Netherlands coach Marco van Basten admitted to mixed feelings after watching his team come back from three goals down to complete a historic 4-3 victory against Austria in Vienna on Wednesday night.
Individual mistakes
Klaas Jan Huntelaar scored the winner with his second of the night four minutes from time, with Johnny Heitinga and Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink also on the scoresheet as the Dutch turned a three-goal deficit into victory for the first time in their history. "I saw some good things and some less good things," said Van Basten. "I'm glad we at least got the win, but the beginning was not good and that's an understatement. The three goals we conceded were very poor and came down to individual mistakes. Joris Mathijsen and Henk Timmer simply didn't do what we asked of them."
Tactical changes
Unsurprisingly, former international striker Van Basten was far more satisfied with the second half, in which his charges hit three unanswered goals: "After [Wilfred] Bouma replaced Mathijsen, there was an improvement. He was more resolute, sharper and faster. It was also better when Wesley Sneijder moved into Demy de Zeeuw's position and [Clarence] Seedorf moved into Sneijder's. We dictated the game in the second half and had a little luck at the end as well. We knew there were still 45 minutes left, and that's what I told them. We played a lot faster too, which was pleasing."
Mental resilience
With UEFA EURO 2008™ rapidly approaching, Van Basten will have been delighted by his team's mental resilience. "I've never been involved in such a crazy game with the Oranje," he added, scratching his head to come up with a comparable achievement. "The craziest I can remember was a [1984 UEFA European Championship qualifier] I played in against Ireland in Dublin, when we came back from 2-0 down to win 3-2."
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Monday, March 31, 2008
Breadth of Croatian talent pleases Bilić
Slaven Bilić was satisfied with Croatia's 1-1 draw in Scotland although forward Ivan Klasnić felt his side "didn't make the most of our chances" at Hampden Park.
Klasnić criticism
In Croatia's first game since Eduardo da Silva was ruled out for UEFA EURO 2008™ with a broken leg, Klasnić returned to international action for the first time in almost 18 months following two kidney transplant operations. The Werder Bremen man was paired with Igor Budan up front, and concluded: "We dominated but in the end we didn't make the most of our chances. I can't be completely happy with this result. We played better than Scotland, but after we scored the first goal, we slowed down a little bit."
'A competitive match'
Croatia took an early lead through Niko Kranjčar, but Scotland were on level terms by half-time thanks to a Kenny Miller goal. The UEFA EURO 2008™ contenders showed plenty of composure on the ball, and produced some dangerous moves but were unable to re-establish their lead, though Bilić insists that had nothing to do with the lack of Eduardo. Having scored ten of Croatia's 28 goals in qualifying, many feared that his absence would be a severe brake on the national team's ambition, yet the coach was impressed with the depth of talent in Glasgow. "The players who came on as substitutes brought a lot of positives to our play. Both forwards [Klasnić and Budan], Jerko Leko and Ognjen Vukojević played well. It's nice to see we have strength in depth. On the bench we have players who can maintain and raise our tempo, and that's a great thing to know."
Burley glad
In his first game as Scotland manager, George Burley had to do without talismanic captain Barry Ferguson, but was happy enough with the outcome, saying: It was a good performance against a top-quality side. As a unit, we worked hard and it was very much a team performance. It was a competitive friendly and the boys all gave it 100 per cent. We saw the spirit and togetherness of the side and we need to keep that going and fine tune it."
Klasnić criticism
In Croatia's first game since Eduardo da Silva was ruled out for UEFA EURO 2008™ with a broken leg, Klasnić returned to international action for the first time in almost 18 months following two kidney transplant operations. The Werder Bremen man was paired with Igor Budan up front, and concluded: "We dominated but in the end we didn't make the most of our chances. I can't be completely happy with this result. We played better than Scotland, but after we scored the first goal, we slowed down a little bit."
'A competitive match'
Croatia took an early lead through Niko Kranjčar, but Scotland were on level terms by half-time thanks to a Kenny Miller goal. The UEFA EURO 2008™ contenders showed plenty of composure on the ball, and produced some dangerous moves but were unable to re-establish their lead, though Bilić insists that had nothing to do with the lack of Eduardo. Having scored ten of Croatia's 28 goals in qualifying, many feared that his absence would be a severe brake on the national team's ambition, yet the coach was impressed with the depth of talent in Glasgow. "The players who came on as substitutes brought a lot of positives to our play. Both forwards [Klasnić and Budan], Jerko Leko and Ognjen Vukojević played well. It's nice to see we have strength in depth. On the bench we have players who can maintain and raise our tempo, and that's a great thing to know."
Burley glad
In his first game as Scotland manager, George Burley had to do without talismanic captain Barry Ferguson, but was happy enough with the outcome, saying: It was a good performance against a top-quality side. As a unit, we worked hard and it was very much a team performance. It was a competitive friendly and the boys all gave it 100 per cent. We saw the spirit and togetherness of the side and we need to keep that going and fine tune it."
Cannavaro upbeat despite Spain defeat
On familiar turf in Spain, Italy defender Fabio Cannavaro was left to reflect on a performance that showed promise ahead of UEFA EURO 2008™, even if they did lose to a "beautiful, unstoppable shot".
Stunning goal
With a close-fought game seemingly meandering to a draw in Elche last night, David Villa finally ended Italy's resolve. With 12 minutes remaining, the Spain substitute unleashed a sumptuous volley, giving goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon no chance as it fizzed into the top corner. "Villa's goal was very beautiful, an unstoppable shot," said Real Madrid CF centre-back Cannavaro, his thoughts echoed by his coach Roberto Donadoni who added that "when you see a goal like Villa's you just have to stand up and clap your hands".
Unique style
Italy had a first-half effort from Luca Toni scrubbed out due to a foul by Cannavaro, and the man now in his second season in Italy believes he and his team-mates can draw a lot of positives from the game. "We proved we are a good team even if we lost," said the Azzurri captain. "We have our own style. Perhaps we don't always retain possession like Spain but we try to go deep and we caused a lot of problems with our tactics here."
Harsh defeat
Italy's next outing will be against Belgium in Florence on 30 May, ten days before they open their UEFA EURO 2008™ campaign against the Netherlands. Donadoni believes his charges are on track to add the European crown to the 2006 FIFA World Cup. "We had our chances [against Spain] to score but unfortunately we didn't capitalise," said the 44-year-old. "Spain also created a few opportunities but I don't think our defeat was merited. I'm not worried because we played well."
Impressive run
Spain counterpart Luis Aragonés will have few worries either as the Selección extended their unbeaten run to 14 matches at the Manuel Martínez Valero Stadium. It also made it five games without conceding, though they were perhaps more impressed at beating Italy's back line. "Italy are an impressive team with the best defence in the world," said Aragonés, who gave a debut to Liverpool FC defender Álvaro Arbeloa. "We were up against a great team, physically stronger than us, and the only way we could win was by dominating possession. We did, and that's where Spain were commendable."
Stunning goal
With a close-fought game seemingly meandering to a draw in Elche last night, David Villa finally ended Italy's resolve. With 12 minutes remaining, the Spain substitute unleashed a sumptuous volley, giving goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon no chance as it fizzed into the top corner. "Villa's goal was very beautiful, an unstoppable shot," said Real Madrid CF centre-back Cannavaro, his thoughts echoed by his coach Roberto Donadoni who added that "when you see a goal like Villa's you just have to stand up and clap your hands".
Unique style
Italy had a first-half effort from Luca Toni scrubbed out due to a foul by Cannavaro, and the man now in his second season in Italy believes he and his team-mates can draw a lot of positives from the game. "We proved we are a good team even if we lost," said the Azzurri captain. "We have our own style. Perhaps we don't always retain possession like Spain but we try to go deep and we caused a lot of problems with our tactics here."
Harsh defeat
Italy's next outing will be against Belgium in Florence on 30 May, ten days before they open their UEFA EURO 2008™ campaign against the Netherlands. Donadoni believes his charges are on track to add the European crown to the 2006 FIFA World Cup. "We had our chances [against Spain] to score but unfortunately we didn't capitalise," said the 44-year-old. "Spain also created a few opportunities but I don't think our defeat was merited. I'm not worried because we played well."
Impressive run
Spain counterpart Luis Aragonés will have few worries either as the Selección extended their unbeaten run to 14 matches at the Manuel Martínez Valero Stadium. It also made it five games without conceding, though they were perhaps more impressed at beating Italy's back line. "Italy are an impressive team with the best defence in the world," said Aragonés, who gave a debut to Liverpool FC defender Álvaro Arbeloa. "We were up against a great team, physically stronger than us, and the only way we could win was by dominating possession. We did, and that's where Spain were commendable."
Co-hosts burned by friendly fire
Switzerland tried to pick out any positives going from their heavy 4-0 defeat by Germany, while Austria coach Josef Hickersberger argued that "life goes on" following his team's stunning 4-3 loss to the Netherlands.
'We helped them'
The two UEFA EURO 2008™ co-hosts had an off-day in defence, with Austria conspiring to let a three-goal lead slip in Vienna and the Swiss capitulating in Basel. "Of course, we thought this would turn out differently," said Switzerland coach Jakob Kühn in the wake of his side's fourth successive reverse. "We were inferior in almost every department. We looked OK after a weak start, but individual and unforced mistakes made us look amateurish. Germany were much stronger physically, but we helped them to win."
'Harsh result'
With Alexander Frei back from injury and paired with Eren Derdiyok up front, Switzerland were hoping to improve on their run of one goal from three games, but while Frei carved out a couple of chances it was failings in defence which undermined the home side. "It was a very harsh result," insisted Bayer 04 Leverkusen midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta. "We had a good first half but lost two balls stupidly in the run-up to the second and third German goals. After that, we were done for."
Austrian collapse
In Austria's case, defensive frailties looked to have been resolved of late, with fans far more concerned about their misfiring strike department. That was certainly the problem during February's 3-0 loss to Germany, but the issue has been clouded again by Wednesday's performance. Indeed, Hickersberger's charges managed to register three strikes in the first half, only to then let the Dutch hit four. "Of course, the disappointment is huge but life goes on," said the coach. "We have to learn from the best and from our mistakes. We have now learned not to defend too deep when we are ahead."
Staying power
In the plus column, work on set-pieces paid off with Sebastian Prödl converting twice from near-identical corners. "Things don't always work out as perfectly as they did for my two goals, but of course we practiced that move in training," explained the defender. His captain Andreas Ivanschitz lamented the team's inability to maintain their great start, meanwhile: "Just a few sensational minutes are not good enough against world-class opposition." That was an opinion echoed by his coach: "Unfortunately, we cannot play good football for the full 90 minutes yet."
'We helped them'
The two UEFA EURO 2008™ co-hosts had an off-day in defence, with Austria conspiring to let a three-goal lead slip in Vienna and the Swiss capitulating in Basel. "Of course, we thought this would turn out differently," said Switzerland coach Jakob Kühn in the wake of his side's fourth successive reverse. "We were inferior in almost every department. We looked OK after a weak start, but individual and unforced mistakes made us look amateurish. Germany were much stronger physically, but we helped them to win."
'Harsh result'
With Alexander Frei back from injury and paired with Eren Derdiyok up front, Switzerland were hoping to improve on their run of one goal from three games, but while Frei carved out a couple of chances it was failings in defence which undermined the home side. "It was a very harsh result," insisted Bayer 04 Leverkusen midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta. "We had a good first half but lost two balls stupidly in the run-up to the second and third German goals. After that, we were done for."
Austrian collapse
In Austria's case, defensive frailties looked to have been resolved of late, with fans far more concerned about their misfiring strike department. That was certainly the problem during February's 3-0 loss to Germany, but the issue has been clouded again by Wednesday's performance. Indeed, Hickersberger's charges managed to register three strikes in the first half, only to then let the Dutch hit four. "Of course, the disappointment is huge but life goes on," said the coach. "We have to learn from the best and from our mistakes. We have now learned not to defend too deep when we are ahead."
Staying power
In the plus column, work on set-pieces paid off with Sebastian Prödl converting twice from near-identical corners. "Things don't always work out as perfectly as they did for my two goals, but of course we practiced that move in training," explained the defender. His captain Andreas Ivanschitz lamented the team's inability to maintain their great start, meanwhile: "Just a few sensational minutes are not good enough against world-class opposition." That was an opinion echoed by his coach: "Unfortunately, we cannot play good football for the full 90 minutes yet."
Karagounis glad to be Portugal's nemesis
Greece midfielder Georgios Karagounis was thrilled after his two set-pieces earned the European champions a 2-1 win against Portugal on Wednesday, saying: "I don't get to take them at Panathinaikos [FC]."
Portuguese absentees
Greece have now gone five games without defeat against the Portuguese, and denied their opponents the chance to avenge defeat in the final of UEFA EURO 2004™. Otto Rehhagel's men won that match 1-0, and they seemed on course for an even better result in Düsseldorf after Karagounis had hit the target twice with free-kicks, but Nuno Gomes pulled a goal back for Luiz Felipe Scolari's side, who were without Manchester United FC stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani as well as Deco.
Free-kick duties
"The Portuguese have beaten Brazil twice recently and that shows you what a good team they are," said Karagounis. "We're looking forward to having a good time at EURO 2008™." Having scored his first international goals since March 2005, the former SL Benfica player also hinted that he ought to be trusted with set-piece duties at club level: "I’m allowed to take the free-kicks with the national team. I don't get to take them at Panathinaikos."
Ex-pat crowd
Fellow midfielder Stelios Giannakopoulos was similarly encouraged by the performance in Germany, saying: "A friendly victory is always important for the team's morale. We're a well-organised team and we work for each other. Our coach will have a tough task picking a team from what could be the best Greece squad ever. Hopefully, we made the Greeks of Germany happy tonight."
Core personnel
Pleased with the win, victorious tactician Rehhagel added: "This test led us to some important conclusions ahead of our opening match at UEFA EURO 2008™. We're testing our squad. I hope no injuries affect our preparations for the finals in June. These players plus [injured defender] Traianos Dellas make up our team, but they'll have to give it their all during our preparations to make it to the final list."
