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Full Name : Fiansi Nick Name : Fi Age: Only me whose know Location : My Luvly Country Nationality : 100% Indonesian My wish : Someday I can see my Idol --> going abroad *esp. to Italy* <--- Fave Food : Sate Padang, Pizza Fave Drink : Aqua, Orenz Juz ---> Fave Song that spirit me <--- "What I Want is What I've Got" By : Westlife E-m@il: f1ansi80 YM : f1ansi80 ICQ : 290778943 |
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June 28, 2004
Fantastic's Team I just wanna say ---> Unbelievable!! Czech teams Win in every matches. They have a full scored from all matches. and they goes to semifinal too. Baros u have a wonderfull play, i like it!!! Here's the news about last matches in Quarter Final ---------------------------------------------- Porto (Dragao) - 27/06/04 - 19:45 Czech Republic (3) - Denmark (0) Goal By : Czech Republic ---> 49' Koller - 63', 65' Baros Baros brings down Danes by David Farrelly from Estadio do Dragao Two second-half goals from Milan Baros and a header from Jan Koller proved too much for Denmark and powered the Czech Republic into the semi-finals of UEFA EURO 2004, where they will meet Greece on Thursday. Simple finish A scoreless and tense first half did not set the tone for the deluge of goals that followed, but Koller set the Czechs on their way four minutes into the second period when he rose unchallenged to head Karel Poborsky's corner past Thomas Sorensen in the Danish goal. Clinical counterattacking Denmark, now forced into committing more resources into attack, were caught out twice in defence as the Czechs ruthlessly exploited their lapses in concentration. First Poborsky curled a low pass through to Baros who then clipped the ball over the diving Sorensen after 63 minutes. Two minutes later, the Czechs ended the game as a contest as Baros ran on to Pavel Nedved's through-pass to drill the ball past Sorensen for his fifth goal in four games, making the Liverpool FC striker the tournament's top scorer. Baroš has scored in every game Karel Bruckner's side have played. Sand setback Danish coach Morten Olsen made three changes to the side that drew 2-2 with Sweden. Niclas Jensen, already ruled out having been forced off by an ankle injury against the Swedes, was again replaced by Kasper Bogelund. Ebbe Sand's calf injury meant that Jon Dahl Tomasson moved into a more attacking role with Claus Jensen entrusted with playmaking responsibilities from midfield, while Olsen brought in Christian Poulsen to man-mark Nedved at the expense of Daniel Jensen. Wholesale changes Bruckner, who effectively fielded a reserve side in the final Group D game with Germany, made wholesale changes, with only Martin Jiranek, Rene Bolf and Tomas Galasek keeping their places in the starting lineup. Bright start The Czechs, who had won eight consecutive matches in the competition, started brightly and Sorensen was forced into action as early as the third minute when he dived low to his left to gather a Nedved free-kick. Czech chance Baros might have done better two minutes later when Tomas Rosicky headed the ball into his path inside the penalty area from another Nedved free-kick. Koller then got in on the act, but his header from Poborsky's right-wing cross sailed over, before Galasek shot narrowly wide of Sorensen's right-hand post with a low drive from 20 metres. Poulsen frustrated However, Denmark were not being overrun and responded with two genuine scoring opportunities of their own. First Jensen passed to Poulsen inside the penalty area, and he sidestepped Galasek's sliding challenge only to see his shot blocked by Tomas Ujfalusi. The same pair combined moments later, but this time Poulsen's header from 15 metres was narrowly wide of Petr Cech's right-hand post from Jensen's free-kick. Midfield stalemate The match settled into a midfield stalemate until Poborsky burst clear down the right-hand channel in added time at the end of the first half. With Koller in the centre, the midfield player opted to go himself but his cross-shot swung out of play before clipping the crossbar. Tomasson close Having scored quickly after the restart, the Czechs forced the Danes to become more attack-minded, and Olsen's side were almost rewarded in the 53rd minute, but Tomasson's header was blocked by Marek Jankulovski following some trickery by Martin Jorgensen inside the penalty area. Danes denied Czech substitute Zdenek Grygera then blocked Jørgensen's shot on the edge of the penalty area in the 58th minute as the Czechs managed to keep the Danes at bay before Baros' double strike put the result beyond doubt. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Netherlands goes to semifinal I think this is really boring matches. Bcoz until 120 minutes of matches both of teams can't produces a goal. Yeah, whatever!!! Finally after a penalty, Netherlands win this match and goes to semifinal. Here's the news -------------------------------------------- Faro-Loule (Algarve) - 26/06/04 - 19:45 Sweden 0-0 Netherlands Netherlands (5 - 4) wins on penalties Dutch delight in shoot-out by Mark Chaplin from Estadio Algarve After a dramatic penalty shoot-out, the Netherlands advanced to a UEFA EURO 2004 semi-final against Portugal following 120 minutes of goalless stalemate in Faro-Loule. Robben decisive A desperately tight, fiercely contested encounter had seen both teams foiled by the woodwork before misses from Sweden's Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Olof Mellberg proved decisive in the shoot-out, with Arjen Robben nervelessly converting the winning spot-kick. Midfield reshuffle Sweden made two midfield changes from the side that drew 2-2 with Denmark to qualify for the last eight, Anders Svensson replacing Kim Kallstrom and Anders Andersson giving way to Tobias Linderoth while Alexander Ostlund came in for the suspended Erik Edman in defence. The Netherlands fielded the same team that booked a quarter-final place with a 3-0 success against Latvia. Robben threat On a gloriously warm evening in a vibrant atmosphere, both sides took time to settle and the early play was littered with free-kicks. The Dutch began to take the initiative, however, and Robben had the game's first chance after ten minutes, cutting inside before producing a fierce left-foot drive that was pushed aside by Andreas Isaksson. Dutch pressure The Sweden goalkeeper was soon in action again to clutch a Clarence Seedorf free-kick as his side were pushed on to the back foot, and Ruud van Nistelrooij then had a shot blocked with the Netherlands looking to take advantage of their greater enterprise in the early stages. Finely poised Sweden finally began to relieve the pressure, Henrik Larsson curling a long-range free-kick wide but the game, while interestingly poised, had yet to really catch fire as the half-hour approached, although Michael Reiziger flashed a drive past the post when the Netherlands came forward again. De Boer cautioned Frank de Boer received the game's first booking on the half-hour for a clumsy challenge on Fredrik Ljungberg, before Isaksson fisted a rasping Phillip Cocu drive away for a corner at the other end. De Boer was hurt in that tackle and limped off to be replaced by Wilfred Bouma after 36 minutes. The substitute, who came on despite a persistent achilles problem, was quickly into the fray, blocking Svensson's goalbound effort. The same player then tested Dutch goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar from 20 metres. Van Nistelrooij involved The Dutch forced the early second-half pace, the dangerous Van Nistelrooij troubling the Swedish defence in heading Robben's cross just over the bar and flicking another effort fractionally too high minutes later. Crucial intervention Until now, Larsson and strike partner Ibrahimovic had been largely subdued, but the much-heralded Swedish duo came desperately close to breaking the deadlock after 56 minutes. Larsson headed across goal, Jaap Stam failed to clear and Ibrahimovic poked the ball goalwards, but Cocu was on hand to clear off the line. Near miss There were signs that the game was coming to the boil, Van der Sar saving a fierce cross-shot from Mattias Jonson as Sweden enjoyed a promising spell near the hour. Back came the Netherlands, Van Nistelrooij seeing an effort blocked by Isaksson - the ball rebounding off the striker but rolling centimetres wide. Svensson then tested Van der Sar from outside the area as the tempo increased. Stam shot The injured Jonson was replaced by Christian Wilhelmsson after 64 minutes and Stam ventured forward for the next Dutch effort, hammering a long-range effort past the post. The minutes ticked down to extra time, although Ljungberg shot agonisingly wide and the Netherlands were unable to capitalise on a spell of late pressure, Van Nistelrooij heading too high. Isaksson involved The Dutch almost struck two minutes into extra time. Isaksson fumbled Robben's long-range strike on to the post, and substitute Roy Makaay failed to take advantage of the rebound from close range. The Swedish goalkeeper then atoned with two wonderful saves from Seedorf. Gripping finale Larsson shaved the crossbar at the other end and soon afterwards, Ljungberg hit the post for Sweden in an enthralling climax but it took the drama of a penalty shoot-out to separate the two sides. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
BYE ... BYE ... FRANCE Yuhuuuuu, finally ... finally!!! Greece goes to Semifinal. Charisteas u prove it! That Greece can make's France (The Winner of EURO2000) crashing out from competitions. Here's the related News -------------------------------------------- Lisbon (Jose Alvalade) - 25/06/04 - 19:45 France (0) - Greece (1) Goal By : Greece ---> 65' Charisteas Slick Greece shock holders by Adam Szreter from Estadio Jose Alvalade Greece pulled off the biggest shock of UEFA EURO 2004 here tonight when they beat France for the first time in their history to reach the semi-finals where they will meet the Czech Republic or Denmark. Favourites fall A goal after 65 minutes by Angelos Charisteas sent the defending champions crashing out of the competition along with fellow former winners Italy, Germany and Spain. France, with Thierry Henry struggling to reproduce his best form and Patrick Vieira out injured, were heavily reliant on the skills of Zinedine Zidane, but for once the great man was unable to inspire his team-mates sufficiently. Three new faces Greece coach Otto Rehhagel made three changes to the side beaten by Russia in their final group match, striker Themistoklis Nikolaidis making his first start of the tournament, midfield player Georgios Karagounis returning from suspension and Panagiotis Fyssas preferred to Stylianos Venetidis at left-back. For France injuries to Vieira and Willy Sagnol gave Olivier Dacourt and William Gallas starting places. Greece chances Nikolaidis, Greece's leading goalscorer, was involved straight away, chasing down a flick-on from strike partner Charisteas but Lilian Thuram was across to cover for France. Fyssas then crossed dangerously for Charisteas but the SV Werder Bremen man could not quite get his head to the ball. Yellow cards Karagounis wasted little time in adding another yellow card to his collection, this time for holding back Zidane - before the half was out, the compliment would be returned - but Nikolaidis perked Greece up again with a decent snap-shot held head-high by Fabien Barthez. Narrow escape A minute later Greece believed they had taken the lead when Karagounis' inswinging free-kick was met at the far post by Konstantinos Katsouranis but Barthez was adjudged to have intervened before the whole of the ball had crossed the line. Greece on top Aside from a Henry header that flew just over after good work from Zidane and Bixente Lizarazu, France were struggling to find a rhythm. Greece, prompted by captain Theodoros Zagorakis and inspired by Fyssas' left-wing incursions, were taking full advantage, Katsouranis and Fyssas both calling Barthez into action, the latter spectacularly so as the French goalkeeper tipped over a long-range volley. French urgency The Greeks departed for the interval with their fans jumping for joy, knowing they were in with a real chance of springing the biggest surprise of the championships; France by contrast left to a resounding chorus of disapproval from their fans. But from the restart there was more urgency about them, Henry shooting just wide in the opening minutes and Zagorakis being booked for a rash tackle on Robert Pires. Crucial Kapsis Their best moments thus far came in the 57th minute. The veteran Lizarazu, winning his 98th cap for France, stormed through the inside-left channel and was only stopped by a brave challenge from Mihalis Kapsis, who moments later headed out from under his own crossbar under pressure from David Trezeguet following an Henry cross. Unstoppable header But then France's world fell apart. Zagorakis, haring down Greece's right flank, cleverly flicked the ball beyond Lizarazu and sent over a measured cross for Charisteas. His header, from near the penalty spot, was textbook precision and Barthez had no chance as the ball flashed past him. French coach Jacques Santini promptly threw forwards Louis Saha and Sylvain Wiltord into the fray, at the expense of Dacourt and Trezeguet. French frustration Saha caused a flutter in Greek hearts as he skipped past Kapsis but his shot was smothered by Antonios Nikopolidis. Henry, at last inspired, then embarked on the kind of slaloming run that is his trademark but to no avail as the final shot was a weak one, and then he headed wide from a better opening, summing up a frustrating night for the champions. The Greek party, though, was just beginning. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Portugal, U Did It Yeahhhhh, finally!!! Portugal goes to Semifinal EURO 2004. Goodbye England ... *._.* ---------------------------------------------- Lisbon (Luz) - 24/06/04 - 19:45 Portugal (2) - England (2) Portugal (6 - 5) wins on penalties Goal By : Portugal ---> 83' Postiga - 20' Ex. Rui Costa England ---> 3' Owen - 25' Ex. Lampard Hosts hold their nerve by Adrian Harte from Estadio da Luz Portugal eventually overcame England on penalties to advance to the last four of UEFA EURO 2004 after an enthralling quarter-final at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon, with misses from David Beckham and Darius Vassell proving decisive in the shoot-out and Portuguese goalkeeper Ricardo nervelessly converting the winning spot-kick. Pulsating encounter Michael Owen's improvised finish put England ahead after just three minutes. But, after almost relentless pressure, Portugal finally levelled in the 83rd minute when Helder Postiga headed in Simao Sabrosa's cross. Then it was the turn of Portugal's third substitute Rui Costa, who beat David James with a sumptuous strike from 25 metres in the 110th minute. England were briefly down but not out and Frank Lampard sent the match to penalties when he got on the end of John Terry's knockdown after 115 minutes. Settled sides Portugal brought in Nuno Gomes for the suspended Pauleta with England fielding the same team for the third successive match. Teenaged sensations Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo had early touches but it was a former prodigy who got England off to a perfect start after just three minutes with a wonderful piece of invention and improvisation. Clever finish Jorge Andrade failed to cut out Costinha's misjudged back header and Owen pounced on to the loose ball to pivot and flick beyond Ricardo for his 26th goal in 60 international appearances. Portuguese pressure Portugal could have been level within three minutes. Luis Figo played the ball in from the left to the far post and Ronaldo's initial shot was blocked by Ashley Cole before Cole and Sol Campbell threw their bodies in the way of the winger's second effort. That sparked a wave of Portugal attacks, with Maniche's fierce strike tipped over by David James. Ricardo block The Portuguese tempest briefly abated but the whirlwind start continued as Rooney latched on to Beckham's deflected shot but Ricardo was quickly off his line to block. England were still surrendering possession cheaply as Ronaldo set up Miguel, but the full-back shot over. Momentum swings But the tournament top scorers looked dangerous when they did get the chance to attack. Owen lifted a shot narrowly over shortly before Campbell headed over. The momentum continued to swing as Miguel's twice-deflected shot almost caught out James and then Nuno Gomes headed over from Valente's cross. Rooney replaced The tempo finally relented after 27 minutes but only to allow Darius Vassell to replace Rooney, who appeared to have sustained an ankle injury when he lost his boot moments earlier. Portugal threaten Portugal picked up where they had left off upon the restart, and in an effort to stem the continued pressure Sven-Goran Eriksson introduced Phil Neville for Paul Scholes but Portugal were almost level within moments as Deco's left-wing cross was headed back across goal by Costinha and Ronaldo outjumped Campbell only to head over. Attacking alteration That prompted Luiz Felipe Scolari to replace Costinha with winger Simao and the SL Benfica player fizzed a shot narrowly wide almost immediately. Portugal continued to attack but England, often with as many as eight players behind the ball, were defending valiantly. Figo substituted And just as England were daring to counterattack, Portugal almost levelled as Figo's rasping drive was deflected goalwards but James got down to turn the ball around the post. That was the Portuguese captain's final act as he was immediately replaced by Postiga and trudged off disconsolately. Late equaliser That was not quite the end for the 'golden generation' as Rui Costa came in for Miguel with 13 minutes remaining but it seemed time was running out. But with seven minutes left Simao seized on Lampard's wayward pass and crossed superbly for Postiga, who headed in unmarked. England almost claimed a sensational late winner but Campbell's header was ruled out after a foul on Ricardo by John Terry and that pulsating period of extra time beckoned. Extra-time drama The prevailing pattern continued as Portugal pressed but England's last-ditch defending was impressive with brave blocks denying Deco and Maniche before Rui Costa struck and Lampard levelled to force penalties. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Point and Schedule Here's the full points of Qualification Matches for all team and also schedule for Quarter Final until Final : Points Schedule Of The Matches Source : uefa.com
Scored for Group D After that match last night, so Czech n Netherland will goes to quarter final. Here's the scored : --------------------------------------------------- Group D - Lisbon (Jose Alvalade) - 23/06/04 - 19:45 Germany (1) - Czech Republic (2) Goal By : Germany ---> 21' Ballack Czech Republic ---> 30' Heinz - 77' Baros --------------------------------------------------- Group D - Braga (Braga Municipal) - 23/06/04 - 19:45 Netherlands (3) - Latvia (0) Goal By : Netherlands ---> 27'(pen), 35' Van Nistelrooij - 84' Makaay
Scored for Group D After that match last night, so Czech n Netherland will goes to quarter final. Here's the scored : --------------------------------------------------- Group D - Lisbon (Jose Alvalade) - 23/06/04 - 19:45 Germany (1) - Czech Republic (2) Goal By : Germany ---> 21' Ballack Czech Republic ---> 30' Heinz - 77' Baros --------------------------------------------------- Group D - Braga (Braga Municipal) - 23/06/04 - 19:45 Netherlands (3) - Latvia (0) Goal By : Netherlands ---> 27'(pen), 35' Van Nistelrooij - 84' Makaay
Here's the related photo of Italy Team when hear the news if Italy can't goes to Quarter Final EURO 2004 : The final score showing the 2-2 draw between Denmark and Sweden thats knocks Italy out of the tournament (EMPICS) Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni looks on dejected as he watches the action against Bulgaria (EMPICS) Bernardo Corradi reflects Italy's frustration (AFP) Antonio Cassano (Italy) dejected Antonio Cassano dejected with Alessandro Del Piero after being told that they will still not qualify even though he has just scored the winner goal (AFP) Gianluigi Buffon (Italy) dejected Gianluigi Buffon dejected after hears the news that Italy can't qualify after their win (AFP) Italy's Alessandro Del Piero walks off dejected at the end of the game (EMPICS)
Unbeaten Italy Bow Out Here's the news about Italy Failed : by Alex O'Henley from Estadio Afonso D. Henriques Italy are out of UEFA EURO 2004 despite a dramatic victory against Bulgaria as Denmark and Sweden drew 2-2 to condemn the unbeaten Azzurri to third place in Group C on head-to-head record with the three level on five points. Winner not enough A Martin Petrov penalty had given Plamen Markov's side the lead on the stroke of half-time and although Simone Perrotta equalised three minutes after half-time, Sweden's late equaliser in Porto made Antonio Cassano's last-gasp winner academic. Corradi in There was a surprise in the Italian lineup with Christian Vieri listed among the substitutes. The forward had been struggling with a knee injury before the game, and Bernardo Corradi came in for his first start of the tournament joining Cassano and Alessandro Del Piero in attack. As expected, Marco Materazzi and Stefano Fiore deputised for the suspended Fabio Cannavaro and Gennaro Gattuso at centre-back and left midfield respectively. Bulgarian changes Bulgaria, already eliminated after defeats by Sweden and Denmark, brought four players in for their first start of the finals. Milen Petkov replaced suspended captain Stilian Petrov in central midfield and the back four was completely revamped with Daniel Borimirov coming in for Vladimir Ivanov at right-back alongside Zlatomir Zagorcic and Predrag Pazin in the centre. Ilian Stoianov slotted in at left-back while Zdravko Lazarov was handed a role on the right side of midfield with Georgi Peev on the bench. Del Piero shoots wide In a cagey opening, Italy enjoyed the bulk of possession without creating any openings and Bulgaria were the first to threaten on 13 minutes. Martin Petrov picked up a loose ball but his shot was saved by Gianluigi Buffon. From the resulting corner, Italy broke upfield and Corradi was denied by Zdravko Zdravkov, Del Piero putting the rebound wide. Italy behind The game was opening up now as the ball zipped along the greasy surface and Italy were beginning to grow in confidence. However, they could not force in a shot and right on half-time Materazzi was adjudged to have hauled down Dimitar Berbatov. Martin Petrov confidently despatched his spot-kick past Buffon for Bulgaria's first goal of the tournament. They then introduced Valeri Bojinov for Zoran Jankovic at the break. Perrotta levels Italy had never come from behind to win a UEFA European Championship final tournament fixture before tonight, but within three minutes of the restart here they were level. A cross by Gianluca Zambrotta was only cleared as far as Cassano, whose shot crashed off the underside of the bar and Simone Perrotta reacted quickest to prod the ball past Zdravkov for his first international goal. Vieri arrives Trapattoni felt the game was there to be won now and immediately brought on Vieri for Corradi as the Italians went in search of a winner. His first meaningful contribution arrived on 59 minutes when he outjumped Zagorcic to head just wide. Late push With Denmark leading Sweden 2-1, Italy had every reason to push forward and they kept Bulgaria under pressure in the last ten minutes. However, Bulgaria - hoping for their only point of the finals - were holding on. Italian heartbreak Victory would still have taken Italy through. As the game entered five minutes of added time, though, news filtered through that Sweden had equalised, meaning that a win would now see Italy out as they had scored fewer goals in their draws with Denmark and Sweden than the Scandinavian pair in the three team's head-to-head reckoning. Cassano did indeed grab a winner, but the celebrations were understandably muted. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Goodbye Italy ...  Kyaaaaaaa, I can't believe this!!! After Spain Team, Now Italy Team must out from this match also go back to their hometown ... 
And today fi must say goodbye for Italy Squad,Coz they must packing their bag to go back to their hometown ... 
