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General Category => Sports => Topic started by: KiloDeltaCharlie on June 13, 2024, 05:02:07 PM
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Friday sees the start of UEFA Euros 2024 held this year in Germany. The tournament starts with Germany hosting Scotland. It's the Scots first appearance in a major competition since the 90s.
There are 6 groups of 4 teams. The top 2 from each group go through to the knockout stages along with the 4 best 3rd place teams.
There are a number of teams who can lift the trophy:
France
Belgium (but I think their best chance was a few years ago.)
England (but we'll fall short again!)
Portugal (but is Ronaldo too old now?)
Netherlands
Spain
Italy
Croatia
While Germany must hope that home advantage can make up for a 10+ year slump but they are on their way back.
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Yes time for some Footsy again!!
My strongest bets for winner are England and Portugal.
Sure Ronaldo is getting on with the years and isn't what he used to be but the whole team is quite a lot different than it was during Santos' era... Roberto Martinez has breathed new life into the team and they are much more of an offensive team than ever before. So you can't rule them out.
I do hope England's run of bad luck will finally end and they'll be on top...there is no other country out there that would deserve to raise the cup more than England!
Belgium isn't up there any more...Lukaku is the only real star player there anymore...De Bruyne isn't what he used to be either...I would be very surprised if they make it to the final 4....
Spain is a question mark...
Netherlands can be a surprise
Italy can go either way....they can totally flop or they can make a deep run.
France is crazy strong...but they might be bit cocky already and that might cost them dearly...
Germany is another question mark for sure....I think the home court advantage might carry them on.
Croatia had their chance in 2022 and fell just bit short...I don't think they have it anymore...Modric is also getting on with the years....
Interesting games to come that's for sure.
I think tonight's game will determine a lot about Germany...if Scotland proves to be a difficult opponent then I can assume hard times for the Germans ahead..
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Us English had a good laugh at last nights result! :wootwoot:
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I can imagine that! :D
Scotts were totally weaponless against Germany...and that kind of took the question mark out of Germany, they are in good form. Especially Musiala was excellent.
Today's prediction will go as follows
Hungary - Switzerland.
The Swiss will have an easy win
Spain - Croatia
This could very well be a tie as both teams will have control on the center field...But Spain does have more outs on the scoring sector I think so tie or a 1-0 to Spain
Italy - Albania
Italy is now the big question mark but they should still handle Albania with one leg tied behind their heads!
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Hungary vs Switzerland
I don't think it will be an easy win, but the Swiss should win. Hungary could get a win if they play well.
Spain vs Croatia
This could be a draw, I think on paper Spain should win but Croatia can surprise teams.
Italy vs Albania
the Italians are capable of winning this whole tournament (like they did last time) they are also quite capable of failing to get out the group stages. Even so Albania's victory is just getting to the finals! A comfortable win for Italy.
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So far pretty been pretty easy for the Swiss...Hungary is pretty totally out of it...
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In the first half they were awful. But much better in the second half, may yet get an equalizer!
... or concede a 3rd!!
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Yes... Hungary was better on the second half for sure. But then an easy mistake and 3-1 to the swiss!
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Well good loooord. Spain is on fire! And very aggressive play. Very different from the World Cup.
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Yes, I feel Croatia are relying on the old guard, and they're maybe not up to it any more.
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Croatia had a lot of chances but they blew every single one including a penalty!! Quite unfortunate.
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Well Italy took the win but it wasn't easy for them and their offensive wasn't all that good...
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I didn't see tonight's game. But the score line suggests it wasn't an easy night for Italy.
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Albania managed to make the fastest goal in the history of the Euro Cup in only 20 something seconds!!
So today's matches
Poland - Netherlands
I have no idea the shape of the Dutch team now, but Poland has always been tougher than it might seem. So I'm predicting a tie here.
Slovenia - Denmark
I hate Denmark...in the past they have pretty much always advanced with pure luck and that's always rubbed me the wrong way. This one they will win easily though.
Serbia - England
Out of all the big names so far only Italy has struggled a bit... England should not...easy win here and onwards to the finals!
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I forgot to post my predictions early enough.
I do think the Poland / Netherlands result is about what I was expecting. The Poles always make it hard, but the Dutch have slowly crept up the world rankings in recent years... almost unnoticed!
Slovenia vs Denmark - No idea about Slovenia, but the Danes often have a few great players so I would expect a solid win for them.
Serbia vs England - I wish I had your confidence for England! It depends which team shows up, they could win this by a hatful, but I'm just going to be happy if they don't lose! ;)
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1-1 for Slovenia and the Danes, our commentators suggesting that was the first upset of the tournament, but the Slovenia played well in the second half and could have - perhaps should have - won it.
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Didn't watch that one...but I was extremely happy to see Denmark NOT winning! ;D
Not a very strong start for England...Good defensive play but they could/should have done so much more!
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Ok, a 1-0 win for England. But I've seen it before, we score early, look comfortable for 20-mins and then just sit on the lead and let the opponents come back into the game. Serbia will be frustrated and expect more and not fear Slovenia and the Danes.
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Today's predictions
Romania - Ukraine
I have no idea about Romania...But Ukraine can be tough to beat if they are in top form. I would expect Ukraine to take this
Belgium - Slovakia
Eventhough Belgium isn't what it used to be and isn't in the top they still should have a field day with Slovakia here.
