Not long to go now, so how about it Dakka, whose going to claim national glory and be crowned kings of Europe??
The mighty men of Northern Ireland's Green and White Army will obviously mince anyone in their way and if they dont win the fans are going to make enough noise to make everyone think they have won anyway!
Aside from my local heroes I will throw some support over to England but my money, if I was a gambler would be on France. (Or maybe Spain)
We're not Brazil we're Northern Ireland! Up the GAWA!
Beg forgiveness for not giving the might dragons some love.
Hopefully group B will see at least one UK nation through to the next round and maybe two. Looks like Gareth Bale is going to be match fit for the start of the tournament which is a pretty good leg up.
reds8n wrote: Germany favourites for me , even given their recent somewhat erratic form.
Yeah, that were friendlies. You just can't use these to judge the team's tournament performance in any way. Before a tournament they have a hard time against anyone and manage to win against Italy but when things get serious they can manage to win against everyone and lose against Italy.
Mozzyfuzzy wrote: Why do we have 5 strikers? Why do we have 1 dedicated winger? Why does Rooney sit at the top of the midfield diamond?
So many questions.
I think the answer to them all is 'Woy'. He's a nice old chap and everything but I don't think the most tactical of managers.
I'd give it to Big Sam, the only thing not in his management locker is the glamour to attract big names, and that doesn't matter for international teams.
But Jack has some flair that they both lack. That one through pass against the Turks showed he has something that some other players don't have. Also Hodgson has a hardon for him plying as a holding player that can score goals.........
Drinkwater's a Journeyman that's put in a good shift this year but hardly a world beater.
Townsend looked good in a dire Newcastle team but he's lot the shine he had at Spurs 2-3 years ago.
Also we're going to end up with Milner on a wing, he's never been a winger imo, he's always lacked the pace and agility that (for me) makes a winger. He's probably best served at the top of the diamond with Wilshire behind with Sterling and Walcott(e?) on the wings, then pick 2 strikers who aren't Rooney.
'member we'll lose Sturridge in training and Rooney will break a bone in his foot.....
Townsend looked good in a dire Newcastle team but he's lot the shine he had at Spurs 2-3 years ago.
Possibly, he's still looked alright for England and Wilshire's contributions this season have almost entirely been limited to the Tobbaco, Nightclub and pugilistic industries.
I personally would have dropped Henderson for Drinkwater. Noble also deserved a shout.
Wilshire and Sturridge are lucky to make it, especially the latter. They are both talented, but they've been out most of the season. Sturridge in particular is glass. Talented and arguably the best striker we have, ahead of Kane and Vardy, but he's so prone to injury it's unreliable.
This is not bias due to my location I genuinely want England to do well. Better than 2014 anyway...but I don't trust Hodgson to deliver.
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: I was hoping that Euro 2016 would pass by unnoticed on dakka, given that a certain nation, of which I am a citizen, failed to qualify
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: I was hoping that Euro 2016 would pass by unnoticed on dakka, given that a certain nation, of which I am a citizen, failed to qualify
No surprise to see the rest of Britain sticking the boot into Scotland. Kick a country when it's down, eh.
On a more serious note, the extended format of the tournament does worry me, Having the 16 best teams always provided high quality entertainment, with Euro 2012 being a brilliant tournament.
By admitting lesser nations like Wales and Northern Ireland, I'm worried the tournament has been devalued!
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: No surprise to see the rest of Britain sticking the boot into Scotland. Kick a country when it's down, eh.
On a more serious note, the extended format of the tournament does worry me, Having the 16 best teams always provided high quality entertainment, with Euro 2012 being a brilliant tournament.
By admitting lesser nations like Wales and Northern Ireland, I'm worried the tournament has been devalued!
Before I read your hate in this post I was going to say something nice about the scots in their failure to qualify but after that I will join in the mockery of your misery. North Sea Oil can't buy you tournament places!
At least the other UK countries are expected to not do well. England has to deal with the dichotomy of expectation that they're going to win the whole thing at a romp whilst also being an embarrassment that should get the whole team sacked and Woy beheaded as a failure to the birthplace of football.
Oh to be the plucky underdog who considers it a success just to make it to the group stage. (Not that the Scots would know anything about that this year)
Henry wrote: At least the other UK countries are expected to not do well. England has to deal with the dichotomy of expectation that they're going to win the whole thing at a romp whilst also being an embarrassment that should get the whole team sacked and Woy beheaded as a failure to the birthplace of football.
Jeebus... y'all do that with footy as well as the Men's game?? How the hell do you guys manage that much masochism?
I wished that England had never won the 1966 World Cup, because the English media now expects England to be challenging for the cup every time when every fan who watches knows that we're not really good enough.
We just beat Portugal in a friendly in what our manager believed was the best 11 with the players chosen (and arguably left out players who should have gone as opposed to big names, unlike other teams). 1-0 was the score and despite having two of the best strikers in the premier league, it was a dismal performance and we had to win with a late goal through a defender - and this Portugal team didn't even have Ronaldo in!
Yeah, I'm just hoping we get out the group stages and show a bit of effort. Hodgson needs to go though. Like 6 years ago.
Its time for my football drinking games commence.
Regarding England:
Down a shot whenever:
Commentators mention the premier league being the best in the world.
Commentators and/or pundits claim English player x is a world beater on their day.
(take an extra shot should it be about Rooney)
(make it an extra double should the claim be made when player x hasn't performed well).
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: No surprise to see the rest of Britain sticking the boot into Scotland. Kick a country when it's down, eh.
On a more serious note, the extended format of the tournament does worry me, Having the 16 best teams always provided high quality entertainment, with Euro 2012 being a brilliant tournament.
By admitting lesser nations like Wales and Northern Ireland, I'm worried the tournament has been devalued!
Before I read your hate in this post I was going to say something nice about the scots in their failure to qualify but after that I will join in the mockery of your misery. North Sea Oil can't buy you tournament places!
Bring on the insults and banter!
I don't mind defeat, God knows we're used to it by now
Automatically Appended Next Post:
notprop wrote: Kicking Scotland when it's down suggests that there was a time when Scottish football wasn't.........?
My computer cannot seem to search that far into ancient history?
I shall watch most of the games, and retain strict neutrality, but for some strange reason, I'm drawn to supporting Wales, Russia, and Slovakia
reds8n wrote: I think given the season he's had Wilshire is damn lucky to have made the squad.
I think both Townsend and Drinkwater both had better , well more actual, seasons really.