Calm assessment
His counterpart Scolari pointed to Portugal's absentees, meanwhile, and was keen to look for positives. "I think one or two players earned their place at the EURO," he said. “Which ones? That's between me and my technical staff. Greece were the better team tonight as they were extremely efficient at scoring goals. Both teams had more or less the same ball possession but the match was decided by two free-kicks."
Greek vintage
Portugal goalscorer Nuno Gomes was also gracious in defeat. "We couldn’t handle Greece in the first half,” he said. "They're a very experienced team, with a number of veteran players who know how to control a game. They were lucky to score from a free-kick, and did exactly the same thing in the second half. We didn't play the match we wanted to, but we have to look forward and focus on the EURO."
Portuguese absentees
Greece have now gone five games without defeat against the Portuguese, and denied their opponents the chance to avenge defeat in the final of UEFA EURO 2004™. Otto Rehhagel's men won that match 1-0, and they seemed on course for an even better result in Düsseldorf after Karagounis had hit the target twice with free-kicks, but Nuno Gomes pulled a goal back for Luiz Felipe Scolari's side, who were without Manchester United FC stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani as well as Deco.
Free-kick duties
"The Portuguese have beaten Brazil twice recently and that shows you what a good team they are," said Karagounis. "We're looking forward to having a good time at EURO 2008™." Having scored his first international goals since March 2005, the former SL Benfica player also hinted that he ought to be trusted with set-piece duties at club level: "I’m allowed to take the free-kicks with the national team. I don't get to take them at Panathinaikos."
Ex-pat crowd
Fellow midfielder Stelios Giannakopoulos was similarly encouraged by the performance in Germany, saying: "A friendly victory is always important for the team's morale. We're a well-organised team and we work for each other. Our coach will have a tough task picking a team from what could be the best Greece squad ever. Hopefully, we made the Greeks of Germany happy tonight."
Core personnel
Pleased with the win, victorious tactician Rehhagel added: "This test led us to some important conclusions ahead of our opening match at UEFA EURO 2008™. We're testing our squad. I hope no injuries affect our preparations for the finals in June. These players plus [injured defender] Traianos Dellas make up our team, but they'll have to give it their all during our preparations to make it to the final list."
Calm assessment
His counterpart Scolari pointed to Portugal's absentees, meanwhile, and was keen to look for positives. "I think one or two players earned their place at the EURO," he said. “Which ones? That's between me and my technical staff. Greece were the better team tonight as they were extremely efficient at scoring goals. Both teams had more or less the same ball possession but the match was decided by two free-kicks."
Greek vintage
Portugal goalscorer Nuno Gomes was also gracious in defeat. "We couldn’t handle Greece in the first half,” he said. "They're a very experienced team, with a number of veteran players who know how to control a game. They were lucky to score from a free-kick, and did exactly the same thing in the second half. We didn't play the match we wanted to, but we have to look forward and focus on the EURO."
Turkey pluck crucial in icy Minsk
Coach Fatih Terim was pleased with Turkey's display after they drew 2-2 with a Belarus team who had defeated the Netherlands in their final UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifier in November.
Icy conditions
Turkey twice went behind in icy conditions in Minsk but Tuncay Şanlı and Tümer Metin scored the goals which earned the EURO finalists a share of the spoils. The result was not a problem for Terim, who said: "Let's not get ahead of ourselves – remember that Belarus beat the Dutch in qualifying. We wanted this game to keep our squad in shape before 11 May, when the Turkish Süper Lig season ends. The competition and effort on the pitch was quite high for both teams. I wanted to rest some players because in these friendlies I want to see the condition of all of my players."
Two debutants
Of those players, defender Ceyhun Gülselam – a debutant along with Mevlüt Erdinç – and forward Nihat Kahveci received a special mention. "Ceyhun's performance made us very happy and there's no hiding the fact that I am pleased with Nihat's fine display," said the 54-year-old. "We have to remember that it's not easy to take part in these kind of games."
Exciting times
Nihat, the Villarreal CF striker who stood in as captain in Belarus, added: "New players are joining our team and I can understand their excitement. It's not an easy thing to play your first match in such conditions. And as for the game itself, I would say if you can't win, don't get beaten."
Icy conditions
Turkey twice went behind in icy conditions in Minsk but Tuncay Şanlı and Tümer Metin scored the goals which earned the EURO finalists a share of the spoils. The result was not a problem for Terim, who said: "Let's not get ahead of ourselves – remember that Belarus beat the Dutch in qualifying. We wanted this game to keep our squad in shape before 11 May, when the Turkish Süper Lig season ends. The competition and effort on the pitch was quite high for both teams. I wanted to rest some players because in these friendlies I want to see the condition of all of my players."
Two debutants
Of those players, defender Ceyhun Gülselam – a debutant along with Mevlüt Erdinç – and forward Nihat Kahveci received a special mention. "Ceyhun's performance made us very happy and there's no hiding the fact that I am pleased with Nihat's fine display," said the 54-year-old. "We have to remember that it's not easy to take part in these kind of games."
Exciting times
Nihat, the Villarreal CF striker who stood in as captain in Belarus, added: "New players are joining our team and I can understand their excitement. It's not an easy thing to play your first match in such conditions. And as for the game itself, I would say if you can't win, don't get beaten."
Glorious Germany aim even higher
Philipp Lahm has warned that Germany will be "an even better team" at UEFA EURO 2008™, despite registering an impressive 4-0 victory over co-hosts Switzerland in Basel on Wednesday.
'Even better'
With goals from Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski either side of two strikes from Mario Gómez, Germany bettered their recent 3-0 win against the other UEFA EURO 2008™ host nation Austria in Vienna, but FC Bayern München defender Lahm feels his side have not hit top gear yet. "We can still improve in the run-up to the EURO, then we will be an even better team," he said.
Questions answered
Coach Joachim Löw was also pleased with the friendly performance, and as he prepares to announce his finals squad on 16 May it now seems likely that Klose and Gómez will be his first-choice strike partnership. That would mean a supporting role in midfield for the industrious Podolski. "We have found answers to some open questions," explained Löw. "It was a EURO qualifier for every single player."
Westermann praise
It was not just the strikers who impressed the coach, however, with 24-year-old FC Schalke 04 defender Heiko Westermann demonstrating his versatility and work-rate. Just seven weeks after making his international debut in the 3-0 win in Vienna, he seems a certain choice for the finals, with Löw saying: "Westermann played very well – this was a very convincing and pleasing display."
Proper result
Having been flattered by the scoreline in Vienna, this was a far more complete performance from the Germans, and goalscorer Gómez feels his team fully merited the result. "Recent matches have not been convincing, but tonight we had an absolute will to win challenges, everyone worked for each other and it paid off," he said. "It's important to travel to the finals with such momentum behind you, but in the end all that matters is what happens in June."
'Even better'
With goals from Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski either side of two strikes from Mario Gómez, Germany bettered their recent 3-0 win against the other UEFA EURO 2008™ host nation Austria in Vienna, but FC Bayern München defender Lahm feels his side have not hit top gear yet. "We can still improve in the run-up to the EURO, then we will be an even better team," he said.
Questions answered
Coach Joachim Löw was also pleased with the friendly performance, and as he prepares to announce his finals squad on 16 May it now seems likely that Klose and Gómez will be his first-choice strike partnership. That would mean a supporting role in midfield for the industrious Podolski. "We have found answers to some open questions," explained Löw. "It was a EURO qualifier for every single player."
Westermann praise
It was not just the strikers who impressed the coach, however, with 24-year-old FC Schalke 04 defender Heiko Westermann demonstrating his versatility and work-rate. Just seven weeks after making his international debut in the 3-0 win in Vienna, he seems a certain choice for the finals, with Löw saying: "Westermann played very well – this was a very convincing and pleasing display."
Proper result
Having been flattered by the scoreline in Vienna, this was a far more complete performance from the Germans, and goalscorer Gómez feels his team fully merited the result. "Recent matches have not been convincing, but tonight we had an absolute will to win challenges, everyone worked for each other and it paid off," he said. "It's important to travel to the finals with such momentum behind you, but in the end all that matters is what happens in June."
Steady France float Ribéry's boat
Franck Ribéry felt France's contained performance against England was "a good sign for the future" as his penalty proved to be the only goal in Paris.
Anelka fouled
In a game of few chances, two players with fond memories of previous matches against England made the difference for Raymond Domenech's side. To begin with, Chelsea FC's Nicolas Anelka, who made his international breakthrough by scoring both goals in a 2-0 win for France at Wembley in 1999, was floored by goalkeeper David James to earn the spot-kick. That allowed Ribéry to convert, the 24-year-old having also scored to qualify Les Bleus for the 2006 UEFA European Under-21 Championship at England's expense.
'Very serious'
"It was a good game, very serious," commented the match-winner afterwards. England barely troubled France goalkeeper Grégory Coupet, in fact, and Ribéry added: "Defensively, we were very steady and that's a good sign for the future." Domenech was equally pleased with a performance which saw France play within themselves but hang on for a comfortable win. "It was maybe not a great show but it was a clever performance from my team," explained the coach. "They could not find a way to attack us and finally resorted to using long balls. It's in the spirit of what we need to do to go a long way at the EURO."
Late arrivals
With France facing Romania, the Netherlands and Italy in Group C, Domenech is expected to select his UEFA EURO 2008™ squad on 9 or 10 May, and while he has been naming 40-man squads for recent friendlies he insists he has a firm idea of his final selection: "I already have an idea of how the list will look but we know that many things can happen in the last two months." Of course, any wild-card selections will surely look to Wednesday's goalscorer for inspiration, with Ribéry having been a surprise inclusion for the 2006 FIFA World Cup and a sensation ever since.
Anelka fouled
In a game of few chances, two players with fond memories of previous matches against England made the difference for Raymond Domenech's side. To begin with, Chelsea FC's Nicolas Anelka, who made his international breakthrough by scoring both goals in a 2-0 win for France at Wembley in 1999, was floored by goalkeeper David James to earn the spot-kick. That allowed Ribéry to convert, the 24-year-old having also scored to qualify Les Bleus for the 2006 UEFA European Under-21 Championship at England's expense.
'Very serious'
"It was a good game, very serious," commented the match-winner afterwards. England barely troubled France goalkeeper Grégory Coupet, in fact, and Ribéry added: "Defensively, we were very steady and that's a good sign for the future." Domenech was equally pleased with a performance which saw France play within themselves but hang on for a comfortable win. "It was maybe not a great show but it was a clever performance from my team," explained the coach. "They could not find a way to attack us and finally resorted to using long balls. It's in the spirit of what we need to do to go a long way at the EURO."
Late arrivals
With France facing Romania, the Netherlands and Italy in Group C, Domenech is expected to select his UEFA EURO 2008™ squad on 9 or 10 May, and while he has been naming 40-man squads for recent friendlies he insists he has a firm idea of his final selection: "I already have an idea of how the list will look but we know that many things can happen in the last two months." Of course, any wild-card selections will surely look to Wednesday's goalscorer for inspiration, with Ribéry having been a surprise inclusion for the 2006 FIFA World Cup and a sensation ever since.
Koller still dashing in a Czech shirt
Coach Karel Brückner reiterated his faith in Jan Koller after the Czech Republic totem returned to scoring form against Denmark.
Drought ends
Koller registered his first international goal since November, and his first strike in eight matches for club or country, in Wednesday's 1-1 draw in Herning. The centre-forward may have endured a barren spell this season but his national-team coach insists: "We know how best to use him."
Perfect service
That much was evident when Koller, who turns 35 on 30 March, rose to head in a Libor Sionko cross in the 42nd-minute against Denmark. "The delivery was perfect so it was easy to nod it in," he said. The former RSC Anderlecht and BV Borussia Dortmund also hopes that his equaliser will herald an improvement in his club fortunes with Bundesliga strugglers 1. FC Nürnberg, whom he joined in January after falling out of favour at AS Monaco FC. "Hopefully the goal will help me when I get back to Nürnberg." So far, he has found the net once in seven league games with his new side.
Under pressure
Nürnberg could certainly do with the star quality that Koller sprinkled on the Czech Republic's last away friendly before UEFA EURO 2008™. Yet with coach Brückner seen gesturing angrily at his team on several occasions, the evening also had its share of frustration for the visitors. "Denmark had us under the cosh in the first half when we couldn't stop them running through midfield."
Tables turned
Making his second start, right-back Michal Kadlec was given a particularly hard ride by Dennis Rommedahl although the performance improved in the second half. "The Danes dropped back after the interval," continued the 68-year-old Brückner, who will leave his post after this summer's championship. "They tired and we were the better team after that. It's just a pity we were unable to finish off several promising situations."
'Useful test'
Brückner included one debutant – 21-year-old midfielder Marek Střeštík made a late appearance – but both he and unused goalkeeper Jan Laštůvka are unlikely to make the finals squad. "It was a useful test against strong opponents," concluded Brückner, whose charges will face Lithuania and Scotland in Prague on 27 and 30 May in their last pre-tournament friendlies, still seeking a first win of 2008.
Drought ends
Koller registered his first international goal since November, and his first strike in eight matches for club or country, in Wednesday's 1-1 draw in Herning. The centre-forward may have endured a barren spell this season but his national-team coach insists: "We know how best to use him."
Perfect service
That much was evident when Koller, who turns 35 on 30 March, rose to head in a Libor Sionko cross in the 42nd-minute against Denmark. "The delivery was perfect so it was easy to nod it in," he said. The former RSC Anderlecht and BV Borussia Dortmund also hopes that his equaliser will herald an improvement in his club fortunes with Bundesliga strugglers 1. FC Nürnberg, whom he joined in January after falling out of favour at AS Monaco FC. "Hopefully the goal will help me when I get back to Nürnberg." So far, he has found the net once in seven league games with his new side.
Under pressure
Nürnberg could certainly do with the star quality that Koller sprinkled on the Czech Republic's last away friendly before UEFA EURO 2008™. Yet with coach Brückner seen gesturing angrily at his team on several occasions, the evening also had its share of frustration for the visitors. "Denmark had us under the cosh in the first half when we couldn't stop them running through midfield."
Tables turned
Making his second start, right-back Michal Kadlec was given a particularly hard ride by Dennis Rommedahl although the performance improved in the second half. "The Danes dropped back after the interval," continued the 68-year-old Brückner, who will leave his post after this summer's championship. "They tired and we were the better team after that. It's just a pity we were unable to finish off several promising situations."
