Euro '12

**ndebergerac** · 06-15-2012, 09:31 AM

Italy got what they deservved. In control of the first half, looked good in attack and comfortable in defense, then what did they do? Decided to try and defend a 1-0 lead for 45 minutes versus a very capable team. Most teams would psuh a little for 10-15, then think about sitting back, not the Italians. With Spain dominating a woeful Irish side it sets up a very interesting final round. Long story short, Italy must beat Ireland and hope for the best from the Spain v Croatia game, where a tie might see them both through.

Not sure what we're going to see today. I've a hunch the French may quietly go about business here and come through Group D as winners, without anyone else really taking note. They are the best team on paper, and so far there appears to be no split in the camp. Ukraine are a good side though and that homefield advatage is very important. Tight, cautious game, that could go either way.

England v Sweden might be a good time for an afternoon nap.

**ChiefSalsa** · 06-15-2012, 09:45 AM

The Azzurri made the 1-0 result an art form. No more. Going back to the 2000 Euro Final, when France scored with 10 seconds left and then won it in overtime, the Italians have not consistantly put teams away when leading.

Croatia earned that tie; and now Italy has to score at least 3 goals on Ireland to ensure they do not get screwed out of advancing like they did in 2004.

I have little to say about Spain and Ireland. The Irish sheet the bed. I expected much more from them.

I have no idea about today's game. D was the most eclectic group coming into the Cup and nothing I saw in the first games changed that. I will take Sweden and France to win, both by 1-0 scores.

No scoreless games yet. Pleased with that!

**ndebergerac** · 06-16-2012, 07:10 AM

Didn't get to see much of yesterdays games, but it would appear I was quite wrong. France presumably comfortable v Ukraine and 5 goal games are rarely boring. France clear favorites to win the group.

Can't see past Russia today to win the group, Czech v Poland could be an end to end thriller.

**MariusPontmercy** · 06-16-2012, 09:35 AM

Group D all hinges on England v Ukraine now. England looks to have momentum after beating Sweden, but they did concede two, and didn't control the match as well as they could have. It should be interesting to watch how Poland handles the Czechs, and I haven't seen Russia play yet. It's interesting to see them at the top of their group, but then again, that group does contain Greece, Poland, and the Czech republic. Not to knock any of those fans, but they're all relative unknowns to me as far as national teams go.

**ndebergerac** · 06-17-2012, 10:28 AM

Well well. I chose to watch the Czech v Poland game, expecting an entertaining match. Don't know what happened, with 25 minutes to go and both facing elimination, there was still no urgency from either team to score. Czech controlled most of the game and deserved the win. Poland were a bit of a disappointment in the end.

Didn't see any of the Russia v Greece game, but for the countless time Russia bring a strong team and go out with a whimper.

Today's games are difficult to predict. Germany and Denmark will be fully aware that a draw will see them both through if Holland win. If the game is tied with 20 minutes to play and Holland are ahead, it'll become a training session. Of course if Portugal win or draw, Denmark will need all 3 points, which in turn could eliminate Germany. Too many variables.

**ChiefSalsa** · 06-17-2012, 01:32 PM

Good thing I was not on my comp yesterday. my predictions would have been terrible.

I loved the Russians. I do not know what to say. They played 3 great halves of soccer and then thought they could take the other 3 off.

Putin is going to have invade someone to get his frustration out.

I will take Portugese to end the Dutch sadness in a sloppy 1-0 game. I seriously over estimated the Oranje's ability to play as a strong, unified unit for the 3rd straight major tournament in a row.

I see the Germany scoring early and the Danes retorting soon after. 1-1, and a nap in the 2nd half.

**MariusPontmercy** · 06-17-2012, 03:19 PM

The Russians played very poorly. They had no creativity whatsoever. Try to pass up the middle and get a shot off, over and over again, with zero wide play. The Greek defense was packed into the 18 yard box and never had to leave it, the Russians just would not play wide.

**ndebergerac** · 06-17-2012, 04:52 PM

I'm sure every neutral was hoping for Holland or Denmark to snatch a late goal for a little bit of tension and drama. Germany always looked in control and very much deserved to win again. Holland were poor, very poor, I'm sure the World Cup 2014 Squad will have a few new faces and possibly a new coach (this is assuming they can get it together enough to qualify, their group is weak though). Ronaldo is moving through the gears, he might have quite the day against the wobbly Czech defense. Germany should be able to take care of Greece, though maybe it's time to consider them a threat?

