks a spin move is the answer to everything.

[mcfly21]

well he'll hopefully learn how to play defense and be very dangerous in the next world cup

[houstoncalls!]

Ramos is probably the best right back in the world, but he has been bad so far this tournament.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Personally, I'm just glad all the fans in Sweden have stopped being so goddamn cocky...

[houstoncalls!]

I could see Russia beating them, especially now they'll have Arshavin back.

[kafe]

Personally, I'm just glad all the fans in Sweden have stopped being so goddamn cocky...

We haven't been cocky. Just patriotic and cheering for the country, just like everyone else. No one has ever believed we can win the whole thing.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

We haven't been cocky. Just patriotic and cheering for the country, just like everyone else. No one has ever believed we can win the whole thing.

Maybe not in Karlstad but things are different here. You know the popular myth that people from Stockholm are assholes? Well, it's kinda true...

All jokes aside, everybody here are like "fuck Holland, what can they do against us in the quarterfinals? Pff". And no, I'm not kidding.

[kafe]

Maybe not in Karlstad but things are different here. You know the popular myth that people from Stockholm are assholes? Well, it's kinda true...

All jokes aside, everybody here are like "fuck Holland, what can they do against us in the quarterfinals? Pff". And no, I'm not kidding.

Really? Okay, then I take that back, what a shitty way to look upon the cup, we're really not that good haha, it's not that way here atleast :) I'm sure the myth is true about Stockholmers, some of them don't even know what Karlstad is.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Really? Okay, then I take that back, what a shitty way to look upon the cup, we're really not that good haha, it's not that way here atleast :) I'm sure the myth is true about Stockholmers, some of them don't even know what Karlstad is.

I guess I'm used to it though since I've lived here all my life save six months in Malmö and also work with sport journalism. And all of us know what Karlstad is (Färjestad, duh? Haha) but I'm guessing many people don't know WHERE it is. But it's not only the people living here that seem to live in their own little bubble concerning Euro2008, the people on TV4 are fucking out of their minds too. I can't stand listening to them talk about the Swedish national team, sickens me...

[houstoncalls!]

Nervous before the game tonight? Haha.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Nervous before the game tonight? Haha.

"Nervous" could easily qualify as understatement of the year...

[houstoncalls!]

Hahaha, true. I heard Semih's starting, with Emre Gungor and Mehmet Topal also come in too with Emre Asik, Gokdeniz Karadeniz and Tumer Metin dropped.

Seems Tuncay's kept his place.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Hahaha, true. I heard Semih's starting, with Emre Gungor and Mehmet Topal also come in too with Emre Asik, Gokdeniz Karadeniz and Tumer Metin dropped.

Seems Tuncay's kept his place.


Here (http://www.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300699/index.html) are the lineups according to the official site, and I'm not pleased to see Topal and Tuncay on there. If the pitch is dry and there is no sign of rain players like Karadeniz and Metin are extremely useful against a very sturdy Czech time. But we'll just have to wait and say I guess...gah..

[TheBaroness]

Maybe not in Karlstad but things are different here. You know the popular myth that people from Stockholm are assholes? Well, it's kinda true...

All jokes aside, everybody here are like "fuck Holland, what can they do against us in the quarterfinals? Pff". And no, I'm not kidding.

if indeed Stockholmers are arseholes, I'm not surprised. That city is one of the best places I've ever been to, didn't want to leave.

Swedes do seem very patriotic. When I was there most people walking around the city were draped in blue and yellow. Granted, Sweden were playing Spain that night, but they were dressed like this even at nine in the morning!

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

if indeed Stockholmers are arseholes, I'm not surprised. That city is one of the best places I've ever been to, didn't want to leave.

Swedes do seem very patriotic. When I was there most people walking around the city were draped in blue and yellow. Granted, Sweden were playing Spain that night, but they were dressed like this even at nine in the morning!

Haha, how does the city is being awesome make it ok for us to be assholes though? I'm not sure I follow...I have a clue, but that's all.