'Useful test'
Brückner included one debutant – 21-year-old midfielder Marek Střeštík made a late appearance – but both he and unused goalkeeper Jan Laštůvka are unlikely to make the finals squad. "It was a useful test against strong opponents," concluded Brückner, whose charges will face Lithuania and Scotland in Prague on 27 and 30 May in their last pre-tournament friendlies, still seeking a first win of 2008.
Ronaldo named Red Cross ambassador
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo has been named ambassador for the UEFA EURO 2008™ Score for the Red Cross online fundraising campaign which kicked off on 26 March.
Purchase virtual goals
Internet users will be able to help their favourite side win the title of Most Humanitarian Team by purchasing virtual goals on scorefortheredcross.org. They will also have the chance to win attractive prizes including tickets to UEFA EURO 2008™ matches. The winning team will be announced on 6 July. The Score for the Red Cross campaign, jointly organised by UEFA and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), will benefit land-mine victims in Afghanistan by providing them with artificial limbs, physiotherapy and vocational training.
'Everyone's a winner'
Winger Ronaldo said: "Land-mine victims need determination and a lot of encouragement on the road to recovery. I have a lot of respect for them and I want to support them. The great thing about this campaign is that everyone is a winner when it comes to giving and receiving. The website offers football fans a chance to have fun while making a difference. What could be better than that?"
Humanitarian ambassador
Born in Madeira, Ronaldo was discovered by Sporting Clube de Portugal at the age of eleven. In 2003 he joined Manchester United FC where he has won high praise from fans and team-mates and helped the club to the Premier League title in 2006/07. Ronaldo has also earned 54 caps for Portugal, scoring 20 goals. He took part in UEFA EURO 2004™ – where his side reached the final as hosts – and the 2006 FIFA World Cup, helping Portugal finish fourth in Germany. The 23-year-old is now proud to be competing at UEFA EURO 2008™ and to be a humanitarian ambassador for UEFA and the ICRC.
National-team support
A series of friendly internationals took place across Europe on 26 March. Before the games, many national teams, together with their National Red Cross Societies, publicly showed their support for the Score for the Red Cross appeal. UEFA will donate €4,000 to the ICRC for each goal scored during UEFA EURO 2008™.
For more information on the ICRC in Afghanistan, visit: http://www.icrc.org/Web/Eng/siteeng0.nsf/htmlall/afghanistan?OpenDocument
Purchase virtual goals
Internet users will be able to help their favourite side win the title of Most Humanitarian Team by purchasing virtual goals on scorefortheredcross.org. They will also have the chance to win attractive prizes including tickets to UEFA EURO 2008™ matches. The winning team will be announced on 6 July. The Score for the Red Cross campaign, jointly organised by UEFA and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), will benefit land-mine victims in Afghanistan by providing them with artificial limbs, physiotherapy and vocational training.
'Everyone's a winner'
Winger Ronaldo said: "Land-mine victims need determination and a lot of encouragement on the road to recovery. I have a lot of respect for them and I want to support them. The great thing about this campaign is that everyone is a winner when it comes to giving and receiving. The website offers football fans a chance to have fun while making a difference. What could be better than that?"
Humanitarian ambassador
Born in Madeira, Ronaldo was discovered by Sporting Clube de Portugal at the age of eleven. In 2003 he joined Manchester United FC where he has won high praise from fans and team-mates and helped the club to the Premier League title in 2006/07. Ronaldo has also earned 54 caps for Portugal, scoring 20 goals. He took part in UEFA EURO 2004™ – where his side reached the final as hosts – and the 2006 FIFA World Cup, helping Portugal finish fourth in Germany. The 23-year-old is now proud to be competing at UEFA EURO 2008™ and to be a humanitarian ambassador for UEFA and the ICRC.
National-team support
A series of friendly internationals took place across Europe on 26 March. Before the games, many national teams, together with their National Red Cross Societies, publicly showed their support for the Score for the Red Cross appeal. UEFA will donate €4,000 to the ICRC for each goal scored during UEFA EURO 2008™.
For more information on the ICRC in Afghanistan, visit: http://www.icrc.org/Web/Eng/siteeng0.nsf/htmlall/afghanistan?OpenDocument
Bayern's Altıntop may miss EURO
FC Bayern München expect to be without Hamit Altıntop for the rest of the season – putting a question mark against the midfielder's participation in Turkey's UEFA EURO 2008™ finals campaign.
Broken foot
Altıntop, 25, broke a metatarsal bone in his right foot during his country's friendly against Belarus on Wednesday, a 2-2 draw in Minsk. What is certain is that he faces between six and eight weeks on the sidelines after surgery today – ruling him out of Bayern's UEFA Cup quarter-final against Getafe CF and probably out of the remainder of their Bundesliga title challenge too.
Fitness race
Bayern coach Ottmar Hitzfeld said: "It is very doubtful that he will play again this term. This is a real shock, particularly as he has been in great shape recently." Altıntop has made 23 league appearances since joining Bayern from FC Schalke 04 last summer. He now has a race against time, both to add to that tally and to be eligible for Turkey in Austria and Switzerland. It is anticipated that national coach Fatih Terim will announce his finals squad after a 15-day pre-tournament training camp in Germany. Altıntop, whose twin brother Halil still plays for Schalke, has 39 caps.
Broken foot
Altıntop, 25, broke a metatarsal bone in his right foot during his country's friendly against Belarus on Wednesday, a 2-2 draw in Minsk. What is certain is that he faces between six and eight weeks on the sidelines after surgery today – ruling him out of Bayern's UEFA Cup quarter-final against Getafe CF and probably out of the remainder of their Bundesliga title challenge too.
Fitness race
Bayern coach Ottmar Hitzfeld said: "It is very doubtful that he will play again this term. This is a real shock, particularly as he has been in great shape recently." Altıntop has made 23 league appearances since joining Bayern from FC Schalke 04 last summer. He now has a race against time, both to add to that tally and to be eligible for Turkey in Austria and Switzerland. It is anticipated that national coach Fatih Terim will announce his finals squad after a 15-day pre-tournament training camp in Germany. Altıntop, whose twin brother Halil still plays for Schalke, has 39 caps.
Larsson closes on EURO target
Wednesday night's meeting of Brazil and Sweden at the Arsenal Stadium may have served ostensibly to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the FIFA World Cup final between the countries but the eyes of those involved in the fixture were fixed firmly on the future, not the past.
Assured display
While Brazil teenager Pato gave a glimpse of his startling potential with an opportunist winning goal on his international debut, there were also encouraging signs for Sweden coach Lars Lagerbäck despite the 1-0 reverse, not least in the performance of Birmingham City FC midfielder Sebastian Larsson. This was the Scandinavian side's final outing before Lagerbäck names his squad for UEFA EURO 2008™ on 13 May and Larsson, occupying the right-midfield berth usually filled by Christian Wilhelmsson, enhanced his prospects of inclusion in the final 23 with an assured display on what was only his second international appearance.
'Very clever footballer'
Larsson, who made his Sweden debut in last month's goalless draw with Turkey, earned praise from Lagerbäck for his intelligent approach as well as his dead-ball abilities, which almost produced a goal shortly after the break when his inswinging free-kick brought a save from Brazil goalkeeper Julio César. "He is a very clever footballer and that is a very important quality to have," Lagerbäck told uefa.com after the match. "He is very good in how he reads the game and he is playing for the team all the time, he words hard and has a really good right foot when it comes to corners and free-kicks. He has a lot of qualities and if he continues to work hard for another six months or a year, he could be really good."
Leaving Arsenal
It was fitting that Larsson performed so brightly at the home of Arsenal FC, the club where he began his career prior to joining Birmingham in 2006, first on loan and then on a permanent basis last summer. While benefiting undoubtedly from an education in the Arsenal academy, the 22-year-old - who made three league appearances for the Gunners - believes that the leaving of London has proved the making of him. "It has helped me massively without a doubt," he said. "That is why I took that step as I needed to play regular football and I am delighted to be doing that."
'Fantastic experience'
Larsson, who has made 29 Premier League appearances this term, scoring five times, said it had been a "fantastic experience" facing Brazil and added: "It's been great these two days, I've really enjoyed it and hopefully there is more to come. First of all I want to make sure I get a place in the squad. That is my main aim." Another player with the same goal is Rosenborg BK defender Fredrik Stoor, who got an opportunity to stake his claim for the right-back berth following Erik Edman's cruciate ligament injury. "He was a little bit nervous before the game, he could have attacked a little bit more but I am very satisfied when you consider he was playing his third international and against a team like Brazil," said Lagerbäck, who could always call on the veteran Niclas Alexandersson to fill that position.
Lagerbäck 'satisfied'
Lagerbäck went on to praise the overall defensive performance of a Sweden side which, in Petter Hansson's absence, featured FC Basel 1893's Daniel Majstorovic alongside Olof Mellberg in the centre of the back line. "The way we defended was very good and I am also satisfied with how the players tried to keep the ball – we didn't just try to play on the counterattack." That was down in no small part to impressive contributions by central midfield pair Anders Svensson and Kim Kallström.
Rosenberg chance
Striker Markus Rosenberg, deputising for the injured Zlatan Ibrahimović, will have been less pleased with his night's work, though, after spurning a clear scoring chance in the first half. "We weren't good enough when it came to the final third," Lagerbäck admitted. Yet although the Swedes have now gone three games without a goal, the coach – who has pre-tournament fixtures against Slovenia and Ukraine in which to fine-tune - was not too concerned. "When we have a full squad, I am sure it will come at the EURO."
Assured display
While Brazil teenager Pato gave a glimpse of his startling potential with an opportunist winning goal on his international debut, there were also encouraging signs for Sweden coach Lars Lagerbäck despite the 1-0 reverse, not least in the performance of Birmingham City FC midfielder Sebastian Larsson. This was the Scandinavian side's final outing before Lagerbäck names his squad for UEFA EURO 2008™ on 13 May and Larsson, occupying the right-midfield berth usually filled by Christian Wilhelmsson, enhanced his prospects of inclusion in the final 23 with an assured display on what was only his second international appearance.
'Very clever footballer'
Larsson, who made his Sweden debut in last month's goalless draw with Turkey, earned praise from Lagerbäck for his intelligent approach as well as his dead-ball abilities, which almost produced a goal shortly after the break when his inswinging free-kick brought a save from Brazil goalkeeper Julio César. "He is a very clever footballer and that is a very important quality to have," Lagerbäck told uefa.com after the match. "He is very good in how he reads the game and he is playing for the team all the time, he words hard and has a really good right foot when it comes to corners and free-kicks. He has a lot of qualities and if he continues to work hard for another six months or a year, he could be really good."
Leaving Arsenal
It was fitting that Larsson performed so brightly at the home of Arsenal FC, the club where he began his career prior to joining Birmingham in 2006, first on loan and then on a permanent basis last summer. While benefiting undoubtedly from an education in the Arsenal academy, the 22-year-old - who made three league appearances for the Gunners - believes that the leaving of London has proved the making of him. "It has helped me massively without a doubt," he said. "That is why I took that step as I needed to play regular football and I am delighted to be doing that."
'Fantastic experience'
Larsson, who has made 29 Premier League appearances this term, scoring five times, said it had been a "fantastic experience" facing Brazil and added: "It's been great these two days, I've really enjoyed it and hopefully there is more to come. First of all I want to make sure I get a place in the squad. That is my main aim." Another player with the same goal is Rosenborg BK defender Fredrik Stoor, who got an opportunity to stake his claim for the right-back berth following Erik Edman's cruciate ligament injury. "He was a little bit nervous before the game, he could have attacked a little bit more but I am very satisfied when you consider he was playing his third international and against a team like Brazil," said Lagerbäck, who could always call on the veteran Niclas Alexandersson to fill that position.
Lagerbäck 'satisfied'
Lagerbäck went on to praise the overall defensive performance of a Sweden side which, in Petter Hansson's absence, featured FC Basel 1893's Daniel Majstorovic alongside Olof Mellberg in the centre of the back line. "The way we defended was very good and I am also satisfied with how the players tried to keep the ball – we didn't just try to play on the counterattack." That was down in no small part to impressive contributions by central midfield pair Anders Svensson and Kim Kallström.
Rosenberg chance
Striker Markus Rosenberg, deputising for the injured Zlatan Ibrahimović, will have been less pleased with his night's work, though, after spurning a clear scoring chance in the first half. "We weren't good enough when it came to the final third," Lagerbäck admitted. Yet although the Swedes have now gone three games without a goal, the coach – who has pre-tournament fixtures against Slovenia and Ukraine in which to fine-tune - was not too concerned. "When we have a full squad, I am sure it will come at the EURO."
Beenhakker calm amid Poland panic
Leo Beenhakker insists he sees "no reason to lose the faith" despite Poland's demoralising 3-0 friendly defeat by the United States in Krakow on Wednesday.
Heavy defeat
It was their heaviest loss since 2004, when Paweł Janas's team lost 5-1 at home to Denmark, and the manner of the defeat was a major concern. Defenders made mistakes and the Polish players looked second best in every department, yet coach Beenhakker remains confident, passing it off as a minor blip rather than a more general malaise. "My players were probably not focused enough," said the 65-year-old, who has led Poland to their first UEFA European Championship at the first attempt. "I know we can improve on this."
Gulf opening
His faith is admirable, but the same could not be said of his charges' display. Since beating them 3-1 at the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals, Poland have played the United States four times, and while they had not won in their previous three fixtures, this latest encounter with Bob Bradley's side seemed to reflect a real gulf in class opening up between the two nations.
Worrying aspect
Perhaps the most unsettling part of the defeat was the fact that Poland were able to select from what is regarded as their best squad and played the same tactical system that served them well in qualification, although once more their Dutch coach talked down such concerns. "What does 'strongest team' mean? We had 16 or 17 players who were available and I decided to pick them," said Beenhakker, who will take heart from the fact that before the loss Poland had won four games in succession without conceding a goal.
Matusiak positive
The reverse stirred up memories of the bad results which preceded the 2002 and 2006 World Cup finals campaigns, with Poland going on to bow out in the group stage both times. The players, however, remain calm. "We still have time to improve," said striker Radosław Matusiak. "This is a very important lesson."