Austria - France
France....they're not my favourite team by a country mile but one can not deny just how incredibly strong they are. This could be a big win for them... 4-0 or more even! Or then they'll go the England way and score one and defend...
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Just come in after being out all day. I see Romania are 4-0 up on Ukraine with a few minutes remaining. I did feel that might be closer, but I;m not sure how affected the Ukraine is because of their current conflict. Romania are a solid team but not normally one to go too far in these tournaments.
Belgium vs Slovakia
I'm with Charger, Belgium are no longer a force on world football (even though they are still ranked 4th!!), but they should get to the knock-out section. Slovakia should be happy to be at the tournament!
Austria vs France
France are going to be too powerful for Austria, even if they are are as disorganised as they usually are. This could be a big score!
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I didn't see Belgium losing to Slovakia. What I did see of the game it seemed to all Belgium so I guess Slovakia scored early and then parked the bus in front of their goal. It probably does confirm that Belgium aren't the team they were.
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A win for France, but not a great performance and Austria played quite well.
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I missed all of today's games as I went to the city....but I did see the results and all were bit shocking...Romania beating Ukraine and especially Belgium losing was a big shock...
France played bit like England did I believe...bit underwhelming from what I gathered...
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Yesterday was a bit of a disaster for my predictions so lets hope for a better one today.
Only to matches
Turkey - Georgia
Georgia is expected to be the worst team of the tournament so Turkey should find an easy win here
Portugal - Czech Republic
Both England and France have stumbled in their opening matches but let's hope Portugal will be better. Based on their game against Finland earlier this month they played very different style footsy than seen on Santos' era so that's a very good thing. Much more aggressive and offensive play all around..but still they have a strong defense when needed. Portugal should win this...maybe not with ease but still a strong win
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Yes, some teams have started slowly this tournament.
Today
Turkey vs Georgia
Turkey have played well in past tournaments, Georgia are minnows. While I await to be proved wrong, Turkey should be comfortable here.
Portugal vs Czech Republic
Have Portugal got new players of quality coming through? I don't know, but even so they should be too strong for the Czech team even though they're probably not going to be a push over.
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Turkey won 3-1 but Georgia were unlucky. Conceding with the final kick of the game after sending their keeper up for a corner... which meant an open goal when Turkey broke!
Quite possibly the best match so far as both teams went for goals.
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Didn't watch that one as I went for Athletics instead. Two new national records there so a nice day at the Paavo Nurmi Games!
Now it's time to charge up for the Portugal match! That should be interesting!
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Wow the Czech really have parked that bus right in there! 11 players out of 11 below the 30m line! That's crazy! haven't seen that kind of play since the Iran game few World Cups ago.
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Now the Czechs have scored, so we'll see the bus parked even deeper now!
EDIT: Portugal have quickly equalised by way of an own-goal... by why did the keeper push it out instead of catching it?!!
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Yeah that 1-1 goal was a huuuuuuge mistake from the Czech goalie!
All in all very underwhelming preformance from Portugal...sure the first half the play was killed and destroyed by the czech's bus defense but even on the second half when they opened up the game a bit Portugal couldn't really get anything done....this leaves a lot of question marks...they won't be winning any of the big matches if they continue to play like this....
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So today's matches
Croatia - Albania
Croatia played very poorly against Spain so they need to pick up. Albania was much stronger against Italy than I expected but not sure if that was because Italy was weak or because they were better than expected...but I still hope and assume Croatia will win this one
Germany - Hungary
Hungary was quite weak on their first match and Germany was very strong so I'm expecting Germany to take a very easy win here
Scotland - Switzerland
The Scotts have a lot to prove now after their very underwhelming preformance...so I do think they will give the Swiss a run for their money but I doubt it'll be enough.
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I'll go with...
Croatia vs Albania
This *should* be an easy win for Croatia even if Albania show some grit.
Germany vs Hungary
Home crowd, an improving squad, I don't give Hungary a hope. Easy win for Germany.
Scotland vs Switzerland
The Scots are better than the showing they made against Germany. The Swiss are a solid team and while they could get out of the group that's as far as they go. A draw would be okay for for the Scots but a win would be so much better. I think this could be a draw.
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Ok, I missed most of the first half... but I get the impression from the commentators that Albania are all over Croatia and should be 2 or 3 up now. 1-0 to Albania at half time.
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Not entirely true... Croatia was pretty weak but Albania wasn't very good though.
Finally the tie goal! Croatia took control of the game for the second half and the goal was hanging in the air!
But Croatia needs one more! And I think that'll be a task as Albania is gonna park that bus in....
EDIT!
Haha! Soon as I wrote that Croatia scores again! They finally found their drive again!
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Yes Croatia have been very good in the 2nd half, Albania not so much!
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Bit of a lucky goal for Albania there in the end...but a great match both teams were fighting for the win even after 90 mins!
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Albania did seem to come to life after they went 2-1 down. Not sure their equaliser was lucky as such, maybe in that Croatia didn't defend it well!
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So who's favored to go all the way?