People take these international events as a chance to show that they love Sweden, which I'm perfectly fine with. The only thing that sucks about that though is that somehow, wearing the national colours on any other occasion is apparently threatening and disrespectful towards immigrants that live in Sweden. I have no idea why this is since at least I have never ever been treated worse by a native Swede because of my origin and so on.

[kafe]

Yes^. Apperantly it's racist to celebrate our national day. But let's not make this a thread about us.
I can't watch the Portugal/Switzerland game, is it any good so far?

[Skadrist]

Yes^. Apperantly it's racist to celebrate our national day. But let's not make this a thread about us.
I can't watch the Portugal/Switzerland game, is it any good so far?

It's a meaningless game.

[kafe]

Ah good. Keep it updated in here if anything happens! Mum and dad are watching Bee Movie haha

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Ah good. Keep it updated in here if anything happens! Mum and dad are watching Bee Movie haha

The Turkey vs. Czech Republic-game is the important one today since that determines who goes on to the quarterfinals. So, I'm naturally watching that right now and am quite appalled over how TV4 chose to interview a kurdish writer about Turkish football. All I heard was talk about how awful Turkey is as a country...

Oh, and I hate that I'm doing this but...fotbollskanalen.se is apparently streaming the games.

[kafe]

But TV4 isn't airing Turkey vs. Czech Republic, where are you watching it? And wow, way to keep the subject about sport.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

But TV4 isn't airing Turkey vs. Czech Republic, where are you watching it? And wow, way to keep the subject about sport.

Yeah, they are. I'm watching it right...now. Why, doesn't it show the game for you?

[houstoncalls!]

So many bookings for Turkey already, that's not great.

[kafe]

Yeah, they are. I'm watching it right...now. Why, doesn't it show the game for you?

The tvbilaga said Portugal - Switzerland and the only tv with real television is occupied so I can't watch any games

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

So many bookings for Turkey already, that's not great.

The boys are too eager. Hopefully that will blow over soon, otherwise this could turn into a real mess...

The tvbilaga said Portugal - Switzerland and the only tv with real television is occupied so I can't watch any games

Yeah, that's what I thought was going on too but apparently they changed it since there are several thousands of Turks and Czechs in Sweden and most people don't have TV4Sport.
And according to fotbollskanalen.se you can stream the games there, why don't you try that?

[TheBaroness]

Turkey already 1-0 down, and they can't get any decent movement up forward. Not looking good.

[TheBaroness]

Haha, how does the city is being awesome make it ok for us to be assholes though? I'm not sure I follow...I have a clue, but that's all.

People take these international events as a chance to show that they love Sweden, which I'm perfectly fine with. The only thing that sucks about that though is that somehow, wearing the national colours on any other occasion is apparently threatening and disrespectful towards immigrants that live in Sweden. I have no idea why this is since at least I have never ever been treated worse by a native Swede because of my origin and so on.

oh I meant as in I understand if they're arrogant, 'cos they know they live in an awesome city, haha

[houstoncalls!]

Turkey just haven't got into it at all, and they can't deal with Koller.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

oh I meant as in I understand if they're arrogant, 'cos they know they live in an awesome city, haha

You speak the truth, lady!

Turkey just haven't got into it at all, and they can't deal with Koller.


Hopefully we'll get a second half like the one against Switzerland.

[tambo41187]

holy shit @ turkey

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Haha...NOW we've got some fun minutes to go...

[Interpolism]

oh my yes

[Interpolism]

woodwork, omg wooodwork

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Hahahahaha...holy shit...

[kafe]

what's going on?!

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

what's going on?!

Turkiet vände 0-2 till 3-2 och fick målvakten utvisad i 93:e minuten. Panik nu,hahaha.

[kafe]

Vaaa? Galet!

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Vaaa? Galet!

Jag som turk född i Sverige har hjärtat i halvgropen..


tänkte jag säga, nu tog det SLUT! :D:D:D

[kafe]

Grattis grattis! Hahaha, måste se detta på youtube sen

[mat1419]

that was incredible

[TheBaroness]

holy shit, what a second half! What drama!