Heavy defeat
It was their heaviest loss since 2004, when Paweł Janas's team lost 5-1 at home to Denmark, and the manner of the defeat was a major concern. Defenders made mistakes and the Polish players looked second best in every department, yet coach Beenhakker remains confident, passing it off as a minor blip rather than a more general malaise. "My players were probably not focused enough," said the 65-year-old, who has led Poland to their first UEFA European Championship at the first attempt. "I know we can improve on this."
Gulf opening
His faith is admirable, but the same could not be said of his charges' display. Since beating them 3-1 at the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals, Poland have played the United States four times, and while they had not won in their previous three fixtures, this latest encounter with Bob Bradley's side seemed to reflect a real gulf in class opening up between the two nations.
Worrying aspect
Perhaps the most unsettling part of the defeat was the fact that Poland were able to select from what is regarded as their best squad and played the same tactical system that served them well in qualification, although once more their Dutch coach talked down such concerns. "What does 'strongest team' mean? We had 16 or 17 players who were available and I decided to pick them," said Beenhakker, who will take heart from the fact that before the loss Poland had won four games in succession without conceding a goal.
Matusiak positive
The reverse stirred up memories of the bad results which preceded the 2002 and 2006 World Cup finals campaigns, with Poland going on to bow out in the group stage both times. The players, however, remain calm. "We still have time to improve," said striker Radosław Matusiak. "This is a very important lesson."
Oranje recalls for De Boer and Cocu
Frank de Boer and Phillip Cocu are to return to the Netherlands national team as assistants to Bert van Marwijk, the man who will succeed Marco van Basten after UEFA EURO 2008™.
Coaching lineup
The two former Dutch internationals will join third assistant Dick Voorn and current goalkeeping coach Ruud Hesp to complete the managerial team that will look to lead the Netherlands to the 2010 FIFA World Cup finals in South Africa. "I am happy with this set-up," said the 55-year-old Van Marwijk. "I think it is important that Frank and Phillip played almost 220 international matches between them. As players they took responsibility and will certainly do that again."
De Boer pedigree
Capped 112 times for the Netherlands, the 37-year-old De Boer played for AFC Ajax, FC Barcelona, Galatasaray AS and Rangers FC among others but retired from the national team after UEFA EURO 2004™. Second only to goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar in terms of Netherlands appearances, he will combine his new position with his role coaching Ajax's youth teams. He has been working with the Amsterdam club since 2006/07.
Cocu credentials
Former De Graafschap, AZ Alkmaar, BV Vitesse Arnhem and PSV Eindhoven midfielder Cocu, also 37, is the third most capped Dutch international of all time with 101 caps. The former Netherlands captain retired from international football after the 2006 FIFA World Cup and will take on his duties while studying on the professional football coaching course next season, with a view to gaining a formal coaching qualification.
Exciting challenge
Van Marwijk – who won the 2001/02 UEFA Cup as Feyenoord coach – added: "It is a huge challenge to be able to work with the nation's best players. For 35 years I have been on the pitch every day as a player and coach. Now it is time for something different. It is a huge responsibility and I might get some stick but I am really looking forward to it." The Dutch face France, Italy and Romania in Group C at UEFA EURO 2008™, and will meet Scotland, Norway, F.Y.R. Macedonia and Iceland in World Cup qualifying Group 9.
Coaching lineup
The two former Dutch internationals will join third assistant Dick Voorn and current goalkeeping coach Ruud Hesp to complete the managerial team that will look to lead the Netherlands to the 2010 FIFA World Cup finals in South Africa. "I am happy with this set-up," said the 55-year-old Van Marwijk. "I think it is important that Frank and Phillip played almost 220 international matches between them. As players they took responsibility and will certainly do that again."
De Boer pedigree
Capped 112 times for the Netherlands, the 37-year-old De Boer played for AFC Ajax, FC Barcelona, Galatasaray AS and Rangers FC among others but retired from the national team after UEFA EURO 2004™. Second only to goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar in terms of Netherlands appearances, he will combine his new position with his role coaching Ajax's youth teams. He has been working with the Amsterdam club since 2006/07.
Cocu credentials
Former De Graafschap, AZ Alkmaar, BV Vitesse Arnhem and PSV Eindhoven midfielder Cocu, also 37, is the third most capped Dutch international of all time with 101 caps. The former Netherlands captain retired from international football after the 2006 FIFA World Cup and will take on his duties while studying on the professional football coaching course next season, with a view to gaining a formal coaching qualification.
Exciting challenge
Van Marwijk – who won the 2001/02 UEFA Cup as Feyenoord coach – added: "It is a huge challenge to be able to work with the nation's best players. For 35 years I have been on the pitch every day as a player and coach. Now it is time for something different. It is a huge responsibility and I might get some stick but I am really looking forward to it." The Dutch face France, Italy and Romania in Group C at UEFA EURO 2008™, and will meet Scotland, Norway, F.Y.R. Macedonia and Iceland in World Cup qualifying Group 9.
Otto Rehhagel agrees in charge Greece
Otto Rehhagel will be in charge of Greece for at least two more years after agreeing a new contract until the summer of 2010.
'Strong bond'
The 69-year-old German has accepted a two-year extension with the Hellenic Football Federation (EPO) to prolong his successful reign as coach of the European champions. EPO president Vassilis Gagatsis said: "We wanted Otto Rehhagel to continue at the helm and hopefully lead the side to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. He has such a strong bond with the players and the team that he couldn't say 'no' to the extension offer. The fact we needed less than 25 minutes to reach an agreement is indicative of the two sides' mutual desire to continue working together."
Title defence
Rehhagel, appointed in August 2001, is Greece's longest-serving national coach, with 43 wins, 16 draws and 19 defeats from his 78-game tenure. Although his charges failed to qualify for the 2006 World Cup, they looked well-equipped to launch a strong defence of the European title they won at UEFA EURO 2004™ – having posted the most points of any team through to UEFA EURO 2008™ in Austria/Switzerland. Greece, who beat Portugal in a midweek friendly, will play Sweden, Russia and Spain in Group D of this summer's championship. Rehhagel's impressive CV also includes stints on the benches of Werder Bremen, FC Bayern München and 1. FC Kaiserslautern.
'Strong bond'
The 69-year-old German has accepted a two-year extension with the Hellenic Football Federation (EPO) to prolong his successful reign as coach of the European champions. EPO president Vassilis Gagatsis said: "We wanted Otto Rehhagel to continue at the helm and hopefully lead the side to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. He has such a strong bond with the players and the team that he couldn't say 'no' to the extension offer. The fact we needed less than 25 minutes to reach an agreement is indicative of the two sides' mutual desire to continue working together."
Title defence
Rehhagel, appointed in August 2001, is Greece's longest-serving national coach, with 43 wins, 16 draws and 19 defeats from his 78-game tenure. Although his charges failed to qualify for the 2006 World Cup, they looked well-equipped to launch a strong defence of the European title they won at UEFA EURO 2004™ – having posted the most points of any team through to UEFA EURO 2008™ in Austria/Switzerland. Greece, who beat Portugal in a midweek friendly, will play Sweden, Russia and Spain in Group D of this summer's championship. Rehhagel's impressive CV also includes stints on the benches of Werder Bremen, FC Bayern München and 1. FC Kaiserslautern.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
To Rome by draw
In 1968 the tournament changed its name from European Nations Cup to European Championship. Otherwise it was business as usual.Just like in 1960 and 1964, the final round started with the semi-finals. Before that, the 31 nations contended for the four much-sought-after semi-final places – for the first time in groups and not any longer according to the knock-out system. Because England, Germany and Italy refused to participate in the 1960 tournament due to its low prestige and not all UEFA members participated in the 1964 tournament either, the 1968 European Championship can be seen as the first real EURO, with all major football nations participating.
The draw decided the constellation of seven groups of four teams and one group of three teams, while first and second legs decided the winner of each group. England, Spain, Bulgaria, Italy, France, Yugoslavia, Hungary and the Soviet Union were the nations destined to contend for the final round in the quarter final, which then was still a qualifying round.
Balanced Finals
As was already the case in earlier tournaments, the host nation was chosen from the four most successful nations. In 1968 it hit Italy to welcome the other quarter-final winners Yugoslavia, England and the Soviet Union. In Florence, Yugoslavia scored a surprising 1-0 semi-final victory over the incumbent World Cup Champion England thanks to a late goal. In the second duel Italy won by flipping the coin (unthinkable today!), because there was a 0-0 tie in Naples against the Soviet Union even after extra time.
The European Champion, however, should not be decided by a simple lucky stroke of fortune. In the final game in Rome, however, Italy and Yugoslavia were in a 1-1 tie again after 120 minutes. And the referee Gottfried Dienst (Switzerland), who also had to take responsibility for the Wembley goal in 1966, was once again charged with having favoured the host. June 10 marked the repetition of the final game. Then, however, the Italian goals scored by Luigi Riva and Pietro Anastasi decided a clear 2-0 victory over Yugoslavia. It was the only European Championship the Squadra Azzurra ever won to this day.
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Euro 2008: Tosca and football on Lake Constance
Visitors will experience a unique EURO atmosphere in the fane zone around Lake Constance, against the opera backdrop of Tosca on Bregenz lakeside stage.
Per day some 5,000 to 6,000 visitors are expected. 60 per cent of the tickets have already been sold.
Per day some 5,000 to 6,000 visitors are expected. 60 per cent of the tickets have already been sold.
Parallel to Public Viewing the House of History Baden-Württemberg has put together a football show with numerous exhibits as well as film and sound material. The show will shed light on the relation in terms of football between Austria, Switzerland and Germany. It will be free for visitors of the lakeside stage.Bregenz Festival
Emergency “hospital” close-by the stadium
Measures have been put in place by officials in Vienna to offer additional medical care for football fans during the EURO.
At Stadionbad near Ernst Happel Stadium extra medical services with emergency doctors and paramedics will be provided on at least 400 m2 (4,305 square feet).
150 paramedics and 20 emergency doctors
The medical facility can take in 60 patients. Even minor surgical procedures can be carried out here. An additional emergency unit can treat 50 patients in one hour. The unit may be enlarged any time if needed. On match days some 150 paramedics and 20 doctors will be on duty for any kind of mishap.
Security center at Stadionbad
Apart from providing additional medical services the Vienna Municipality will also be represented by the Fire Brigade (MA 68), the Health Service (MA 15), the Vienna Public Transportation Services and the Police at Stadionbad during the EURO.
Emergency numbers:
Fire Brigade: 122
Police: 133
Ambulance: 144
At Stadionbad near Ernst Happel Stadium extra medical services with emergency doctors and paramedics will be provided on at least 400 m2 (4,305 square feet).
150 paramedics and 20 emergency doctors
The medical facility can take in 60 patients. Even minor surgical procedures can be carried out here. An additional emergency unit can treat 50 patients in one hour. The unit may be enlarged any time if needed. On match days some 150 paramedics and 20 doctors will be on duty for any kind of mishap.
Security center at Stadionbad
Apart from providing additional medical services the Vienna Municipality will also be represented by the Fire Brigade (MA 68), the Health Service (MA 15), the Vienna Public Transportation Services and the Police at Stadionbad during the EURO.
Emergency numbers:
Fire Brigade: 122
Police: 133
Ambulance: 144
Good news for Croatia! Klasnic is back!!!
The 28-year-old Werder Bremen forward has been included in his country’s squad to face Scotland next month. Klasnic who had a successful kidney transplant operation in March last year returned to Bundesliga football last November and proved his fitness for top-flight action with two goals in Bremen’s 5-2 win over Bayer Leverkusen in December.
Croatia’s star striker Eduardo has been sidelined for nine months after suffering a horrific leg injury playing for Arsenal in a Premier League game against Birmingham last month.Klasnic has not represented his country since October 2006 and was delighted to receive his call-up for the March 26 friendly, which strengthens his chances of playing in June’s Euro 2008 tournament.
“This is a fantastic acknowledgement for me“, he said on the Bremen Web site. “A return to football, and then to the national team, has always been my target during this difficult phase in my life.”
In January 2007, Klasnic suffered kidney failure and has been through two transplant operations.His body rejected the first kidney, donated by his mother last January, but a second operation was successful after his father donated a second kidney. Klasnic must take six tablets a day and have weekly blood tests. He has special UEFA authorization to take medication listed on the banned list of drugs to prevent his body from rejecting the donated kidney.He must avoid alcohol and sunbathing and he must take great care of his diet.
Klasnic, who has scored three goals in six league games for his club, will be out of contract at Bremen in June and Hanover 96 are interested in signing him.He now plays and trains with a fibreglass kidney protector.Croatian head coach Slaven Bilic said: “What Ivan has done is unbelievable .In Croatia, he is heralded as a public hero.”
Croatia’s star striker Eduardo has been sidelined for nine months after suffering a horrific leg injury playing for Arsenal in a Premier League game against Birmingham last month.Klasnic has not represented his country since October 2006 and was delighted to receive his call-up for the March 26 friendly, which strengthens his chances of playing in June’s Euro 2008 tournament.
“This is a fantastic acknowledgement for me“, he said on the Bremen Web site. “A return to football, and then to the national team, has always been my target during this difficult phase in my life.”
In January 2007, Klasnic suffered kidney failure and has been through two transplant operations.His body rejected the first kidney, donated by his mother last January, but a second operation was successful after his father donated a second kidney. Klasnic must take six tablets a day and have weekly blood tests. He has special UEFA authorization to take medication listed on the banned list of drugs to prevent his body from rejecting the donated kidney.He must avoid alcohol and sunbathing and he must take great care of his diet.
Klasnic, who has scored three goals in six league games for his club, will be out of contract at Bremen in June and Hanover 96 are interested in signing him.He now plays and trains with a fibreglass kidney protector.Croatian head coach Slaven Bilic said: “What Ivan has done is unbelievable .In Croatia, he is heralded as a public hero.”
Nude art in the run-up to EURO 2008
Photo artist Spencer Tunick plans a nude installation at Viennese Ernst Happel Stadium on May 11, 2008. Participants are welcome!Spencer Tunick is renowned world-wide for taking pictures of crowds of nude people at public venues. His nude installation at the Swiss Aletsch Glacier commissioned by Greenpeace drew international attention last year (and was awarded “one of the best pictures of the year 2007″ by Time Magazine).