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^^^
Basically it is trhe usual suspects
France
Belgium
England
Spain
Italy
Germany
Germany have the home advantage.
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France, England, Germany and Portugal I think are the forerunners...although Portugal's first game left lot to be desired...same for England.
Well Germany took a routine win...Hungary parked the bus and Germans tried to push it away.
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Yes, a solid win for Germany, the first team through to the knock out stages with a game in hand. Hungary had chances but never really seemed to be a big threat.
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1-1 draw for Scotland vs Switzerland. Scotland can still qualify.
I didn't really watch the match, it was on in the back ground but I was having a zoom call with a bunch of friends. So I can;t really judge on the quality of the game!
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Today's games
Slovenia vs Serbia
Slovenia have a point, but Serbia pushed England quite hard. I think this could be Serbia's but probably only by the odd goal.
Denmark vs England
A repeat of the semi-final from 2021, I would hope the result goes the same way. England can't play as poor as they did in the first game, and should be too strong for Denmark who may well progress anyway.
Spain vs Italy
Two teams in with a shout at winning the whole tournament. Italy struggled to beat Albania, Spain were comfortable in winning their first game. I think a draw is a strong possibility.
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I didn't watch the Scott match either...
Today's games
Slovenia - Serbia
This could go either way or be a tie...I have very little feel abou this one, but I did put Serbia to win.
Denmark - England
England indeed needs to perk up their game now. The lucky Danes are pretty good as well, although I believe they struggled a bit agains Slovenia in their opening match... Hopefully England will clear this with relative ease!
Spain - Italy
Italy still remains a question mark...their first game was pretty weak where as Spain ruled in their first game. Both might take a cautious approach though so a draw is indeed quite possible.
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Again after England gets the early goal they become rather passive and this time with a team like the lucky danes it just isn't a tactic you want to take...as proven by that lucky shot goal.
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AAAAHHHH!!!! They are so much better than that!!
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A good team would have beaten England 5-0!
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Well looks like today might be a day of ties! :D
England again played just enough...it's almost like they didn't even try to win during the second half...couple of good spots but that's it...I was expecting more...but this might very well just be Southgate's startegy...do the bare minimum and advance and then kick on the high gear....who knows....
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Extremely entertaining match between Spain and Italy going on right now...eventhough it's still 0-0!
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I was a little distracted during the first half, but when I did check in it seemed that Spain were in control!
I missed their goal!!
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Well it was an own goal again... Stupid mistake from the defence....running straight towards their own goal and knee'd the ball in...
Good game though and eventhough Spain didn't actually get to score they ruled the game!
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Today's matches for the most part are somewhat uninteresting...
Slovakia - Ukraine
Slovakia took a somewhat surprise win from Belgium and Ukraine lost brutally to Romania...so it is quite possible that this will result in a tie...
Poland - Austria
Poland played well against Netherlands and Austria reportedly did pretty good against France. Both teams need a win here so that might open up the game a bit. I'm thinking Poland will be on top.
Netherlands - France
The top match of the day. France will most likely be without their top man Mbappe (or atleast he would be in a very limited role) which does hurt them, but they have tons of talent though. Netherlands however did prove to be quite a lot better than I think was expected so they might put up a fight...or then both will just hunker down and settle for a tie.
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Today's games
Slovakia vs Ukraine
I don't really know the teams that weel. Slovakia had a good win over Belgium, while Ukraine lost heavily to Romania. I thought Ukraine were better than that result, but if not then Slovakia should win comfortably.
Poland vs Austria
Both lost in their first games, I suspect Poland may have the edge here, but it might be a draw.
Netherlands vs France
Both won their opening games. On paper France should win... but neither will want ot lose so again a draw may be the outcome.
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^ The three games today, if placed in a 17th-century context, would totally make sense as topics in a course on minor wars of the Early Modern period. :D
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Slovakia played a great first half and Ukraine played a great second half and they surely deserved the win here.
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I was down the pub... I saw that Slovakia were 1-0 when I left... 1-2 to Ukraine when I got home. Good for them.
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Only watched the first half of the Poland Austria game and it looked like Poland were getting the better of it...obviously not as they ended up losing 1-3 with a penalty kick...
Just noticed that that was only the 3rd Penalty kick in the whole tournament...that's is incredibly low number considering the last few major tournaments and the intruduction of VAR...
Well my bet went down the drain with that one though... Now if France and Holland tie things up I'll be super annoyed as I would have made 144€ had Poland played on their level!
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Goddamnit!
It was a tie...and a rather uneventful match all in all...
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It was quite cagey, they cancelled each other out.
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Today's predictions
Georgia - Czech
This should be an easy win the Czech. They played well against Portugal and Georgia...well...
Turkey - Portugal
Portugal was bit underwhelming in their first match, Turkey got an easy win from an easy opponent so that means nothing. It depends a lot on which Portugal are we gonna see...the tightly knit defensive one or the openly offensive one. This could be 0-1 or 0-4 easily.
Belgium - Romania
Belgium have to win here if they want to advance...Romania from what I gathered played very well and were much stronger than anyone expected but I find it hard to believe that Belgium would underpreform twice in a row!