This.
I have a lot of respect for Hodgson (he's an absolute legend around here because of his heroics with Malmö in the seventies) but I think he's reverted to the bad old days (thinking Sven's tenure) of picking a player on his name instead of his form. I think Drinkwater would've been an inspired selection for a team that all too often disappears up its own bottom. Sure he's a humble journeyman, but he's just won the Premier League and proved a vital cog in the Leicester machine. Not to mention he would've brought the best out of Vardy.
With Wilshere, for all his craft and scampering, I just feel that his personality on the pitch is of the entitled diva mold. Whenever he plays, I'm reminded of the barrenness of 'The Golden Generation' and how spectacularly over-hyped they were.
All that said, I think England have a fighting chance this summer.
My heart wants Gareth Bale to ascend to sainthood and take Wales to glory, but my head says that despite the controversy over leaving out Benzema, France will win it on their own turf.
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: Will heading to the shops this weekend to buy the Euro 2016 Panini sticker album. I'm tempted to blow £100 on 2 boxes of stickers
Panini stickers, now there's one way to get obsessive collecting Wargames to follow football. Must dig out my of 80's albums, do they still do the foil club badges?
Tonight makes it 12 games undefeated for Northern Ireland which makes us the team entering the championship with the longest unbeaten run. Technically we are the 'on form team.' WE ARE THE GREEN AND WHITE ARMY!!!!! Leicester City of Europe!
so I hope the mods don't mind me bumping this thread up.
Anyway, first game is France Vs. Romania, but thee are problems in France with general strikes and militant farmers, so nothing knew there
Also, I heard that the French trade unions are threating to put garlic in the chocolate éclairs they sell to the rest of the world if their demands are not met
reds8n wrote: I got France in the sweepstake at work so fingers crossed there.
England kick off tomorrow at 20;00
Payet is world class. What a strike!
Was a decent game, pretty choppy in parts but entertaining. Do not understand how Giroud was on all that time (that goal was a nod-in, literally no effort after missing several chances both before and after). Should have gone instead of Pogba for me.
That said, France deserved to win. Here's hoping England can follow suit!
We're big fans of Payet in my house. What a boot that guy has got. Some of his goals in the Premiership have been rockets and tonight's was wonderful. Nobody should be able to perfectly place a ball into the net with that much power when surrounded by three defenders.
I made a grave error in my fantasy team this year. I've got no more substitutions left, but thankfully I subbed Payet in and got 9 points or so.
I regret taking Pogba out. He had a good game, I was genuinely surprised when he was subbed. Alas, he had to go because I had very little funds left. I'm gonna shift some people around to try and get him back in. He alongside Payet were bossing it.
Kante was killing that game and I'm glad he was in first time. Highest interceptions, highest tackles, most distance covered...business as usual for him. He set up an amazing pass that gave Payet a nice first touch to score that beauty.
I was surprised at how much France struggled against Romania today, was expecting a 3-0 or 4-0 game. To be fair though, France did barely miss a handful of shots too. Also does anyone else find it ridiculous that the UEFA website doesn't post match highlights? I had to trawl through gakky Youtube videos to find a half decent reel.
Thought Giroud was gonna be off for sure....
... still guess that's why I'm not a manager eh ?
French defence looks much weaker than I was expecting, but just about held up.
Yeah, if France have an Achilles heel, it's going to be through their aging fullbacks. I don't know what Evra was thinking at when he conceded that penalty.
Absolute shocker wasn't it !
Was quite surprised to find he was actually in the squad still/at all, thought perhaps they have enough strikes over there already
I'm going to go with a 2-1 win for England tonight.
A competent but uninspired performance, with a moment of brilliance, a horrendous blunder and, of course, a really bad injury to a key player.
Have to agree. It seems an easy enough group but the problem aren't the players (although they could be inspired more) but the manager himself. Haven't trusted him since 2012, especially when he chose Delph over Noble in the original 26 (like what?) and then dropped Drinkwater (like, seriously, what?). It's like he goes for names rather than form.
I'm still getting behind the team because I wouldn't be a true England supporter if I wasn't. It just gets to me we have someone who isn't as tactically adept as other managers.
I expect to get out the group, most likely as second (I think Bale can win the group alone with inspired performances), maybe top 16/quarter finals before we start to struggle.
EDIT: Rumoured line up of Hart, Walker, Smalling, Cahill, Rose, Dier, Rooney, Alli, Lallana, Kane, Sterling. I like it. Would have preferred seeing Vardy in the squad as a 4-4-2 but seeing Rooney in his best position (CAM to CM) is good.
Truth be told it was starting before the match. Apparantly Russian supporters came at English supports with knives before the game. I read that off English papers though so make that off you will.
That said, why is this even happening? It is a game. No need for violence whatsoever.
Knockagh wrote: Oh England oh England!! Crazy ending. What's up with the pre match boxing??
I have no idea. Hopefully it's a one-off because one English fan is fighting for their life.
If this is a regular occurrence in Russian matches, they should be stripped of the World Cup. I dread to think how much more danger people will be in Russia if the travelling fans are like this.
Automatically Appended Next Post: EDIT: Ahh. English supporters pelted French police with bottles after drinking all day to start with, who responded with tear gas.
Russian fans joined in later throwing bottles and chairs.
Why alcohol isn't banned from sporting events, or at least why drunk people aren't barred/removed I don't know.
In contrast, Slovakia and Wales fans were drinking together. No issues what so ever.
EDIT 2: Apparently 2 English fans have been killed, one of which pushed onto the underground. Why why why!? People need to learn to behave/drink responsibly.
Euros been a bit slow so far very cagey looking forward to watching Germany tonight for me its still there's to lose there team is strong all over the field
notprop wrote: I'm expecting Italy to make sure they don't loose, that is to say park the bus and wait for game 2.
If they can score a goal before doing so then it will be even more boring.
Hope I'm wrong.
The World Cup was pretty embarrassing for them. Possibly more than England, because Italy looked likely to win the group after Costa Rica won their game, but then Italy just flopped and finished third, even when against 10 man Uruguay.
Wouldn't surprise me to see them score and park the bus. No Pirlo makes me sad though, I know he's getting old but he is an absolute joy to watch when he controls the game.
A top football official in Moscow has praised the Russian fans involved in violence over the weekend in Marseille, saying they had defended their country’s honour and should be forgiven.
“I don’t see anything wrong with the fans fighting,” Igor Lebedev wrote on Twitter. “Quite the opposite, well done lads, keep it up!”
