After the first round of matches, I can say Euro 08 is a bore. There’s one or two good matches, but most teams are somehow between defensive to very defensive. Here are the teams that had impressed me:
Spain- First off, let me say the 4-1 score-line flattered Spain. The Russian hit the post and their captain had a very good chance near the end of the game. However, I like the frontline of Fernando Torres and David Villa. Villa may be the one who had the hat-trick, but it was Torres who created the chances with his running and ability to take on defenders. However, one can never underestimate Spain's grim ability to implode on themselves. At every major championship, you know they will implode sooner or later. I think Euro 08 will finish in familiar fashion for them as well. Till then, just enjoy the good soccer they are playing.
Holland- Ruud van Nistelrooy's controversial opening goal against Italy was off-side. Everyone thought so. Van Nistelrooy thought he was offside, the Italians thought he was off-side, everyone but the referees. So the next time someone comes off for treatment, make sure he is at the halfway line because he is still ‘in play’, even when he is off the field of play. Understand? If you don’t, you are not the only one.
To be fair, the Italians did not deserve to lose 3-0. The main reason for the score-line is Edwin van der Sar. The Manchester United keeper made some very good saves, and that’s why I like Holland now. Traditionally, the Dutch attack is much better than their defense. If their defense can match their attack, watch out for them to win the whole thing.
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