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Rampant Portugal held by Iceland

Portugal put in yet another breathtaking performance of pace and attacking mastery, but strangely they were held to an enthralling 2-2 draw against Iceland, who frustrated their opposition and in the process kept Group One open. An utterly dominant performance from Alain Giresse's side almost ended in tears, and only a late salvo saw them take a deserved point from an Icelandic side who have once again shown they are far from there only to make up the numbers, and are intent on reaching the heights they hit four years ago.

Ten minutes into the game, and Hélder Postiga's powerful drive over was the start of the action. Ten minutes later, and Jakob Örn Guðlaugsson hit a similar effort with the same results. Mario and Rodrigo Brasao both then tested Magnús Hauksson before Sævar Jónsson drove poorly wide when well placed. Hugo Pinheiro was needed to make a great twenty-sixth minute save from Guðmundsson, before tha action then swung back to the other end of the pitch, with Ricardo Quaresma becoming the latest player to force a goalkeeper into a fine stop, as Hauksson did so. The end to end and non stop action was certainly appreciated by the capacity crowd in the Ulleval, which has almost become a second home to Portuguese supporters so far this summer.

Armando rose well for a header ten minutes before half time but could only send it wide, then Brasao drove fiercly wide. Captain Felipe Oliveira, quiet for much of the all action first half, finally showed signs of life with a sweetly curled effort which had Hauksson worried but tested the crowd more. It seemed amazing that after such an eventful first half that the two sides could be going in goalless, but it took less than sixty seconds after the restart for them to find a lead. Edgar's busy running found reward, as his cross was met by Brasao's head, and Portugal got their lead, and fully deserved it. However, little more than a minute later and the game was level again.

Stefan Guðmundsson delivered an inch perfect chipped pass over the Portuguese defence to Guðlaugsson, running clear and onside. He kept cool to slot past Pinheiro and level the game up. Two goals in such a short space of time seemed to change the game, as it became stretched and ragged, and possibly lower in quality. Mario's free kick restored some order as Hauksson made another strong save. An even better one followed after Quaresma showed some wonderful skill. Nuno Mata came closer still with a header which crashed off the crossbar, as once again Portugal kicked up a notch in order to retake the lead/

Substitute Guilherme Alves wasted know time in making his mark, dribbling through the Iceland side before calling upon Hauksson to make yet another save. With Iceland under such pressure, the last thing anyone expected was them to take the lead. Yet with nine minutes remaining, this is exactly what happened. Alexandersson's cross caused problems as Birgisson moved onto the ball, and Nuno Mata barged him over. A penalty was awarded to the dismay of everyone associated with the Iberian side, but Eidur Gudjohnsen blocked everything out to nestle his kick home and give Iceland a shock lead, nine minutes away from a famous win. Desperate to level, Oliveira led by example, ferociously driving at Hauksson, who for once was stunned as he could do little more than get in the way and deflect the ball to safety.

With time almost up, Mário's deep cross was met by Rodrigo Brasao, who headed in powerfully to save a vital point for the Portuguese. Edgar's injury time half volley only found the side netting as the game ended all square. Portugal will feel they deserved a win, but Iceland showed fantastic resolve in fighting to the death, and could so easily have upset all the odds. They are no soft touch, and are clearly intent in surprising even more people.


Ulleval Stadion, 14th June 2012

Portugal 2 (Rodrigo Brasao 47, 89)
Iceland 2 (Guðlaugsson 48, Gudjohnsen 81 pen)
Attendance - 29,953
Referee - John McDermott (Scotland)

Portugal - Pinheiro, Augusto, Carvalho, Armando (Fernando Meira 58), Nuno Mata, Mário, Ricardo Quaresma, Rodrigo Brasao, Hélder Postiga (Alves 50), Oliveira(c), Edgar

Iceland - Hauksson, Ólafsson, Sigurdsson(c), Björnsson, Bjarnason, Guðmundsson, Þorvalddson (Helgason 58), Birgison, Jónsson (Alexandersson 74), Gudjohnsen, Guðlaugsson

Man of the Match - Rodrigo Brasao (Portugal)


Match Previews - Friday
Turkey face a must win encounter with France in Oslo's Olympic Bislett Stadion, and they are under no illusions of how hard their task is. Midfielder Kemi Izzet said at a press conference "France are justifiably favourites to win the tournament. Just to take a point from them is going to be a huge ask, and will require massive effort with no small amount of luck. Saying that, we have to win this one, so we will be prepared." Star defender Fatih Sonkaya is suspended after becoming the first player to receive a red card this summer, so expect Umut Dogan to fill in alongside Koyun Fatih. Experienced Rostock forward Nihat Kahveci could get the nod up front ahead of Sari Baris as Mehmet Özturk looks for goals. The French are in top form, and set to be unchanged as they go in search of three more points which will all but confirm their place in the next round, and also allow them to conserve some of the star players for the final group match versus Ukraine and allow fringe players such as Anthony Le Tallec, Jérémie Aliardiere, and Christophe Bourgeois a chance to shine.

The port town of Stavanger plays host to Germany and Bulgaria in Group Four. All four sides in the table hold a single point after both opening games finished level 1-1, and thus wide open. Any winner tomorrow will have a fantastic chance of qualifying, something which Rudi Völler knows all too well: "When the draw was made we knew that the Bulgaria match would be crucial. Opening against England was huge, but no matter what happened there, this one was always the must win for us." Völler is dealt a double blow with the suspensions to Christoph Metzelder and Jermaine Jones, two crucial players in his plans. Patrick Ochs and Ralf Schuster are most likely to cover for the banned duo. Bulgaria, on the other hand, are at full strength and should line up with the same side which drew with Ireland on Tuesday.