Lebedev, who sits on the executive committee of the Russian football union, is an MP from the nationalist Liberal Democratic party and the deputy chairman of the Russian parliament.
“I don’t understand those politicians and officials who are criticising our fans. We should defend them, and then we can sort it out when they come home,” Lebedev wrote in a series of tweets.
“What happened in Marseille and in other French towns is not the fault of fans, but about the inability of police to organise this kind of event properly.”
have a feeling that the hosting of the world cup 2018 might be looked at eh ?
I think Qatar might be stripped but Russia looks unlikely, powerhouse nation and all that. I sincerely hope that they do get stripped because the moment Russia are eliminated hell is going to break loose as they have no threat of being disqualified anymore. Besides, there were contingency nations on hand if South Africa and Brazil couldn't finish their stadiums in time, no reason why there aren't any for 2018/2022.
On the pitch, Spain are looking decent. Certainly not 2014 level at least. Czech Republic are resolute though.
It looked like Belgium were individuals on the same side, Italy were a team. Resolute defending and an absolute joy to watch. Not the best attacking options but modest enough to get the job done. Their real strength lies within Buffon, Chiellini and Bonucci (what a pass from the latter).
It's like Germany and Italy have shown Hodgson how best to defend a 1-0 lead (if you look at how the second goal was scored). But knowing Roy, he'll keep Kane on corner duty and drop Vardy any chance he can get...
It's only now starting to sink in (as England faces Wales) just how badly that win was needed. Bale will surely be the best player on the pitch if Hodgson can't lock him down properly and Slovakia are no pushover. Please put Henderson on (as a Man Utd fan this pains me, but his work rate is needed to man mark Bale).
They probably won't get through the group stages making this a resounding 'meh' in disciplinary action. The best way to make them understand the severity of their actions is to host the 2018 World cup in Spain/Portugal.
Kilkrazy wrote: Russia has been handed a "suspended disqualification" from Euro 2016.
Short of Russian fans smuggling in guns, this is pretty meaningless. UEFA have threatened the nuclear option before, especially regarding racist behaviour at stadiums, and the offenders have received nothing more than a paltry fine.
If Russia get kicked out of this tournament, I'll change my name to Vladimir Putin.
They probably won't get through the group stages making this a resounding 'meh' in disciplinary action. The best way to make them understand the severity of their actions is to host the 2018 World cup in Spain/Portugal.
Frozocrone wrote: The best way to make them understand the severity of their actions is to host the 2018 World cup in Spain/Portugal.
Oh gods please no! We're still reeling from Euro 2004.
Automatically Appended Next Post: Additionally, Belgium-Italy was so far the best match in the cup so far, with the Spanish match being a resounding disappointment since neither team played any good at all (especially the Czech).
They probably won't get through the group stages making this a resounding 'meh' in disciplinary action. The best way to make them understand the severity of their actions is to host the 2018 World cup in Spain/Portugal.
Don't forget, 4 of the 6 3rd place teams go into the knock out stage due to the expanded format.
And with that the first games for each group are done!
Hungary are my dark horse for this tournament. Tipped to lose to Austria and end up with a resolute display similar to that of Italy, with the result to match. They could go far in the tournament, certainly at least through to the knockout phases.
Iceland should be happy with this start for their first major tournament, especially being the underdogs.
Portugal should be frustrated/disappointed. They should have walked this game. 1-1 is a poor reflection on a team with talent of their nature. I think they had 78% possession and made nothing of it.
NewEngOli wrote: I cant think of anybody in there right mind who would travel to Russia for the world cup.
Oh don't worry. We will only beat you up a little.
But in all seriousness, if you can stand the bureaucracy Russia is actually a really nice place to visit. The vast majority of Russians is really friendly and hospitable to tourists. The people who caused trouble in France are only a very tiny minority of Russian football fans. They are violent radicals and fascists. Those people were not there to enjoy football, only to fight. Every country has bad apples like that. The only reason they could cause trouble like that is because the French security was not strong enough. In Russia, these criminals would have never gotten the chance. The Russian police and secret services are very effective in suppressing troublemakers. I will be really surprised if there is going to be a major riot at the world cup. Putin has already promised that these people won't cause a problem at the world cup.
I am really happy that Hungary won. I think it is great that they finally return to a major tournament. A country like Hungary belongs there. Hungary is certainly one of my favourite countries at this tournament (along with Russia, Croatia and Iceland). Secretly I am really hoping Iceland wins. That would be hilarious.
"Football fans" indeed. Although I agree that French security wasn't up to scratch.
Putin has stated he disagrees with several pro-violence MPs and that the anti-violence is the official stance. Some MPs are going back on what they said, or at least editing what they said. Has no place anywhere, especially events like these. I partly blame alcohol on it - it's been reported drunk English fans started it and threw bottles and stuff. Doesn't excuse flares being fired into crowds, fireworks, throwing chairs and other violence that occurred but the English aren't exactly saints in all this as the media might make you believe. The other day I saw English and Welsh fans to ward off Russian hooligans and on occasion, local French thugs. Obvious bias towards British people, so take what you read with a pinch of salt - I think the Russian media portrayed the Russian fans in a more positive light and criticized unethical English fans for wanting Russia to be stripped of the World Cup. Think there is even a petition floating around that 22k have signed...they (being Russian and English fans) should be given the opportunity to behave first before further action is taken.
On a more positive note, Hungary were very good! They did slip up a few times against Austria but another performance like that and they could well go on to top. My money would probably be safe on Germany...though they didn't look great at the back despite Boateng bossing it against Ukraine. Probably Italy? Tactically astonishing against Belgium's flair. My personal favorites are England (obviously), Italy and I'm hoping Switzerland and Hungary go far, those two are my dark horses.
That Russian minority is hell bent on a fight regardless of who, why or such.
There in France for that. Not football. Many nationsnlike UK have travel bans on football hooligans and the like as it nearly destroyed football in the UK at least.
The ones in France are there for fun, not fighting.
As bad as Russia have been, Slovakia have been brilliant in both games and were unlucky to lose to Wales. Hamsik in particular, he's shown up in both games and got his rewards in the second game (assist and goal, Payet style).
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: I'm looking forward to the England Wales game. Rioting England fans, thousands of Welshmen baying for English blood...it's like Medieval times
I agree, but Tottenham are doing surprising well considering they are missing half their regular players.