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My thoughts on today's games
Georgia vs Czech
The Czechs have the history, the Georgians are just happy to be here. But they did give Turkey a bit of a fight only losing the decisive goal late on. It should be the Czechs winning here but I'm sure Georgia will have a go and not make it easy.
Turkey vs Portugal
Turkey are a good second tier team capable of getting to the knock-out stages. However, Portugal should be too strong for them, the likely winners Portigal, but could be a draw.
Belgium vs Romania
A must win for Belgium, and while not the team they were 5 years ago I'd like to think they'll be too good for Romania who will probably progress regardless.
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Bad luck for the Czech...they ruled the match then an unlucky penalty...But if the game carries on like it did on the first half I can see the Czech scoring...twice even.
Edit:
Well they got the one....
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I saw some of the game. It seemed quite open, if lacking a little quality. A draw seemed about right.
I'm out for the rest of the day.
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A good game from Belgium although they missed so many goals....it should have been 4-0!
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Didn't see the last two games but the results suggest things are getting back to normal for Portugal and Belgium
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Yeah both played good solid footsy. Turkey did manage to properly score one in their own goal though! I laughed my ass off with that one! One of the dumbest things I've seen in a long time in a major tournament! :D
So today is the first day of the finals of the group stage...so only two matches and both come at the same time.
Switzerland - Germany
The swiss started strong but then struggled with Scotland and now they are facing Germany...I don't really think they have a chance. Germany has proven they have found their drive again...although this is a meaningless game to them so I assume they will go with a B-team so a surprise can happen...I'm thinking this could be a tie.
Scotland - Hungary
Hungary is out...Scotland if they win here might still have a chance so I'm assuming they'll go full on into this one and they should win.
Out of the two matches this should be the more interesting one, however ofcourse our TV is going to show the Germany one which might turn out to be a total snooze fest....
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My take (pretty much the same as yours!)
Switzerland vs Germany
As Germany have already qualified for the next stages I suspect they'll put some unused players in to give them a run out. Having said that I still feel they'll be too strong for the Swiss, and can always bring their best players on if need be.
Hungary vs Scotland
Scotland need a win but their poor goal difference means they need to score a few if they can. I don't think Hungary have played well but they won't be a push over. I think the Scots can win but I actuall think it will be a draw.
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Well it wasn't as boring of a match as I predicted...
The Swiss unarmed Germany pretty well...and Germany even played with the A-team which was maybe bit surprising...But the tie it was....
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I had a choice of games and went with the Scotland vs Hungary match as that was the one which had some importance hanging on it.
Scotland lost 1-0 with a goal to Hungary in the 99th minute when a Scotland corner broke down and Hungary broke and that led to the goal. It was in the 99th minute because Hungary player Varga was badly hurt in a clash and was carried off the pitch after about 10 minutes of treatment.
It has to be said though that neither team looked great but Hungary had the better chances including hitting the post and making the Scots goal keeper work quite hard. Having said that the Scots had a stone cold penalty turned down and VAR didn't even check it!
I think Hungary have an outside chance to progress with 3 points but it will depend how other results go.
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Ouch...that was some bad luck for the Scotts there!
Today's matches...
Only two matches again today...
Croatia - Italy
Well this is going to be interesting. Italy might wanna settle for a tie but Croatia must win. So I can imagine them going at it hard! And Italy was really struggling with Spain so if Croatia can do the same they have a good chance of winning this one...and ofcourse I'm hoping they would.
Albania - Spain
Well there is nothing at stake here for Spain...they've already won the group so they'll probably be going with a b-team here and settle for a tie...this one could even be 0-0...or maybe 0-1 for Spain...I doubt Albania would even have a chance against Spain's B-team
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My thoughts
Croatia vs Italy
If Croatia win then Italy will have to hope that 3pts are enough! I can see Croatia winning because Italy are a little underwhelming at the moment. On paper Italy should win, and Croatia haven't really turned up either. I think a win for Croatia but maybe a draw.
Albania vs Spain
Spain have been good, even with them resting some players Albania can't really expect anything from this game. They did play well against Italy and Croatia but that was against teams who are not on top form. A win for Spain here.
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Dammit! I was late back for the 2nd half of Croatia v Italy... and I've missed a goal, again!!
Croatia 1-0 up could Italy be going home!
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The only moment of class by Italy in the entire game saw them score a fantastic last gasp equaliser and saved their tournament.
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Oh nooooooooooooo! Poor Croatia! My heart dropped with that last minute goal.
Italy played extremely poorly through out the match...Croatia played their best game in the tournament...what a huuuge dissapointment it has to be for them...Italy did not deserve to move forward.
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Yes Croatia were unlucky, they had more desire, Italy just played for the draw and didn't come to life until they went behind.
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4 matches today!
Netherlands - Austria
Austria played very well against Poland and Netherlands did pretty good keeping France out of scoring so this could be an intersting match...but I do believe NEtherlands should win here...tie might not be enough for second place.
France - Poland
Poland is out so they're only playing to save face I suppose...but against France...don't think they have a chance...especially since France will go with the A-team here
England - Slovenia
The most interesting match of the day. England has truly struggled so far and have done what can only be described as the bare minimum. They need to step up...and this is the time to do so! I believe they will win here...