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15th June 2012

Andersson apologises
Sweden manager Uno Andersson has apologised to his country for letting them down after his side lost 1-0 to Italy in Bergen yesterday, and with it saw their chances of progression through the tournament diminish rapidly. Andersson said in a public address: "With the quality we have available, we should have done far better than we have. Our failures to date have been somewhat due to deficiencies in my selection and methods, and for that, I apologise. However, one must realise we have played some very good sides, and we may have to accept that we are not good enough." The public admission of a lack of quality on Andersson's part has been greeted with a mix of shock and praise - rarely before has there been such an example.

Elsewhere, Italian coach Francesco Guidolin picked out Samuele Dalla Bona for special praise after the Lazio man put in a second match-winning performance: "Sam has been brilliant of late. When men have had to stand up and be counted, Sam has been there as a driving force. I can't praise him highly enough."

Rampant France frustrated by plucky Turkey

Paul Le Guen will go to sleep tonight still wondering how his French side managed only to draw their second match against an extremely lucky and undeserving Turkish side. A goalless draw was seen by the spectators in Oslo and watching fans around the world in one the of the most one-sided games ever witnessed. France had no fewer than sixteen attempts at goal, with Turkey offering just two in stark contrast. An utterly dominant Les Bleus, with over sixty percent of possession, will be kicking themselves at letting a chance slip.

That said, they were victims of some bad luck just five minutes into the match. Camel Meriem's industry in the middle of the park was to Thierry Henry's benefit. After playing a one-two with Jérome Rothen, Henry struck a powerful effort which cannoned away off the crossbar. Minutes later a similar effort found the target, but also found Tuncay Fevzi's safe hands. German-born Turkish international Stephan Fink had the first Turkish effort with a powerful run and shot which dribbled wide of the post. Once again, the imperious Henry was busy in search of a goal, but once again his precision was not perfect. The Barcelona veteran is still, on his day, one of the greatest players in the world, as Turkey found out time and again during this match. His dribbling, awareness, and overall play was too much at times. Unfortunately for him, there was to be no end product.

By the time the half hour mark had rolled past, Henry had seen another attempt saved by Fevzi, just after Jean-Christophe Ahmetovic had delivered a volley from thirty yards which landed on top of the goal. Even Mikael Silvestre was enjoying the dominance, unleashing a full blooded shot which was always going wide despite curling back in late. In first half stoppage time a rather unsavoury incident followed which will no doubt require a full UEFA enquiry and will also unfortunately bring the tournament under scrutiny for all the wrong reasons. Adnan Adem cleared Jean-Alain Boumsong's header off the line and away for a corner. A confrontation between Ahmetovic and Sari Baris followed, which led to a mass brawl, in which the Turkish forward was clearly seen to land a punch on Philippe Mexes. Referee Lee Schrayen had little option but to send Baris off, but further television footage suggested Ahmetovic had spat at the Turkish player, which will almost certainly see him in trouble, if not during the tournament then afterwards.

The incident gave the remainder of the game a bad taste. Anthony Le Tallec's arrival in the second half livened things up, as he hit a swerving shot only just over the crossbar. Despite being absolutely swamped, Turkey came desperately close to taking a lead. Akin Serhat twisted and turned on the edge of the area, then hit a shot which came away off the post. Instead of it spurring them on, Mehmet Özturk's side sat back and soaked up more French pressure. Fevzi made another stunning save from Ahmetovic, then Stéphane Dalmat became the third player to strike the woodwork with an attempt which seared across the goalmouth and clipped the woodwork.

It was just not to be France's day. Ahmetovic, Henry, and Rothen all had further attempts but not one could find a way past the superb Fevzi. Samsunspor's thirty-four year old was unbeatable, and has single-handedly kept his country in with a shout of making the final stages. France still hold command in the group for at least twenty-four hours, but will regret not winning this game. It was not, however, for the lack of trying.


Bislett Stadion, 15th June 2012

Turkey 0
France 0
Attendance - 19,981
Referee - Lee Schrayen (England)

Turkey - Fevzi, Adem, Dogan, Zeki, Fatih, Basturk(c), Yilmaz (Nihat 56), Izzet (Vedat 75), Serhat, Baris, Fink

France - Frey, Sagnol(c) (Laurenti 75), Silvestre (Bourgeois 56), Boumsong, Mexes, Dalmat, Meriem, Ahmetovic, Henry, Govou (Le Tallec 51), Rothen

Man of the Match - Tuncay Fevzi (Turkey)

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Germany steer towards important three points

Goals from Markus Feulner and Frank Walz secured three imperative points for Rudi Völler's Germany against a brave and spirited Bulgarian side who could easily have won by the same scoreline. Yet the experience and slight superior quality in the Nationalmannschaft's ranks saw them home and top Group Four with Ireland and England still to play each other. Overall, it must be said that Germany just about shaded their opponents, but 2-0 was probably harsh on Bulgaria.

The Germans came out set on scoring, and Bulgaria looked like they would be content with a clean sheet. Yet it was Krassimir Balakov's side who had the first chance; Martin Petrov stroked a free kick over the bar. Kirilov followed that up with a toe poke which required a good stop from Marco Wrzesczinski. After staving off the Bulgarian attacks, Germany took the lead in the most bizarre fashion. Markus Feulner, fifty yards from goal, looked for an arrowed pass into the area looking for Christian Timm's head. The pass was somewhat sliced, but Vasil Kamburov was way out of position, and the ball sailed in from near the half way line. It was certainly harsh on Bulgaria, but Germany were prepared to take anything.

It was the signal to shut up shop for a while for Germany. Content with a one goal advantage, and secure in the knowledge their defence was strong enough to hold out against Bulgaria, Germany closed the game down. Stilian Petrov breached the lines to head at goal, but Wrzesczinski managed to keep it out as well as Kamburov did to keep Kai Brand out at the other end. Völler's tactics were proving spot on, so in an attempt to counter the problem Bulgaria changed things around at the break. A blow arrived early in the second half arrived for Balakov when star defender Aleksandar Tunchev went off with an injury which could keep him out of the remainder of the tournament.