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: I'm looking forward to the England Wales game. Rioting England fans, thousands of Welshmen baying for English blood...it's like Medieval times
I agree, but Tottenham are doing surprising well considering they are missing half their regular players.
Good point. On the other hand, as a neutral, whoever loses, I win.
They're calling this the Battle of Britain, but it stops at Hadrian's wall
jhe90 wrote: That Russian minority is hell bent on a fight regardless of who, why or such.
There in France for that. Not football. Many nationsnlike UK have travel bans on football hooligans and the like as it nearly destroyed football in the UK at least.
The ones in France are there for fun, not fighting.
Don't be so sure, I know a bunch of people that went over for a drink and a rowdy time. No tickets, just drive over (don't take long from Kent) and find a bar.
I'd like to see England get removed due to the actions of the fans. Only way they'll learn.
Do_I_Not_Like_That wrote: I'm looking forward to the England Wales game. Rioting England fans, thousands of Welshmen baying for English blood...it's like Medieval times
I agree, but Tottenham are doing surprising well considering they are missing half their regular players.
Good point. On the other hand, as a neutral, whoever loses, I win.
They're calling this the Battle of Britain, but it stops at Hadrian's wall
It wouldn't be that bad, at least the Scottish fans have been well behaved this year, no reports of trouble from them.
I'd like to see England get removed due to the actions of the fans. Only way they'll learn.
Some fans.
It would seem a shame to punish the vast majority based upon the actions of the few. Especially given the amount to resources the English FA and Police have put into it.
Of course with no England would come a demand for the return of TV monies which would worry UEFA far more than a few thrown drinks.
I'd like to see England get removed due to the actions of the fans. Only way they'll learn.
Some fans.
It would seem a shame to punish the vast majority based upon the actions of the few. Especially given the amount to resources the English FA and Police have put into it.
Of course with no England would come a demand for the return of TV monies which would worry UEFA far more than a few thrown drinks.
Seeing as I get punished with endless football coverage and advertising, I'd say its only fair
Sturridge is really selfish. I've tuned in late (just before Vardy scored) but Sturridge has taken at least 3 shots outside the box.
Rashford, Sturridge and Vardy though, get it there! Really excited, but concerned about injury now with all our subs used. Vardy/Sturridge should have been on for Harry Kane from the start.
Automatically Appended Next Post: If this carries on to a draw, a win against Slovakia will see us through, most likely on second.
It's staggering how static and bland Roy is. Welsh manager is up and about relaying instructions, Roy is sat in the dugout just watching.
Automatically Appended Next Post: YESSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!
Smalling has been good all season, not too sure about Cahill. Fullbacks have been phenomenal though.
Not too sure on Hart. That's two mistakes that have caused goals.
I'm interested in seeing 442 with Vardy and Sturridge upfront, flat four, not diamond as that doesn't seem to work. Will probably be 433 though, because Kane does well as a lone striker whereas Vardy/Sturridge work as a pairing best and 433 is the best England have looked.
Here's hoping Northern Ireland can pull off a result against Ukraine and Poland/Germany is an interesting encounter (Lewandoski vs Bayern Munich).
Frozocrone wrote: Smalling has been good all season, not too sure about Cahill. Fullbacks have been phenomenal though.
Not too sure on Hart. That's two mistakes that have caused goals.
I'm interested in seeing 442 with Vardy and Sturridge upfront, flat four, not diamond as that doesn't seem to work. Will probably be 433 though, because Kane does well as a lone striker whereas Vardy/Sturridge work as a pairing best and 433 is the best England have looked.
Here's hoping Northern Ireland can pull off a result against Ukraine and Poland/Germany is an interesting encounter (Lewandoski vs Bayern Munich).
The English defence was nervy, hesitant, and bullied off the ball too easily IMO
Poland and Germany should be interesting. World Champions are obvious favourites but Poland beat them 2-0 in the qualifiers, which includes the star studded line up of Kroos, Neuer, Boateng, Muller and others.
Go on the might Northern Ireland!!!! Bring on the Germans! Was hoping the Germans would beat Poland, but will make an interesting last few games. Would be pretty great if all the home nations get through!
Would have made things more straight forward. Now that Ukraine are officially out (can only get 3 points and the head to head record against NI means NI trump them), they might just go for it and try to beat Poland through sheer determination (rivalry and all that).
NI need to get at least a point for a good chance of going through on virtue of being a top 4 3rd place team. A win would be better though, but against Germany? They aren't exactly convincing, but they ooze class and will give NI a tough challenge for the 3 points.
Czech Republic and Croatia probably the most interesting of today's games. Sweden are nothing without Ibrahimovic and against Italy shouldn't offer too much of a problem. Spain aren't exactly entertaining to watch, no matter how efficient they are and should beat Turkey with relative ease. .
Sweden are all bark and no bite. A lot of possession which plays into Italy's hands as they like counter attacking best. It's incredible how they still haven't had a shot on target after 160 mins. Ibrahimovic just blazed a ball over from close range (but is spared embarassment because of offside).
They have to play Belgium next I think. Sweden don't look like to progress as a top 2.
Automatically Appended Next Post: And Italy have scored! Looking to auto qualify.
Sweden to battle with either Belgium or Ireland for third...
EDIT: Croatia should be angry. They were dominating that game.
Also what is with the flares in stadiums? French security is looking shambolic at best.
I think Hungary really is my favourite now. Their keeper is just so fabulous in his lucky grey tracksuit trousers...
Also, the guy is ancient. Many of the players on this tournament weren't even born yet when he started his career
Iron_Captain wrote: I think Hungary really is my favourite now. Their keeper is just so fabulous in his lucky grey tracksuit trousers...
Also, the guy is ancient. Many of the players on this tournament weren't even born yet when he started his career
Best I've seen from England in recent times.
I understand the need for squad rotation, but we weren't exactly in a strong position to afford to rotate six players.
Sigh...well at least it's better than the World Cup...
To be fair to England, (stupid phone) Slovakia had one of those nights where they made every attempt to block/ last ditch effort, mostly thanks to Skrtel.
The only thing we've lacked so far is goals, we've dominated the majority of each group game so far, with Hart being the only weak link at the back (see Bale's freekick).
Russia losing this badly is a disgrace. The coach should be sent to Siberia for the next 10 years!
Translation: Those were not our football players
you can buy those uniforms in any store.
Congratulations to Wales though. You totally deserved victory.
Iron_Captain wrote: Russia losing this badly is a disgrace. The coach should be sent to Siberia for the next 10 years!