Denmark - Serbia
Denmark can settle for a tie here as long as England wins...So I'm assuming they'll play it safe and freeze the game...Serbs need a win so they'll try to push...but I doubt it'll be enough.
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My take:
Netherlands vs Austria
An interesting game as both can still qualify for the next stage (the Dutch may already have done so!). The Netherlands should be too strong for Austria but a draw might be enough for Austria. So a Dutch win but with a possible draw!
France vs Poland
Mathematically Poland could still go through, but it would mean a win and by a few goals! That's not going to happen. France may already be through but they need to put a good performance in to settle their own nerves.
England vs Slovenia
Apparently England are already though... but they need a good performance even more so than the French! If the real England show up this will be an easy win for them, if it's the same as last time then a draw beckons!
Denmark vs Serbia
Serbia can still qualify with a win, but I think Denmark can't rely on a win by England so I think they'll want to win this, it may be a good game.
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I'm out for the next few hours so at best I'll see the 2nd half of the England game!
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I also missed the first half of England's match, but by the looks of it I didn't miss much... 0-0 as is the other match....
England better amp up their game for the second half!
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There's only one word that can describe England's game right now and that is SLOW.
That's been their problem through out so far...ball just moves around waaaaaay too slowly.
At the end of the second half with Gordon things started to pick up a bit...so maybe he should be added to the starting line up?
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Everyone here is saying that Gordon and Palmer should be on from the start... not late, late subs!
All I would say is that England never looked liked conceding, Slovenia set them selves up for the draw because I believe that means they also go through with 3 points.
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Yeah Palmer came in very well too so maybe he should be there from the start as well!
Looks like both Slovenia and Denmark made it through...I think everything between them was a tie so I don't even know which is gonna be #2 and #3! :D
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Good point, on the table I looked at I think they are split on alphabetical order!!
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Today's matches...the last of the group stage!
Slovakia - Romania
Both played good first matches then lost their second...Both at 3 points...so I'm assuming both are looking for a win...although tie might be enough for both to advance...
Ukraine - Belgium
Ukraine is also at 3 points after losing their first but winning their second...same with Belgium...so this whole damn group is at 3 points! Crazy! But Ukraine is on the losing end of 3 points with the goal difference...so They techincally need a win here...but I don't think that'll be possible...Belgium should win this one and they should go at it pretty aggressively too as winning this group might be valuable.
Czech - Turkey
Turkey was atrocious against Portugal so I think the Czech have bit of an edge over this...but truthfully this could also be a tie..
Georgia - Portugal
Portugal has already won the group so they can have a rest day and put their b-team in...so who knows...on paper Portugal should slaughter Georgia but they might just play half assed and settle for a tie....
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I think I'll predict...
Slovakia vs Romania
I'd agree that a draw is most likely, but if onw of them managed to scrape a win I think it'll be Romania.
Ukraine vs Belgium
Both teams lost their opening matches before improving considerably to win their second. Belgium should be too strong for the Ukraine, so I'll go with them.
Czech vs Turkey
The Czech's have to go for a win otherwise they are going home. Turkey have played fine in one game and garbage in the other. I can see Czech winning this.
Georgia vs Portugal
I'd quite like to see Georgia win and have a short at progressing... but let's be honest that ain't gonna happen, this should be a straight forward win for Portugal.
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I've been watching the Ukraine / Belgium game. At half time Ukraine have had the best of the chances. Belgium have had a lot of possession but as we all know that doesn't mean much! 0-0 at half time.
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I'm not able to watch the evening matches but I'll be back for the Portugal game for sure! :)
I did see a headline that some ukrainian fucker was pointing Belgium's players with a laser pointer! What a dick!
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0-0 at full time. Romania / Slovakia ended 1-1. So all teams in that group finished on 4 points but Ukraine had the worst goal difference so finished fourth. Much the better team Ukraine maybe just didn't have the quality in front of goal.
It will probably have to be reconsidered for future tournaments but Ukraine are the first team to go out with 4pts, and Slovenia and Hungary might go through with 3!
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That has to be a first! I can't remember that all teams in one group would have had the same points ever before...but my memory is not that great to be honest! :D
But that is the problem with this group system...it can happen (but obviously it's very very rare) and it can be unfair to some...but I'm not really sure how it could be changed either...
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Apparently in the 80s (I think it was) at a World cup Norway suffered the same fate when everyone got 4 points.
At the Olympics in running events, the semi-finals go something like the first 2 plus the 4 fastest losers who go through to the final. This would be easy to apply in these tournaments.
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But how do you translate that "fastest loser" into footsy? I doubt there would be a situation where there would be 4 teams that would have different points..and most likely there would still be more than 4 teams that would have 3 points...in the end it wouldn't really solve anything....
Anyways Portugal is struggling a bit...although it is quite evident that the ref is very much against them...I haven't seen that yet in these games that the ref favours one team over the other but here that seems to be the case.
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Turkey and Georgia both won, to join Portugal in the next phase.
The line up for the Group of 16 is
Saturday
Switzerland vs Italy
Germany vs Denmark
Sunday
England vs Slovakia
Spain vs Georgia
Monday
France vs Belgium
Portugal vs Slovenia
Tuesday
Romania vs Netherlands
Austria vs Turkey
It's nice to see some of the less fancied teams are through... but this really is as far they go (famous last words :P )
France vs Belgium is probably the standout tie (FIFA Ranked 2 and 3 respectively)!