Kai Brand, surprisingly quiet for the majority of the tournament to date, gave a glimpse of his class when teeing himself up for a picturesque volley which left Kamburov motionless, but the crowd in danger of being struck by the ball. Dian Kirilov, by far the most potent Bulgarian threat, forced another save from Wrzesczinski shy of the hour. Minutes later, the game was up and Germany had the points. A free kick twenty yards from goal was perfectly dispatched by Frank Walz for a contender for goal of the tournament. A more perfect free kick could not have been executed. From then on in it was a matter of keeping hold of possession - something considered an art form in Germany.

Hanno Balitsch's perfect cross was met by Brand five minutes after Walz's goal, but to everyone's amazement he placed his header wide. Another volley from the same Union Berlin striker went wide as he desperately searched for a goal to liven his game up. On his day there is no more complete striker in the world, and perhaps not since Marco Van Basten has there been a player with the attributes to be a pure goal machine. Dimitar Berbatov did his best to show he can be just as good, but his effort was tame and easily saved. Two mintues from time teammate Mladenov came closer, but Bulgaria were never really going to worry the German defence.

Germany played out the remaining time and took a very comfortable win. On another day things might have been very different. Bulgaria played well, but they met Rudi Völler's side on one of their better days. Stronger sides than Bulgaria would have been beaten by this German side. The win should secure their place in the later stages of the Championships, but Bulgaria can almost wave their dream goodbye.


Stavanger Stadion, 15th June 2012

Germany 2 (Feulner 16, Walz 60)
Bulgaria 0
Attendance - 16,969
Referee - Mair Shukurov (Russia)

Germany - Wrzesczinski, Balitsch, Berg (Kling 54), Ochs, Krause, Kehl(c), Feulner (Fritz 54), Walz, Brand, Timm (Schuster 54), Rahn

Bulgaria - Kamburov, Kunchev, D.Todorov, Dimitrov, Tunchev (Joao Carlos 50), Kirilov, Stilian Petrov (Stoyan Petrov 45), Zhelev, M.Petrov (Mladenov 46), Berbatov(c), Blagoev

Man of the Match: Marco Krause (Germany)


Match Previews - Saturday
Scotland and Romania head into Saturday's clash at Drammen's Marienlyst Stadion knowing wins are of the utmost importance. Both failed to win their opening games, and with Sweden floundering after two games the winner of tomorrow's clash will be in an envable position heading into the final group matches. Scotland's goalless draw with Sweden did little to inspire, but Romania were crushed as Italy romped past them 5-2 on the first weekend. A week on, and they have to improve. "The Italian defeat was very demoralising, and we have a lot of work to do. Scotland are good, and it will be another very big match for us. A win must be achieved." The words of manager Marius Lacatus spoken at a press conference earlier in the week.

Scotland look set to make one change from the side which drew with Sweden; David McCracken is injured, Paul McGuire offers deputisation. Again, Gary Twigg and Stephen McPhee will battle it out to start alongside Kiegan Parker. Romania are without experienced captain and rock solid defender Cristian Chivu and central midfielder Paul Codrea to injury and suspension respectively. Coming in could be Cristian Lupu and Stefan Grigorie.

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16th June 2012

Romania fight back courageously

Yet another fine example of international football was showcased on Saturday night in Drammen as Scotland and Romania pieced together a thrilling and tense battle which resulted not only in Romania taking the three vital points by a scoreline of 3-2, but also secured Italy's place as the first team into the Quarter Finals. On the balance of the game Marius Lacatus' side deserved the victory, but they achieved it in a very dramatic ending.

Scotland and manager David Körner could hardly have wished upon a better start. Barely four minutes were on the stadium clock when Jamie McCunnie lifted the ball into the penalty box, and Shaun Maloney cracked in a shot after making space to score his first international goal. The perfect start threatened to turn sour as first Marius Niculae and then Gheorghe Serban both worried Kevin Young. Romania must have felt the world was against them as Scotland doubled their advantage, much against the run of play, just sixteen minutes into the game.

Once more McCunnie was at the heart of the move. Galloping forwards from right back, his cross to the back post was expertly headed home by Kiegan Parker, who wheeled away in delight. Two goals ahead so early in the game - Romania must have been fearing their worst nightmare coming true. After their mauling at the hands of Italy, everyone expected Scotland to walk over the team in yellow. But there appeared a new resolve amongst Lacatus' troops, and Luca came close to halving the deficit with a header which Young did well to get down to. The game then took some recognisable shape, in the form of Romania controlling the game, looking for a way back in.

Serban became the latest Romanian to succumb to injury, ten minutes from the break, with torn knee ligaments which rule him out of any further involvement in the remainder of the summer. With little time left on the first half watch, Niculae again thumped an attempt from long range, but again Kevin Young made a superb save, showing that age is no barrier. Half time arrived with contrasting emotions amongst the capacity crowd. Scottish fans jubilant in wake of their lead, but Romanian fans despairing at trailing despite dominating the game. Whatever was said in the Romanian changing rooms, it made a huge difference.

Scotland returned looking to put the game beyond the Romanians, and would have done had Parker's finishing not been off. Romania were still controlling things, but with a little more urgency and reward. Geoane got up well to head at goal, but again Young appeared unbeatable. Munteanu and Grigorie went the same way throughout the first half an hour of the second half. Scotland, very much on the back foot, were holding out, to the delight of coach Körner, not that it showed on his face. However, sitting back and soaking up pressure doesn't always pay off, and fifteen minutes from time Romania found a way back into the game. Niculae, at the hub of things once more, created an opening for Vlad Munteanu. It was always going to take something special to beat Young, and this was. A beautiful curling effort into the top corner made for a tense finish.

Scotland, well and truly on the run, were pegged back just five minutes later. Geoane fed a slide-rule pass to Stefan Grigorie, on as a sub, and he executed a scintillating effort along the ground and in to level the game at two apiece and make for a grandstand finish. The momentum well and truly with the Romanians, there was only ever going to be one winner. Young did brilliantly to prevent Munteanu and Cernat out, but Marius Niculae couldn't miss his chance from three yards out. Scotland crushed, Romania had achieved the unthinkable in yet another dramatic moment in the early stages of the Championships. The victory will give Lacatus and company massive heart going into the final game against Sweden, whereas Scotland now face a thankless and nigh on impossible challenge of qualifying.