OMG, kasihan banget lihat face Italy squad, they look so sad after knowing scored of Denmark - Sweden in injury time. I can't believe this!!! Padahal mereka udah good play last night. But dunno what to say, they must out from this match ... hikz ... hikz ... hikzzz
Here's the related scored : ------------------------------------------------- Group C - Guimaraes (D. Afonso Henriques) - 22/06/04 - 19:45 Italy (2) - Bulgaria (1) Goal By : Italy ---> 48' Perrotta - 90'+ 4' Cassano Bulgaria ---> 45'(pen) Martin Petrov ------------------------------------------------ Group C - Porto (Bessa) - 22/06/04 - 19:45 Denmark (2) - Sweden (2) Goal By : Denmark ---> 28', 66' Tomasson Sweden ---> 47'(pen) Larsson - 89' Jonson
Scored for Group B I don't wanna talk too much for this match!!! Just can say Congrat's for the winner Group's Here's the scored : --------------------------------------------------- Group B - Lisbon (Luz) - 21/06/04 - 19:45 Croatia (2) - England (4) Goal By : Croatia ---> 5' Niko Kovac - 73' Tudor England ---> 40' Scholes - 45'+ 1', 68' Rooney - 79' Lampard --------------------------------------------------- Group B - Coimbra (Cidade de Coimbra) - 21/06/04 - 19:45 Switzerland (1)- France (3) Goal By : Switzerland ---> 26' Vonlanthen France ---> 20' Zidane - 76', 84' Henry Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Good Bye Spain I'm Brokenhearted!!! Bcoz tonight my fave team loose the match ... hikz..hikz..hikzzzz I feel sad when looking Morientes face. He look very ... very sad. I can feel what he feel ... hikz ... hikz ... hikzz. I just can say "Goodbye Spain" ... hikzz ... hikzzz *with full tears* See u on Next EURO ... hikz ... hikz ... hikzzzz Here's the scored and news above that match : ------------------------------------------------- Group A - Lisbon (Jose Alvalade) - 20/06/04 - 19:45 Spain (0) - Portugal (1) Portugal ---> 57' Nuno Gomes Nuno Gomes lights up Lisbon by David Farrelly from Estadio Jose Alvalade A 57th-minute strike from substitute Nuno Gomes eased the worries of a nation as Portugal, the UEFA EURO 2004 hosts, advanced to the knockout stages of the competition at the expense of their Iberian rivals, Spain. Long wait The significance of the occasion where Portugal needed a win and Spain only a draw denied the fans a truly wonderful derby, but Nuno Gomes' goal finally ended a 23-year wait for the Portuguese to put one over their old adversaries. Portugal advance to the last eight as group winners, while Greece finish second in Group A with Spain eliminated in third. Key switch The only goal came at a moment when Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari was desperately trying to shuffle his attacking options as his side struggled to breach a stubborn Spanish defence which had been equal to everything Portugal threw at them. With Nuno Gomes introduced for Pauleta at the interval, the switch paid instant dividends as Luis Figo found the substitute, who unleashed a right-footed shot from 18 metres that beat Iker Casillas low to his right. Ronaldo start Scolari made only one change to the side that defeated Russia 2-0 as Cristiano Ronaldo's impressive performance after his introduction in that game was rewarded with his inclusion in the starting lineup, only the second time he had started a match for his country. Simao Sabrosa dropped to the bench. Saaez changes Spain coach Inaki Saez was forced into making two changes due to injury and suspension to Joseba Etxeberria and Carlos Marchena respectively. Juanito Gutierrez and Joaquin Sanchez came into the team, with Fernando Torres and Xabi Alonso also starting. Tense opening With Deco marshalling the midfield and Luis Figo and Ronaldo periodically changing flanks, Portugal had the upper hand in the early exchanges. However, some poor deliveries ensured Casillas' goal was rarely threatened in a tense opening 15 minutes where Pauleta and David Albelda were both cautioned. The former’s booking ruling him out of the quarter-final. Match ignites Spain offered little in attack until Vicente Rodriguez's low left-wing centre eluded Raul Gonzalez inside the Portuguese penalty area. Almost immediately, Ronaldo's low ball in at the other end forced Ivan Helguera into a hurried clearance with Pauleta lurking menacingly. Deco then had a snap-shot from 12 metres blocked. Casillas called upon Miguel then ventured forward to force the first save of the game with Casillas diving to his left to palm away. Again Spain responded, but Ricardo was quickly off his line to deny Torres outside his penalty area. Spain came close once more after 34 minutes, but Raul failed to control Vicente's cross and Nuno Valente and Ricardo combined to clear. Headed opportunities Then on the stroke of half-time both sides spurned gilt-edged opportunities. First Torres nodded Xabi Alonso's corner over when unmarked in front of goal and then Ronaldo headed wide from Figo's left-wing cross. Spanish urgency Jorge Andrade had to make up ground to cut out Vicente's left-wing cross early in the second half as Raul threatened, before Maniche tried his luck from long range and missed the target. But Nuno Gomes' goal caused more urgency in Spain's play, and Torres thumped the ball against the post in the 62nd minute when he latched on to Xabi Alonso's through-ball as the hosts were forced to defend desperately. Juanito denied Ricardo Carvalho had to be alert to the danger posed by Vicente's lob as he cleared when Ricardo was stranded. From the resulting corner, Juanito headed on to the crossbar with a looping effort before a drive from Vicente went wide. Torres then saw his header sail narrowly beyond the post. Maniche misses But Portugal squandered the best opportunity of all when Costinha headed Nuno Valente's cross over with only Casillas to beat two minutes from time. Then Maniche had his shot cleared off the line by Raúl Bravo after he latched on to Nuno Gomes' wonderful through-ball as the home side finished the game and their group on top. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Russia - Greece ( 2-1 ) Group A - Faro-Loule (Algarve) - 20/06/04 - 19:45 Russia (2) - Greece (1) Goal By : Russia ---> 2' Kirichenko - 17' Bulykin Greece ---> 43' Vryzas Nervous Greece advance by Matthew Spiro from Estadio Algarve Greece nervously edged into the quarter-finals despite losing their last Group A game 2-1 to Russia in Faro-Loule on Sunday. Zisis Vryzas’ goal two minutes before half-time ensured that Otto Rehhagel's side qualified along with Portugal, having scored more goals than Spain. Vryzas the difference Having started the day top of the group, Greece's hopes of reaching the last eight were rocked in the first 17 minutes as Russia raced into a two-goal lead. Dmitri Kirichenko opened the scoring inside two minutes with the quickest goal ever scored in a UEFA European Championship finals match, then Dmitri Bulykin took advantage of some anxious Greek defending to head in a second. But Vryzas' well-taken strike just before the interval ultimately proved enough to see Greece through to the quarter-finals of a major tournament for the first time in their history. Attacking intent Rehhagel opted for an attacking formation, despite his side needing just a point to be sure of a place in the last eight. Panathinaikos FC striker Dimitrios Papadopoulos was handed his tournament debut in a three-pronged attack alongside Vryzas and Angelos Charisteas, while Angelos Basinas bolstered a midfield that had lost Stylianos Giannakopoulos to injury and Georgios Karagounis to suspension. Seven changes Russia, already eliminated after two straight defeats, made seven changes from the side that lost to Portugal, with Vladislav Radimov playing the anchor role in a new-look midfield that had Rolan Gusev on the right, Andrei Kariaka on the left and Dmitri Alenichev in the hole behind front-two Bulykin and Kirichenko. Sudden impact It was Kirichenko's first taste of action in Portugal and the PFC CSKA Moskva striker wasted no time making his mark, scoring Russia's first goal of the campaign inside two minutes. Greece lost concentration at the back as Konstantinos Katsouranis missed his attempted clearance, allowing Kirichenko to race clear and steer a right-foot shot past Antonios Nikopolidis. Bulykin doubles up Greece were soon pressing forward in search of an equaliser but their nerves were all too apparent against a Russia side playing without pressure. Alenichev and Gusev looked dangerous every time they counterattacked and Russia soon doubled their lead. Gusev's right-wing corner picked out Bulykin unmarked at the near post and his stooping header flew into the roof of the net. Venetidis shoots wide Kariaka blazed over the crossbar from close range in the 25th minute, before Charisteas squandered a glorious chance to get Greece back in the game. Stylianos Venetidis crossed low from the left, but the SV Werder Bremen forward scooped his shot over from six metres out. Vryzas hits back The opportunity gave Greece hope, however, and they got the goal they needed two minutes before the break. Papadopoulos headed a cross from the right into the path of Vryzas, whose clever chest control saw him turn past Roman Sharonov before chipping the ball clinically over goalkeeper Viacheslav Malafeev and into the net. Double change Russia coach Georgi Yartsev made a double change at the break, with goalscorer Bulykin making way for Dmitri Sychev and Igor Semshov replacing Kariaka, but Greece were soon on the offensive. Vassilios Tsiartas, who had come on for Basinas just seconds before Greece scored, tested Malafeev with a low 20-metre drive on 50 minutes, then saw his corner headed over by Charisteas. Greek nerves News that Portugal had taken the lead against Spain was greeted by cheers from the sprinkling of Portuguese fans in the stadium, but seemed to inject more nerves into the Greek team. Russia looked to take advantage and Kirichenko struck an acrobatic volley over the crossbar before Sychev stung the hands of Nikopolidis with a raking drive. But Greece held on. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Scored For Group C & Group D Italy, u make me Hopeless !!! OMG ... OMG !!! Is it the end? can Italy goes to Quarter Final after this match???? In fact, i know its not the end but i already hopeless if remember the Italy squad isn't full squad. Bcoz UEFA already banned Francesco Totti for three matches after he spat at Denmark midfield player Christian Poulsen during the sides' goalless draw on Monday. Here's the scored for Group C ---------------------------------------------------- Group C - Porto (Dragao) - 18/06/04 - 19:45 Italy (1) - Sweden (1) Goal By : Italy ---> 37' Cassano Sweden ---> 85' Ibrahimovic ---------------------------------------------------- Group C - Braga (Braga Municipal) - 18/06/04 - 17:00 Bulgaria (0) - Denmark (2) Goal By : Denmark ---> 44' Tomasson - 90'+ 2' Gronkjaer ---------------------------------------------------- and here's the scored for Group D : Group D - Aveiro (Aveiro Municipal) - 19/06/04 - 19:45 Netherlands (2) - Czech Republic (3) Goal By : Netherlands ---> 4' Bouma - 19' Van Nistelrooij Czech Republic ---> 23' Koller - 71' Baros - 88' Smicer ---------------------------------------------------- Group D - Porto (Bessa) - 19/06/04 - 17:00 Latvia (0)- Germany (0)
Croatia - France ( 2-2 ) OMG, what happened whit u, france? If Tudor not do own goal, u're be loose on this match!!! ------------------------------------------- Group B - Leiria (Dr. Magalhaes Pessoa) - 17/06/04 - 19:45 Croatia (2) - France (2) Goal By : Croatia ---> 48'(pen) Rapaic - 52' Prso France ---> 22' Tudor (o.g.) 64' Trezeguet Croatia rattle holders France by Mark Chaplin from Estadio Dr. Magalhaes Pessoa European champions France shared four goals with Croatia in a pulsating UEFA EURO 2004 Group B encounter in Leiria. Dramatic encounter The French led at half-time through an own goal by Croatian defender Igor Tudor and were full value for their advantage. But two goals in four minutes straight after the interval - a Milan Rapaic penalty and a superb Dado Pršo volley - reflected a tremendous Croatian fightback before David Trezeguet's strike just after the hour gave France a point. Three changes each Croatia made three changes from the side held to a goalless draw by Switzerland in their opening game; Tudor, Rapaic and Giovani Rosso coming into the side. France, meanwhile, introduced Marcel Desailly, Sylvain Wiltord and Olivier Dacourt following Sunday's incredible last-gasp success against England. Henry threat Thierry Henry was a livewire prospect in the opening stages as France dominated possession and looked for the breakthrough, and the Arsenal FC striker shot wide with the game's first chance on six minutes. French momentum Zinedine Zidane then saw a free-kick blocked by the Croatian wall and Wiltord blasted wide as Les Bleus kept up their forward momentum. It took Croatia 15 minutes to get a sight of the French goal, but Tomislav Sokota's weak shot posed no problem for goalkeeper Fabien Barthez. Unfortunate Tudor A period of Croatian promise followed as the Balkan side settled down somewhat after a nervy start, but France grabbed the all-important lead after 22 minutes. Zidane curled in a left-wing free-kick and the ball deflected in off Tudor for an unfortunate own goal which give the French a deserved lead. Midfield superiority Zidane then flashed a shot wide from a similar position before Rosso drove over the bar from 20 metres as Croatia sought to respond. Nevertheless, France, and Zidane in particular, were running the show in midfield, and it took two defenders to desperately deny Wiltord in a goalmouth skirmish. Gallas chance Patrick Vieira was booked for tripping Niko Kovac after 32 minutes, and Croatia central defender Tudor was cautioned for a clumsy challenge on Vieira as he burst towards goal. William Gallas then headed just wide as the French ran the show up to the interval. Stunning comeback The second half began in sensational fashion with two Croatian goals inside the first seven minutes, Otto Baric's team turning the match on its head. Mikael Silvestre, who had conceded a penalty against England, was adjudged to have tripped Rosso in the 48th minute and Rapaic levelled with an unstoppable spot-kick. Pršo delight Croatia suddenly looked an altogether more threatening proposition, and they were unbelievably in front after 52 minutes. Pršo bustled his way into the area and punished some flimsy French challenging by hammering a fierce left-foot drive past Barthez. France reeling France, so comfortable in the first half, had been rocked back on their heels and Dacourt was booked for fouling Rapaic near the hour. Rosso then went into the book for protesting to referee Kim Milton Nielsen as tempers frayed. Trezeguet on target As the French tried to raise their game Croatian goalkeeper Tomislav Butina got down smartly to save from Henry. But France hauled themselves level on 64 minutes as a Tudor back-pass fell short, Butina's attempted clearance rebounded off the onrushing Trezeguet, and the Juventus FC striker rolled the ball into the empty net with an angled finish. Solid defending A pulsating second half ebbed and flowed, and France began to take control again as the final stages approached, but Croatia defended stoutly and looked to pounce on the counterattack. Butina was forced into diving stops from substitute Robert Pires and Henry in the closing stages but it was Croatia who came closest to taking maximum points, replacement Ivica Mornar shooting agonisingly over from close range in added time. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