Streakers officially permitted
In the scope of EURO 2008 the final stadium is going to be the venue of Tunick’s next project. He is still looking for volunteers to take part in his art performance! As a reward for the voluntary participation, each participant will be given a photography of the installation at Ernst Happel Stadium. By the way: only participating persons exclusively are permitted at the venue of the event. For further information and details on the application please visit http://www.tunickvienna.at/.
Bonus for those who decide on participating on short notice: the first registered persons in 2008 will receive a free train ticket (second class) by Austrian Federal Railways for their travel within Austria.
via : www.fanline08.at
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Monday, March 17, 2008
DRUNKEN EURO 2008 GAME
Don't be drunk if u want to win this gameDRUNKEN EURO 2008 GAME
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Leverkusen triumph in all-German affair
Bayer 04 Leverkusen edged into the UEFA Cup quarter-finals despite losing 3-2 to Bundesliga rivals Hamburger SV in a thrilling second leg at the Arena Hamburg.
Barbarez opener
Leading 1-0 from the home leg, Leverkusen twice went ahead in northern Germany through Sergej Barbarez and Theofanis Gekas, only to see Hamburg equalise with strikes from Piotr Trochowski and José Paolo Guerrero. Rafael van der Vaart gave the hosts the lead for the first time in the 80th minute, but Leverkusen held on to progress on away goals and keep alive their hopes of adding a second title to their 1987/88 triumph.
Gekas denied
Despite rainy conditions, the encounter started at a fast pace. Hamburg goalkeeper Frank Rost denied Gekas from close range in the sixth minute, before his opposite number René Adler kept out Guerrero then watched Van der Vaart's excellent opportunity go wide. It was the visitors, though, who struck first on 18 minutes, as Barbarez, a Hamburg player for six years before joining Leverkusen in summer 2006, deviated Tranquillo Barnetta's free-kick past Rost.
Hamburg pressure
Van der Vaart missed another excellent chance from two metres out as Hamburg pressed for an equaliser. It eventually arrived eight minutes into the second period, Trochowski collecting a poor clearance and striking a well-placed shot inside the right post from outside the box. The game continued to fluctuate and Leverkusen regained the lead just two minutes later. Gekas, who had already scored in the first leg, made it 2-1, running on to a long ball from Hans Sarpei and beating Rost via the right-hand post.
Rousing finale
Huub Stevens' men levelled again in the 65th minute, Guy Demel sending a cross to Guerrero, who controlled the ball, turned and blasted into the far left corner. With the home fans willing their team on, Van der Vaart finally grabbed his goal, slotting in Guerrero's cross, to set up a rousing finale. Hamburg poured forward in the dying minutes but Leverkusen stood firm to ensure their presence in Friday's draw.
Barbarez opener
Leading 1-0 from the home leg, Leverkusen twice went ahead in northern Germany through Sergej Barbarez and Theofanis Gekas, only to see Hamburg equalise with strikes from Piotr Trochowski and José Paolo Guerrero. Rafael van der Vaart gave the hosts the lead for the first time in the 80th minute, but Leverkusen held on to progress on away goals and keep alive their hopes of adding a second title to their 1987/88 triumph.
Gekas denied
Despite rainy conditions, the encounter started at a fast pace. Hamburg goalkeeper Frank Rost denied Gekas from close range in the sixth minute, before his opposite number René Adler kept out Guerrero then watched Van der Vaart's excellent opportunity go wide. It was the visitors, though, who struck first on 18 minutes, as Barbarez, a Hamburg player for six years before joining Leverkusen in summer 2006, deviated Tranquillo Barnetta's free-kick past Rost.
Hamburg pressure
Van der Vaart missed another excellent chance from two metres out as Hamburg pressed for an equaliser. It eventually arrived eight minutes into the second period, Trochowski collecting a poor clearance and striking a well-placed shot inside the right post from outside the box. The game continued to fluctuate and Leverkusen regained the lead just two minutes later. Gekas, who had already scored in the first leg, made it 2-1, running on to a long ball from Hans Sarpei and beating Rost via the right-hand post.
Rousing finale
Huub Stevens' men levelled again in the 65th minute, Guy Demel sending a cross to Guerrero, who controlled the ball, turned and blasted into the far left corner. With the home fans willing their team on, Van der Vaart finally grabbed his goal, slotting in Guerrero's cross, to set up a rousing finale. Hamburg poured forward in the dying minutes but Leverkusen stood firm to ensure their presence in Friday's draw.
'El Niño' to come of age with Spain
Fernando Torres will look to prove his worth as an international striker again when Spain take on fellow UEFA EURO 2008™ finalists Italy in Elche on 26 March.
Dazzling form
The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the most dangerous strikers in European football this season, scoring at FC Internazionale Milano last week to seal Liverpool FC's passage to the last eight of the UEFA Champions League. It made it four in the competition this season, and he has also registered 20 goals in 27 league appearances for the Reds, bettering his previous campaign high of 19 for Club Atlético de Madrid in 2003/04.
Even better
Torres' move to Anfield last summer closed the chapter on a remarkable spell with Atlético, the club he score 82 times for in 214 league games having joined as a youth, but he has developed further still since heading north. It is something not ignored at home, with Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas saying: "Fernando knew it was his big chance to play abroad and he has grown as a player."
Villa off colour
Torres will now look to press his case as first-choice striker for Spain at UEFA EURO 2008™, having missed several of Luis Aragonés' side's recent games through injury, with RCD Espanyol pair Luis García and Raúl Tamudo both getting the chance to lead the line over the winter. With Valencia CF's David Villa off form, and Raúl González still out of favour, it is hard to see Torres being overlooked in the summer.
'The key'
Thus far he has scored 15 goals in 46 international appearances, but having scored ten in his last six outings for Liverpool, his goalscoring is spiking dramatically at the moment. Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez said: "We all know Torres is in great form. The whole team is playing well but in the end we need Torres to score – he's the key."
Much expected
The question remains as to whether he can unlock the door into Aragonés first XI for the finals. The coach will expect 'El Niño' – 'The Kid' – to be on his best form as he takes charge of the national team for the 46th time against Italy at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero in Elche. He has been an able performer in past international games, but now Torres' time may have come to dazzle.
The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the most dangerous strikers in European football this season, scoring at FC Internazionale Milano last week to seal Liverpool FC's passage to the last eight of the UEFA Champions League. It made it four in the competition this season, and he has also registered 20 goals in 27 league appearances for the Reds, bettering his previous campaign high of 19 for Club Atlético de Madrid in 2003/04.
Even better
Torres' move to Anfield last summer closed the chapter on a remarkable spell with Atlético, the club he score 82 times for in 214 league games having joined as a youth, but he has developed further still since heading north. It is something not ignored at home, with Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas saying: "Fernando knew it was his big chance to play abroad and he has grown as a player."
Villa off colour
Torres will now look to press his case as first-choice striker for Spain at UEFA EURO 2008™, having missed several of Luis Aragonés' side's recent games through injury, with RCD Espanyol pair Luis García and Raúl Tamudo both getting the chance to lead the line over the winter. With Valencia CF's David Villa off form, and Raúl González still out of favour, it is hard to see Torres being overlooked in the summer.
'The key'
Thus far he has scored 15 goals in 46 international appearances, but having scored ten in his last six outings for Liverpool, his goalscoring is spiking dramatically at the moment. Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez said: "We all know Torres is in great form. The whole team is playing well but in the end we need Torres to score – he's the key."
Much expected
The question remains as to whether he can unlock the door into Aragonés first XI for the finals. The coach will expect 'El Niño' – 'The Kid' – to be on his best form as he takes charge of the national team for the 46th time against Italy at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero in Elche. He has been an able performer in past international games, but now Torres' time may have come to dazzle.
Iaquinta sends Donadoni reminder
There was a buzz of anticipation when Vincenzo Iaquinta replaced Hasan Salihamidžić in the 62nd minute of Sunday's game between Juventus and SSC Napoli. Until then, Claudio Ranieri's men had been frustrated by the resilient visitors, but the introduction of the Italy striker, who has come to the team's rescue as a substitute several times this season, immediately lifted the spirits of the Stadio Olympico faithful.
Late winner
Iaquinta has needed to show considerable patience in Turin following his €11.3m move from Udinese Calcio last summer, spending much of the campaign on the substitutes' bench. Yet virtually every time he has come on, he has had an impact on proceedings – and Sunday was no different. The 28-year-old added strength and mobility to the Bianconeri front line and, in the 88th minute, he struck the winning goal, collecting an acrobatic lay-off from Alessandro Del Piero and firing clinically home right-footed.
Azzurri hopes
It was the fifth time Iaquinta had scored as a substitute for Juventus, once again underlining his value to Italy coach Roberto Donadoni just two-and-a-half months before UEFA EURO 2008™. "I want to keep wearing the Azzurri jersey and I definitely want go to the [UEFA] European Championship," said the 22-time Italian international. "Donadoni knows how I feel about my country and how determined I am to go, even if I'm not playing regularly at Juve. I'm happy to be at least contributing to the team and I hope this goal has sent him a message."
Exemplary attitude
Iaquinta has scored eight times in 20 league games for Juventus, and while just eight of those appearances have been as a starter, he has never once complained to Ranieri about team selection. "I thought I would have more playing time, but Juventus have many great players," he said on Sunday. "I just have to work hard and try to convince the coach match after match." That same exemplary attitude has made Iaquinta popular with coaches throughout his career. "He is a great champion," Ranieri said. "I'm really happy to have such a reliable player."
Lippi choice
Former Azzurri coach Marcello Lippi is another Iaquinta fan. Lippi was criticised in some quarters for naming him in his 2006 FIFA World Cup squad, yet the vital role he played as an extra-time substitute in the semi-final win over Germany justified the coach's choice, as well as earning the Juventus man new admirers in his homeland. With Iaquinta continuing to show his worth as a key member of the Juventus squad, Donadoni seems likely to emulate Lippi's choice in Austria and Switzerland this summer.
Late bloomer Hansson relishes Sweden role
Petter Hansson has had to bide his time but the Stade Rennais FC man is now established at the heart of the Sweden team and is ready to take centre stage at UEFA EURO 2008™.
Reliable defender
Reliable defender
Although Hansson was first capped by his country against Finland in 2001, aged 24, it was not until Andreas Jakobsson retired from the Sweden side three years later that the powerful centre-half began to be selected regularly. The Halmstads BK old boy earned a reputation as a reliable defender while playing in the Netherlands with SC Heerenveen between 2002 and 2007, yet has only recently enjoyed true international recognition.
Automatic choice
"My career path may not have been as straight as an arrow but I've gradually improved and my hard work is paying off," Hansson said. "I was quite surprised to be given my Sweden debut when I was, but it was something to build on." Hansson has since emerged as an automatic choice for coach Lars Lagerbäck, acquiring 31 caps and being voted Sweden's best defender in both 2006 and 2007.
Rennes switch
He nevertheless decided last summer that he needed a fresh challenge, opting to leave Heerenveen for French team Rennes where he has excelled over 26 Ligue 1 appearances this season. "It was time for a change," the 31-year-old said. "I spoke to [former Rennes defender] Erik Edman about the club and he was very positive, so I decided to sign."
‘Higher quality'
Tenth in Ligue 1, the Brittany outfit have been infuriatingly inconsistent this term – indeed, the Swede's considerable presence in their back line has been one of few constants at Stade de la Route de Lorient. Hansson, though, is convinced he has made the right move, saying: "It has helped me a lot. The quality of the French league is high – higher than the Dutch league – and that means I have to raise my game."
Mellberg partnership
He will hope to maintain those standards when he lines up alongside Olof Mellberg in the Sweden rearguard this summer. The pair formed an impressive partnership in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying, and Hansson says he likes playing alongside the Aston Villa FC man: "Olof is easy to play with. We communicate well and complement each other well."
‘Tough group'
Having been drawn in Group D with Spain, Russia and Greece, Sweden will require a solid platform if they are to progress to the quarter-finals. "We're in a tough group, even if it's probably not the strongest," Hansson said. "We have to try to beat Greece and Russia, although we know we are capable of beating Spain too because we've done it before. If we get out of the group, anything can happen."
Zidane voted top free-kick
euro2008.com users have voted Zinedine Zidane's late, late strike for France against England at UEFA EURO 2004™ as the best free-kick from past EUROs in the Carlsberg Goal of the Day poll.
For the next 20 days, the vote will centre on the best headed goals in the competition's history. Simply go to the Carlsberg Goal of the Day section on euro2008.com, log in, view the three videos and vote. To make it easier, we have expert analysis of each of the goals below:
Greece's Traianos Dellas decribes Angelos Charisteas's goal in the UEFA EURO 2004™ final against Portugal:
"I was in the Portuguese box for the corner too. Angelos Charisteas is an expert in the air - he has scored many headers. Truth be told, I think his header against France was even more spectacular, because it was like a whip - as strong as a shot. Anyway, in the final, the corner was very well delivered by [Angelos] Basinas. It was one of those times where everything falls into place with perfect timing and excellent co-ordination and taking advantage of our opponents' errors. But most important is that this goal was scored in a final - it led to a title. We grew in confidence after that goal. We didn't feel the need to defend in numbers until the end of the match."
Portugal forward Nuno Gomes speaks about João Pinto's diving header for Portugal against England at UEFA EURO 2000™:
"After a great goal by [Luís] Figo - who helped us to reduce the score to 2-1 - we put England under pressure and went after the 2-2. Near half-time we had the ball out on the right wing and I saw João [Pinto] moving inside the box with an opposition player nearby. Rui Costa delivered the cross and João made a perfect dive with the ball going in at the far post."
Swedish striker Marcus Allbäck played alongside Henrik Larsson at UEFA EURO 2004™ and gives his verdict on Larsson's flying header against Bulgaria in the tournament:
"It was in a way a trademark goal from Henke. [Erik] Edman came running down the left flank and put in a pinpoint, perfect pass, but Henke showed his awareness, the way he always knows where the ball will end up, and his flying header was pure perfection. It was a great goal by a great player."