Translation: Those were not our football players
you can buy those uniforms in any store.
Congratulations to Wales though. You totally deserved victory.
President Putin is not amused
In all honesty, the last good Russian team I witnessed was the Soviet Union team in the 1980s...
But most of them were Ukrainians
Automatically Appended Next Post:
Mozzyfuzzy wrote: To be fair to England, (stupid phone) Slovakia had one of those nights where they made every attempt to block/ last ditch effort, mostly thanks to Skrtel.
The only thing we've lacked so far is goals, we've dominated the majority of each group game so far, with Hart being the only weak link at the back (see Bale's freekick).
I reckon Northern Ireland might progress. All they need is for Belgium to beat Sweden or Hungary to beat Portugal.
Oh...the humilation if Portugal get knocked out in the group stages...heck if Iceland manage to draw against Austria they could be within a shout of the last 16.
Our wee country of 1.8 million held the 81 million Germans to one nil tonight. Proud as punch of our lads tonight, in 10 days time it's the 100th anniversary of the Somme when an officer who witnessed another group of my fellow countrymen defy a mighty nation declared that 'I am not an Ulsterman but yesterday, the 1st. July, as I followed their amazing attack, I felt that I would rather be an Ulsterman than anything else in the world." (Cpt Wilfred Spender, 2 July 1916)
Knockagh wrote: Our wee country of 1.8 million held the 81 million Germans to one nil tonight. Proud as punch of our lads tonight, in 10 days time it's the 100th anniversary of the Somme when an officer who witnessed another group of my fellow countrymen defy a mighty nation declared that 'I am not an Ulsterman but yesterday, the 1st. July, as I followed their amazing attack, I felt that I would rather be an Ulsterman than anything else in the world." (Cpt Wilfred Spender, 2 July 1916)
Bravo the Green and White Army!!
Your guys' keeper should get some kind of medal, if not for him you're looking at a 4-0 or 5-0 drubbing and assuredly being knocked out. That man needs a club to play for.
I still don't quite get why British people can't disconnect modern football from the two world wars.
Knockagh wrote: Our wee country of 1.8 million held the 81 million Germans to one nil tonight. Proud as punch of our lads tonight, in 10 days time it's the 100th anniversary of the Somme when an officer who witnessed another group of my fellow countrymen defy a mighty nation declared that 'I am not an Ulsterman but yesterday, the 1st. July, as I followed their amazing attack, I felt that I would rather be an Ulsterman than anything else in the world." (Cpt Wilfred Spender, 2 July 1916)
Bravo the Green and White Army!!
Your guys' keeper should get some kind of medal, if not for him you're looking at a 4-0 or 5-0 drubbing and assuredly being knocked out. That man needs a club to play for.
I still don't quite get why British people can't disconnect modern football from the two world wars.
Heroes buddy heroes. Thankfully these heroes don't have to fight to instil national pride.
If we get Wales in the next round I can't wait to hear the singing
Fair enough mate, the goalie was nothing short of heroic. Just seems rather an irrelevant comparison seeing as you cant add 11 extra American players to get you past the finals
MarsNZ wrote: Fair enough mate, the goalie was nothing short of heroic. Just seems rather an irrelevant comparison seeing as you cant add 11 extra American players to get you past the finals
You'd only need to add 10, I don't think they want to change the keeper. Then again, Tim Howard was stellar in the World Cup.
Frozocrone wrote: Oh...the humilation if Portugal get knocked out in the group stages...
... will be nothing compared to what happened in 2002, tbh.
That being said, if Fernando Santos finally decides to leave the Status Quo players behind and puts the younger, more intense players on the midfield (Renato Sanches, Rafa, William Carvalho) Hungary will be hard pressed.
MarsNZ wrote: Fair enough mate, the goalie was nothing short of heroic. Just seems rather an irrelevant comparison seeing as you cant add 11 extra American players to get you past the finals
...Nor 22 Russians who bind most of the enemy players in their half...
Congrats to the NIrish keeper, great job indeed!
The main reason for that result however was the inability of the German attack to overcome 6-8 people sitting in front of the goal.
Germany has a really hard time going against brick walls - Götze and Ösil have shown again and again that they suck in duels and fast counterattacks.
Alass, no "nutcrackers" like Ribery and Robben in the team...
On the plus side, the German defense is pretty solid.
Won't be enough against Italy, though. If we get that far....
Iceland might pull off second...or at least a solid third place if they keep this up. Austria have been dire.
Hungary look like contenders to finish first, provided they can keep a lead, although the goals will help Portugal if it comes to third place. They at least need a draw though. 2 points ain't gonna cut it.
EDIT: Aaaand as I type that Portugal and Austria equalize xD
Iceland score in the last minute! England to play Iceland! Plucky Iceland have only gone and done second place! Scenes!
This changes things. I think Portugal are through based on goals scored and Albania are out. in regards to third placed teams.
Wouldn't surprise me to see Iceland win. England do well against teams that attack them, we struggle to break down defensive teams such as Iceland.
Also, because Roy Hodgson is at the helm...that's got to be a limiting factor, right?
Will tip my hat to Iceland, not many expected them to get out the group, let alone finish above Portugal.
EDIT: Here are the matches for the last 16.
Switzerland vs Poland Croatia vs Portugal Wales vs Northern Ireland Hungary vs Belgium Italy vs Spain France vs Republic of Ireland Germany vs Slovakia England vs Iceland
Spain and Italy should be interesting, as should Switzerland and Poland. Wales and Northern Ireland will be too, if only for bragging rights.
Freed from the shackles of EU red tape and regulation that have been holding us back, England will now be able to play proper English football. Like 4-4-2 formations, decent center halfs that kick people up in the air and strikers that can score goals.
MarsNZ wrote: Seeing as you guys aren't Europe now I guess you'll be dropping out?
UEFA is a seperate organisation from the EU.
Furthermore, the UK (or just England, we will see what develops) is part of Europe on a continent basis and as of right now, is still a member of the EU.
notprop wrote: Freed from the shackles of EU red tape and regulation that have been holding us back, England will now be able to play proper English football. Like 4-4-2 formations, decent center halfs that kick people up in the air and strikers that can score goals.
I predict Iceland will win on Penalties!
Lol, I'd rather see you have a proper enforcer, like Vinnie Jones or something
Quite saddened for the Croats. who gave Portugal a good run for their money.