Tomorrow, a 2-2 tie guarentees qualification for both Spain and Croatia, if they're smart, that's the score we'll have. However, if Spain are in the mood to keep sporting integrity intact they might take it by a goal or 2. Italy should beat Ireland, but watch out for their all out defense strategy should they score first, might be their undoing. The Irish definitely have a point to prove, they may be out, but can still influence the group. I can see their style unsettling Italy's defense.

**Hospitalitygirl** · 06-18-2012, 07:48 PM

#Azurri!!!

What does this do to brackets now? I know many of you expected an early departure for Italy.

**MariusPontmercy** · 06-18-2012, 11:26 PM

Originally Posted by Hospitalitygirl

#Azurri!!!

What does this do to brackets now? I know many of you expected an early departure for Italy.

They could play either France, England, or Ukraine depending on how tomorrows matches go. I predict either England or France.

**ndebergerac** · 06-19-2012, 11:19 AM

Italy have certainly improved drastically since the World Cup, they have to be considered a legitimate championship threat, they won't fear anyone from Group D.

Today it's easy to take England and France with both only needing a draw, and perhaps being the better sides on paper. France should have the easier task versus and uninspiring and already eliminated Sweden, they'll probably win by a couple and be in complete control.

England v Ukraine could go either way, but I'll go with home field advantage. Rooney will be a boost, but over-all England don't impress me.

**ChiefSalsa** · 06-19-2012, 11:22 AM

I think the French dominate Sweden today. Two early goals and then a snooze fest.

England loves drama. I will call an early Ukraine goal followed by some Terry-Rooney 2nd half magic that propells the English into a QF matchup against the Spanish.

**ndebergerac** · 06-19-2012, 05:06 PM

Watched England v Ukraine, skipped the France match so I've no idea what happened to them today. 2-0 to an eliminated team and now face Spain. Just when I thought they were looking good.

England were a bit lucky, Ukraine threatened, but were pretty poor in front of goal. Sure, when Terry made his clearance the ball was over the line, but Steve McManaman was correct in saying there should have been an offside call during the buildup. so no real controversy there. EDIT: Just watched some replays, now I'm not so sure.

It's a shame both hosts have gone, it's always a nice fairy tale story when an underdog host progresses (thinking Japan and South Korea in 2002 and the US back in '94).

So, we have:

Czech Rep v Portugal
Germany v Greece
Spain v France
Italy v England

Seems to be an obvious favorite in each game, I suspect most fans will expect Portugal, Germany, Spain and Italy to progress. My initial thoughts are just that.

**Hospitalitygirl** · 06-19-2012, 05:11 PM

Works for me!

**ndebergerac** · 06-21-2012, 01:27 PM

Sooooooo, Portugal to have the better of the possession and chances I guess? Ronaldo to get on the scoresheet again? 3-1 win for Portugal? Is it really that simple?

**ChiefSalsa** · 06-21-2012, 02:00 PM

Yes.

I have shown zero respect to the Czechs. Why change now? The Portugese are the better side and were battle-tested in their group. An early goal and tough defense see Portugal thru, call it 2-1.

(NOTE: Portugal dives too much. Let's see if they get a penalty awarded to them for this behavior today)

**FMT** · 06-21-2012, 03:25 PM

French fans hang out anywhere specific that you know about? All these games are on cable so is the pub scene still going to be good for these games? I'd like to catch some of France-Spain with some other France fans if possible. Just walk to Fado and hope?

**ChiefSalsa** · 06-21-2012, 04:44 PM

Originally Posted by FMT

French fans hang out anywhere specific that you know about? All these games are on cable so is the pub scene still going to be good for these games? I'd like to catch some of France-Spain with some other France fans if possible. Just walk to Fado and hope?

Fado? Ewww! Dark Horse every time!

There is a French place around the corner from Dark Horse that I seem to remember being a French soccer hang out.

**ndebergerac** · 06-21-2012, 06:43 PM

Dark Horse, Fado and Tir Na Nog are your 3 main soccer bars in the city. Not sure if you're likely to find a large French contingent in any of them to be honest. I know when Scotland have a big game (yes, usually it's only in qualifying) there's no shortage of kilts and navy at the bar, I'm sure you must know a France fan, who knows a France fan, who knows a France fan.......... Find a place and make it yours for the day!

**MariusPontmercy** · 06-21-2012, 07:24 PM

Disappointed with Ukraine. Had the majority of possession, lots of chances, but simply could not find the composure to finish any of them off. At least they went down swinging and didn't fold.

In any event, I would tentatively put Spain and Germany through over Greece and France. The only game I think is really up in the air is England/Italy. It will all depend on what level Italy comes out at. I feel like they very well may come out flat or turn off midway through.