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Grattis grattis! Hahaha, måste se detta på youtube sen

Gå in på fotbollskanalen.se bara, där får du med alla tafatta kommentarer från vårt avlånga lands allra "bästa" sportjournalister också, haha. Ojojoj, vilken match det blev...nu håller vi tummar för Sverige väl? Du och jag får representera landslaget här på AP.net.

:soccer::soccer::soccer:

[houstoncalls!]

Nihat's such a good player, love him. Had a good season with Villarreal too.

[TheBaroness]

that's what you call a captain's goal (or two)

[houstoncalls!]

Cech as well. Damn, usually such a reliable keeper. The best game so far of the tournament, no doubt :-)

[billyboatkid]

Amazing comeback from Turkey. Horrible red card call on the goalie.

[TheBaroness]

nah, the keeper shoved Koller over in the box

[houstoncalls!]

It was a red card, and it's a loss for Turkey as Volkan's done well so far. Just a stupid moment from him really.

[TheBaroness]

such a typical Euro mind-snap, haha

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Volkan has a loooong way to go before he call rightfully call himself a "goalkeeper". If any of you saw Fenerbahçe vs. Sevilla in Champions League you know what I'm talking about...

[houstoncalls!]

Volkan has a loooong way to go before he call rightfully call himself a "goalkeeper". If any of you saw Fenerbahçe vs. Sevilla in Champions League you know what I'm talking about...He's done pretty well for you so far though. Will Rustu come in to replace him now?

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

He's done pretty well for you so far though. Will Rustu come in to replace him now?

He's too uneven really, all of our keepers are. But yeah, we've got Rüstü now, Tolga Zengin is too inexperienced to replace Volkan.

[mat1419]

wow...dempsey 1st minute. US 1-0.

[nonamesleft]

So upset about Czech. It's all about the Neds and France.

[houstoncalls!]

He's too uneven really, all of our keepers are. But yeah, we've got Rüstü now, Tolga Zengin is too inexperienced to replace Volkan.The only other Turkish keeper I know is Vokan Babacan, but he's 19 I think.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

The only other Turkish keeper I know is Vokan Babacan, but he's 19 I think.

Haha...seriously, I LOVE the fact that you're 16 and know tons about football. Just goes to show that England knows what the fuck they're doing when it comes to educating kids in the fine science of football. I don't know how Turkey will play against Croatia but anything seems possible now...

[Zeran]

go germany today

[houstoncalls!]

Haha...seriously, I LOVE the fact that you're 16 and know tons about football. Just goes to show that England knows what the fuck they're doing when it comes to educating kids in the fine science of football. I don't know how Turkey will play against Croatia but anything seems possible now...Haha, it's the only sport I really like. Try to play at least once a week and whenever a game's on I'll try to watch it.

If Croatia play how they did vs Austria Turkey will win, but I doubt they'll be that ordinary.

[somethingyellow]

go germany todayyou have no worries.....its austria. If the germans cant even draw them they dont deserve to be in this competition haha

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

We've got two great games to look forward to. Any ideas on how it will play out? I can't guess at all even though I'm hoping for the french a bit.

[houstoncalls!]

Holland won't let Romania win as quite a few people seem to think. Italy vs France could go either way really, should be a good game though because both have had bad tournaments and want to get that win which will take them out the group. If they draw and Romania win, they have a penalty shoot-out to decide 3rd, haha.

[Zeran]

i want romania, italy, and france all to tie so that romania goes through.

[houstoncalls!]

Surely just a Romania win then?

Though Italy and France drawing would be funny purely cos they'd have a pretty meaningless penalty shoot-out after.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Surely just a Romania win then?

Though Italy and France drawing would be funny purely cos they'd have a pretty meaningless penalty shoot-out after.

I'd pay to watch that happen, haha.

[Zeran]

Surely just a Romania win then?