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^^^
Belgium's FIFA ranking hasn't been representetive of the team in years. They've always been high on the rankings but their actual level has always been waaaaaay lower...as it is again. It shows that those rankings can be pretty damn off!
That being said, yes I do believe that France - Belgium is probably the most even matched of all games here in this stage....So many "weaker" countries advanced this time around.
So quarter final time!
Today we have
Switzerland vs Italy
and
Germany vs Denmark
The swiss played pretty solid in the opening rounds...Italy on the otherhand wasn't exactly oozing confidence...So this could be a tight one. Italy's lacking offence and the swiss have a very strong defence...to I wouldn't be overly surprised if this ended up all the way to the penalties...either that or one goal victory for Italy.
The lucky Danes haven't been quite as super lucky as they have in the past tournaments which is nice...but they did get super lucky to advance...3 ties only....frankly they shouldn't even be here.
Germany was very strong, much stronger than I expected in fact...so they have the clear advantage here. Although Denmark might just park that bus at the 20m line and Germany will struggle to get through as happened with the Swiss game...so I'm expecting a very low goal match here as well...but I do believe germany will win this one.
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I had almost forgotten it was starting up again today!!
Switzerland vs Italy
Neither side excites this time around. Yes it could go all the way to penalties, but agreed if either team wins in normal play it will be the Italians by the odd goal.
Germany vs Denmark
Yes, this is far as Denmark go, a comfortable win for Germany here.
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Italy is really struggling now...they can't get anything done here...The swiss on the otherhand are playing very well!
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The Swiss have played really well, and may regret not getting more than the one goal. The Italians haven't shown up. BUT, they've come back in all their games so far so I wouldn't rule out a come back here too.
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Italy showed a little more endeavour in the second half, but it was too little too late. The Swiss scoring a second within 30 seconds of the restart really was nail in Italy's coffin.
Well played the Swiss... knocking the holders out!
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Yeah...horrible game from Italy...But honestly I don't mind at all...glad to see Italy fall...
First bit of a surprise group heading to the semi finals!
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I won't see the Germany/Denmark game... the girlfiend isn't interested iN football!!
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That was unfortunate as it was quite a match!
Lots of happenings... Massive thunder/hail storm, offside goals, penalty kick and more....Very entertaining match eventhough Denmark was totally out of it for the most part...and Germany was very strong...bit of a miracle that it only ended 2-0...could have been 4-0 quite easily!
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I did see the last 25minutes or so, so I got to see the second goal.
I understand there was some controversy with the penalty but I've still not seen it. If the last part was anything to go by I suspect it was quite comfortable for the Germans.
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It was a clear penalty...The hand was in an unnatural position and he made himself bigger...pretty clear cut case as far as I can see.
England vs Slovakia
England has been playing with the handbrake on so far, now it's time to hit the gas...even though it's "just" Slovakia Tie is not an option here! England has to win...and frankly they should.
Spain vs Georgia
Georgia did manage to pull of an absolute miracle by winning Portugal but Spain has been absolutely stellar so even though Georgia is going to park that bus again and will try to kill the game entirely Spain is talented (and fast) enough to break through.
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England vs Slovakia
We are so desperate for England to remember how to play football! They've defended fine but seem to forget how to attack... hopefully the all of nothing nature of the game means they pick up the pace. I do think we should win, but not on penalties... we never win on penalties!
Spain vs Georgia
Georgia have exceeded expectations, Spain have looked good. I can't see Spain not winning easily.
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YIKES!
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Yikes Indeed!
They have to come out and play in the second half... cause it's a flight home otherwise!
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What an incredible goal from Jude Bellingham! Best goal of the tournament! Wow!
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They may be leading now in extra time, but it still doesn't feel right. They showed more effort with little quality in the second half.
Anyway let's see if they can hold on for the next 20 minutes!
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They did! And what another great pretty goal for England!
Sure they still have some ways to go but I do think this was a slight improvement...But still...the same slowness is England's problem.
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All credit to Slovakia though, they probably deserved to win, they played really well.
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Georgia took the lead but are now 2-1 down to Spain with a little over 30 minutes left.
Yes Spain have dominated, but Georgia have looked so dangerous on the break.
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Good solid win from Spain...they made swiss cheese out of Georgia's Bus! Nicely done!
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France - Belgium
France has a great team but they just haven't really gotten things going...Belgium on the other hand found their drive in the last match of the opening round... This could be a very tight one and I wouldn't be surprised if Over Time loomed once again! After which France will win.
Portugal - Slovenia
Portugal stumbled badly in their last game...and I mean BADLY! But they can shake that off...they have the track record to prove it. But they surely need to improve their defence. But I still think this should be a win for them. Slovenia is the other team that advanced with just ties...which shouldn't be the case anyways so their road ends here.
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France vs Belgium
On paper France should win this. But they haven't played *that* well, while Belgium have been both good and bad. I'll predict a France win, but it wouldn't shock anyone if Belgium won.
Portugal vs Slovenia
Slovenia have done well to get this far, but even though Portugal lost their group game against Georgia, they didn't really try with several players rested. Barring major shocks Portugal will win this one... easily!
