Views From The Armchair

"Views From The `Footiemad` Armchair
Diary Of A Tournament
Euro 2004

Friday 11th June 2004
"Because I've been up here for a while, I am starting to feel the monotony of the tower block." (Song)

Denmark won Euro 92 despite not qualifying for the Finals!! Whose place did they take at the eleventh hour?
Yugoslavia: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Well, it's almost here! The greatest show in Europe kicks off in 24 hours time and I must admit that I'm really looking forward to it. Most of the last four or five Euro Championships have, in general, been better and more exciting than their World Cup counterparts and that's probably down to the overall quality. In WC's, there is always a couple of nations who, ultimately, are the whipping boys and whilst they may be the best in their continent, they certainly don't belong in the top 32 in the World. In the Euro's, whilst there may be one or two surprise nations, we're very unlikely to see a whipping side along the lines of the Saudi's in the last world cup. Whilst the WC is a fantastic spectacle, the finals are a cross-section of the best nations from each continent, whereas the Euro's are largely made up of the top European nations and whilst you could argue that we'd prefer to see Ireland, Wales and Turkey there instead of Russia, Croatia and Latvia, that's not to say that the trio haven't deserved their places in Portugal, although the Welsh may disagree with me there! In short, it may not quite be Europe's Top 16 nations, but it's not that far away either!

Okay, so it's prediction time so that, on July 4th, we can see how far off the mark I was!

Winners? France would be my bet as long as their don't fall foul to their WC2002 form and collapse in spectacular fashion. I can't see this happening and although England will give them a tough game, they should sail through the group and will have as good a chance as any after that.

Hopes? Well, I'd like to see Holland do well as I've had a soft spot for them since the 70s. They'll be anxious to show us what was missed in WC2002 and whilst I'd love to see them go all the way, there are stronger nations that are likely to halt their progress.

Fears? Hopefully we'll see nations playing to win rather than playing to avoid defeat. I also have a sneaky feeling that either Italy or England could spring a surprise and win the tourno. I've not really liked the Italians since their heavy-handed tactics from the 70s and 80s and whilst I don't dislike England as such, I can't really bring myself to cheer them either, so sods law dictates that both nations will do well, just to annoy me! In recent tourno's, both have been bridesmaids without quite becoming the bride, so maybe it's time that the bouquet has been caught! Equally, with expectations overly high from both sets of fans, the fall can be painful.

Watch Out For? Using the same anology, Spain are not so much bridesmaids, but more the likable Uncle who always gets an invite and then passes out well before the ceremony is over. Could this be their year? Probably not, but worth an outside bet.

Home Advantage: Mustn't forget Portugal of course! Playing at home can be a doubled-edged sword. It's a blessing if all is going swimmingly, however if things don't quite go to plan and the fans start turning against them, watch out! I think they'll do okay and whilst not set the tourno alight, could be a dark horse for the latter stages.

Has beens? What to make of Germany? Not the footballing force that they have been in the past, yet you are always reluctant to write the buggers off. Again, unlikely to win it, but it would surprise no-one if they did well!

Good Outside Bets? It may surprise some people, but don't write off Russia? Yes, they needed the play-offs to reach the finals and were only 100% confirmed as qualifying after a number of legal battles with the Welsh regarding the Russians fielding a player in the play offs who was later tested positive for drugs. All too often a team who've battled hell and high water to get to the finals, ends up doing something special! Equally, the Scandi pair of Sweden and Denmark - unluckily paired in the same group - could surprise a few and I daresay Italy will not look forward to playing either. The problem is that both are as likely to remain unbeaten in their group as they are to lose all three, but don't write them off. Finalists in 96, the Czech Republic went one better in 76 and won it (remember that wonderful chipped penalty from Panenka?). That could be a step too far this time, but there is quality in the side and the key may just be the clash against the Germans.

And what of the rest? The remainder of the finalists would fall into my `happy to be at the finals` category...which is a surefire way of at least one of them reaching the semi-finals!! Greece will have a tough time against Portugal, Spain and Russia and could easily go home pointless and the same could be said of Switzerland and Croatia who will find it tough against France and England and will probably only have their opening game against each other to earn any points. Bulgaria sprung a surprise in WC94, but unless they manage to squeeze points from Sweden and Denmark, they they'll be heading home early with defeat against Italy looking certain. And finally to Latvia. Surprise winners against Turkey in the play offs, but rank outsiders in this tourno. In truth, anything will be a bonus for them and by that, I mean anything better than defeats at the hands of Holland, Germany and the Czech's.