Marienlyst Stadion, 16th June 2012

Scotland 2 (Maloney 4, Parker 16)
Romania 3 (Munteanu 75, Grigorie 80, M.Niculae 90)
Attendance - 12,186
Referee - Dick Jol (Holland)

Scotland - Young(c), Crainey, McCunnie, McGuire, Wilkie, Maloney, M,Kerr (Stewart 76), S.Caldwell, Parker, Twigg (Burchill 76), Wilson (Knox 85)

Romania - Dumitru, Contra (Ogararu 91), Balan, Serban (Rosu 32), Radoi(c), Cernat, Sânmãrtean, Geoane, Luca (Grigorie 52), M.Niculae, Munteanu

Man of the Match - Marius Niculae (Romania)


Match Previews - Sunday
Croatia meet Ukraine in Kristiansand facing a very tough struggle. As the only side in Group Three without a point, they have to win to stand a chance of making the Quarter Final knockout stages. Ukraine, who impressively defeated Turkey in their opening match, will join Italy amongst the sides secure in the knowledge that their place is confirmed. Croatian coach Zoran Maric: "People write us off, but we can qualify. Look at our playoff win to reach these finals. Who would have guessed we'd go through? Nobody. We might just pull off another surprise." They have a full compliment of players available but the lack of creativity shown in the defeat to France may prompt changes. Ukraine, on the other hand, are looking strong and confident. Vyacheslav Sviderskiy is unavailable to injury, but as a reserve he poses no threat to the starting team.

The long awaited battle between England and the Republic of Ireland also takes place on Sunday, with the Lillestrøm Stadion guaranteed to be full of passionate fans. England have won the last four meetings of the sides, but few can forget the drama of their meeting at Lansdowne Road in 1995, when the match was abandoned after twenty seven minutes due to obscene crowd trouble. Despite being seventeen years on, the fixture still has a massive security presence and much meaning to it. Both will be looking for a win to keep touch with Germany at the top of the table, and with Ireland still to meet Rudi Völler's side, it leaves them with a big win needed. They have a full squad available and should remain unchanged. England's John Terry is suspended, a big loss for Steve McLaren, but one from Joleon Lescott, Jon Woodgate, or Liam Ridgewell will deputise.

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17th June 2012

Lacatus delighted

Romanian coach Marius Lacatus expressed his delight at Saturday's dramatic 3-2 victory over Scotland which gives his side a good chance of making the final rounds. Speaking on Romanian television, Lacatus said "After such a loss to Italy it was mentally hard to recover and convince the players they had the quality to still do well. What you saw on Saturday was brilliant; the heart and commitment was something I haven't seen from our side before. It gives us a new found confidence, and who knows what could happen next? We won't go over the top, but it's a big turning point."

Scotland coach David Körner admits his sides chances of qualifying are slim after the loss: "We have to beat Italy, which is hard enough in itself. We then need Sweden to beat Romania, and then rely on whatever stipulations are there for teams on level points and head to head records. I'm disappointed, but things happen for a reason. We were a little unlucky, as I think we deserved a point."

Croatia shock Ukraine with undeserved winner

To the amazement of everyone involved in this match in Kristiansand, Zoran Maric's Croatia managed to steal a lucky 1-0 victory over Ukraine, despite having just one attempt on goal all match. For the second consecutive match Ukraine faced a side intent on sitting back and allowing them to dictate the pace of the game, but this time, and unlike Turkey, their opponents took the chance offered to them, and in the process blew Group Three wide open.

The opening of the match was typically cagey and could be described by many as rather boring. The first action of note was when Croatian forward Ivan Klasnic was substituted injured after a crunching tackle with Eugene Kotov which caused the forward to break his toe. Mate Bilic came on to give his side a new element in attack that Klasnic would not have offered - pace. Despite some of the creative talent on show, there was not even an attempt at goal until the forty-second minute. Sergiy Valyaev took the ball and bent a curved effort at goal, but it was way too high to worry Pletikosa. Thankfully for all who had the misfortune to watch, the half time whistle allowed everyone a break from the monotony, and the coaches a chance to amend their tactics.

The first minute of the second half had more urgency and pace than the preceeding forty-five. Lisitskiy knocked down a long ball for midfielder Yuriy Koszakow to run onto. The Dynamo Kyiv man drove at goal but was denied by the upright. Ukraine were starting to take more and more control over the game, but failed to hit the target. Shyschenko made a nice pass and collect with Belik but wasted his attempt with a long range attempt which flew metres over the goal. The wayward finishing was to be punished, as eighteen minutes from time, and with their first foray into the attacking third, Croatia took the lead.

Silvester Sabolcki can be given much of the credit for the move. His fantastic work on the right wing included a fine piece of skill to beat Nesmachny. He then got away from Smalko before delivering a cross into the perfect area for an attacker. Mate Bilic attacked the near post to finally break his duck for his country, twelve years after making his debut for his country. It served as a shock to Ukraine - half an hour of dominance, but they somehow found themselves trailing. Attacking, desperate for a goal, Pletikosa was needed to make his first meaningful save eight minutes from time from Tymoschuk's header.

In injury time substitute Sergiy Startsev could have equalised but his effort from distance was straight down Pletikosa's throat. Mair Shukurov blew the final whistle to leave Ukrainians everywhere baffled - how had they managed to lose this one? Zoran Maric's pre-match words were correct; Croatia managed to pull off a win which nobody expected, and moreover they did not deserve it. They now have a good chance of progressing, but to do well they'll have to play far better than this.