Though Italy and France drawing would be funny purely cos they'd have a pretty meaningless penalty shoot-out after.

i thought a romania win was pretty unlikely, but i suppose you never know.

a shootout between france and italy to see who comes in 3rd is hilarious

[houstoncalls!]

"Italy and France will not face a penalty shoot-out on Tuesday no matter what the results are in the final games in Group C, Uefa has confirmed.
The European football governing body had suggested a shoot-out could be used to determine which of the two teams finishes bottom of the group.
But a Uefa official attempted to clear up the confusion over the matter.
"There is no way that France and Italy can go to a penalty shoot-out," a spokesman told BBC Sport."

Damn.

I'd like to see Benzema start tonight, or at least brought on. He's a better option than Gomis anyway.

i thought a romania win was pretty unlikely, but i suppose you never know.

a shootout between france and italy to see who comes in 3rd is hilariousAccording to BBC van Basten's resting at least five players - Ooijer, de Jong, van Nistelrooy, Sneijder and van der Vaart, but van Perise and Robben are expected to start as is Huntelaar - it's hardly a weak team, so I can't really see Romania winning, but like you said.. you never know.

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

"Italy and France will not face a penalty shoot-out on Tuesday no matter what the results are in the final games in Group C, Uefa has confirmed.
The European football governing body had suggested a shoot-out could be used to determine which of the two teams finishes bottom of the group.
But a Uefa official attempted to clear up the confusion over the matter.
"There is no way that France and Italy can go to a penalty shoot-out," a spokesman told BBC Sport."

Damn.

I'd like to see Benzema start tonight, or at least brought on. He's a better option than Gomis anyway.

But...that didn't explain anything at all, did it?

[houstoncalls!]

Yeah, I only copied and pasted a little section. Here's the link. Sorry for the confusion, haha.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/italy/7457863.stm

[somethingyellow]

the dutch just announced their lineup: Stekelenburg, Heitinga, De Cler, Bouma, Boulahrouz, De Zeeuw, Engelaar, Afellay, Van Persie, Robben, Huntelaar. not surprised with how many players are resting but still glad to see van persie, robben, and huntelaar all in there

[houstoncalls!]

Yep, still a strong lineup. Holland got through and they have a right to do whatever the hell they want lineup wise.

1857: TEAMS Netherlands v Romania
Netherlands: Stekelenburg, Heitinga, De Cler, Bouma, Boulahrouz, De Zeeuw, Engelaar, Afellay, Van Persie, Robben, Huntelaar
Romania: Lobont, Tamas, Rat, Ghionea, Contra, Chivu, Nicolita, Codrea, Cocis, Niculae, Mutu
1855: TEAMS France v Italy
France: Coupet, Abidal, Gallas, Makelele, Benzema, Govou, Henry, Evra, Clerc, Toulalan, Ribery
Italy: Buffon, Panucci, Grosso, Chiellini, Gattuso, Toni, De Rossi, Cassano, Zambrotta, Perrotta, Pirlo

[somethingyellow]

Italy's making 2 changes, Camoranesi and del piero out for Gattuso and Cassano. I know Cassano has a lot of potential and has been great in the past but im hoping he can step it up in the biggest match of his career. Here's to praying for the 3 points and a dutch win or draw today

[houstoncalls!]

Camoranesi's done nothing, I'm surprised he wasn't dropped for the Romania game.

[somethingyellow]

Camoranesi's done nothing, I'm surprised he wasn't dropped for the Romania game.I am too. I didnt think del piero looked that bad last match. He did some creating, much better than anything in the netherlands match. Gattuso and De rossi need to control the midfield

[S/T]

D0t_wq5Jwg8

[Özgür Kurtoglu]

Go Sweden.

[houstoncalls!]

Arshavin and Ibrahimovic start, I hope Arshavin plays well but I doubt Russia will win.

[somethingyellow]

Go Sweden.i agree. I want to see the Swedes advance

[S/T]

Absolutely LOVE seeing Alonso with the armband.

[S/T]

Only 1 player in Greece's starting XI whose last name doesn't end in S.