For the next 20 days, the vote will centre on the best headed goals in the competition's history. Simply go to the Carlsberg Goal of the Day section on euro2008.com, log in, view the three videos and vote. To make it easier, we have expert analysis of each of the goals below:
Greece's Traianos Dellas decribes Angelos Charisteas's goal in the UEFA EURO 2004™ final against Portugal:
"I was in the Portuguese box for the corner too. Angelos Charisteas is an expert in the air - he has scored many headers. Truth be told, I think his header against France was even more spectacular, because it was like a whip - as strong as a shot. Anyway, in the final, the corner was very well delivered by [Angelos] Basinas. It was one of those times where everything falls into place with perfect timing and excellent co-ordination and taking advantage of our opponents' errors. But most important is that this goal was scored in a final - it led to a title. We grew in confidence after that goal. We didn't feel the need to defend in numbers until the end of the match."
Portugal forward Nuno Gomes speaks about João Pinto's diving header for Portugal against England at UEFA EURO 2000™:
"After a great goal by [Luís] Figo - who helped us to reduce the score to 2-1 - we put England under pressure and went after the 2-2. Near half-time we had the ball out on the right wing and I saw João [Pinto] moving inside the box with an opposition player nearby. Rui Costa delivered the cross and João made a perfect dive with the ball going in at the far post."
Swedish striker Marcus Allbäck played alongside Henrik Larsson at UEFA EURO 2004™ and gives his verdict on Larsson's flying header against Bulgaria in the tournament:
"It was in a way a trademark goal from Henke. [Erik] Edman came running down the left flank and put in a pinpoint, perfect pass, but Henke showed his awareness, the way he always knows where the ball will end up, and his flying header was pure perfection. It was a great goal by a great player."
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Fantasy Football is back
McDonald's Fantasy Football is back! With UEFA EURO 2008™ looming, Europe's top coaches are picking their players and tailoring their tactics and you can warm up for the finals too with McDonald's Fantasy Football. Pick your players for the forthcoming friendly matches and you could win tickets for a fixture at the finals in Austria and Switzerland.
Click here to play now
Three rounds
There will be three rounds of international friendlies to prepare your fantasy football team for ahead of the first game of the final tournament on 7 June. These take place on 26 March, 23 May and 29 May. You can make as many transfers as you like between the three rounds, but make sure you have your team ready ahead of the first deadline on 26 March at 20.00C ET.
Prepare now
Start thinking about who you want to pick for your team and about how much you want to spend on defence, midfield and attack. Look at how your favourite players have been performing recently and click here to read what the Tipster has to say ahead of the first round of games. Give yourself the time you need to pick the best team and good luck!
Click here to play now
Three rounds
There will be three rounds of international friendlies to prepare your fantasy football team for ahead of the first game of the final tournament on 7 June. These take place on 26 March, 23 May and 29 May. You can make as many transfers as you like between the three rounds, but make sure you have your team ready ahead of the first deadline on 26 March at 20.00C ET.
Prepare now
Start thinking about who you want to pick for your team and about how much you want to spend on defence, midfield and attack. Look at how your favourite players have been performing recently and click here to read what the Tipster has to say ahead of the first round of games. Give yourself the time you need to pick the best team and good luck!
Gekas gives Greece fresh hope
Bayer 04 Leverkusen striker Theofanis Gekas's dramatic return to form has given Greece coach Otto Rehhagel a timely boost as the countdown to UEFA EURO 2008™ continues.
Top form
The European champions play Portugal in Dusseldorf on 26 March with the 27-year-old in the sort of form that will have Rehhagel looking forward to the rematch of the UEFA EURO 2004™ final with confidence. After a slow start to the season Gekas has come to life, scoring in his last three Leverkusen appearances to help his side to fourth in the Bundesliga and into the UEFA Cup quarter-finals. It is the best week the forward has had since signing from VfL Bochum 1848 last summer.
'Big family'
"Now I have arrived and feel really comfortable here," Gekas said. "Even during the times when things weren't going so well for me, my team-mates really supported me. We are a big family here. I have finally been able to help the team and the fans again with some good games and goals. I hope moments like this come more often. I had a tough time and a mini-crisis which I have now overcome. I have shown the coach and myself that I can still score goals."
Clever lob
Despite topping the Bundesliga scoring chart with 20 goals last term, Gekas has been unable to hold down a starting place at the BayArena. That may be about to change. He was restored to the lineup for the first leg of the UEFA Cup tie with Hamburger SV and scored the only goal of the match. Three days later he got the opener with a clever lob in a 2-0 victory against Hannover 96 then set up the second.
Sole survivor
On Wednesday Gekas was on target again, scoring Leverkusen's second in their 3-2 loss at Hamburg that took his team through to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup on away goals. "Gekas was given his chance [against Hannover] and made good use of it," Skibbe said. "He fought on the pitch, ran a lot and I'm satisfied with his football." Gekas, who is in his second year in Germany after spells at Larissa FC, Kallithea FC and Panathinaikos FC in his homeland, is Leverkusen's top scorer in the Bundesliga with nine goals. He also holds the distinction of being the only Greek international still left in European competition.
Fit and healthy
Antonios Nikopolidis, Paraskevas Antzas, Vassilis Torosidis and Christos Patsatzoglou all bowed out with Olympiacos CFP against Chelsea FC in the UEFA Champions League first knockout round, while Georgios Samaras's Celtic FC fell to Barcelona at the same hurdle. Konstantinos Katsouranis's SL Benfica and Stelios Giannakopoulos's Bolton Wanderers FC were both eliminated in the UEFA Cup this week. Gekas has scored six goals in 23 appearances for his country since making his debut in March 2005, most recently hitting a hat-trick against Malta in a UEFA European Championship qualifier in November. His most important goal now, though, is to ensure he stays fit and healthy ahead of Greece's title defence this summer.
The European champions play Portugal in Dusseldorf on 26 March with the 27-year-old in the sort of form that will have Rehhagel looking forward to the rematch of the UEFA EURO 2004™ final with confidence. After a slow start to the season Gekas has come to life, scoring in his last three Leverkusen appearances to help his side to fourth in the Bundesliga and into the UEFA Cup quarter-finals. It is the best week the forward has had since signing from VfL Bochum 1848 last summer.
'Big family'
"Now I have arrived and feel really comfortable here," Gekas said. "Even during the times when things weren't going so well for me, my team-mates really supported me. We are a big family here. I have finally been able to help the team and the fans again with some good games and goals. I hope moments like this come more often. I had a tough time and a mini-crisis which I have now overcome. I have shown the coach and myself that I can still score goals."
Clever lob
Despite topping the Bundesliga scoring chart with 20 goals last term, Gekas has been unable to hold down a starting place at the BayArena. That may be about to change. He was restored to the lineup for the first leg of the UEFA Cup tie with Hamburger SV and scored the only goal of the match. Three days later he got the opener with a clever lob in a 2-0 victory against Hannover 96 then set up the second.
Sole survivor
On Wednesday Gekas was on target again, scoring Leverkusen's second in their 3-2 loss at Hamburg that took his team through to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup on away goals. "Gekas was given his chance [against Hannover] and made good use of it," Skibbe said. "He fought on the pitch, ran a lot and I'm satisfied with his football." Gekas, who is in his second year in Germany after spells at Larissa FC, Kallithea FC and Panathinaikos FC in his homeland, is Leverkusen's top scorer in the Bundesliga with nine goals. He also holds the distinction of being the only Greek international still left in European competition.
Fit and healthy
Antonios Nikopolidis, Paraskevas Antzas, Vassilis Torosidis and Christos Patsatzoglou all bowed out with Olympiacos CFP against Chelsea FC in the UEFA Champions League first knockout round, while Georgios Samaras's Celtic FC fell to Barcelona at the same hurdle. Konstantinos Katsouranis's SL Benfica and Stelios Giannakopoulos's Bolton Wanderers FC were both eliminated in the UEFA Cup this week. Gekas has scored six goals in 23 appearances for his country since making his debut in March 2005, most recently hitting a hat-trick against Malta in a UEFA European Championship qualifier in November. His most important goal now, though, is to ensure he stays fit and healthy ahead of Greece's title defence this summer.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Turkey's Golden Boy Goes Aboard
One of the brightest stars in Turkish football is preparing for life abroad after Trabzonspor midfielder Gökdeniz Karadeniz agreed an €8.7m move to Russian Premier-Liga side FC Rubin Kazan.
Trabzonspor talisman
The 28-year-old playmaker came through the youth ranks at Trabzonspor after being spotted at amateur side Giresun Yolspor, and has been in the first team for nearly a decade. Until now the club have refused all moves for their talisman but the lure of a new challenge has finally proved too much for a player all set for his first major finals at UEFA EURO 2008™. "I started at Trabzonspor but I will continue my career abroad," said Gökdeniz, who has signed a three-year contract with an option for two further seasons. "This is a good but also a sad thing for me, because I have to take off the Trabzonspor shirt which I love as if it was my own child. I could have gone to some other European clubs but I chose Rubin because I wanted my old club to earn some money out of this transfer."
Rise
Since making his league debut as a substitute in a 1-0 loss to Adanaspor AS in 1999/00, Gökdeniz has been a fixture in the Trabzonspor side. He earned an international debut against the Czech Republic in 2003, played in that year's FIFA Confederations Cup and now has 47 caps, having aided Turkey's progress to Austria and Switzerland. Winning the 2003 and 2004 Turkish Cups as he took on a more attacking role, he suffered a blip in 2005/06 with a six-month ban following a betting scandal, but has redeemed himself and even in a mixed season for Trabzonspor has struck eleven goals in 24 league games, taking his appearance total to 244. When Rubin begin their campaign this weekend he will link up with two old rivals from Galatasaray AS, striker Hasan Kabze and defender Stjepan Tomas.
Trabzonspor talisman
The 28-year-old playmaker came through the youth ranks at Trabzonspor after being spotted at amateur side Giresun Yolspor, and has been in the first team for nearly a decade. Until now the club have refused all moves for their talisman but the lure of a new challenge has finally proved too much for a player all set for his first major finals at UEFA EURO 2008™. "I started at Trabzonspor but I will continue my career abroad," said Gökdeniz, who has signed a three-year contract with an option for two further seasons. "This is a good but also a sad thing for me, because I have to take off the Trabzonspor shirt which I love as if it was my own child. I could have gone to some other European clubs but I chose Rubin because I wanted my old club to earn some money out of this transfer."
Rise
Since making his league debut as a substitute in a 1-0 loss to Adanaspor AS in 1999/00, Gökdeniz has been a fixture in the Trabzonspor side. He earned an international debut against the Czech Republic in 2003, played in that year's FIFA Confederations Cup and now has 47 caps, having aided Turkey's progress to Austria and Switzerland. Winning the 2003 and 2004 Turkish Cups as he took on a more attacking role, he suffered a blip in 2005/06 with a six-month ban following a betting scandal, but has redeemed himself and even in a mixed season for Trabzonspor has struck eleven goals in 24 league games, taking his appearance total to 244. When Rubin begin their campaign this weekend he will link up with two old rivals from Galatasaray AS, striker Hasan Kabze and defender Stjepan Tomas.
Akinfeev raring to go again
PFC CSKA Moskva goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev cannot wait for the Premier-Liga to start as he looks to put a painful period behind him.
Raring to go
The Russian international was sidelined for much of 2007, recovering from injury, and is keen to make up for lost time with UEFA EURO 2008™ approaching fast. Akinfeev tore cruciate ligaments against FC Rostov on 6 May and did not return to action until November as the Russian season reached its climax. With CSKA kicking off the new Premier-Liga campaign at home to FC Shinnik Yaroslavl on Saturday, and Russia in action against Romania on 26 March, the 21-year-old is raring to go again.
Serious success
"I hope to help CSKA return to the top of Russian football and I certainly hope to help the national team do well," Akinfeev told uefa.com. "We must prove at the European Championship that Russian players are no wimps. We have a strong team who are capable of serious success in Austria and Switzerland."
Working hard
It is almost a year since Akinfeev last played for his country and in his absence FC Zenit St. Petersburg goalkeeper Vyacheslav Malafeev and Vladimir Gabulov, who recently moved from FC Kuban Krasnodar to FC Amkar Perm, have staked claims to a starting place. Both made telling contributions during Russia's thrilling qualification and are putting pressure on Akinfeev as he attempts to reclaim the No1 shirt. It is a battle, though, that Akinfeev expects to win. "Only time will tell," he said. "I rate my own chances, but I still have to keep working hard. The season is just beginning."
Spain favourites
Akinfeev's immediate priority is to help CSKA reclaim the title lost to Zenit last term. He has one eye, however, on UEFA EURO 2008™ where Russia have been drawn alongside Spain, defending champions Greece and Sweden in Group D. "Spain probably have the most interesting team and they are the favourites. It's not an easy group, but all of our opponents are beatable."
'Good mood'
Akinfeev did make a brief return to the Russia set-up for a get-together in Turkey last month. Although Russia did not play a match, he was glad to be involved, especially as it meant a welcome break from the usual pre-season routine. "It was nice to get over there," he said. "We met with the boys after a long break and got into the atmosphere of the national team. It's no surprise that everyone was in such a good mood. It didn't make any difference to me whether we played or not. If the coaches decided to do without an official game, then it was because we didn't need one."
Hectic period
So it has been a hectic period for Akinfeev, with thoughts of a holiday having been long banished because of the strict training regime he has had to follow. "I did get some rest," he said, "albeit at the gym at CSKA's training camp in Vatutinki." Both Russia and CSKA fans will be hoping this particular rest cure will have far-reaching effects.
Raring to go
The Russian international was sidelined for much of 2007, recovering from injury, and is keen to make up for lost time with UEFA EURO 2008™ approaching fast. Akinfeev tore cruciate ligaments against FC Rostov on 6 May and did not return to action until November as the Russian season reached its climax. With CSKA kicking off the new Premier-Liga campaign at home to FC Shinnik Yaroslavl on Saturday, and Russia in action against Romania on 26 March, the 21-year-old is raring to go again.
Serious success
"I hope to help CSKA return to the top of Russian football and I certainly hope to help the national team do well," Akinfeev told uefa.com. "We must prove at the European Championship that Russian players are no wimps. We have a strong team who are capable of serious success in Austria and Switzerland."