Kristiansand Stadion, 17th June 2012

Croatia 1 (Bilic 72)
Ukraine 0
Attendance - 14,987
Referee - Mair Shukurov (Russia)

Croatia - Pletikosa, Leko, Mijatovic, Simic, Tudor, Biscan, Babic (Seric 82), Vranjes(c), Klasnic (Bilic 18), Sokota (Zahora 61), Sabolcki

Ukraine - Kozachenko, Baltacha, Tymoschuk(c), Kotov, Yaxmanitskiy, Nesmachny (Levchenko 82), Smalko, Koszakow (Startsev 57), Lisitskiy, Belik, Valyaev (Shyschenko 50)

Man of the Match - Igor Tudor (Croatia)

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Bent keeps England on course for Quarters

For the second consecutive match England's unlikely striking hero turned out to be Marcus Bent, as the veteran Leverkusen man once more climbed off the bench to claim three points for Steve McLaren's side which defeated Ireland and in the process leaves them with a tall order to make the knockout round. Mick McCarthy's side simply have to beat Germany on Wednesday to progress.

England deserved the win to boot. They controlled the game from start to finish, limiting Ireland to very little. The relative tactics chosen by the two coaches showed as much. England started very attackingly, in contrast to Ireland, who appeared very defensive and somewhat timid. England had the best of the early possession, but the Irish defence was holding stern and prevented England from creating any chances in the first half hour. Cherno Samba broke through, but with plenty of time to line up a shot, he rather unusually placed it wide. Matthew Etherington also got some joy against John McDonagh, weaving in and out before striking a shot along the very wet grass which caused trouble for Joe Brady.

Michael Owen also might have done better with a chance ten minutes before the break, but like Samba he wasted the opportunity to put his side ahead. Close to the break, Damien Duff had the first Irish chance, similar to Etherington's earlier effort. They abandoned their defensive stance somewhat, which made England rethink their game somewhat, and sat back a little. It didn't stop them dominating in the attacking third, as Michael Owen came closer than ever with a wonderful effort which Brady stopped superbly. England's midfield were in full control, which allowed them to control the game and create far more than McCarthy's men could.

Andrew Thorpe opened up from range with a decent attempt, but he also found the goal frame too small as his shot soared over. England followed it up with an Owen header well saved by Brady once more. Bent entered the field of play, and make an almost instant impact. After Tony Fuller had done well to save Gary Doherty's volley, and Cherno Samba had sent a shot skidding past the post, England finally broke the deadlock. Philip Neville ran unchallenged for a fair distance before being allowed time and space to cross perfectly for Bent to score another header to continue a fantastic year 2012 for him on a personal level.

McCarthy sensed that if Ireland were to lose then their hopes would be all but crushed. This in mind, he urged his side forwards. But the best they could create was Clinton Morrison's wayward overhead kick. Robbie Keane came very close with minutes to go as he hit a shot from under his feet created by Andy O'Brien, but Fuller once more held on safely. With a triumphant kick up field Dick Jol blew for full time, as the holders look set to proceed through, with only a point needed against Bulgaria.


Aråsen Stadion, 17th June 2012

Ireland 0
England 1 (Bent 63)
Attendance - 14,964
Referee - Dick Jol (Holland)

Ireland - Brady, McDonagh, Harte, O'Shea, O'Brien, Foley Sheridan, Partridge (Reid 54), Heffernan, R.Keane, Doherty(c) (Morrison 73), Duff (Killoughery 54)

England - Fuller, P.Neville, Hargreaves, McCombe, Ferdinand(c), J.Cole (Perry 56), Piper, Thorpe (Patterson 66), Samba, Owen (Bent 56), Etherington

Man of the Match - John O'Shea (Ireland)

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After two games for every nation so far, the tables look like this:

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">********************************************* ************************************************** * European Football Championship - Sunday 17th June 2012********************************************** ************************************************** ================================================== ============================================== 2012 Tables============================================ ================================================== ==Group 1Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1st Portugal 2 0 1 0 2 2 1 0 0 2 0 4 2nd Iceland 2 1 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 2 2 4 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3rd Denmark 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 2 1 4th Norway 2 0 0 1 0 2 0 1 0 1 1 1 Group 2Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1st Q Italy 2 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 5 2 6 2nd Romania 2 0 0 1 2 5 1 0 0 3 2 3 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3rd Scotland 2 0 0 1 2 3 0 1 0 0 0 1 4th Sweden 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 Group 3Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1st France 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 2nd Croatia 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 3 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3rd Ukraine 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 3 4th Turkey 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 Group 4Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1st Germany 2 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 1 4 2nd England 2 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 4 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3rd Ireland 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 4th Bulgaria 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 2 1 </pre>

Match Previews - Tuesday
Monday is the tournament's first rest day.

As the final Group matches are played out, drama and tension can be widely expected. Group Two kicks off in the evening, with simultaneous kick offs a ruling once again. Already through, Italy can relax somewhat against a Scotland side who must win and hope for an outcome in the other match. Claudio Terzi is still injured, so the team should remain mainly unchanged. Francesco Guidolin has promised a fair chance to the other countries: "If we relax and not play to our levels, it is infair on everyone else. Therefore, we will play every minute as if our status depended on it." Roberto Guana may be given an opportunity ahead of Mattia Rossini in the trequartista role. Scotland face a tough ask, but coach David Körner is quielty optimistic: "I see no reason why we cannot win. We've shown in recent times that once more Scotland are emerging into a stronger era, and now we must prove that. Of course, there is some element of luck required elsewhere, but all we can do is win." Stephen McPhee or Gary Twigg must stand some chance of playing - McPhee especially has a prolific record against Italian defences.

Elsewhere in the Group, Romania and Sweden clash in Drammen. Sweden must win to stand a chance of qualifying, whilst Romania know a point could be enough, a surprising situation considering their opening day defeat to Italy. Paul Codrea returns for Marius Lacatus, but Gheorghe Serban joins Cristian Chivu on the sidelines for Romania, creating a mini defensive crisis. Sweden are still missing their equivalent of Chivu - Olof Mellberg, and Ola Abrahamsson could start in the need for goals, especially since neither Fredrik Hjelm nor Mads Sörensson have impressed. Without a goal to date, Uno Andersson's side have to score.