England - Switzerland ( 3-0 ) OMG, England??? U grab the goal last night ... keukekeke Ternyata Gerard bagus juga mainnya, udah ga diragukan lagi dehh. Dulu sih pas lihat permainannya pertamakali waktu memperkuat Liverpool FC fi udah duga. Klo Gerard bakalan ikutan memperkuat n juga main bagus di Timnas coz di Premier League aza udah keliatan klo permainan-nya boleh juga ... *._.* Rooney? jangan tanya lagi dehh, emang T.O.P banget. But too bad im not support England Team coz i only support Spain or Italy squad ... keukekeke Here's the scored also related news : ------------------------------------------ Group B - Coimbra (Cidade de Coimbra) - 17/06/04 - 17:00 England (3) - Switzerland (0) Goal By : England ---> 23', 75' Rooney - 82' Gerrard England back on track by Adam Szreter from Estadio Cidade de Coimbra After their agonising defeat at the hands of the reigning champions France on Sunday, England got their UEFA EURO 2004 show on the road with two goals by Wayne Rooney and one from Steven Gerrard, leaving the hopes of Switzerland, reduced to ten men for the last half an hour after a second booking for Bernt Haas, hanging by a thread. Rooney record At 18 years, seven months and 24 days old, Rooney became the youngest scorer in a UEFA European Championship finals match, surpassing the record of Yugoslavia's Dragan Stojkovic, who was eight months older when he scored against France in 1984. Swiss setback Having initially struggled to penetrate a well organised Swiss outfit, Rooney's first goal, midway through the first half, set the pattern for a match that always seemed just beyond Switzerland's grasp. They will now have to beat France to have any hope of reaching the last eight. Single changes As expected, both sides made one change from their opening encounters, John Terry returning to the centre of England's defence after a hamstring injury and Fabio Celestini coming into the Swiss midfield in place of Johann Vogel, sent off in the 0-0 draw with Croatia. Set-piece problems Set-pieces by Swiss playmaker Hakan Yakin caused England problems early on, Sol Campbell twice having to head clear from his own area. Then, after Gerrard had headed over his own bar from another Yakin free-kick, a Stephane Chapuisat shot cannoned away to safety off Terry after a loose pass by Frank Lampard. Rooney booking Rooney was then cautioned for following through on Swiss goalkeeper Jörg Stiel with his foot, chasing a better ball from Lampard, but five minutes later the Everton FC teenager entered the record books. Close-range header A surging run by Gerrard looked to have been ended by a foul, but he just managed to offload the ball to David Beckham and with players on both sides waiting for a whistle, referee Valentin Ivanov correctly played the advantage. Beckham found Michael Owen at the far post, and he chipped the ball up for his strike partner to head emphatically past Stiel from close range. Swiss strike back Moments later Owen went sprinting through but was stopped in his tracks by Murat Yakin. Switzerland then responded and David James had to race from his line to prevent Chapuisat from scrambling the ball in by the post. Alexander Frei wasted a better chance, heading wide from Christoph Spycher's cross. Scholes attempts A couple of shots from Paul Scholes, one just off target, another deflected, reminded Switzerland of the danger of pushing too far forward, as did a dangerous ball from Ashley Cole along the six-metre line that beat everyone. The half ended with a Hakan Yakin free-kick sailing just wide of the England goal. Haas off Swiss coach Jakob Kuhn introduced Daniel Gygax and Ricardo Cabanas in place of Chapuisat and Celestini early in the second half in an attempt to find more flair in midfield, and Gygax went close with a glancing header almost immediately. Haas then picked up the first of his two yellow cards for a foul on Gerrard, and on the hour he saw red after up-ending Cole. Campbell chance Kuhn's counterpart Sven-Goran Eriksson watched as England failed to take advantage of the situation before bringing on Owen Hargreaves in place of Scholes and Darius Vassell for Owen. Campbell then flashed a header wide from a Beckham free-kick and soon afterwards England doubled their lead. Powerful strike Vassell battled for and won a long ball from Hargreaves before laying it into Rooney's path. A pass back to Vassell seemed his only option, but instead the Everton FC striker shot low and hard, the ball rebounded off the post and over the line off the luckless Stiel. Gerrard glee Eight minutes from time England's victory was complete, Gerrard rounding off a straightforward move involving Beckham and his erstwhile Manchester United FC colleague Gary Neville, and Rooney then departed to rapturous applause from the happy England fans. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Morientes Interview Kyaaaa, tadi fi nemu artikel hasil interview with Morientes ... *._.* Here's the article!! ----------------------------------------- Wednesday, 16 June 2004 Morientes debt to Monaco by Ivan Modia from Falperra Fernando Morientes showed brilliant form for Monaco (Getty Images) After a tremendous season with AS Monaco FC, Spain striker Fernando Morientes is showing some of the best form of his career. And the man who finished as top scorer in the UEFA Champions League is now hoping that his goal touch can help Inaki Saez's team storm to success at UEFA EURO 2004. euro2004.com: You are always smiling. Is the atmosphere in the Spain camp as happy as it seems? Morientes: If we are thinking that we want to reach the final and that we are going to be here for a long time, it's better to be happy. We aren't in a hurry to go home. There is a very good atmosphere and we enjoy training together. But there is a lot of spare time too. I tend to read a good book, play pool, table tennis or surf the internet. We have several options. euro2004.com: Spain began their campaign with a 1-0 win against Russia. How did you feel about it? Morientes: We started just as we wanted. We are calm and motivated having kicked off the competition with a victory. euro2004.com: Do you feel that France are favourites to win the title? Morientes: Yes, they would have been contenders even if they had lost against England. I watched that match and I can't believe that there will be a game with such a dramatic finish in the rest of EURO 2004. England worked really hard, but France took advantage of two classic set-pieces from Zinedine Zidane. France have a very well-organised team, but you can cause them problems as England showed. They can be beaten. Thierry Henry is the best player in the world at the moment. But I also like Wayne Rooney - he has a lot of character and he's still very young. euro2004.com: You reached the Champions League final with Monaco. Do you think it was the right decision to leave Real Madrid CF on loan? Morientes: I left because I wanted first-team football and that is what I got. I believe this is the reason I am at EURO 2004. [Monaco coach] Didier Deschamps is responsible for everything that has happened to me in the last year. He trusted me totally. I am very grateful to him because all the good things that happened this season are in some way down to him. euro2004.com: Is it a pleasure to play with Raúl González again? Morientes: Yes, it is great as we work well as a partnership. Obviously, it is always an honour to play for Spain no matter who you play alongside - especially at a tournament as big as EURO 2004. The Spain squad are enjoying each other's company (AFP) euro2004.com: What do you feel when you see the stadiums full of Spanish supporters? Morientes: A lot of pride. It feels like we're playing in Spain. Portugal are our neighbours and for that reason there are a lot of people that have travelled to see us. We hope we can give them something back at the end of the tournament because we appreciate their support. euro2004.com: The goalkeepers are your main rivals at EURO 2004. Who do you feel is the best? Morientes: Iker Casillas. But I hope he doesn't have a lot of work to do in the competition. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Russia - Portugal ( 0-2 ) Yeahhhh, yeaahhhhh!!! Rui costa u did it!! Check it out this related news about the match last night : --------------------------------------------- Group A - Lisbon (Luz) - 16/06/04 - 19:45 Russia (0) - Portugal (2) Goal By : Portugal ---> 7' Maniche - 89' Rui Costa Portugal restore home pride by Adrian Harte from Estadio da Luz Hosts Portugal restored their UEFA EURO 2004 hopes as goals at either end of a thrilling encounter from Maniche and Rui Costa gave them a hard-fought win and ended Russia's dreams of reaching the knockout stages. Rui Costa & Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) Rui Costa (left) celebrates his goal with his team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo (Getty Images) Improved Portugal Maniche seized on his FC Porto team-mate Deco's pass after seven minutes to fire in the first goal before Rui Costa converted fellow substitute Cristiano Ronaldo’s cross one minute from time as Portugal bounced back from their opening match defeat by Greece with a much-improved display. Russia had to play for over 45 minutes with ten men after goalkeeper Sergei Ovchinnikov was sent off on the stroke of half-time for handling the ball outside the area. Bulykin dropped Both starting lineups revealed surprises. Russia's two enforced changes were no shock with Dmitri Loskov and Aleksei Bugaev coming in for the expelled Aleksandr Mostovoi and the suspended Roman Sharonov. But Georgi Yartsev's decision to drop Dmitri Bulykin and play FC Zenit St. Peterburg youngster Aleksandr Kerzhakov in attack supported by his fellow 21-year-old Marat Izmailov raised eyebrows among the Russian minority at the Estádio da Luz. Porto quintet Luiz Felipe Scolari provided yet more surprises. The decision to introduce Deco for Rui Costa in the playmaking role was expected but the defensive cull that saw Paulo Ferreira, Rui Jorge and Fernando Couto supplanted by Miguel, Ricardo Carvalho and Nuno Valente was less predictable. The net effect was the Portugal had five players from UEFA Champions League winners Porto lining up against club colleague Dmitri Alenitchev. Maniche strikes That Porto combination worked to wonderful effect for Portugal after just six minutes. The ball was worked to Deco from a Luís Figo free-kick and Porto's adopted son drilled a dangerous low ball into the box. Club colleague Maniche controlled superbly before firing into the bottom corner beyond Ovchinnikov for his first ever international goal. Smertin booked Russia were rocked and pinned back in their own half, their frustration heightened when defensive linchpin Aleksei Smertin received a booking after 16 minutes ruling him out of Russia's final Group A match against Greece. Minutes earlier, Russia had briefly lifted the siege on their goal but Alenitchev was crowded out in the area after fine approach play from Loskov and Kerzhakov. Triple stepover Portugal were struggling to translate their lion's share of possession into chances but upped the tempo approaching the half-hour mark when Carvalho headed over and then Pauleta narrowly failed to reach Figo's cross, delivered after the Portuguese captain had delighted the crowd with three stepovers. Then after 31 minutes Deco volleyed wildly over from close range and, seven minutes later, Maniche and Deco almost played in Pauleta only for a fine interception by Bugaev. Ovchinnikov off Portugal were quite literally given a helping hand on the stroke of half-time when Ovchinnikov was sent off after handling outside his area as he raced from his goal to deny Pauleta. The talismanic goalkeeper was expelled and Evgueni Aldonin was sacrificed as reserve keeper Viacheslav Malafeev came in but Russia escaped further censure when Figo curled the resultant free-kick wide. Stubborn Russia Malafeev was forced into action five minutes after the restart when he dived full length to his right to turn away Nuno Valente's powerful drive. But Portugal were struggling to exploit their numerical advantage and the increasingly influential Andrei Kariaka flashed an effort across the face of goal and then stung the fingers of Ricardo with a fierce shot as Russia refused to accept their fate meekly. Malafeev magic Nuno Gomes and Rui Costa replaced Pauleta and Simao Sabrosa as Portugal sought greater urgency and the changes almost brought instant reward after 64 minutes. An excellent move saw Nuno Gomes forward Deco's pass to Figo but his shot was brilliantly turned on to the post by Malafeev with Deco seizing on the rebound only to fire the ball over the bar. Deco drive Russia pushed hard for an equaliser but failed to threaten Ricardo's goal even after the introduction of Dmitri Bulykin. Instead Portugal exploited the increased space and their own late replacement Ronaldo crossed for Rui Costa to score and seal a deserved victory. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Greece - Spain ( 1-1 ) OMG ... OMG!!! Morientessssss, u're so cool. Yuhhhuuuuuuuuu, He is my Fave player in my fave team (Spain) U know what? he's one of the most fave young player in Spain. Maybe the other people only like for Raul play's, but me? I just like him. But i hate this, bcoz in his team (Real Madrid), why he rarely for played? Or maybe bcoz at that team there's Beckham, Zidane, etc. Yeah, finally in this match ... i can see his play. Bcoz he's one of Squad National team at Spain. Look at this pics, coz i like his expressions after make a goal's. Yeaaahhhh, i miss this moment!! Fernando Morientes (Spain) celebrates Fernando Morientes congratulated by Joseba Etxeberría after scoring the opening goal of the match (Getty Images) In the 1st Half, Im so happy when he make a goal. But it's not so long for spain to keep their score's. And charisteas in 66' stop Spain surge at the 2nd half. And it makes Spain rangking at position number 2 in group A. coz after this match Spain points are 4. Actually this points same with Greece (Ranking position 1). Greece at 1st position bcoz they make 2 goals at the 1st match. Yeahhhhh, hope Spain will goes to quarter final. Here's related news about that matches. ------------------------------------------ Group A - Porto (Bessa) - 16/06/04 - 17:00 Greece (1) - Spain (1) Goal By : Greece ---> 66' Charisteas Spain ---> 28' Morientes Charisteas stops Spain surge by Matthew Spiro from Estadio do Bessa Seculo XXI Group A rivals Spain and Greece remain on course for the quarter-finals after they followed up their opening UEFA EURO 2004 victories by drawing an intense encounter. Fernando Morientes (Spain) scores Greece's goalkeeper Antonios Nikopolidis (right) fails to stop the opening goal by Fernando Morientes (second left) (AFP) Scintillating football Spain were made to toil hard in the afternoon heat by a determined Greece team, but still took the lead with a clinically-taken Fernando Morientes strike just before the half-hour. Inaki Saez’s team went on to play some scintillating football but failed to kill Greece off and paid a price when Angelos Charisteas levelled matters midway through the second half. Unchanged team Ssez named an unchanged team, with Juan Carlos Valeron starting on the bench again despite his goalscoring cameo against Russia in Saturday's 1-0 win. Ruben Baraja and David Albelda continued their alliance in midfield, while Raul Gonzalez and Morientes played up front, supported by wingers Joseba Etxeberria and Vicente Rodriguez. Fernando Morientes (Spain) scores Fernando Morientes (front right) scores the opening goal passed goalkeeper Antonios Nikopolidis (AFP) One switch Greece made one alteration from the side that upset Portugal 2-1, with Konstantinos Katsouranis replacing Angelis Basinas in midfield. There was no room for fit-again Themistoklis Nikolaidis, as Zisis Vryzas and Charisteas kept their places in attack. Spain started brightly but with Katsouranis following Raul's every move and Theodoros Zagorakis doubling up on right-back Georgios Seitaridis to stifle the threat of Vicente, space was at a premium. Work ethic Raul escaped the attentions of Katsouranis for long enough to pick out Raul Bravo's run into the penalty area on 14 minutes, but the full-back was denied by a splendid tackle from back-tracking forward Charisteas, epitomising the Greek work ethic. Morientes opener The one-way traffic continued as Greece defended in numbers, and Ivan Helguera had already squandered a chance from Vicente's free-kick when Spain took the lead on 28 minutes. Mihalis Kapsis lost possession to Raul on the edge of the penalty area and the Spain captain cut the ball back for Morientes, who jinked inside Katsouranis before striking a low shot past Antonios Nikopolidis. Fernando Morientes (Spain) & Michail Kapsis (Greece) Fernando Morientes (left) keeps the ball from Michail Kapsis (Getty Images) Vryzas volley The goal injected more urgency into Greece's play and Otto Rehhagel's team finished the first half on top, with Stylianos Giannakopoulos, in particular, breaking forward well, but Vryzas's wayward volley from the right side of the penalty area after 42 minutes was the closest they came to drawing level before the interval. Fractionally wide First-half bookings for Spain defender Carlos Marchena and Greece's Georgios Karagounis ruled them out of the concluding Group A games on Sunday but the action showed no sign of slowing after the break. First Raul headed Carles Puyol's pass over the goalkeeper but wide of the post, then Zagorakis hit a raking, long-range shot fractionally wide at the other end. Gaps appearing Greece sent on Nikolaidis and Vasilios Tsiartas to try to unsettle their opponents, and Zagorakis soon stung the palms of Iker Casillas with another powerful drive. The game began to open up, with gaps appearing on the flanks, and Raul headed over after substitute Joaquin Sanchez had picked him out unmarked at the far post on 54 minutes. Charisteas leveller Dellas looped a header on to the roof of the net from Tsiartas' corner on 64 minutes, but two minutes later Greece were level. Tsiartas showed fantastic vision to pick out Charisteas in the penalty area with a crossfield pass and the SV Werder Bremen forward controlled it instantly before squeezing his shot under Casillas. Angelos Charisteas (left) is congratulated by Traianos Dellas after his equaliser (Getty Images Curling cross-shot Spain strived to find a winner in the closing stages, throwing on Fernando Torres for the last ten minutes, but Joaquín's curling cross-shot wide of the far post was their most dangerous moment as Greece held out for a precious point. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Germany - Netherlands ( 1-1 ) I think this is a really ... really Big match between Germany Vs Netherlands last night. Its was terrific, coz In Germany there's a bigstar such as Michael Ballack who play in Bayern Muenchen, and Oliver Kahn one of the best Goalkeeper (He play in Bayern Muenchen too). Hmmmm, actually i like Michael Ballack coz he's a good player. He play so amazing while the 1st time i saw him when he played on Bayern Muenchen. Yeaaahhhhh, Back to topics!! In Netherlands Teams there's Van Nistelrooij (MU Forward), Edgar Davids (Barcelona midfielder),Marc Overmars (Barcelona Midfielder), Edwin Van Der Sar (Fulham FC Goalkeeper). So that's a reason, why i can say that this is a really ... really Big Match. Here's the scored and related news about that ... *._.* ---------------------------------------- Group D - Porto (Dragao) - 15/06/04 - 19:45 Germany (1)- Netherlands (1) Goal By : Germany ---> 30' Frings Netherlands ---> 81' Van Nistelrooij Defiant Dutch make a point by Adam Szreter from Estadio do Dragao An 81st-minute equaliser by Ruud van Nistelrooij ensured honours ended even in this clash of Group D heavyweights after a freakish goal by BV Borussia Dortmund's Torsten Frings had given Germany a first-half lead. Fine finish For much of the match it looked as though the Netherlands, not for the first time, had flattered only to deceive their fervent fans, but Van Nistelrooij, who had had a quiet game, produced an acrobatic hooked finish at the near post from a fine Andy van der Meyde cross to bring them their reward. Zenden preferred The one surprise in either lineup was the choice of Boudewijn Zenden in preference to 20-year-old Wesley Sneijder, who made such an impression in the Netherlands' last competitive outing against Scotland in the play-offs for this tournament. First chance This meant a more central role for Sneijder's AFC Ajax club-mate Van der Vaart, playing just behind Van Nistelrooij, to whom the first chance of the match fell after two minutes. Dutch captain Phillip Cocu chipped into the area and the Manchester United FC striker was not quite quick enough to connect with the goal at his mercy. Needless booking With Cocu and Edgar Davids prompting from deep the Dutch were in the ascendancy for much of the first quarter, but chances at either end were at a premium and German striker Kevin Kuranyi picked up a needless booking as he tried to rectify the situation by using his hand in the Dutch area. Kuranyi effort A half-hit shot by Christian Worns from Bernd Schneider's cross, easily gathered by Edwin van der Sar, was the preface to Germany's first serious threat. After Frank Baumann had broken up a Dutch attack, Dietmar Hamann threaded a pass through for Kuranyi, who shot powerfully and Van der Sar tipped over the bar. Frings opener From the corner Worns' downward header bounced up and over the bar when he might have done better, but Germany did not have long to wait. Cocu picked up the game's second yellow card for a clumsy foul on Philipp Lahm near the left touchline, and Torsten Frings' wickedly curling free-kick evaded everyone and bounced in off the far post. Supporters silenced The goal had arrived on the half-hour mark and the sea of orange around the ground fell silent. Van der Vaart nearly roused them four minutes before the break, after good work by Davids and Giovanni van Bronckhorst, but his shot on the turn slipped just past the post. Ballack volley For the second half Dutch coach Dick Advocaat replaced Zenden and Davids with Marc Overmars and Sneijder, who forced Oliver Kahn into his first save of the match not far short of the hour mark. Just prior to that Michael Ballack had volleyed wide and Kuranyi went close to converting another Schneider cross for Germany, who were now content to play on the break. Germany's Michael Ballack chases Edgar Davids of the Netherlands (Getty Images) Schweinsteiger arrival Overmars meanwhile embarked on a head-to-head duel with Arne Friedrich, the Hertha BSC Berlin right-back, and from one corner gained, Wilfred Bouma headed over the bar. This signalled the arrival of Bastian Schweinsteiger, the 19-year-old from FC Bayern München, in place of Schneider. Stam cautioned Within moments the youngster had worked his way into the penalty area and only a deflection off Van Bronckhorst prevented Germany from doubling their lead. Two minutes later Jaap Stam entered referee Anders Frisk's notebook for bringing Ballack's breakaway to a grinding halt but Hamann fired harmlessly wide from the resultant free-kick. Kahn supreme Pierre van Hooijdonk's height was then added to the Dutch attack, and Overmars brought the best out of Kahn with a snap-shot before Van Nistelrooij's flashing header levelled the match. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Czech Republic - Latvia ( 2-1 ) Yup, last night i saw Pavel Nedved as Czech player when Czech against Latvia on TV . He's one of my fave player while he still playing at Lazio Teams coz a long time ago when Nesta still play on that team. I support that team, and i like Nedved too bcoz he's a good player as midfielder. BTW, here's the scored for the game last night : ------------------------------------------- Group D - Aveiro (Aveiro Municipal) - 15/06/04 - 17:00 Czech Republic (2) - Latvia (1) Goal By : Czech Republic ---> 73' Baros - 85' Heinz Latvia ---> 45'+ 1' Verpakovskis Czechs cheered by late goals by Mark Chaplin from Estadio Municipal de Aveiro Two goals in the last 17 minutes gave the much-fancied Czech Republic a narrow win against game and unheralded Latvia in a pulsating UEFA EURO 2004 Group D encounter in Aveiro. Pressure rewarded Maris Verpakovskis gave the Baltic nation a shock lead just before half-time, but Liverpool FC striker Milan Baros came up with a 73rd-minute leveller and substitute Marek Heinz grabbed an opportunist winner that was reward for ceaseless second-half pressure from Karel Bruckner's side against the spirited underdogs. Lobanovs trusted Bruckner was able to field his preferred starting lineup, while his opposite number Aleksandrs Starkovs placed his faith in Valentins Lobanovs in the important holding role in front of the Latvian defence, which was expecting plenty of work against the 1996 runners-up. Persistent pressure The more persistent early pressure came from the Czechs, and Marek Jankulovski fired a cross-shot inches wide when he was put into space by the livewire Pavel Nedved. Latvian goalkeeper Aleksandrs Kolinko then clawed away another teasing Nedved cross as Latvia were increasingly pushed back as the quarter-hour approached. No breakthrough Latvia looked enterprising when they broke out, and a Prohorenkovs cross from the right just evaded the diving Maris Verpakovskis in the Czech Republic area. At the other end, Baros volleyed past the post for the Czechs before Andrejs Rubins headed wide for Latvia as both sides sought the breakthrough. Nedved denied Another promising period for the Czechs followed, Rene Bolf heading over and 32-year-old Karel Poborsky skimming the crossbar from long range. Predictably the Czechs, prompted by the cunning Nedved, who saw a shot deflected wide as the half-hour mark approached, were seeing more of the ball. But Latvia were matching them for commitment with gutsy defending and the occasional dangerous counter. Surprise lead The first half wore on with Poborsky and Nedved having shots blocked in the area. The Czechs had dominated possession, but were then shocked right on the interval when Latvia went ahead. Prohorenkovs thundered clear on the left before firing in a low cross, and Verpakovskis was left free to poke the ball in from close range and give the Baltic outsiders a suprise lead. Classy Kolinko The Czechs had been stung at a crucial psychological moment, and came out for the second half determined to find a way back into the game and prevent a shock defeat. However, the Latvians were getting bodies behind the ball to protect their unexpected advantage. It took the Czechs until the 53rd minute to create an opportunity, but Kolinko dived to save Nedved's deflected 20-metre drive. Inspired substitution Brückner made a substitution to pep up his ailing side, Marek Heinz replacing right-back Zdenek Grygera after 56 minutes to give greater attacking variety from midfield, and Poborsky almost brought the Czech Republic level with a stinging drive that few just past the woodwork soon afterwards. Missed opportunities The unmarked Baros should have equalised just after the hour, when he seemed certain to score from Poborsky's right-wing cross, but the Liverpool striker inexplicably missed the target with his shot. Kolinko saved again from Baros and Bruckner brought on forward Vladimir Smicer for Tomas Galasek. But still Latvia clung on, Kolinko pushing aside a screaming Nedved volley. Latvia crumble The Czechs poured forward, and the Latvian rearguard finally crumbled under the onslaught with 17 minutes left. They failed to clear in a goalmouth scramble, and Baros was relieved to hammer the ball in from ten metres. By now, Latvia were looking a tired side, and they succumbed again with just five minutes left, Heinz volleying through to break the Latvians' hearts. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Sweden - Bulgaria ( 5-0 ) Group C - Lisbon (Jose Alvalade) - 14/06/04 - 19:45 Sweden (5)- Bulgaria (0) Goal By : Sweden ---> 32' Ljungberg - 57', 58' Larsson - 78'(pen)Ibrahimovic - 90'+ 1' Allback Larsson lights up Sweden by David Farrelly from Estadio Jose Alvalade Sweden recorded only their third victory in a UEFA European Championship finals as two fine goals from Henrik Larsson and further strikes from Fredrik Ljungberg, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marcus Allback powered them past Bulgaria at Lisbon's Estadio Jose Alvalade. Stunning header It was a fairytale return to competitive international action for Larsson as he scored two goals in two minutes shortly before the hour to end the game as a contest in which Bulgaria battled bravely but in vain. Already ahead through Ljungberg's first-half opener, Larsson's spectacular diving header from Erik Edman's pinpoint left-wing cross doubled their lead after 57 minutes. Fine finish Seconds later, the Swedes ended the game as a contest when Anders Svensson's low cross from the right was missed by the diving Zlatko Zdravkov and Larsson knocked the ball into the roof of the net from close range. Ibrahimovic scored a fourth from the penalty spot 12 minutes from time after Ljungberg had been brought down, and substitute Allback raced on to Larsson's chip to add a fifth in added time. Swedish surge Two-well drilled teams initially offered one another few clear scoring chances despite a bright start to the game. Ivailo Petkov had to be alert to the threat posed by Ibrahimovic as early as the second minute when the AFC Ajax striker was first to Andreas Isaksson's long clearance, but the Bulgarian defender managed to block his shot. Moments later Mikael Nilsson's low left-wing cross flashed across the face of goal but failed to reach either Ibrahimovic or Larsson. Bulgaria strike back The Bulgarians also provided some attacking verve, but Georgi Peev should have forced Isaksson into action in the 12th minute after spinning on the edge of the box only to shoot tamely. Then Zoran Jankovic volleyed narrowly wide of Isaksson's right-hand post after connecting with Martin Petrov's outswinging cross from the left. End-to-end game Then shortly after the quarter-hour, Edman's shot from a close-range indirect free-kick was charged down by Stilian Petrov after Ivailo Petkov had been penalised for a high challenge on Ibrahimovic. Sweden then slowly began to dominate as Nilsson crossed from the right, but Larsson's lunging half-volley from eight metres angled narrowly over. Bulgaria buoyant But Bulgaria, inspired by Stilian Petrov's work-rate, nearly broke the deadlock after 24 minutes when Martin Petrov flashed a low shot from the left edge of the area wide of Isaksson's left-hand post. Then Dimitar Berbatov's header forced the Sweden goalkeeper to backpedal and tip over the bar as Plamen Markov's side attempted to match their opponents. Unselfish Ibrahimovic The opening goal, however, came at the other end in the 32nd minute and was initiated by the impressive Nilsson, Sweden's only first-choice outfield player to ply his trade in the Allsvenskan. His pass along the right flank allowed Ibrahimovic to beat Bulgaria's offside trap and draw goalkeeper Zdravkov before rolling the ball between the goalline and the penalty spot for Ljungberg to score. Second-half fightback Shortly after the restart, Jankovic should have scored from Martin Petrov's cross from the left, but his header went agonisingly wide of Isaksson's right-hand post with the goalkeeper beaten. Sweden responded immediately when an amazing flick by Ibrahimovic left Ljungberg with a free shot on goal, but Zdravkov was quickly down to parry the ball to safety with his knees. Bulgaria on top Martin Petrov's excellent service into the penalty area was almost rewarded with a goal as his cross-cum-shot was narrowly missed by Berbatov only seconds before two moments of magic from Larsson turned the match inexorably in Sweden's favour. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Denmark - Italy ( 0-0 ) OMG ... OMG !!! I can' believe this!! Why Italy? Kyaaaaaaaaaaa, will they goes to Semifinal? Bcoz in their 1st match this team (Italy) play series without goal. C'mon Nesta, only u coz Pippo n Maldini will not play at this game. U're the one i hope will save ur team ... *with Hopefull* Alessandro Nesta (Italy) Alessandro Nesta in UEFA EURO 2004 qualifying action (empics) Here's the score, related news about that game also the pics : -------------------------------------- Group C - Guimaraes (D. Afonso Henriques) - 14/06/04 - 17:00 Denmark (0)- Italy (0) Italy denied by Danes by Matthew Spiro from Estadio D. Afonso Henriques Italy and Denmark had to settle for a share of the spoils in their opening Group C encounter in Guimaraes, with some inspired goalkeeping ensuring the game remained goalless. Pics2 Pics3 Pics4 Crucial saves Denmark's Thomas Sorensen produced a stunning double save to deny Alessandro Del Piero and Francesco Totti before half-time, while Gianluigi Buffon emulated his opposite number to brilliantly keep out efforts in quick succession from Jon Dahl Tomasson and Dennis Rommedahl in the second half of an enthralling encounter in the Estadio D. Afonso Henriques. Positive selection Italy lined up in an attacking formation, with skipper Totti playing just behind Christian Vieri while Juventus FC team-mates Del Piero and Mauro Camoranesi occupied the flanks. Denmark coach Morten Olsen drafted Daniel Jensen into the midfield to replace the suspended Thomas Gravesen and handed Rommedahl a start on the right wing in the absence of Jesper Gronkjaer, who had stayed in Denmark following a family bereavement. Quick to settle AC Milan forward Tomasson lined up in a deep-lying role behind striker Ebbe Sand and saw plenty of the ball early on as Denmark settled the quicker. Rommedahl's seventh-minute corner evaded the whole Italy defence before reaching Martin Jorgensen but the Udinese Calcio winger failed to connect. Moments later Rommedahl jinked inside Gianluca Zambrotta and produced a low shot that was blocked by Fabio Cannavaro. Totti try With Totti being closely monitored by Christian Poulsen, Italy were struggling to get into their stride, although the AS Roma forward forced a fine save from Sørensen with a long-range free-kick on 13 minutes. Buffon stop It was a rare moment of Italian danger though, and goalkeeper Buffon was soon called into action at the other end when Thomas Helveg rounded off his mazy run with a stinging left-foot shot that was palmed over the bar. Denmark's wide play continued to pose problems and an intricate move involving Jorgensen and Sand sent Niclas Jensen clear down the left but his low cross was cut out by Alessandro Nesta. Tomasson off target Left-back Niclas Jensen was involved in Denmark's next attack too, swinging over a free-kick from the right that was glanced agonisingly wide of the far post by Tomasson's head. Double save Italy almost snatched the lead against the run of play a minute before half-time when Del Piero pounced on a loose ball inside the area. His fierce shot was brilliantly saved by Sorensen and the rebound fell to Totti, but the forward's deflected shot was clawed to safety by the Danish goalkeeper. Tactical reorganisation Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni made a tactical switch at the break, with Del Piero moving in from the left wing to support Vieri, and immediately his side looked more dangerous. On 53 minutes Totti split the Denmark defence with an exquisite pass through for Zambrotta, but the left-back's shot slid wide of the far post. Italian pressure Zambrotta found space again on the left three minutes later, this time whipping over a cross for Vieri whose firm header was tipped over by an alert Sorensen. Suddenly Denmark's defence appeared stretched and from the resulting corner Christian Panucci headed over when well placed. Sand strike Despite his growing influence, Del Piero was replaced by Antonio Cassano in the 64th minute. The change merely prompted a spell of Danish possession, however, and Sand went close to breaking the deadlock when he latched on to Jørgensen's cross, but the striker failed to keep his header down as both sides had to settle for a single point. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
France - England ( 2-1 ) This is a big match between France - England. More people said that france will goes to final and will be a winner same as with the last year. But who know's??? Actually, i dont really like this team (im sorry for France tifosi/supporter). I have a reason for that situation bcoz it's remind me for what they do to My Fave Team (Italy) and it makes me brokenhearted. I always remember for that coz they defeated my fave teams in injury time *with tears*. BTW, here's the scored and also the news : -------------------------------------------- Group B - Lisbon (Luz) - 13/06/04 - 19:45 France (2) - England (1) Goal By : France ---> 90'+ 1', 90'+ 3'(pen) Zidane England ---> 38' Lampard Zidane strikes stun England by Adrian Harte from Estadio da Luz Two Zinedine Zidane goals in added time at the end of the match gave France an incredible win against England in UEFA EURO 2004 Group B. France celebrate Zinedine Zidane's equaliser (AFP) Stunning free-kick Trailing to Frank Lampard's 38th-minute header, it seemed that the holders would begin their campaign with a disappointing defeat. However, the Real Madrid CF playmaker curled in a free-kick a minute into added time to seemingly rescue a point. Penalty drama Moments later Steven Gerrard's misplaced pass set Thierry Henry clear and the French striker was brought down by England goalkeeper David James. Zidane kept his nerve from the spot to cap an incredible turnaround. Defensive reshuffles Both lineups revealed enforced defensive changes. In the absence of the banned Rio Ferdinand and the injured John Terry, Ledley King partnered Sol Campbell in the centre of the England defence. Meanwhile, William Gallas came in for his injured Chelsea FC colleague Marcel Desailly, lining up at right-back with Lilian Thuram - making his 100th appearance for France - moving into the centre. Early chances France forced the early pace, winning a corner in the first minute and then some hesitant England defending left an opening for Patrick Vieira but the Arsenal FC midfield player shot over from 25 metres. First-match tension and the ennui of acquaintance were not in evidence in a engaging opening spell in which the play flowed from end to end. Robert Pires's cross and Zidane's free-kick highlighted the French menace while England's lively approach play had yet to yield a productive final ball. Trezeguet miss Gradually, the defending champions' superior passing pinned England back and a Zidane snapshot that flew wide testified to their burgeoning superiority. And France should have opened the scoring seconds later when Vieira's cross from the left was met by David Trezeguet – who has more international goals to his name than any other current French international – but his header glanced narrowly over. Sterile stalemate France's fluency contrasted with England's inertia as Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen were starved of service. But for all their pretty passing, France lacked a cutting edge and soon sterility and stalemate supplanted the early adventure. Lampard lift The opening goal, therefore, came as something of a shock but it was no surprise that it took a set-piece to break the deadlock. David Beckham produced a trademark delivery from a free-kick on the right and Lampard, so prolific for Chelsea FC this season, rose above Mikael Silvestre at the near post to head past Fabien Barthez for this third international goal on his 20th appearance. Lampard's 18th strike in all competitions this season was also the first goal that France had conceded in 1,078 minutes of football. Henry chances Jacques Santini elected not to make any half-time changes and his confidence was almost vindicated within a minute of the restart but Henry shot straight at James when well-placed and then spurned two half-chances in quick succession. Rooney run That early endeavour failed to herald a French renaissance and England were now looking the better team with Campbell and King playing like long-term partners at the back. Darius Vassell, celebrating his 25th birthday, replaced the subdued Owen in the 70th minute but it was his strike partner Rooney who brought England to the brink of victory two minutes later when his devastating direct run was ended illegally by Silvestre's trip in the penalty area. Brilliant save The Manchester United FC defender escaped with a caution and there was reprieve too for France as Barthez dived to his right to save Beckham's penalty. It was the England captain's second penalty miss in as many competitive internationals. Barthez was in the thick of the action again minutes later when he misjudged Vassell's shot and made an unorthodox stop with his nose. It was to prove crucial at the death. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Switzerland - Croatia ( 0-0 ) Group B - Leiria (Dr. Magalhaes Pessoa) - 13/06/04 - 17:00 Switzerland (0) - Croatia (0) Solid Swiss hold firm by Mark Chaplin from Estadio Dr. Magalhaes Pessoa Outsiders Croatia and Switzerland played out a tense goalless draw in Leiria in the first game of UEFA EURO 2004 Group B. Second booking In a fiercely contested encounter, Croatia had the technical edge, but were thwarted by a determined, solid effort from the battling Swiss, who spent the majority of the second period with ten men after Johann Vogel was dismissed for a second bookable offence five minutes after half-time. Full strength Switzerland coach Jakob Kuhn was able to field a full-strength lineup with midfield anchor Vogel recovered from a thigh injury, while Croatia were without goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa, who is out of the tournament with a torn thigh muscle. Tomislav Butina deputised and Tomislav Šokota partnered the dangerous Dado Pršo up front. Early running Croatia made the early running in a frenetic opening, and Nenad Bjelica had an early chance with a free-kick, but his curling effort went straight into the arms of Swiss keeper Jörg Stiel. Tackles flew in thick and fast and Vogel was cautioned for a trip on sokota as Croatia moved forward with pace and purpose, Ivica Mornar heading a corner just wide. Frei effort The Swiss finally broke out to create a first chance of their own soon afterwards, Butina beating out a fierce angled drive from Alexander Frei and there were gradual signs that Kuhn's men were warming to their task. Full-back Bernt Haas then sent a header past the post from Hakan Yakin's inswinging corner. Struggle for control Back came Croatia for Prso to swivel and shoot into Stiel's arms, and Šokota shot well wide as both sides struggled to establish a grip on the game in the heat. With neither team wanting to lose with tough group assignments against England and holders France ahead, space and time on the ball was at a premium, but Croatia went desperately close to an opener after 36 minutes when Niko Kovac headed narrowly over the bar from a corner. Double chance Stiel then made a fine reflex save to claw out Josip simunic's free header as Switzerland's offside trap failed from a free-kick, Ivica Olic heading the rebound on to the crossbar and over. Niko Kovac then shot just too high as Croatia ended the first 45 minutes on top. Second yellow Croatia coach Otto Baric made a half-time substitution, Milan Rapaic replacing Olic on the left of midfield. The second half began disastrously for the Swiss, who were reduced to ten men almost immediately when Vogel was shown the red card for his second bookable offence – a midfield trip on Šokota. Tactical reorganisation Kuhn then brought on Fabio Celestini for Stephane Chapuisat to reinforce the Swiss midfield, while Baric introduced Darijo Srna for simunic to give the Croatians greater width on the right. Croatian control The pattern of play was changed by Vogel's dismissal and Croatia began enjoying the bulk of possession. However, the Swiss continued to battle gamely despite the numerical disadvantage, and Butina saved a Hakan Yakin free-kick. At the other end, sokota shot over as the game continued to ebb and flow. Solid Swiss Baric was eager to exploit his team's extra man, making another substitution by bringing on central midfield player Dovani Roso for Bjelica, but Switzerland were still holding firm and Hakan Yakin sent a 30-metre free-kick over. Huggel denied It was the Swiss who came desperately close to breaking the deadlock in the final stages as Benjamin Huggel's long-range drive was fumbled away for a corner by Butina. Ultimately, however, both sides had to settle for a single point. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Spain - Russia ( 1-0 ) Yeaaaahhhh, u know what? Spain Teams is one of my Fave Teams that i hope will goes to Semi Final beside Italy Teams. Im so Happy bcoz in the 1st match in this Competition they win. Actually in this teams, i like Fernando Morientes so much. If he's not played at this game (like a long time ago when he's not play at World Cup bcoz not fit) maybe i will not watch Spain match playing at TV. Yeahhh, i know it!! Its not fair but i dunno, i just like this team becoz of him ... keukekeke BTW, here's the scored of this game also the news about that : --------------------------------------- Group A - Faro-Loule (Algarve) - 12/06/04 - 19:45 Spain (1) - Russia (0) Goal By : Spain ---> 60' Valeron Valeron sparks Spanish win by Matthew Spiro from Estadio Algarve An inspired substitution from coach Inaki Saez helped Spain get their UEFA EURO 2004 campaign off to a perfect start in Faro-Loule as Juan Carlos Valeron came off the bench to score with virtually his first touch and seal three important points in Group A. Juan Carlos Valeron (centre) celebrates his winner (empics) Valeron for victory With Greece having unexpectedly defeated hosts Portugal earlier in the day, both sides knew that a victory would make qualification for the quarter-finals a distinct possibility. However, in the event Valeron's cool finish on the hour proved enough, while Russia ended with ten men as Roman Sharonov was dismissed for a second yellow card having brought down substitute Fernando Torres. Fitness boost Spain lined up as expected after David Albelda shook off a muscle strain to link up with Valencia CF team-mate Ruben Baraja in midfield, while Joseba Etxeberria, Raul Gonzalez and Vicente Rodriguez formed an attacking trio behind Fernando Morientes. Russia adopted a more cautious approach, with coach Georgi Yartsev opting for Dmitri Bulykin as a lone striker, allowing winger Rolan Gusev to come into a five-man midfield. Spanish surge Spain started at a ferocious pace and had Russia's reorganised defence under pressure as early as the third minute. Baraja's pinpoint pass found Raul in space in the penalty area but the Spanish striker shot wide of the far post. The Russians were soon stretched again as Raul threaded a pass through for Morientes but his left-foot shot was blocked by Sharonov. Izmailov influential Spain continued to dominate territorially but Russia slowly gained in confidence and mounted their first serious attack on 16 minutes. Marat Izmailov's right-wing cross drifted over Carles Puyol to the ummarked Bulykin, but his tame volley was blocked. Izmailov was Russia's brightest player in the opening stages and he threatened again minutes later, flashing a long-range shot wide of Iker Casillas' far post. Vicente verve Vicente's influence on the left wing grew as the half went on and his darting burst and precise cross set up a glorious chance for Morientes on 36 minutes. The striker's header was brilliantly saved by Sergei Ovchinnikov and although the rebound fell to Etxeberria, he miscued from close range. Casillas called upon The chance brought the game to life and Dmitri Alenichev almost opened the scoring at the other end seconds later, jinking between Carlos Marchena and Puyol but Casillas was equal to his chip. Russia finished the half on top and Casillas had to be alert once more as Alenichev cut into the box after a quickly-taken corner and forced the goalkeeper to parry at the near post. Raul chance Yartsev introduced playmaker Vladislav Radimov for Gusev at the break, but the second half started in similar vein to the first with a tide of Spain pressure. Etxeberria twice escaped his marker on the right wing, first cutting back for Baraja whose shot was blocked, then delivering a teasing cross that was headed wide of the far post by an unmarked Raul. Instant impact Spain made their first changes just before the hour mark, with Valeron and Xabi Alonso replacing Morientes and Baraja - and the switch paid immediate dividends as Valerón scored within 36 seconds. Puyol burst past Dmitri Sennikov on the right and delivered a low cross that Valeron coolly worked on to his left foot to score from close range. Spain on top Russia reacted by sending on Dmitri Sychev as a second striker but the goal lifted the Spanish and they began playing with more fluency. Raul might have doubled the lead, shrugging off two defenders before shooting just over from 20 metres while Vicente had two late chances, but Spain had already done enough. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Portugal - Greece (1-2) One think that i can say "Koq bisa?" Whereas in Portugal team there is Rui Costa. Yeahhh, as someone ever told to me "Bola itu bundar" who knows what will happen on the next (Right?) ... *._.* Here's the score of the 1st Match Also the related news about that game !! ----------------------------------------- Group A - Porto (Dragao) - 12/06/04 - 17:00 Portugal (1) - Greece (2) Goal by : Portugal ---> 90'+ 3' Ronaldo Greece ---> 7' Karagounis - 51'(pen) Basinas Greece spoil hosts' party by Adam Szreter from the Estadio do Dragao Goals from Georgios Karagounis and Angelos Basinas gave Greece a deserved victory and provided a massive setback to Portugal's hopes of winning UEFA EURO 2004 on home soil, despite Cristiano Ronaldo's late consolation. Assured display It was the first time the hosts had lost the opening match of a UEFA European Championship, but in truth it was a disappointing display from Portugal, who gave away possession far too easily. Greece, on the other hand, played with great freedom and assurance, none more so than Angelos Charisteas. Nikolaidis in reserve With Luiz Felipe Scolari having unexpectedly announced the Portugal lineup on the eve of the game, Maniche starting in midfield alongside Costinha on the FC Porto pair's club ground, the main speculation surrounded the fitness of Greece's No1 striker, Themistoklis Nikolaidis, who began on the bench. Great chance In his absence, Charisteas took up a position just behind Zisis Vryzas in attack and in the very first minute they combined to create a great chance. Following Luís Figo's reckless challenge on Karagounis, Vryzas escaped down the left and crossed low. The ball ran invitingly for Charisteas, but the SV Werder Bremen man swung and missed it completely. Early goal However, the visitors went ahead in the seventh minute, and having been the first to settle it was not a complete surprise. There were audible groans as Paulo Ferreira lost possession to Karagounis midway inside his own half. The FC Internazionale midfield player strode forward and planted a low right-footed shot from 23 metres past the despairing dive of Ricardo. Greek opportunities Two minutes later it could have been worse for Portugal. This time it was a former Porto player at fault as Jorge Andrade slipped, but Charisteas shot carelessly wide. Then Panagiotis Fyssas volleyed just over from Vryzas's measured cross. Portugal respond By now Figo had been stung into action, and when he crossed for Pauleta at the near post Traianos Dellas had to be alert to the danger. Andrade, up for a set-piece, then shot narrowly wide and Pauleta miscontrolled a Maniche through-ball as Portugal began to respond to the situation. Rui Costa close But Greece were still playing with confidence and Charisteas sent a powerful header over the bar from a corner before testing Ricardo with a more speculative long-range effort. At the other end a Rui Costa header was just off target from Paulo Ferreira's cross, and Simao Sabrosa slipped past Dellas only for Antonios Nikopolidis to race from his line and rescue Greece. Half-time changes With Rui Costa and Simao Sabrosa exerting little influence on proceedings, it was no surprise to see Deco, the darling of the local crowd, and Ronaldo taking their places for the second half. Greece, meanwhile, replaced Karagounis with the more defensive-minded Konstantinos Katsouranis. Ronaldo foul Ronaldo's first contribution, though, was to give away the penalty that Basinas converted to double the Greek lead in the 51st minute. Costinha's short pass had been intercepted and Charisteas played Giourkas Seitaridis through into the penalty area. Ronaldo, tracking back, sent the Greek full-back tumbling and referee Pierluigi Collina pointed instantly to the spot. Spectators stunned Most inside the stadium were stunned, Portuguese and Greek alike, although the latter fans soon started to believe what they were seeing and chanted the name of their German coach Otto Rehhagel. For Portugal, Figo and Ronaldo tried to combine on the left, and the young Manchester United FC winger sent over one or two useful crosses but there was never anyone on the end of them. Late opportunities There was no questioning Figo's commitment as he tried to prise an opening, shooting over from a free-kick he had won. There was a similar result for Deco from a tighter angle, and eight minutes from time a goalbound effort from Ronaldo deflected to safety off Seitaridis. Substitute Nuno Gomes was then foiled by Nikopolidis on the line before Figo had a shot blocked by Dellas. From the resulting Figo corner, Ronaldo headed in, but it was too little, too late for the host nation. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
EURO showpiece under way Yuuuhhhuuuuuuuu, Come on everybody!!! Let's Counting Down for the 1st match start from now ... *._.* ---------------------------------------------- UEFA EURO 2004 gets under way today when the host nation Portugal tackle Greece at the Estadio do Dragao, one of ten finals venues. Portugal winger Simao Sabrosa warms up for Greece (Getty Images) Opening ceremony Fifteen minutes before the first of 31 matches kicks off, a team of 900 people will collaborate for a spectacular opening ceremony aimed at welcoming the 16 participating nations and their supporters to Portugal. Later in the day, at Faro-Loule, Spain and Russia complete the first set of Group A games, with the focus then switching to tomorrow's Group B fixtures in Leiria and Lisbon. Gleaming stadiums SL Benfica's 65,000-capacity Estadio da Luz, where the holders France play England at 19.45 (20.45CET) on Sunday, stages the 4 July final, one quarter-final and three group matches. Fans based in and around the capital will also be able to watch games at the Estadio Jose Alvalade, with the remaining matches taking place in seven cities, each of which has a redeveloped or newly-built stadium. Twelth edition The 12th edition of the UEFA European Championship will be attended by hundreds of thousands of supporters from across the continent, many of whom have arrived and are already enjoying Portuguese hospitality. A series of events are being promoted to keep fans entertained, such as the Fan Park in Lisbon which will show matches on two giant screens as well as providing a welter of other activities. Unrivalled coverage euro2004.com will provide unrivalled coverage of what promises to be a spectacular tournament. The official site provides a new, enhanced MatchCentre, with live audio commentaries and minute-by-minute coverage provided in eight languages, as well as instant statistics, photo galleries, a man of the match vote and the possibility to chat live with fellow fans. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Italian Squad Teams And also, Here is Italian Teams who will play at EURO 2004 : The squads are : 1 Gianluigi BUFFON (GK) 2 Christian PANUCCI (DF) 3 Massimo ODDO (DF) 4 Cristiano ZANETTI (MD) 5 Fabio CANNAVARO (DF) 6 Matteo FERRARI (DF) 7 Alessandro DEL PIERO (FW) 8 Gennaro GATTUSO (MD) 9 Christian VIERI (FW) 10 Francesco TOTTI (FW) 11 Bernardo CORRADI (FW) 12 Francesco TOLDO (GK) 13 Alessandro NESTA (DF) 14 Stefano FIORE (MD) 15 Giuseppe FAVALLI (DF) 16 Mauro CAMORANESI (MD) 17 Marco DI VAIO (FW) 18 Antonio CASSANO (FW) 19 Gianluca ZAMBROTTA (MD) 20 Simone PERROTTA (MD) 21 Andrea PIRLO (MD) 22 Angelo PERUZZI (GK) 23 Marco MATERAZZI (DF)