Very impressed by the Polish penalty takers --- hope certain people were watching.
And that Swiss goal was sublime -- drink out for life on a thing like that.
Felt very sorry for the NI guy who put the ball in his own net, kudos to him for carrying on as he did.
Got France as my team in the sweepstake so somewhat mixed emotions, overall though -- for the good of the nation you understand -- be willing to give up my £15 or so of winnings if England get to win the tournament.
I'll be heading down to Finnegans in Nuremberg to watch the Republic take on the bigger, badder Republic today.
Reckon we've only hung on in the tournament by the bare skin of our teeth and it's likely to be the last game, but the Italy win made it all worthwhile. I'll be praying for a better performance than we managed against Belgium at least!
Sad that Northern Ireland got knocked out, but impressed with them all the same. They should go home proud!
Wales might end up being the last celts left in the tournament after today
It is a shame Portugal won yesterday. Way they have played so far, they were deserving of a quick sending home.
Croatia was a much more fun team to watch.
For today and tomorrow, I am rooting for Ireland (because the Irish are fun), Germany (because I want to see them suffer a humiliating defeat in the finals at the hands of Iceland), Hungary (because their keeper has cool pants and they haven't been in a tournament for decades) and Iceland (sorry England, but Iceland is needed to humiliate Germany).
I have no clear preference for Spain-Italy.
On the one hand, it's a shame to get knocked out. On the other, we played a blinder for the first half and I think we can be very happy with that, and our performance overall.
Our lads seemed to be knackered in the second half and who can blame them, and the french did much better and got a deserved win. Nice for the hosts to progress too - and France has had a tough time recently so it's not so bad to lose to them and see them progress and cheer up the nation.
Proud of Norn Iron and the Republic for doing well this year, that's the most I've enjoyed football in my life actually.
I think Iceland will be the major hurdle, the rest of the teams play more attacking football, which will allow them to exploit our defence more, but we'll also be able to exploit theirs, and in that situation, I'm quietly confident in our attacking options.
Everybody has a hard time with the more defensive minded teams and are probably being harsh on Hodgson.
Look at how annoyed Ronaldo got in the group stages.
reds8n wrote: Yeah, Irish lads ran themselves into the ground.
A valiant attempt , no shame there.
Germany ..well....
.. they missed a penalty at least eh ?!
Seems Italy is their bogey team though.
.... We'll do Iceland and, given performances so far, I think we can do France as well.
More than that ...well..... not impossible -- and things like injuries and suspensions will start to tell as well.
.. maybe...
I agree I think England's futures looks pretty good at the minute. Can't see anyone they should struggle with, also the team has a lot less pressure on them at the minute so you just never know....
Due to current ambivalent feelings about my country of origin and a 6 year old EVE account I am passionate about, I'm backing Iceland tonight despite them having little / no chance(England too much firepower, I think 2-0).
I don't know what the Icelandic for 'Come On Iceland' is, but I probably couldn't pronounce it anyway.
Darkjim wrote: Due to current ambivalent feelings about my country of origin
I can't imagine any circumstances in any reality were I would have ambivalence towards my country, but whatever you like. I will take your place and give England a good cheer!
Darkjim wrote: Due to current ambivalent feelings about my country of origin and a 6 year old EVE account I am passionate about, I'm backing Iceland tonight despite them having little / no chance(England too much firepower, I think 2-0).
I don't know what the Icelandic for 'Come On Iceland' is, but I probably couldn't pronounce it anyway.
I know "victory" is "sigur" and "rose" is "rós" but apart from that I can't help
Darkjim wrote: Due to current ambivalent feelings about my country of origin
I can't imagine any circumstances in any reality were I would have ambivalence towards my country, but whatever you like. I will take your place and give England a good cheer!
That's very kind of you.
Anyhoo, well done Iceland, thoroughly deserved over the 90 minutes Ron.
Da Boss wrote: I saw some of the pundits talking about the game beforehand. Egg on their faces now.
Fantastic for Iceland though, how awesome must that feel! This will be the next Cool Runnings.
Frozen Kickings?
Iceland did the job they set out to do. Hard to break down and looking for set piece opportunities. Iceland have stuck to their task and literally taken every game as it comes.
On the positive side I reckon Rooneys best position will be sorted in time for next qualifying (retired).
And so, dear people, this once again shows us that one should never mess with the descendants of the Vikings. The Vikings humiliated Britain in 865, they humiliated Britain in the infamous Cod Wars (twice no less) and today they humiliate Britain once more in sports. I would have been sorry for you, were it not that the Dutch suffered the same sad fate. Regardless, I will be cheering for them. Icelanders are amazing people and what they are doing right now is totally awesome. It is worthy of a new saga! (more than worthy actually considering the not very exciting subject material of some Icelandic sagas ) Now here is to hoping they take down those damn Germans a notch too!
Iron_Captain wrote: And so, dear people, this once again shows us that one should never mess with the descendants of the Vikings.
The Vikings humiliated Britain in 865, they humiliated Britain in the infamous Cod Wars (twice no less) and today they humiliate Britain once more in sports.
I would have been sorry for you, were it not that the Dutch suffered the same sad fate. Regardless, I will be cheering for them. Icelanders are amazing people and what they are doing right now is totally awesome. It is worthy of a new saga! (more than worthy actually considering the not very exciting subject material of some Icelandic sagas )
Now here is to hoping they take down those damn Germans a notch too!
Okay, sorry Wales, but I officially support Belgium now. A local Belgian chip shop owner has promised free Flemish fries for everyone should Belgium reach the finals.
It was actually hard to watch the venom and unmitigated vitriol poured out by England fans and commentators throughout.
I know they were awful but seriously people, get behind your team! How cam you expect them to win anything if you wont show them some support?
Northern Ireland arrived home today to a hero's welcome. We were put out too but nobody's pointing fingers and declaring a stain on the reputation of everyone involved. They're all legends for just getting us there and giving it their all.
Well you're grown up enough to keep football in context, something a lot of England fans, and all of the press, seem unable to manage.
Happily there wasn't a particularly obvious fall guy on the pitch, so the press tomorrow will hopefully struggle to do a Beckham / Pearce / Southgate to any specific player.
Woy was pretty dignified given the circumstances, seems a nice old chap just a bit out of his depth with the modern game.
As I said on page one, would love to see Allerdyce take over, but I think it will be a cold week in hell etc as far as some at the FA are concerned.
theCrowe wrote: It was actually hard to watch the venom and unmitigated vitriol poured out by England fans and commentators throughout.