Group One is far tighter. Portugal and Iceland should win through, but wins for both Denmark and Norway would create a conundrum where all four sides would finish level on four points. Norway, again, face pressure as the home side in the Ulleval again as Iceland look to continue impressively. Having faced some stick for poor performances, Nils Johan Semb has to win this one to avoid Norway being eliminated at the group stage of their home tournament, something last 'achieved' by Portugal in 2004. "The pressure is on, and we have to win. Iceland are a tough proposition, and we need the support of the crowd. We do not need added pressure from them, and we ask for their backing." Words from key forward John Carew. Robert Evensen broke his foot in the week and misses four months, so his place will most likely go to John Arne Riise in a reshuffle of the pack. Eldar Hadzimehmedovic must have some involvement, as Norway need goals and he of the unpronouncable name has a half decent record with Fulham. Iceland miss Emil Hallfreðsson and Indridi Sigurdsson, so once more Gunnar Heiðar Þorvaldsson and now Ólafur Björnsson should come in.

Trondheim plays host to Portugal and Denmark. Portugal will be looking to take a point at minimum to qualify, although a win would guarantee a place atop the Group and a possibly easier draw. Nuno Mata is suspended and Jorge Andrade still not at 100% fitness - Fernando Meira expected to fill in. Denmark are still at their strongest in terms of numbers, but have seriously disappointed this summer, and a win may still not be enough to see them through.

As the drama rises, the tournament becomes more and more interesting, entertaining, and makes for some unmissable and memorable action.

retired_deljo

High time I updated this:
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18th June 2012

McLaren ready for Bulgaria
Steve McLaren's England side will be ready for their match against Bulgaria on Wednesday, says the England manager. "We might only need a point, but to go out for a draw in international football rarely works. So, we'll be prepared to win the game." England will go into the match as favourites, and tournament hero so far Marcus Bent is pushing to start: "All I can do is score goals and perform well, and let the manager pick whoever he sees fit. I've done well this season just gone, and now in Norway as well. I'm desperate to prove I can do a job from the start."

Irish manager Mick McCarthy admitted his side face stern odds if they are to qualify. "If you fail to win the first two of three matches then, of course, the odds are against you going through. Fortunately, if we can beat Germany, and England do us a favour by not losing, we can go through. Germany are very good - technically able, and they have Kai Brand - what a player he is. We have to watch him, but I feel that we can at least put up a good fight."

Norway and Portugal fight through

The first Group is over and done with, and hosts Norway have found the tightest of paths through. A 1-0 victory over Iceland saw them clinch their first win of the tournament, and second place in the table. Top spot went to Portugal, who shared an entertaining and tense 3-3 draw with Denmark.

The real drama cam in the Ulleval, as Norway opened up desperate for a win over unfashionable but dangerous Iceland. Sævar Jónsson showed as much with a curling shot in the opening ten minutes which had Rune Loven worried. John Arne Riise, restored as the captain in a central role, had the first Norwegian chance with a header after good work by Carew and Gamst Pedersen. Eidur Gudjohnsen drove waywardly over the crossbar in a frenetic opening spell, as both sides went in search of a lead which they could build upon. Guðlaugsson also hit an attempt off target even before the quarter hour mark arrived.

Jónsson became the latest player to put an attempt wide on twenty-seven minutes, with the game starting to settle. Centre back Kim Bø's header was well saved by Magnús Hauksson close to half time, but it wasn't to be long before Norway took the lead. A midfield scrap saw the ball change possession many times in a short spell. The ball fell loose twenty yards from goal, inviting a shot. Riise met it powerfully and nearly took the back of the net with the shot. His first international goal in eight seasons was met with delight by the partisan home support, but it was the cue for an all out siege by Iceland.

Try as they might, Atli Eðvaldsson's side couldn't find the equaliser they needed to qualify. Gudjohnsen's low shot was powerful but straight at Loven, and Alexandersson curled a nice free kick which went desperately close to the goal. Norway dictated almost exactly what happened in the second half, and as a result were able to hold on to a tight and relatively undeserved win. Not that it will matter a jot to the hosts. They have the added bonus of home support, which they believe could take them as far as they want.

Over in Trondheim, Portugal and Denmark entertained the masses with a superb six goal thriller. Knowing they needed a win to stand any chance of going through, Torsten Dürr's team set about the Portuguese early, and with reward. Mads Jørgensen delivered a free kick into the area, met by Morten Skoubo. His header was blocked by Fernando Meira's arm, deemed to be worthy of an infringement and a penalty. Michael Silberbauer was the coolest man in the 23° heat as he converted from twelve yards. Before they had time to catch their breath, it was two. Laursen's deep free kick was again met by the head of the tall Skoubo. This time there was no stopping him as the ball landed firmly in the corner, past Pinheiro and in. Portugal were in shock - 2-0 down so early, in a game they were expected to walk.

A quick response was in order, and fortunately for Alain Giresse his team found their feet and pulled themselves back up off the floor. Armando, Augusto, and Rodrigo Brasao combined to create a header for Hélder Postiga, and a man of his quality tends not to miss often. Sørensen was beaten, and Portugal were back in it by only sixteen minutes. They might have been level through captain Felipe Oliviera, but Sørensen was equal to this attempt. The same man hit the crossbar seconds later as the heat turned up.

Mário forced another good save from the ageing stopper, but he can still produce the stops. Seconds before half time, Peter Løvenkrands might have extended the lead, but only found the Trondheim crowd. Leading 2-1, the Danes looked to put the game beyond Portugal early in the second half, and would have done, but Morten Skoubo was off target for the umpteenth time. As the clock ticked over to the hour mark, the scores were levelled once again. Oliveira carried the ball unchallenged into the penalty area, but instead of shooting he laid Postiga in to double his tally. Portugal instantly dropped their pace, having drawn level for the point they required. Needing another goal, Torsten Dürr's Denmark came back.