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I missed the first 30 minutes. I got the impression that France were in control but made very few clear cut chances. Let's hope the second half has more to it.
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Well you didn't miss much! :D
Not exactly action packed 90 minutes this one...Neither team shined...part from mid field defence which was strong on both sides... France was bit more in control...But I wish it had been OT as this means (once again) that my bets die to the first match...
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A lucky goal for France splits the teams. But Belgium did very little in the game.
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Bit of a weak preformance from Portugal even though they did control the match through out...So Extra Time awaits
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Slovenia haven't really been troubled by Portugal as much as they should have been, they've even been a bit of a threat on the counter attack. I think Portugal should still win but the ball into the box needs to improve.
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DIOGO COOOOOOOOSSSSSSTAAAAAAA!
My goodness! All saves! Never seen that before in a penalty shootout!
Portugal played less than perfect though...in fact quite poorly... France will take them out unless they find something new!
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Slovenia defended well, but it was "Men v Boys" in the shootout
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And then it's time for the final round of the quarter finals!
Romania vs Netherlands
The dutch haven't really gotten their game going and Romania was a bit of a surprise to even get this far...There is a small chance of an even bigger surprise here but I still gotta think the Dutch will win here
Austria vs Turkey
Now Austria is something of a cinderella story here. They've played pretty exciting footsy and gotten results as well. Turkey has been somewhere between terrible and laughable (remember that own goal!?!? Hahahah! Still one of the funniest moments in the history of tournament footsy!) It's kind of strange and bit surreal that Turkey is even here. The cinderella story should continue and Austria should advance here!
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My take:
Romania vs Netherlands
Only the 2nd time that Romania have got to this stage in the Euros. The Dutch are getting back to the sort of form which makes them an outside chance for the competition. But they haven't played that well really... but should still progress.
Austria vs Turkey
Austria have played well, Turkey have scraped through. If there's any justice Astria will win!
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Well looks like the Dutch have found their groove! They were playing stellar footsy on the first half!
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Romania started well, but have been on the back foot ever since the goal went in.
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Yeah.... but very strong showing from Netherlands! Netherland might even go far here if they carry on like this!
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They came good today, and frankly should have got 2 or 3 more than the 3 they did get!
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Not paying much attention to the Austria vs Turkey match, I see Turkey got an early lead. 1-0 at half time.
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I stopped watching after Turkey's second goal...
Austria didn't play as well as they did earlier...
But goddamn those Turkish "fans" are a bunch of assholes...constant boo'ing and throwing stuff and being abnoxious...but ofcourse that's no surprise...
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The Quarter Finals line up is:
Friday
Spain vs Germany
Portugal vs France
Saturday
England vs Switzerland
Netherlands vs Turkey
The Friday games look rather tasty...
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Indeed...either one of those would be a suitable final!
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So today's matches....
Spain vs Germany
This could go either way...BUT the edge has to be on Spain's side as they've won every single match so far and done so with rather ease even...Germany will have a huge backing from the crowd but will that be enough? I think not...This could be very very tight but Spain will win at the end.
Portugal vs France
Another great match here....as much as I like Portugal I can't see them winning here against France...their defense is just too slow to contain Mbappe and their other midfielders. And on the other hand France's defense is super strong and Portugal has already struggled scoring against weaker countries...I'm not expecting a goal extravangza but maybe one or to goals for France.
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Yes, two matches which could go either way... Spain and France should win on paper but no one will be surprised if either of their opponents win.
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That Germany's tie goal was flowing in the air for a while...I was rather certain it would come in around 80 mins...
So Extra Time awaits...now it's anyone's game for sure....penalties await me thinks.
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Quite the final few minutes! Glad to see it did NOT go to penalties....Both teams played very very well...Spain was just bit better!
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Spain vs Germany 2-1 AET
From what I saw of the game (the last 20 mins of each half and extra time) neither team really seemed to flow, probably nullifying each other's endeavours. But Extra Time was exciting, both goals I saw were very well taken.
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So it's gone to Extra Time in the Portugal / France game. Portugal perhaps have the edge, but France are dangerous. Penalties looming... quite possibly!
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Portugal fought really really well! Much better than I expected...one little touch of bad luck in the penalties and that was it...
I have to say Portugal was the better team on the field but as we so well know that's not always enough in Footsy!
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One of the better 0-0 draws, I would have preferred to have had a result in normal play, never been a fan of penalty shoot outs.
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Yeah same here....
Well today's matches are pretty interesting as well if not quite as high caliber.
England vs Switzerland
The swiss have played pretty well and they've had good defense and slightly unpredictable offense...England has still been playing with the handbrake on...that needs to stop here. They have all potential in the world they just don't use it. If they open their game up they should win this...if not this might drag out to yet another penalty shoot out where they might lose!
Netherlands vs Turkey
Turkey shouldn't even be this far that's a fact. Hell they should have never advanced from the group stage. Netherlands had a rocky start but they have excelled since. Unless some super lucky shit happens again the Dutch should have this one in the bag.
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I'm tempted to skip the England game... or maybe watch it from the behind the sofa...
Of course England should win, but at the same time they've not played like a good team except in vary brief spells. Switzerland have had a good tournament and eliminated the holders. I can't call this one, it really depends on which England turns up!