I know they were awful but seriously people, get behind your team! How cam you expect them to win anything if you wont show them some support?
Northern Ireland arrived home today to a hero's welcome. We were put out too but nobody's pointing fingers and declaring a stain on the reputation of everyone involved. They're all legends for just getting us there and giving it their all.
Awful display from (as usual) hugely overrated England. Guessing how few games they'll get and which minnow nation ends up dropping them on their asses is the most entertaining part of them attending these things.
Unfortunately living in a former British colony Rooney's every thought on the matter takes up all the column space. Local papers don't even have the result for Italy/Spain, yet they have half a dozen stories on England's performance and at least 3 mentions of the fact that Icelands coach is a dentist.
MarsNZ wrote: Awful display from (as usual) hugely overrated England. Guessing how few games they'll get and which minnow nation ends up dropping them on their asses is the most entertaining part of them attending these things.
Unfortunately living in a former British colony Rooney's every thought on the matter takes up all the column space. Local papers don't even have the result for Italy/Spain, yet they have half a dozen stories on England's performance and at least 3 mentions of the fact that Icelands coach is a dentist.
Basically Italy won 2-0 in a dominating display against the champions of Europe. England faltered so badly that it sort takes the spotlight away from the fantastic team effort of Iceland.
..least Hodgson had a plan to take us out of Europe then ..?
Awful performance.
Manager has to go , but a lot of those players should be ashamed of themselves. When very well paid full time professionals can't do the basics of the game -- pass/trap the ball, run with the ball etc etc -- then his options are limited.
Worst Rooney performance too. He cannot cut it in midfield, he's done that in a very mediocre Man. utd. team -- and look how they did overall -- but he doesn't have the pace or the passing skills for the role.
Sturridge was better than most -- so why was he out on the flank ?
We tried to play 2 wingers in every game, yet only took 1 recognised winger with us ?!?
Fair play to Iceland -- hope they win the thing now.
Hart has had an awful tournament -- need a new keeper ASAP.
Jack Butland could easily take Hart's place...problem is that with Roy, names like Wilshire and Henderson as opposed to form like Drinkwater and Noble gets the nod.
Who do England get as manager now? None of the favorites really strike me as 'yes, we will do well now'.
Barzagli, Chiellini and Bonucci are incredible together.
Automatically Appended Next Post: Almost too easy for Italy.
Not really unexpected tbh.
The Spanish golden generation is done with - the remaining players are too old and the new midfielders aren't as good as the likes of Xavi and a younger Iniesta. They were up against a rejuvenated Italy, which I believe is the only team that can face Germany as it currently stands.
I was shocked at Iceland taking England out, though. I was expecting France to do them in.
Well its 12 good men and true against some very, very expensive lawyers, who only needed to put something that was pretty difficult to explain in the first place beyond reasonable doubt, whilst convincing the jury nice old Harry didn't really understand the money side of things anyway. Fraud cases often go that way, it's a tricky one.
A JustGiving page has been set up to help pay for former Wrexham AFC manager Dean Saunders’ parking fine, which is said to be rising by £100 a day.
Saunders is currently in France covering Euro 2016 for the BBC alongside Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Rio Ferdinand.
Before flying out two weeks ago, the former Liverpool, Aston Villa and Swansea City striker opted to put his vehicle at Birmingham Airport’s short-stay car park – assuming Chris Coleman’s men wouldn’t make it out of the group stages.
But Saunders, 52, who was capped 75 times by Wales, didn’t foresee Wales’ remarkable success, which has seen them top the group before making it through to the quarter finals.
Their achievements will see the team’s stay in France go on until at least Friday, when they play Belgium in Lille , by which time Saunders’ parking fine will have kept growing.
On Monday, Saunders predicted the fee to be around £1,000, but with the fine increasing by £100 per day, it will probably be a lot higher than that.
The crowdfunding campaign, which has a target of £1,200, was set up by Richard Jackson, who is Coleman’s brother-in-law.
Richard said it was set up “for a bit of fun”, but he hopes it will highlight his view the BBC has been “very biased” in its English coverage of the tournament.
He said: “All of the coverage has been about them going out of the tournament, but what they should be encouraging is for people to get behind the last remaining home nation, Wales.”
Richard said he hopes the BBC cover Saunders’ fee, and, if they do, any money raised will go to the FAW’s grassroots football.
He said: “It would only be a small profit, but anything commercial that bring money into grassroots football in this country is a positive thing.
It needs some decent funding. Maybe this is a good way to raise awareness of that.”
Businessman Richard said he hoped the BBC would be coughing up for the fee, and as his sister is Coleman’s wife Charlotte Jackson, a TV presenter and journalist, he said he would be asking her to put in a good word when she travels out for the next match.
Saunders seems to be having something of a nightmare out in France – after it was also revealed he has run out of clothes.
He told BBC Radio Five Live on Monday: “I tell you how confident I was with Wales. I parked in the short-stay car park at Birmingham Airport two weeks ago.”
“I took a little suitcase that fitted onto the plane so I’ve run out of clothes and now I’m going to have a £1,000 bill when I get back to Birmingham because they charge you a fortune.
“But I’m just happy to be here.
“Going into this game on Friday it’s unbelievable to think of Wales being in the quarter-finals. Three wins more and we’ve won Euro 2016.”
Richard said: “They have played out of their skin. It’s not as if in every position, like with England, there’s a Premier League footballer. Imagine if we did have that!
“So to see them as a home nation but get so little coverage in relation to England is terrible. Great Britain should get behind them. We’ve got everything crossed for a win against Belgium on Friday, and there’s no reason why we can’t see that.”
I thought Poland would be the side that sends Portugal back home where they belong. To see them survive the group without a win (and with an unjustifiably elitist attitude) then scrape into the semis via a penalty shootout is tbh a little disgusting.
MarsNZ wrote: I thought Poland would be the side that sends Portugal back home where they belong. To see them survive the group without a win (and with an unjustifiably elitist attitude) then scrape into the semis via a penalty shootout is tbh a little disgusting.
Seriously, me and my pals made a wager that Portugal would luck its way to the finals while Italy, Germany, France etc. are beating the hell out of each other
MarsNZ wrote: I thought Poland would be the side that sends Portugal back home where they belong. To see them survive the group without a win (and with an unjustifiably elitist attitude) then scrape into the semis via a penalty shootout is tbh a little disgusting.