With slightly less than fifteen minutes remaining, Michael Silberbauer delivered a sharp and incisive cross-field pass to the foot of Frederiksen. Jørgensen, on the run, met the ball with a fine finish to give them the lead back, and eliminate Portugal. Or so he thought. Just two hundred and forty seconds later this topsy-turvy match swung back in favour of the Portuguese. For the first time Mário was allowed time on the ball. He beat Skoubo before jinking delightfully past Beierholm. From an angle on the edge of the area he hit a shot which deceived the unsighted Sørensen and into the back of the net. Michael Silberbauer had Portuguese hearts in mouths with a very late header which might have won the game, but 3-3 was to be the outcome.

An outcome Alain Giresse was delighted with: "What a game this was. We showed massive heart and courage to continually fight back. Denmark showed much courage too, and my comiserations go to them. But we are through now, thankfully, and can make a real fist of the tournament now." They might well do that, but they, and other Group One qualifiers Norway, must improve massively if they are to worry the big guns.


Ulleval Stadion, 19th June 2012

Norway 1 (Riise 40)
Iceland 0
Referee - Einar Örn Mazzone (Itaky)
Attendance - 29,960

Norway - Loven, Wiik, Steiro, Bø, Karadas, E.Bakke, Høiland (Bolseth 59), Gamst Pedersen (Larsen 65), Carew, Riise(c), Hoseth (Ystaas 59)

Iceland - Hauksson, Ólafsson(c), Björnsson, Helgason (Þórhallson 65), Bjarnason, Guðmundsson, Þorvaldsson (Alexandersson 71), Birgisson, Jónsson, Gudjohnsen, Guðlaugsson

Man of the Match - John Arne Riise (Norway)



Lerkendal Stadion, 19th June 2012

Portugal 3 (Hélder Postiga 16, 60, Mário 80)
Denmark 3 (Silberbauer 6 pen, Skoubo 10, Jørgensen 76)
Referee - Zeljko Novosel (Serbia & Montenegro)
Attendance - 20,980

Portugal - Pinheiro, Augusto (Aguiar 88), Carvalho, Fernando Meira, Armando, Mário, Ricardo Quaresma, Brasao, Hélder Postiga, Oliveira(c), Cardoso

Denmark - T.Sørensen, Laursen, Bøgelund, Madsen, Østergaard, Kure Vidkjær (Frederiksen 67), Silberbauer, Poulsen(c), Jørgensen, Skoubo, Løvenkrands (Beierholm 53)

Man of the Match - Hélder Postiga (Portugal)

retired_deljo

Scottish pain as Romania prevail

Group Two came to a climax with a little drama and much heartache. Before kickoff, Scotland knew they had to beat Italy, a tough task in itself, and then pray Sweden would do them a favour and beat Romania. In Bergen, David Körner's side put in one of their best performances in years, but it was not to be enough as Romania continued an impressive recovery with a comfortable 3-1 win over Sweden, who must go down as a massive under achiever.

Scotland could probably consider themselves a little lucky to come out on top against Francesco Guidolin's Italian side. Dangerous poweful forward Alberto Gilardino had the first chance for the Azzurri, who took the chance to rest one or two names without weakening the side too badly. Stuart Kerr, making his first international start, showed his creative and dribbling talents on twelve minutes with a curling effort from the edge of the penalty area which hit the angle of the post and crossbar. They had shown Italy they meant business, and ten minutes later got everything spot on.

Kerr delivered a free kick from the right which was headed past Buffon by Mark Burchill, also making his first start in Norway after two late sub appearances. Körner's decision to inject fresh life into his attack was being well justified, as the two newcomers combined to give them their all important lead. What wouldn't satisfy them was news arriving from Drammen that Marius Luca had put Romania ahead was filtering through. The Romanians had started their match very well, and might have had an earlier lead through Marius Niculae, but for a good save from Sandkvist. But Tiberiu Gheoane's cross was met by Luca's head before the Swedish stopper could catch the ball, and Scotland's task appeared fruitless.

Lee Wilkie could have doubled the lead back in Bergen with a free header that resulted in a very disappointing finish. With Romania dominating the other game, Scotland's hopes were ever diminishing. To rub salt into the wound, seven minutes before half time Guidolin's side equalised through the most impressive player of all the 368 on show this summer. Eugenio Corradi did well on the right hand side, and it was his cut back which found Samuele Dalla Bona. He hit a fierce drive high past Kevin Young to maintain such wonderful form. But for Young, Italy might well have been ahead at the turnaround. Millwall's veteran keeper did well to keep out a header from Mattia Rossini.

How Romania went in 1-0 ahead would baffle many. Cernat hit the post, and Radoi, Niculae, and goalscorer Luca all missed valuable opportunities. Sweden looked a shadow of the side they could have been, and were almost certainly on the way out. Clearly in control, manager Marius Lacatus made two substitutions to preserve key players, but one of the replacements had his own agenda, which made his chances of a starting berth all the stronger. Dinamo Bucharest's Nicolae Mitea needed just three minutes to make his mark. Fellow sub Rosu delivered a corner, which Luca headed powerfully at goal. Sandkvist couldn't hold it, and Mitea opened his international account.

The news was met with groans by the Scottish support, who not only had seen their side lose their grip on the game, but also apparently on the way out. Young made a good stop from Porro, but Gilardino was still off target. With twenty minutes remaining, Stuart Kerr made his second major impression of the match. Combining with namesake Mark, he was set scott free with just Buffon to beat. Rounding the Barcelona man, he was felled in the area. Buffon was sent off as the last man committing a professional foul. Ivan Pelizzoli came on for the sacrificial Gilardino, but even a keeper of his qualities couldn't keep out Kerr's penalty, capping a fine game with a first international goal. With the 2-1 lead and a man advantage, the Scots had the game all but won. All now was for Sweden to turn their match around...

