Soccer - Euro 2008 First Thoughts and Predictions
Euro 2008 is underway and even the casual soccer fan is out there buying those little flags to put in their car doors. This is a time when national pride comes out in full force and people can either brag as their team pushes for victory or cry and complain when their team loses.
Even though I work during the day and should realistically miss all of the games there is a TV in the lunchroom and the games are always on so I’ve seen quite a bit of action so far. I was actually lucky enough to see Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s amazing goal from just outside the box as I happen to walk by at just the right moment. Seeing enough of the action here are some of my initial thoughts and my predictions going forward. I’m going to do this team by team so bare with me.
- Group A
Portugal – Has looked great in their first two games and was the first team to advance to the second round. With superstar Cristiano Ronaldo leading the team they should have no problems in this tournament and could be a favorite to win.
Czech Republic – The Czechs are an interesting team as at times they show flashes of brilliance but for the most part can’t seem to put forth a consistent effort. Being in a weak group they should advance to the knockout stage but don’t expect them to make it very far as they are going to be up against superior teams and competition.
Turkey – Turkey got a crucial win against Switzerland on Wednesday but how good was it? Everyone has beaten Switzerland so far so it’s not a huge accomplishment. Turkey will more than likely be the odd team out in Group A unless they can beat the Czechs on Sunday.
Switzerland – Outclassed in every aspect of the game. It was nice while it lasted though right guys?
- Group B
Croatia – Looked great against Germany and really pushed the pace the whole game keeping the Germans on their toes. Could be a dark horse in this tournament and send a few teams home earlier than expected.
Germany – Thought to be a favorite until Croatia made it look real easy to beat them. They will get through to the knockout stage no problem and hopefully will get their act together. Look for Torsten Frings to score at least 1 goal off the free kick before the tourney is done.
Poland – A good friend of mine is Polish and I can’t help rooting for them every year but it doesn’t look good as Croatia is already through and Germany should advance as well. Pretty brutal when a Polish born man plays for Germany and scores both goals against his native country for the win. Lukas Podolski probably shouldn’t visit Poland anytime soon.
Austria – Should have beaten Poland as there were a couple of blown calls that didn’t go Austria’s way. Still they don’t have what it takes to get out of the group stage but A for effort.
- Group C
Netherlands – Absolutely embarrassed Italy and look like the early favorites to win the whole thing. When they play as a team they are unbeatable and it looks like superstar winger Arjen Robben will be back earlier than expected. They are my pick to win the whole thing.
France – Drew Romania? Granted they do have some pretty big injuries, no Thierry Henry, but still they should have handled Romania. Also there has been some infighting as coaches and players are disagreeing on tactics. The Italy-France should be a great one to watch as there is still tension since the infamous head butt. I hope they beat Italy and make it to the knockout but with all the infighting and lack of effort it doesn’t look good.
Italy - How great was it to watch them lose to the Netherlands 3-0. First loss to them in 30 years. Early favorites? Not anymore.
Romania – Got a great draw against France but really should have lost the game. If Nikolas Anelka had any finish it would have been a blow out.
- Group D
Spain - Walking away with the easiest group after a 4-1 pounding of Russia where David Villa scored a hat trick. They should get through no problem and maybe make a run at the whole thing.
Greece - The defending champs lost in their opener against Sweden and didnt look good at all. Now they are in a big hole and it doesn’t look like they are going to get out of it. Oh well at least you won last time.
Sweden – Looked good against Greece and should advance to the knockout stage with little issue. Their strong offensive play could make them a threat going forward and if Zlatan Ibrahimovic can keep the scoring touch they could be dangerous.
Russia – Got man handled by Spain and now need some serious help to advance. Luckily their group isn’t very impressive and they might have a chance if they can win out.