I blame the format more than anything. 3rd place should not be offered a spot in the knockout stages.
Agreed. I fething despise the new format. 16 teams was all this competition ever needed, and ensured high quality matches. Now we have a snooze fest for the group stage and utterly ridiculous situations like Portugal getting to the last 4. I really hope they go back to the old system.
Wales absolutely, 100% deserved this. I'm really glad they beat Belgium. I have no idea how that team got up to the #2 spot in the FIFA rankings, but I saw nothing in this tournament to warrant such a position among the world's best teams. Excellent job, Wales!
Magnificent Wales! Given Portugal's tepid performances so far, Wales should give them a right kicking (although missing Ramsey is a big blow).
And Robson-Kanu for goal of the tournament. Every part of it was perfect. The pass up the field and the control of the pass. The cross into the box and control of that pass. Composition and control on the ball to send three defenders the wrong way with a bit of skillful trickery and then a solid finish. If Messi or Ronaldo had scored that we would be watching it on re-runs for years.
The best part of tournament for Russia were the Russian fans. There is even joke about it now:
"The Russian fans should be ashamed of themselves... for not coming to France with the rest of their comrades who actually made it despite the economic situation."
Those were seriously some of the worst penalty kicks I've ever seen. Really glad Germany made it through as I felt they deserved it. It really didn't need to come to that though, really not sure what Boateng was thinking jumping up into the air with both arms up like a fething ballerina. I bet he breathed a huge sigh of relief at the end of that.
creeping-deth87 wrote: really not sure what Boateng was thinking jumping up into the air with both arms up like a fething ballerina. I bet he breathed a huge sigh of relief at the end of that.
Italy was falling a bit too easy all the time. I think he was trying to show that he isn't touching the italian player (they were in the Germany penalty area) but he got shot at. It wouldn't have been a penalty if he had kept his arms next to his body but by increasing his blocking area that went flying out of the window. Otherwise he had a good game.
And for these two teams the penalties were quite suspenseful but for all the wrong reasons. :/
Feel sorry for Italy, they at least deserved a semi-final for their performances this tournament.
Seriously, Portugal get a semi-final placing for failing to win in normal time and Italy have won 3/5 in normal time yet go out in quarter finals? Farce of a format.
I watched the penalties in the pub, it was pretty entertaining.
Poor old Germans though. Their celebration for winning the match and getting through to the semis was about as energetic as Irish fans are when they lose a game! At least if Italy had won, the Italians would have gotten properly excited
Da Boss wrote: I watched the penalties in the pub, it was pretty entertaining.
Poor old Germans though. Their celebration for winning the match and getting through to the semis was about as energetic as Irish fans are when they lose a game! At least if Italy had won, the Italians would have gotten properly excited
I thought you slagging us off there for a second.
Still cheering for Iceland tonight. Hoping they can pull at least one goal out of the iceland bag if not an equaliser too.
The French look like they've finally got their game on though.
Da Boss wrote: I watched the penalties in the pub, it was pretty entertaining.
Poor old Germans though. Their celebration for winning the match and getting through to the semis was about as energetic as Irish fans are when they lose a game! At least if Italy had won, the Italians would have gotten properly excited
I thought you slagging us off there for a second.
Still cheering for Iceland tonight. Hoping they can pull at least one goal out of the iceland bag if not an equaliser too.
The French look like they've finally got their game on though.
Well it was 2:0 when I made that comment and to be fair Iceland did put two goals of their own in the old Iceland bag after that. Unfortunately by that stage France had 5!
Well played everyone. It was a great show from all involved.
Well Iceland, it was good while it lasted. See you again next time, which will probably in a decade or two when you will finally be mentioned on the news again.
Portugal vs France as a final. Not what I would have guessed at the start (would have guessed Germany vs Italy) but still quite tasty.
Wales did well in their semi-final but ultimately Portugal have more talent in their squad (missing Ramsey did them no favours either). Germany handball was a decision to debate on, considering it was like Matuidi aimed the header at Schweinsteiger's arm from an inch away. But eh, France took their chances and Germany didn't. That's how football is at times.
I think I want France to win it overall. Not only do I think they've been better overall within the tournament than Portugal, it's always nice to see the home nation win it on their turf.
I am amazed at the fact that Portugal managed to get to the finals. So far they haven't really been good. They have barely won any of their games! Lucky side of the tournament scheme is lucky. I hope France wins. They deserve it much more, play better football and it is indeed nice for a nation to win at home. Also, they took out the Germans. As long as Germany doesn't win I am happy. The Germans win too often already.
One world cup is too much? You must have hated when Spain netted 3 titles in a row.
Germany had the chances and couldn't convert, not having Gomez hurt. I think missing Khedira and Hummels were less crucial seeing as the backs and mids have depth in the talent.
The handball penalty was shady (why an Italian referee o_0) but Schweinsteiger shouldn't have had his hands there, especially after Boateng made a similar mistake only a few days ago!
France for the win. I don't think Portugal deserved to advance this far. Plus, if you're going to be beaten by someone, better it's the eventual champions than some minnow outsider
I'm so disappointed by the result. Really goes to show you that luck goes a long way in these tournaments. I really feel for the Germans considering they were without Gomez, Hummels, Khedira, AND Boateng. That's almost half the starting squad, and that hurts. It also really doesn't help that Muller was complete garbage during this event, which is amazing considering how incredible he was in Brazil 2 years ago.
France should have won. The guy who hit the post in the 92nd minute must be feeling so bad right now.
Still, I am happy they did not need to go to the penalties to decide.
I still think Germany was the best team in the competition, just horrifically unlucky with their suspensions and injuries for the pivotal semi final match. Congratulations to Portugal but fully agree with Frozocrone, the format is horrific and third place in the group should never go through.
It's also a huge boost to teams in later groups (say C onwards) because they know what the third placed teams in groups A and B got and know what they have to do to progress. Almost akin to West Germany vs Austria 1982.
They should have had 32 spots if they did want to increase the number, keep the tried and tested Winner A vs Runner-up B and Runner-up A vs Winner B etc.
Or they could go full boar and have every nation in Europe automatically eligible for the tournament. No qualifiers, just every nation in one singular cup.
A Portuguese boy comforts a French man who is in tears after the result.
aw, that is just so adorable!
And I suppose it is really nice that Portugal finally won something. I was actually really surprised to hear Portugal never won a major price before.
Though they probably did set a record for "winning a tournament while winning as few possible games in it" or something like that. Congratulations!