Italy Team Tactics Yup, here's Italy team tactics that this playing systems will they play at The Game Competition ---> EURO 2004 ... *._.* ------------------------------------------ Giovanni Trapattoni will adopt a 4-2-3-1 playing system providing plenty of attacking options allied to defensive strength. Attacking options In attack, just behind Chrstian Vieri, the Italy coach is expected to start with Stefano Fiore, Francesco Totti and Alessandro Del Piero from right to left. "With this formation we have the possibility to play high-speed football on the ground," Trapattoni explained. Bernardo Corradi provides cover for Vieri, while Antonio Cassano, who had a great season with AS Roma, could be in contention with Del Piero for a place in the starting line-up. In the absence of Filippo Inzaghi, Marco Di Vaio provides attacking cover. Midfield doubts There are more doubts regarding the two midfielders. Trapattoni has used Cristiano Zanetti and Simone Perrotta in the most important games of the qualifying campaign. However the FC Internazionale midfielder has suffered several injuries this season and there are question marks over his physical condition. If Zanetti is not 100 per cent fit, Andrea Pirlo could find space alongside Perrotta. Gennaro Gattuso could play should Trapattoni opt for a more defensive line-up, while Mauro Camoranesi provides options out wide. Buffon preferred Gianluigi Buffon didn't have his best season with Juventus, but despite conceding 41 goals in the league, he is certain to get the nod in goal with Francesco Toldo and Angelo Peruzzi the back-up. Defensive concerns In defence, Trapattoni has unusual problems for Italy. Fabio Cannavaro will link up with Alessandro Nesta but cover Marco Materazzi has had a troubled season although Matteo Ferrari is also included. Panucci the pick Christian Panucci should start at right back, with Massimo Oddo offering a more attacking option. On the left Gianluca Zambrotta can both defend and push forward. He will surely be the first choice with Giuseppe Favalli ready to deputise after Giuseppe Pancaro was ruled out of the tournament with an ankle injury. Source : uefa.com - All rights reserved
Curtain rises on EURO 2004 Yeahhhhhh, I luv this game!!! Finally the competition will start Tomorrow, Can't wait to watch a teams who will play tomorrow night at Television. But maybe i'll be tired or maybe will be late to come to my office bcoz the game usually will show in the middle of the night at TV and maybe after watching that game's i'll be feeling sleepy ... keukekekeke But never mind as long as i can watch the luvly game's, i'll keep do that ... *._.* Yuhuuuuuuuuuuu, can't waitttt for tomorrow!!! Here's the news related about The Opened Ceremony of UEFA EURO 2004. ------------------------------------ by Alex O'Henley from Porto UEFA President Lennart Johansson and Gilberto Madaíl, the chairman of tournament organisers Euro 2004, S.A., officially opened the UEFA EURO 2004 finals in Porto this morning with the news that 94 per cent of tickets have been sold for the group stage of the tournament. Enormous preparation Speaking at a press conference at the Estádio do Dragão, Mr Johansson said the tournament had come a long way since its formation in 1958. "With a total of 1.2 million tickets and relayed to hundreds of millions of fans via television around the world, the organisation and preparation for a tournament like this is enormous," he said. Johansson wish "I sincerely hope that this European Championship and the legacy of the beautiful ten stadiums that will remain, will act as a springboard for Portuguese football, which currently boasts the champions of Europe in FC Porto. I wish everyone involved from players to fans a most enjoyable tournament." England warning The UEFA President also had a warning for English fans travelling to EURO 2004 after trouble at the last championship in the Low Countries in 2000, but gave assurances that all possible measures had been taken to counteract any security threat. 'Better prepared' "We are better prepared this time, and the British government know 80 per cent of the people who are travelling to Portugal," he said. "Following the talks we have had with the English FA and the coach, Sven-Göran Eriksson, I therefore sincerely hope that nothing will force us to take any drastic action such as throwing a team out of the competition. No guarantees "Regarding security measures, I think that everything that can be done has been done. It's important not to give guarantees because we live in a world that is very unpredictable, but we have done everything that is possible and hopefully we can now look forward to a nice, friendly tournament." Emotional day For Dr Madaíl, the opening game tomorrow between hosts Portugal and Greece is the culmination of five years of hard work. "Today is probably the most important day of my life," he said. "It's a day I've been waiting for, because it marks the beginning of the end of five years of preparation. 'Exciting moments' "The first game tomorrow and the final on 4 July will be exciting moments for me, and these next few weeks will be a period of great pride for the Portuguese FA and the people of Portugal." Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Captain underlines Italian unity Here's The Captain of Italy teams who will change Paolo Maldini in Euro 2004. Its to bad, coz i think Maldini more capable as Italian Captain. But, yeah actually im not sure about Cannavaro. Maybe he's more capable beside Maldini. I Hope Italy will play good without Maldini and also without Pippo. At least The Teams can goes to Semi Final lah ... *._.* Check it out!!! -------------------------------- by Paolo Menicucci Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro has strongly denied press claims that the spirit in the Azzurri camp has been affected by tensions caused by the fierce competition for places. Fabio Cannavaro is Italy's captain (Getty Images 2004) 'United group' The FC Internazionale defender stressed that the squad were "united" and warned that the players might consider a media blackout should these reports continue. "The group is united," the FC Internazionale defender told reporters. "There is no rivalry between us. Blackout threat "We have always been cooperative with you. We are trying to build something and if you want to be on our side you're welcome, otherwise we will go our own way. We may also decide for a press blackout." Gattuso comments Two days ago midfield player Gennaro Gattuso expressed his disappointment at his expected exclusion from the starting lineup to face Denmark in their first Group C match on Monday. "I hope I'm given a chance to play from the start too," Gattuso said. 'Feel like a newcomer' "I have been a part of this squad for five years but I always feel like a newcomer. However, I have been capped 33 times. The coach is free to make his own decisions but I have enjoyed two great seasons and I also believe I have improved my technical skills." End to controversy Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni replied that Gattuso was free to give his opinion and denied that there were any hard feelings within the squad. However, the Italian press were quick to jump on the story, which is why Cannavaro felt it was his responsibility as captain to put an end to this controversy. Training cancelled If yesterday's training match is an indication, Simone Perrotta and Cristiano Zanetti should get the nod in central midfield while Milan pair Gattuso and Andrea Pirlo will start from the bench. Today's training session was cancelled due to the high temperatures in Lisbon. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Trapattoni keeps Danes guessing by Paolo Menicucci Coach Giovanni Trapattoni insisted today that he had not decided on his lineup for Italy's opening UEFA EURO 2004™ fixture against Denmark despite dropping a hint in a training session in which the fit-again Christian Panucci took part. Fiore returns The defender trained today along with midfield player Stefano Fiore after both recovered from slight injuries. Panucci, who is usually deployed by Trapattoni on the right side of a defence which includes Fabio Cannavaro, Alessandro Nesta and Gianluca Zambrotta, lined up with a team of regulars against a second-string eleven. Fiore was among the first-team substitutes. Christian Panucci (left) returned to training on Wednesday (Getty Images ) Qualifying success Cristiano Zanetti, expected to patrol the centre of the Azzurri midfield along with Simone Perrotta, saw the return of Panucci as the cue for the coach to field the side which helped Italy advance from qualifying Group 9. "We managed to qualify for the finals using the 4-2-3-1 formation and I believe there are no reasons for changing it now," Zanetti said. 'Nordic mentality' Trapattoni, though, refused to divulge his preferred team with the Guimarães game five days away. "I still have time to make my decisions, but from a physical and mental point of view we are all ready," he said. "Denmark are a strong team because they have a Nordic mentality mixed with Latin creativeness, many of their players have experience of leagues like ours. It will difficult to beat them." Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
Teams settle on final lineups The deadline for submitting final squads for UEFA EURO 2004 passed last night with the 16 finalists each selecting the band of players they hope will lead them to glory in the 4 July final in Lisbon, Portugal. Which captain will lift the Henri Delaunay trophy on 4 July? (Getty Images 2004) Full squad lists The full squad lists with shirt numbers will be announced today on the official tournament website, euro2004.com. Each national team coach has nominated 23 players in their squad for Portugal, included in which must be three goalkeepers. According to the UEFA regulations, the players must be allocated squad numbers from 1 to 23. Changes No changes or addition to this list are allowed by UEFA regulations except in the case of a serious injury before the first match, and then only with the authorisation of a doctor from the UEFA Medical Committee. Click on the first mention of the country to visit their team pages where squads and squad numbers can be viewed in full. Late withdrawals Russia were one of the last nations to reveal their final 23, with coach Georgi Yartsev seeing his plans changed by the late withdrawals of Sergei Ignashevitch, Aleksandr Panov and captain Viktor Onopko. In the end, he opted for a party featuring just five defenders with midfield player Denis Boyarintsev the man cut from an original 27-man party. Capdevila call Russia's first opponents in Group A on 12 June, Spain, were also struck by late defensive problems when Míchel Salgado tore a hamstring in training. Iñaki Sáez called on Joan Capdevila to fill in for the Real Madrid CF right-back. Portugal's final 23 was unchanged from the one revealed by Luiz Felipe Scolari on 18 May, as was Greece's, although only after injury concerns over Themistoklis Nikolaidis and Giorgos Karagounis abated. Swiss problems In Group B, France and England stuck to provisional squads which will now be focused on their opening meeting in Lisbon on Sunday 13 June. There was no such luck for Switzerland, though, as defenders Remo Meyer and Stéphane Grichting pulled out of their preliminary squad along with strikers Léonard Thurre and Marco Streller. The 18-year-old PSV Eindhoven forward Johan Vonlanthen is the man to profit, earning selection for his first major tournament. 'First reserves' Croatia, who open against the Swiss in Leiria, have also given youth a chance with midfielder Marko Babic being plucked from the squad competing at the UEFA European Under-21 Championship. Coach Otto Baric overlooked Niko Kranjcar and Danijel Pranjic, but named them as "first reserves". If a player from any country picks up a serious injury prior to their first match then coaches will be able to replace them with another not named in the original 23. Duo out It is as you were for Bulgaria and Italy in Group C, with Plamen Markov and Giovanni Trapattoni sticking with the players announced on 19 and 18 May respectively. Sweden made one change to their preliminary party as Michael Svensson's knee injury had not cleared up sufficiently for him to travel, handing Alexander Östlund a chance. Denmark lost Morten Wieghorst to injury on Monday, replacing him with Thomas Kahlenberg. Kasper Bøgelund and Peter Løvenkrands also made the squad. U21 duo Finally to Group D where the Czech Republic and Germany waited to the last before submitting their squads as both were in action last night. Karel Brückner trimmed striker Miroslav Matušovic from his 23, while Rudi Völler selected Under-21 duo Bastian Schweinsteiger and Lukas Podolski. Paul Bosvelt for Mark van Bommel was the only change to the Netherlands' original party, leaving Latvia who opted for the 23 named on Saturday. Source : uefa.com 1998-2004. All rights reserved
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