To Russia with love
The Russians used the ball as it’s meant to be used. Games like that make me feel lucky to be a football fan, lucky to have a television. Beautiful football. The only shame is that they didn’t score a fourth goal to better represent their brilliance. This Holland team had swept all aside to get to this game; it has just been absolutely trounced. Football, eh?
You’re right, it was football at its best (this tournament has had quite a lot of it). Russia were such a refreshing watch, brilliant stuff. The full-back Zhirkov is fantastic! Well that’s me supporting Russia from now on then… hopefully Italy beat Spain because I can imagine Russia getting to the final if they’re up against Italy, but perhaps less so against the Spanish.
Slightly surprised at Holland – they seemed in a slumber for the whole game. A great watch, though.
Amazing game. Zhirkov was great, Pavyluchenko too – I really like him. Every team I support in this competition go out, but I would like to see Spain get through.
Got money on Germany winning and won’t be surprised if Italy make the final too.
As Chopper said, every team I support gets brushed aside, in a most amazing fashion at that. Russia was simply breathtaking today. They played fearlessly against football giants and took home the wreath.
I’ve said for years that the Euros have much better football then the World Cup. Perhaps because there are fewer teams and those that are there had to be really good to get there in the first place. Unlike W.C. were there are some third teams coming from areas like CONCACAF, that don’t have a very difficult road qualifying. And, they are all playing on their own continent. Which really shouldn’t make any difference, but always seems to in the World Cup. A comfort perhaps, closer to things they know, there way of life and their fans. I dunno? But I think it makes a difference. Eruo 2000 was one of the greatest tournaments ever, but 08 is pushing it aside and making room for itself on the mantel.
i’ve drowned my sorrows 2nite! :-(
yeah, i have to support russia after that one… still in love with dutch ball, but for this tourney i don’t think you could pick another team
I’ve been watching major football tourneys since the 1966 WC, and I’ve never seen such sustained entertainment as is afforded in this competition this year. I am very impressed with Russia’s young guns. They will be heard from in South Africa in two years time, along with Turkey. This is the third competition I’ve seen Turkish teams participate in this calendar year. All of them have been at different age levels and, in all of them, the Turks have really impressed. I also like their chances in 2010.
Because the only teams I regularly follow in Europe have been those five located in the British Isles, this entire competition has been neutral v. neutral for me. With no axe to grind, I’ve loved every minute I’ve been able to watch. This really IS a great game!