...but they had hadly had an attempt at goal throughout. Clearly missing the influence of a striker such as the injured Zlatan Ibrahimovic, they had no impetus ahead of the midfield. With slightly over ten minutes remaining Bojan Djordjic took it upon himself to attack, and reduced the lead with a fine left foot strike from fifteen yards to give Scotland a glimmer of hope. Knowing their tournament was over because of a defeat to Italy and Scotland's superior goal record, Uno Andersson's men just seemed content with a defeat. It was summed up in injury time when Mitea, with his second, hit a contender for goal of the tournament: a stunning left foot half volley from the penalty spot leaving nobody in any doubt about the team going through. Alex Farnerud might have scored seconds later but Dumitru did well to divert the attempt.

Both matches finished within seconds of each other. Despite a heroic performance to overcome Italy, one of the favourites for the title, Scotland were eliminated as Romania turned in a fantastic performance to recover from a 5-2 defeat on day two to qualify behind the Azzurri. As for Sweden, the post-mortem will begin in earnest after the tournament.


Brann Stadion, 19th June 2012

Scotland 2 (Burchill 21, S.Kerr 71 pen)
Italy 1 (Dalla Bona 38)
Attendance - 34,969
Referee - Zelkjo Novosel (Serbia & Montenegro)

Scotland - Young(c), Wilkie (McGuire 53), McCunnie, Walker, S.Caldwell, Crainey (Paterson 60), Wilson (Maloney 60), M.Kerr, Stewart, Burchill, S.Kerr

Italy - Buffon(c), Corradi, Dalla Bona, Falanga (Todisco 53), Cannavaro, Vianello, Porro, M.Rossini, Pavesi (Rabito 53), Gilardino (Pelizzoli 70), Bellini

Man of the Match - Samuele Dalla Bona (Italy)



Sweden 1 (Djordjic 78)
Romania 3 (Luca 14, Mitea 55, 90)
Attendance - 12,185
Referee - Jesper Petersen (Faroe Islands)

Sweden - Sandkvist, C.Andersson, Dorsin, Johansson, Antonsson, Kallström(c), Djordjic, Harbuzi, Sörensson (Ishizaki 71, J.Eriksson 90), Hjelm (Muslimovic 51), Farnerud

Romania - Dumitru, Geoane, Balan, Lupu, Radoi(c), Cernat, Grigorie, Codrea, Luca, M.Niculae (Mitea 52), Munteanu (Rosu 52)

Man of the Match - Nicolae Mitea (Romania)

retired_deljo

Match Previews - Wednesday
The Group phase culminates on Wednesday with both Groups Three and Four still very much in the balance, and all eight sides having something to play for. France top Group Three and will qualify with a single point against Ukraine in Oslo. However, with Viktor Leonenko's side still very much alive in the Group and requiring three points to jump ahead of France, the game in the Olympic Stadion, Bislett, should be very entertaining. Paul Le Guen has stated his intent: "We're going for the win, as we always do and will. If we take Ukraine lightly, we could easily fail to qualify, which would be unacceptable." France should remain unchanged, although Bréchet and Edcudé could come in. Ukraine have serious problems. Defensive rock Eugene Kotov is suspended, but they are also without Vyacheslav Sviderskiy and Sergiy Startsev. For a squad already low on resources it could create quite a problem.

In Kristiansand the situation is similar. Croatia need just a point to progress, with opponents Turkey requiring the three to have any chance of going through, and even then its an outside bet. Mehmet Özturk's side have been very poor this summer, and have to improve massively if they are to progress. An initial one match suspension to forward Sari Baris rules him out, but after his reprehensible actions against France he can expect a further ban. Nihat or Furkan will cover. Croatia are also missing a striker in Ivan Klasnic, but goalscoring hero from last time out Mate Bilic will start. Two sides who have not produced the greatest of football of late are unlikely to put on the greatest show, but anything is possible.

England and Germany should be secure enough in Group Four, but if Ireland and Bulgaria can both pull off wins they will go through and cause an almighty upset in the process. England meet Bulgaria in Lillestrøm and are in decent if not special form. Marcus Bent, scorer of their only goals so far, is pushing for a role alongside either Cherno Samba or Michael Owen. Coach Steve McLaren could decide the 34 year old is more potent from the substitutes bench, where the two goals came from. Bulgaria have worries over their defence. Joao Carlos serves a suspension and Aleksandar Tunchev is injured, and without two of their key defenders they will be a weaker outfit. The modestly talented and relatively inexperienced Daniel Atanasov could cover.

Germany need only a point against the Republic of Ireland in Stavanger to go through, but as has been said timelessly in past years, never ever write off the Irish. Despite Ian Harte's suspension, Mick McCarthy doesn't believe his squad could be in a better shape: "My lads are in great form. Their training has been so sharp - they're really up for the Germany match. We beat them by a goal to nil in a similar match four years ago, and I see no reason why history can't repeat itself. We will be bitterly disappointed with failure." Germany have looked as business-like as ever, and will be favourites. Metzelder is still injured, but Ochs covered well against Bulgaria. Kai Brand is a player they will still look to, despite below par form. Expect fireworks from Group Four.

20th June 2012

Körner praises Scottish spirit
Even though his Scotland side have been eliminated, German coach David Körner praised his squad for 'exceptional spirit and performance' during their summer. "We fought for every ball in every minute of every match. We had some fairly harsh luck, but came good against Italy, albeit too late. We were exceptional on Tuesday, but it wasn't enough. Still, I'm very proud of our efforts first time back in a major championships in a long while. We're all disappointed though."

Swedish manager Uno Andersson has promised he will look very importantly at his job over the coming weeks to decide if he is still the right man for the job. Widely criticised following their elimination, the 51-year-old, in the job for five years, might now consider his tenure ended. Veteran German coach Torsten Dürr will also consider his role as Denmark manager, as he is 61 and could consider retirement.