The Dutch really should beat Turkey, as you say Turkey are here by luck rather than skill. A win for the Netherlands then.
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Fairly even first half... no shots on target!
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Extra Time looms again!
England surely has sped up their game a bit. If they keep upping the speed during ET they will win...
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It needed England to go behind before they burst into life... again!!
The Swiss have been dangerous, and although it seems to be all England at the moment they can't relax.
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Well look at that! England has won a penalty shoot out!! ;D
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I still hate penalties !! Even though we won...
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Well look at that! England has won a penalty shoot out!! ;D
THESE ARE THE END TIMES.
PREPARE FOR YOUR DOOOOOOOOOOM, MORTALS!
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:rofl:
Indeed!
The Dutch didn't make it easy for themselves but thank god did it in the end.
Turkey played their best match and got lucky couple of times but thankfully their luck finally ran out!
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Although England have a terrible reputation at penalties, they have won a couple... so it's probably around 20 for 3 now!
Anyway nice to the Dutch won, I didn't see the game. Surprised to see a game ending in 90 minutes!
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So
Spain vs France tonight!
This should be a very tight one...France has a real trouble of scoring though but Spain's defence isn't super strong either though... I doubt there will be a goal extravaganza...Spain might score one, France might score one...Spain might score another or we will be going all the way to the penalties again..
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I've been out today, I didn't see the game but it sounds like a good game! I'm glad Spain won, they've been the standout team of the tournament.
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It was a great game! Especially the first half was great...the second one bit less...and it looked like after around 70 minutes France just gave up...which was really strange.
But well deserved win for Spain they played brilliantly!
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ENGLAND vs NETHERLANDS
Oh boy...this is gonna be a tough one. England needs to find more gears in their machine now. The Dutch have played great few matches and England still has just been scraping by...although they do kind of mirror Portugal's winning run back in 2016...
I soooooooooooo so sooooooo wish England would win but I do have to say the Dutch have to be the favourite here...but I'm still rooting for England England England!
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Both teams are very good, The Dutch have played quite well, and as you say England have underperformed.
Hopefully, England can relax and up their game. They have reached the Semi-Finals which is a great result that most of us at home would accept as a solid tournament. But playing conservatively isn't going to get them to the final and certainly won't see them beat Spain! Sadly I can see the Dutch winning unless England can step up from 1st gear!
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Go England, yeah!
Wait, I'm American... why am I cheering for the colonial overlord whose tyranny caused my nation to rise in revolt against?
Oh, it's because they got rid of the *other* colonial overlords, the Dutch. Got it. :smug:
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Great first half from England! They HAVE found a second gear!
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1-1 at the break.
Very happy with the first half. Foden was so unlucky hitting the post.
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2-1 to England at Full Time!
90th minute winner from Watkins, a very well taken goal. BUT... the Dutch played well and were a threat all through the game. I thought it was going to extra time and penalties until that late winner! :D
The Final on Sunday
Spain vs England
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Ollie Watkins sure turned out to be one hell of a substitute! :D
England sure switched back to first gear again on the second half which to me seemed very odd but hey...it worked...once again!
But with Spain they can't afford that...in fact they need to find that third or fourth gear if they wanna win the whole thing now!
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FINALS!!!
Spain vs England
Honestly this could go either way. Spain has a slight edge I think but England can play really great as they showed in their last match so I'm expecting quite the thriller out of this one!
Rooting for England to finally go all the way though!
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The FINAL!!
England vs Spain
While either team is capable of winning this I do suspect Spain have the momentum, having won all their games. It all depends who turns up on the day. I suspect Spain will win -- but of course I want England.
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Booo! The better team won!
Spain won 2-1. England had a go but were always chasing shadows. Great equalizer from Palmer mind.
Ho hum, maybe we'll win next time!
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Great match! The comeback goal from Palmer was brilliant! And that corner bump bump bump ball was soooo close! But no luck for England...
Spain played great during the whole tournament so they most certainly deserved the win.
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It's happened quicker than people thought, but it's not a surprise... Gareth Southgate has resigned as England Manager. The most successful manager since 1966 (2 finals, a semi-final and a quarter-final to his name).
There's already speculation as to who might replace him. If they stay with a Brit. my favourite would be Eddie Howe (at Newcastle), Graham Potter (previously at Brighton and then Chelsea) and Lee Carsley who is the England Under 21 manager who might be a stop-gap if they need to wait for a preferred choice. If they go for a foreign coach there is speculation that they might go with Mauricio Potchettino who is not with a team, as well as Jurgen Klopp but he is thought to be linked with the USA post. If they wait until next summer then Pep Guardiola might be their first choice.
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From what I've read Southgate has gotten quite a bit of shit although under his leadership England has done so damn well. The demand for winning a tournament seems to be overwhelming there. Sure Southgate's footsy hasn't been the most entertaining but they have gotten results...Someone who could combine best aspects of Southgate with some more action based game would be a perfect fit I'd say...
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I think during the Euros the fans were upset with the negative play, always passing backwards, a lack of energy going forward. It did improve later in the tournament. He was only contracted until the end of the year and many thought win or lose the final he would bow out.