Working hard
It is almost a year since Akinfeev last played for his country and in his absence FC Zenit St. Petersburg goalkeeper Vyacheslav Malafeev and Vladimir Gabulov, who recently moved from FC Kuban Krasnodar to FC Amkar Perm, have staked claims to a starting place. Both made telling contributions during Russia's thrilling qualification and are putting pressure on Akinfeev as he attempts to reclaim the No1 shirt. It is a battle, though, that Akinfeev expects to win. "Only time will tell," he said. "I rate my own chances, but I still have to keep working hard. The season is just beginning."
Spain favourites
Akinfeev's immediate priority is to help CSKA reclaim the title lost to Zenit last term. He has one eye, however, on UEFA EURO 2008™ where Russia have been drawn alongside Spain, defending champions Greece and Sweden in Group D. "Spain probably have the most interesting team and they are the favourites. It's not an easy group, but all of our opponents are beatable."
'Good mood'
Akinfeev did make a brief return to the Russia set-up for a get-together in Turkey last month. Although Russia did not play a match, he was glad to be involved, especially as it meant a welcome break from the usual pre-season routine. "It was nice to get over there," he said. "We met with the boys after a long break and got into the atmosphere of the national team. It's no surprise that everyone was in such a good mood. It didn't make any difference to me whether we played or not. If the coaches decided to do without an official game, then it was because we didn't need one."
Hectic period
So it has been a hectic period for Akinfeev, with thoughts of a holiday having been long banished because of the strict training regime he has had to follow. "I did get some rest," he said, "albeit at the gym at CSKA's training camp in Vatutinki." Both Russia and CSKA fans will be hoping this particular rest cure will have far-reaching effects.
Platini meets Austrian Chancellor
As part of his stay in Vienna for the UEFA EURO 2008™ finalists' workshop, UEFA President Michel Platini met with Austria's Federal Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer.
Smooth co-operation
Mr Platini was accompanied on his visit by Austrian Football Association president Friedrich Stickler and Euro 2008 SA COO Martin Kallen. He was told by Mr Gusenbauer that co-operation between EURO co-hosts Austria and Switzerland was running smoothly, and that preparations are on schedule for this summer's tournament.
Austria already a winner
Austria, the Chancellor said, is already a UEFA EURO 2008™winner from an economic and sporting point of view. Mr Platini presented Mr Gusenbauer with a EUROPASS official matchball. The UEFA President also met the vice-Mayor of Vienna, Renate Brauner, as the capital gears up for the tournament. Vienna's Ernst-Happel-Stadion will host the UEFA EURO 2008™ final on 29 June, as well as three group matches, two quarter-finals and a semi-final.
Smooth co-operation
Mr Platini was accompanied on his visit by Austrian Football Association president Friedrich Stickler and Euro 2008 SA COO Martin Kallen. He was told by Mr Gusenbauer that co-operation between EURO co-hosts Austria and Switzerland was running smoothly, and that preparations are on schedule for this summer's tournament.
Austria already a winner
Austria, the Chancellor said, is already a UEFA EURO 2008™winner from an economic and sporting point of view. Mr Platini presented Mr Gusenbauer with a EUROPASS official matchball. The UEFA President also met the vice-Mayor of Vienna, Renate Brauner, as the capital gears up for the tournament. Vienna's Ernst-Happel-Stadion will host the UEFA EURO 2008™ final on 29 June, as well as three group matches, two quarter-finals and a semi-final.
Beenhakker turns to uncapped Janczyk
Poland coach Leo Beenhakker has named the uncapped PFC CSKA Moskva forward Dawid Janczyk in his squad for the friendly against the United States in Krakow on 26 March, while defender Arkadiusz Radomski returns to the fold for the first time in 13 months.Youthful promise
Janczyk, 20, was selected by former national coach Pawel Janas for the friendly against Saudi Arabia in March 2006 but injury prevented him from making his debut. More recently, Janczyk scored three goals at the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup when Poland reached the last 16 and his inclusion comes at the expense of Grzegorz Rasiak, Marek Saganowski, Artur Wichniarek and Ireneusz Jeleń, all of whom have been omitted by Beenhakker.
Fully recovered
FK Austria Wien's Radomski, meanwhile, last appeared for Poland against Slovakia over 12 months ago, and returns to the squad having recovered from a serious knee injury. The 30-year-old was a regular at the start of UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying, playing in Poland's first four Group A qualifiers.
Poland squad
Goalkeepers: Artur Boruc (Celtic FC), Tomasz Kuszczak (Manchester United FC), Łukasz Fabiański (Arsenal FC).
Defenders: Marcin Wasilewski (RSC Anderlecht), Paweł Golański (FC Steaua Bucuresti), Mariusz Jop (FC Moskva), Jacek Bąk (FK Austria Wien), Michał Żewłakow (Olympiacos CFP), Grzegorz Bronowicki (FK Crvena Zvezda), Arkadiusz Radomski (FK Austria Wien), Marcin Kuś (Korona Kielce), Adam Kokoszka (Wisła Kraków), Jakub Wawrzyniak (KP Legia Warszawa).
Midfielders: Mariusz Lewandowski (FC Shakhtar Donetsk), Dariusz Dudka (Wisła Kraków), Wojciech Łobodziński (Wisła Kraków), Rafał Murawski (KKP Lech Poznań), Michał Pazdan (Górnik Zabrze), Michał Goliński (Zagłębie Lubin), Jakub Błaszczykowski (BV Borussia Dortmund), Łukasz Garguła (GKS Bełchatów), Jacek Krzynówek (VfL Wolfsburg), Radosław Majewski (Groclin Grodzisk Wielkopolski).
Forwards: Tomasz Zahorski (Górnik Zabrze), Maciej Żurawski (Larissa FC), Euzebiusz Smolarek (Real Racing Club Santander), Łukasz Piszczek (Hertha BSC Berlin), Radosław Matusiak (Wisła Kraków), Paweł Brożek (Wisła Kraków), Dawid Janczyk (PFC CSKA Moskva).
Austrians receive stamp of approval
UEFA EURO 2008™ is already in the forefront of many people's thoughts but Austrians can now be reminded of this summer's tournament when they are posting their mail. The official ball to be used in Austria and Switzerland this June, made by adidas, is now available to buy as a self-adhesive stamp.
Philatelic sensationSome 490,000 of the special stamps have been made and can be purchased in Austria for €3.75 in all post office branches and online. The special stamp from the Austrian Post Office is considered a philatelic world sensation among experts.
‘Sophisticated stamp’
Not because the 69cm ball has been shrunk to just 36mm, but rather because the stamp is made of the same original material as the UEFA European Championship ball – a synthetic mix with polyurethane. "Altogether, the Europass stamp is our most sophisticated stamp in terms of typography and fabric," said the head of philately at the Austrian Post Office, Erich Haas.
Andrade absence to hurt Portugal
Jorge Andrade is expected to miss Portugal's UEFA EURO 2008™ finals campaign after undergoing his second right knee operation in six months.
Failed comebackThe 29-year-old Juventus defender originally underwent surgery in September after fracturing his kneecap in a 2-2 draw against AS Roma. However, having failed to return to Serie A action in January as anticipated, Andrade was operated on again in Cascais, near Lisbon.
Juventus move
Capped 51 times by Portugal, the former RC Deportivo La Coruña player has been limited to four league appearances with the Bianconeri this season, having left Spain for Italy last summer. Andrade featured five times in Portugal's qualifying success as Luiz Felipe Scolari's side finished runners-up in Group A behind Poland
Thursday, March 13, 2008
EURO 2008 - Group of Death
Don't know why, in every football tournament, just always is a grup containing of heavy-weight teams, which all can be told have the opportunity for success, causing group is fullfashioned to be conceived of The Group of Death.
And, for UERO 2008, the epithet is properly girded by Group C. French, Italian, Dutch, and Rumania. Unhappily they have been killing each other early. Enunciated, two rightful claimant team get away from grup and that mean there will be two team ending without effect.
FrenchFrench can excel the other state because of contribution elite football scholls like Clairenfintaine and also seven others. The school yielding many the player properly enter the national team be like Thierry Henry, Nicolas Anelka, William Gallas, and Louis Saha. World Champion 1998 and Eropa Champion 2000 is two first evidence greatness of french football schools.
Italy
Gli Azzurri come to Austria-Swiss with status as World champion. They wish to repeat their success.
Is equal to French in 1998 and 2000, coach of the Italian who bring them become the world champion, MarcelloLippi, retreat and replaced by new coach, Roberto Donadoni.
Dutch
Marco Van Basten still continue the what he was doing at World Champion 2006; continue to enter the new faces, don't surprise when later in a sudden hear the Dutch people called Ibrahim Affelay, Civard Sprockel, or Andre Slory.
Rumania
After eight year disappear in football Elite Europe, lately team Rumania fond of make the life Van Basten become hardly. Especially at EURO 2008 qualification. Victor Piturca players have many capitals, especially Andrian Mutu. Last Important tournament which they follow is Europe Champion 2000.
The Unique Things from members of Lethal Group is,
French and Italian stay in Grup B during qualification, Dutch and Rumania stay in one grup; Group G.
In Grup B, Italian become the group champion, whereas French reside in the second sequence. In Grup G, Rumania become the group champion, is while Dutch is be rear its.
From two meeting during qualification, French win 3-1 of Italian in Saint Denis, is while hold Italian 0-0 in Malino. more hard Dutch, they merely play at 0-0 in Feyenoord and fail to oppress 0-1 when in Constanta, Rumania.
In the end, The Group of Death will containing full of personal vendetta. May fail at qualification, but not meaning have to surender at tournament truthfully.
And there will is a bitter sweet reunion, between Van Basten and Donadoni. Both is member The Dream Team AC Milan. who is more successful as coach between both ?
Buffon extends Juve stay
Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has added a further year to his contract with Juventus, committing to the Serie A side until June 2013. Loyalty
The 30-year-old will be 35 when his new deal runs out and Buffon believes the pledge of loyalty is reward for the club's supporters. "I want to thank the club and the fans for their support," said the goalkeeper, who joined the Bianconeri from Parma FC in summer 2001. "We have enough time to savour new glory and get back to where our fans expect us." Juve are third in Serie A, 13 points behind leaders FC Internazionale Milano.
Żurawski enjoying new lease of life
Poland captain Maciej Żurawski is enjoying a new lease of life since joining Larissa FC in January.
No time to wasteSwapping Scottish champions Celtic FC for the mid-table Greek Super League club might seem like a step down, but for the 31-year-old forward the move could not have come at a better time. "I realise I've joined a weaker club which does not have the name and the traditions of Celtic, but I could not wait any longer," Żurawski told Polish newspaper Rzeczpospolita. "I was fed up with watching my team-mates from the stands."
InjuriesŻurawski had been hampered by injuries at Celtic Park and had fallen behind Scott McDonald and Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink in Gordon Strachan's plans. He had made just five league appearances this season when the offer from Greece came in, and with the opportunity to get some games under his belt before UEFA EURO 2008™, Żurawski jumped at the chance. Żurawski joined Larissa on the final day of the winter transfer window and immediately won over the supporters by scoring the winner on his debut against AEK Athens FC.
'Enjoying football'
Last week he secured another three points for his team after converting a last-minute penalty against Iraklis FC. "This transfer has made me enjoy playing football much more and my hunger for scoring goals is greater," he said. "I like everything here at Larissa although I'm not sure I'm back to my best yet as I'm still getting to know my team-mates and the system of play."
'Uncomfortable situation'
Better, though, than sitting on the bench for Celtic. "I can't pretend my situation wasn't uncomfortable. I was captain of the [Poland] team fighting for EURO 2008 qualification and journalists were joking that I was a reserve player at my club. I ignored them but I felt something was wrong. I spoke with Poland coach Leo Beenhakker and he advised me to move to a club where I would have a strong position. I never felt he would have dropped me from the national team if I had stayed at Celtic, but now I definitely have a better chance of making the EURO 2008 squad."
'Tough group'
Poland have been drawn against Austria, Germany and Croatia in Group B and Żurawski, who featured 13 times in qualifying, admits his side face a tough task come June. "Our group is tough, but there is no sense in speculating which players our rivals will field and whether they will be in good form. We have an interesting team and we're capable of success. In every friendly we play a new, skilful player emerges which is good for the future."
EURO teams sign anti-doping charter
The UEFA EURO 2008™ finalists have signed a ground-breaking Anti-Doping Charter paving the way for blood tests to be carried out on players for the first time. The heads of the national associations of the 16 participating teams put pen to paper in Vienna during the finalists' workshop, allowing for both blood and urine samples to be taken in some 300 tests before and during this summer's tournament in Austria and Switzerland.
Stringent measures
The stringent new measures will enable the identification of banned substances, including the blood-boosting drug EPO, while a new technique to test for growth hormones will be used at an international event for the first time. Experts will also be able to determine whether a player's blood has been abnormally manipulated by means of a transfusion. "What is happening today is a very strong signal from all the associations to say that we are fighting against doping in football," said UEFA President Michel Platini ahead of the signing ceremony at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion, which will stage the EURO final on 29 June.
Spot checks
The charter gives the green light to the minimum 160 spot checks that the finalists will undertake even before a ball is kicked. Testers will arrive unannounced on at least one occasion, either in the initial stages of preparation or once the teams have established their bases in Austria or Switzerland ahead of the tournament's opening game on 7 June. UEFA's 12 Doping Control Officers (DCOs) will lead the tests before sending the samples to the WADA-accredited Seibersdorf laboratory in Austria, with the results forwarded to UEFA prior to the first match between co-hosts Switzerland and the Czech Republic in Basel.
'Protect integrity'
"As the international independent organisation responsible for co-ordinating and monitoring the global fight against doping in sport, WADA is pleased that UEFA has put in place for this event an anti-doping programme that complies with all the requirements of the World Anti-Doping Programme," said WADA representative and Portuguese Secretary of State for Sport, Laurentino Dias. "WADA is looking forward to continuing its successful co-operation with UEFA and the other members of the football family in the lead up to this major event and beyond, to protect the integrity and fairness of the game and provide doping-free sport."
Match testing
A further 124 tests will be carried out during the 31 matches of the tournament itself, with two players from each team selected and then escorted to the doping control area to provide samples immediately after the final whistle is blown. The WADA-approved laboratory in Lausanne will work around the clock throughout the competition, and will analyse the samples within 48 hours, so UEFA will be notified of the results of the tests before a team's following match. UEFA is also working closely with independent Swiss and Austrian National Anti-Doping Organisations (NADOs) during the tournament. Both NADOs will provide experienced chaperones who will accompany each player directly to the doping control testing room.
by Gavin Jackson from Vienna
Platini excited as EURO draws nearer
The countdown clock continues to tick down to the start of UEFA EURO 2008™ with Michel Platini among the millions of enthusiasts eager for the action to start. "We're almost there now," said the UEFA President in Vienna. "The long wait will soon be over, EURO starts in less than three months and everything is just about ready."
Vienna workshopVienna is hosting a workshop for delegations from the 16 participating countries, with issues such as tournament guidelines, services and facilities available to the teams, accommodation, transport, accreditation, pitches, match operations, medical services, television and media and anti-doping matters on the agenda.
Worldwide reach
"There is little point in trying to describe the enthusiasm that surrounds our blue-riband competition," continued Mr Platini. "Just let me give you a figure – we have received, at UEFA level, 8.7 million ticket requests, and the national associations themselves have received several dozens of millions of requests. TV transmissions will cover the entire earth and Austria and Switzerland will be the centre of the world for three weeks.
Real passion
"I have myself visited all of the EURO 2008™ host cities and stadiums. The cities are of course superb, they are all capitals of international tourism, and the stadiums are true football stadiums just as we love them – the supporters, who will be true supporters, will be close to the players – real players who will show us how football really is in stadiums where the visibility is excellent for everyone. To ensure that the festival is complete, numerous cities will also install giant screens where everyone will be able to give free rein to their emotions."
Big numbers
Swiss Football Association president Ralph Zloczower and Austrian Euro 2008 SA board of administration member Herbert Hübel gave figures to back up the importance of what they agreed was "the biggest-ever sporting event ever staged in Austria and Switzerland". Up to two million foreign guests are expected for the final round between 7 and 29 June. Accreditations will total 35,000, with 8,300 media representatives from 100 countries covering the action. Some 5,000 volunteers will be contributing to the smooth running of the event, and 1,500 staff will be deployed per match.
Stadium handover
Eight venues are staging the 31 UEFA EURO 2008™ matches - Innsbruck, Klagenfurt, Salzburg and Vienna (Austria), and Basel, Berne, Geneva and Zurich (Switzerland). The eight stadiums will be handed over to Euro 2008 SA on 12 May. This means that special preparatory work can be undertaken, including putting up flags, other dressings and signage, and equipping the media areas.
Kick-off
Training for the volunteers will be taking place during April and May, teams will be announcing their squads on 28 May and the first media briefings will take place in Basel and Vienna on 1 June. The tournament will open at Basel's St. Jakob-Park on 7 June at 18.00CET, when Switzerland take on the Czech Republic. The final will be staged at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion in Vienna on 29 June at 20.45CET.
UEFA unveils 'Respect' initiative
UEFA President Michel Platini has today unveiled a campaign entitled 'Respect', which will feature prominently at UEFA EURO 2008™ in Austria and Switzerland, as well as at future UEFA competitions and events.
International language
"Respect can be used as an umbrella term for lots of different initiatives," Mr Platini said at the opening of the UEFA EURO 2008™ workshop in Vienna for the 16 national associations taking part in the June finals. "It is a word that is readily understood in many languages." Through UEFA EURO 2008™, UEFA is supporting five social projects to the tune of CHF3.45m (€2.2m). Each project is dedicated to a specific target group - schoolchildren, fans, or disabled people.
Social projects
In addition, the word 'Respect' will be put forward constantly during the tournament, via initiatives such as respecting opponents, the opposition's national anthem and the referees. The 'Respect' logo will be visible on every shirt and every drinks bottle. "UEFA EURO 2008™ is a sporting and media event with worldwide exposure and it is important to use it to transmit a strong social, civic and humanitarian message," said Mr Platini.
Uniting campaigns
"For many years, UEFA and European football have been involved at all levels of society, enabling our sport to use its enormous popularity to help in combating social ills, promoting civic commitments and defending major humanitarian causes. The time has come to bring these campaigns together to strengthen their impact. UEFA EURO 2008™ offers us the opportunity to highlight a concept which epitomises all of our work at the level of social responsibility - respect. Respect for opponents, in the cities, in the stands and on the pitch."
'Difference and diversity'
The campaign will expand in the future to all UEFA competitions and events, and the word will also be spread by the football family at national and local levels. "There must be respect for the difference and diversity that enriches our continent," said Mr Platini. "In concrete terms, this means strengthening the fight against social ills such as racism, violence, xenophobia and homophobia, and reinforced backing for our partners who promote sport for the disabled. Emotions and respect - two words for a great football festival."
Public platform
With the slogan 'Football for All', people with disabilities are to be given the opportunity to demonstrate their sports skills before a broad public. Before each quarter-final, international disabled sports groups - people with learning disabilities (Special Olympics), paraplegia, cerebral palsy and who suffer from blindness - will compete in matches. The demonstration games are designed to make clear to fans and visitors to EURO that anyone can play football. In collaboration with UEFA, the Swiss disabled sports federation, PLUSPORT, will be helping organise the four games in Basel and Vienna. The Austrian disabled sports federation, ÖBSV, will also be supporting the project, helping to better integrate disabled athletes.
Unite Against Racism
The 'Respect diversity' theme will also run through the Unite Against Racism project. Unite Against Racism is an awareness campaign that incorporates various activities before and during the tournament, peaking at the semi-finals. The project's profile will be given an added boost by Hublot, a national supporter in both host countries. The Unite Against Racism logo will be displayed not only on the perimeter boards in the stadiums, but also on the captains' armbands and on the kits of the ball boys and girls, the stewards and the substitutes.
Further projects
UEFA is also backing other social projects at UEFA EURO 2008™. The International Committee of the Red Cross is the tournament's official charity partner. The contribution that UEFA makes, under the slogan 'Score for the Red Cross', will depend on the number of goals scored at the rate of €4,000 per goal. Private donations can be made at www.scorefortheredcross.org. EUROSCHOOLS2008 is the official UEFA EURO 2008™ schools project. Schools in Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein have become ambassadors to the 53 UEFA member nations in a fitting project for the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue. Fan embassies will also be set up in all eight host cities to serve as special information and contact points for supporters.
International language
"Respect can be used as an umbrella term for lots of different initiatives," Mr Platini said at the opening of the UEFA EURO 2008™ workshop in Vienna for the 16 national associations taking part in the June finals. "It is a word that is readily understood in many languages." Through UEFA EURO 2008™, UEFA is supporting five social projects to the tune of CHF3.45m (€2.2m). Each project is dedicated to a specific target group - schoolchildren, fans, or disabled people.
Social projects
In addition, the word 'Respect' will be put forward constantly during the tournament, via initiatives such as respecting opponents, the opposition's national anthem and the referees. The 'Respect' logo will be visible on every shirt and every drinks bottle. "UEFA EURO 2008™ is a sporting and media event with worldwide exposure and it is important to use it to transmit a strong social, civic and humanitarian message," said Mr Platini.
Uniting campaigns
"For many years, UEFA and European football have been involved at all levels of society, enabling our sport to use its enormous popularity to help in combating social ills, promoting civic commitments and defending major humanitarian causes. The time has come to bring these campaigns together to strengthen their impact. UEFA EURO 2008™ offers us the opportunity to highlight a concept which epitomises all of our work at the level of social responsibility - respect. Respect for opponents, in the cities, in the stands and on the pitch."
'Difference and diversity'
The campaign will expand in the future to all UEFA competitions and events, and the word will also be spread by the football family at national and local levels. "There must be respect for the difference and diversity that enriches our continent," said Mr Platini. "In concrete terms, this means strengthening the fight against social ills such as racism, violence, xenophobia and homophobia, and reinforced backing for our partners who promote sport for the disabled. Emotions and respect - two words for a great football festival."
Public platform
With the slogan 'Football for All', people with disabilities are to be given the opportunity to demonstrate their sports skills before a broad public. Before each quarter-final, international disabled sports groups - people with learning disabilities (Special Olympics), paraplegia, cerebral palsy and who suffer from blindness - will compete in matches. The demonstration games are designed to make clear to fans and visitors to EURO that anyone can play football. In collaboration with UEFA, the Swiss disabled sports federation, PLUSPORT, will be helping organise the four games in Basel and Vienna. The Austrian disabled sports federation, ÖBSV, will also be supporting the project, helping to better integrate disabled athletes.
Unite Against Racism
The 'Respect diversity' theme will also run through the Unite Against Racism project. Unite Against Racism is an awareness campaign that incorporates various activities before and during the tournament, peaking at the semi-finals. The project's profile will be given an added boost by Hublot, a national supporter in both host countries. The Unite Against Racism logo will be displayed not only on the perimeter boards in the stadiums, but also on the captains' armbands and on the kits of the ball boys and girls, the stewards and the substitutes.
Further projects
UEFA is also backing other social projects at UEFA EURO 2008™. The International Committee of the Red Cross is the tournament's official charity partner. The contribution that UEFA makes, under the slogan 'Score for the Red Cross', will depend on the number of goals scored at the rate of €4,000 per goal. Private donations can be made at www.scorefortheredcross.org. EUROSCHOOLS2008 is the official UEFA EURO 2008™ schools project. Schools in Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein have become ambassadors to the 53 UEFA member nations in a fitting project for the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue. Fan embassies will also be set up in all eight host cities to serve as special information and contact points for supporters.
Foreigners give Poland a lesson
A team comprising the best foreign players in the Ekstraklasa overcame Leo Beenhakker's national team 3-2 in an unofficial friendly fixture on Tuesday.
Poor start
In front of a 16,000 crowd in Szczecin, Poland fielded a largely home-based squad save for VfL Wolfsburg winger Jacek Krzynówek and Hertha BSC Berlin striker Łukasz Piszczek. They were a goal down within a minute of the off, however, as Zagłębie Lubin's Colombian defender Manuel Arboleda headed in an Edson corner, and two down on 39 when F.Y.R. Macedonia striker Filip Ivanovski scored with another header.
Poland rally
Poland rallied after the break, and Łukasz Garguła, Krzynówek and Michał Goliński all wasted opportunities before Piszczek hit the post on 62 minutes. Garguła finally halved the deficit with a header after goalkeeper Jan Mucha failed to hold a Krzynówek shot on 73 minutes, although the foreigners restored their two-goal lead six minutes later with a 20-metre shot from Legia Warszawa's Zimbabwean striker Takesure Chinyama.
'Useful test'
Legia defender Jakub Wawrzyniak scored a consolation goal for Poland with a neat volley on 89 minutes, and coach Beenhakker was not too disappointed with the overall performance, saying: "We are continuing our preparations for EURO 2008™ and this was a very useful test."
by Pawel Dimow
Poor start
In front of a 16,000 crowd in Szczecin, Poland fielded a largely home-based squad save for VfL Wolfsburg winger Jacek Krzynówek and Hertha BSC Berlin striker Łukasz Piszczek. They were a goal down within a minute of the off, however, as Zagłębie Lubin's Colombian defender Manuel Arboleda headed in an Edson corner, and two down on 39 when F.Y.R. Macedonia striker Filip Ivanovski scored with another header.
Poland rally
Poland rallied after the break, and Łukasz Garguła, Krzynówek and Michał Goliński all wasted opportunities before Piszczek hit the post on 62 minutes. Garguła finally halved the deficit with a header after goalkeeper Jan Mucha failed to hold a Krzynówek shot on 73 minutes, although the foreigners restored their two-goal lead six minutes later with a 20-metre shot from Legia Warszawa's Zimbabwean striker Takesure Chinyama.
'Useful test'
Legia defender Jakub Wawrzyniak scored a consolation goal for Poland with a neat volley on 89 minutes, and coach Beenhakker was not too disappointed with the overall performance, saying: "We are continuing our preparations for EURO 2008™ and this was a very useful test."
by Pawel Dimow
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Opportunity of del Piero and Cassanova is open
ROMA - Coach Roberto Donadoni affirm, players do not ought to of opinion that opportunity come into squad Italy National Team have finished. Donadoni tell, him still open the door for every synchronized proper player of costume Gli Azzurri. This matter also apply to Alessandro Del Piero and Antonio Cassano.
"Each and everyone still have the opportunity. For that, they have to do the best," say Donadoni, Tuesday ( 11/3/2008). I give the guarantee of place in national team to impetous player exercise and play at reguler with his club," continue the former coach Livorno this.Utterance the Allenatore this, will give the fresh wind to Cassano is the pledge in his front line team, Sampdoria. But red card incident which the acquisition of moment fight against Torino in Serie A can become the spraging for him come up in Euro 2008.
Besides, coach with 44 year old also tell concerning his feeling nearing the big event Euro 2008 Austria-Swiss, which only leaving over to predict three months.
"I have thought of Euro since geting away from qualification. Especially since determination toss grup. augment him."From that momen I am knows our opponent and continue their strength analysis. But, definitive I have to prepare the player myself. That my life as coach of football," his cover.
natalie portman - enjoyment become madridista
As film star, Natalie Portman have reached for many successes. She even conceived of many the actress have the character typically. have the sensual face, but her figure is unknown to as hot actress. This matter don't get out of her academic intellegence. This Israel Descendant girl is graduate Physicology by Universitas Havard. if playing at the film consider her to be pleasantness activity, seemingly look on the football in stadium is pleasant enjoyment.The actress has recognized by her acting in Star Wars Episode II: Revenge of the Sith that very take a fun to look on Real Madrid in Santiago Bernabeu. If during the time he frequently seen with his couple, Nathan Bogl, in the middle of audience of contest NBA and Tenis Grand Slam, actually that is not the hobby be in fact for her.
"I don't enjoy the games, but at the time I more focus at Nathan," say Natalie Portman.
The fact is open after relation both barst, Natalie Portman no longger seen in basket or tennis court. Socialitelife get is it scream, stand up till flourish the hand with thousands of madridista form the formation mexican wave. "This is fantastic reside in the giant stadium Santiago Bernaberu, this stadium have never ever been silent even Real Madrid often fail in cage," add the winner Golden Globe 2005 of her acting in Closer
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