Saturday 12th June 2004
"Yeah, but John, if the Pirates of the Caribbean breaks down, the pirates don't eat the tourists." (Film)

Under what unusual name did the disbanded Soviet Federation take part in Euro 92?
C.I.S. (Commenwealth of Independent States): Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Usually, any big tournament needs something special to spark it into life, however it's rare that this happens on the opening day, or indeed the opening game. Perhaps Euro 2004 is going to be something special from the outset....

Portugal 1 Greece 2: Remarkable result to open the tourno with the fancied hosts losing to the 80/1 tournament outsiders! Due to having to go back to work for an hour, I missed the first half and just got in home in time to see the penalty to double the Greeks lead. From what I saw after that, the Greeks were rarely under any sustained pressure and when the home side did really go at them late on, a combination of last ditch defending, good goalkeeping and crap shooting kept them at bay. Even my daughter took a late interest, especially when one of the managers started getting `Stressy` (Her words, not mine) and only at the final whistle did we realise it was the Greek boss and not the Portuguese version! So, a shock result to open the competition is just what the neutral fan ordered. Makes a change from those dreadful boring opening matches from years gone by.

Russia 0 Spain 1: When the award for most inspired substitution is handed out, Spain's coach may just claim it for making a double change on the hour of this clash. Within 36 seconds, one of the new arrivals, Valeron, netted the only goal of a game more memorable for the number of bookings handed out. In all, the yellow card was shown NINE times, including twice to Roman Sharonov who became the first red card of the tourno with two minutes to go. In truth, as co-commentator Mick McCarthy pointed out, there was hardly a bad tackle in the game, however hard liner referee Urs Maier did his bit to keep his card quota up. The football side of things saw Spain dominate against a Russian 4-5-1 formation, although only on rare occasions did they bring the keeper into action. They deserved the win overall, but as earlier, poor finishing let them down and if they face tougher opposition later in the tourno, they'll need to be more clinical. All told though, they remain three points better off than the hosts, who now face two tricky games having already lost to the `weakest` side in the group.

Sunday 13th June 2004
"I hear hurricanes ablowing. I know the end is coming soon. I fear rivers over flowing. I hear the voice of rage and ruin." (Song)
Bad Moon Rising - Creedence Clerawater Revival: Correctly answered by Jim Blair

During Euro 96, which nation didn't concede a goal in the tournament until the second half of their quarter-final game?
Germany: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Croatia 0 Switzerland 0: Not a game which leapt out of the fixture list as one to watch and so it proved as the only noteworthy thing to redeem the game was...well, nothing really! No, that's doing it an injustice! We had fouls by the bucket load, resulting in cards into double figures and another red card, this time for, of all things, kicking the ball away. We also had diving (two players booked!), over-reacting and general gamesmanship, especially from the Swiss after Vogel was red carded. As for football, Croatia looked the better side and missed a couple of good first half chances, but the game died five minutes after the break when Vogel's rush of blood to the head saw him depart. After that, neither keeper had a lot to do. As I write, France and England are yet to kick off, however I would be amazed if either of them slip up against either the Swiss or Croatia, both of whom have recording what I reckon will be their only point.

England 1 France 2: Although I'm not an England fan, I'm hard pushed to find words to describe how they must be feeling. As I type, it's ten minutes since the final whistle and fifteen minutes since England led France 1-0 as we entered stoppage time. Emile Heskey's needless foul on the edge of the area opened the way for Zidane's perfect free kick and then Steven Gerrard's awful back pass led to David James fouling Thierry Henry and Zidane converting the penalty. Now, disregarding the fact that James should have been sent off, it was again down to individual errors that cost England. Others may blame David Beckham for his penalty miss with seventeen minutes left, but I wouldn't. That was a decent spot kick, matched by a brilliant save from Fabien Barthez. This was the first real battle of the heavyweights in Euro 2004 and they certainly provided and maybe, hopefully, it'll be enough to kick start the competition into life. Yes, England will be disappointed, devastated even, however whilst they deserved at least a draw thanks to resolute defending in the second half, they'll breeze past the other two nations and maybe even meet the French later on in the tourno for revenge. Just a couple of final comments. Disappointing to see the French national anthem jeered by the English fans and likewise I didn't like the Dambusters airplane movements from the supporters. There's no need guys. Also, the French need to be a little more direct up front and not look for the `perfect goal` all the time. It's not always possible to slice through the backline and other teams may not be as accommodating as England as regards late gifts. Oh, and if there are any Man United and England fans feeling particularly peeved at the moment, now you know how it feels to LOSE in injury time!!

Monday 14th June 2004
"You just fulfilled the first rule of law enforcement: make sure when your shift is over you go home alive. Here endeth the lesson." (Film)
The Untouchables: Correctly answered by Jeff Slater

During the Euro 96 Final, the Czech's made a substitution which saw one future Premiership player replaced by another. Who were the two involved?
Karel Poborsky was replaced by Vladimir Smicer: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Denmark 0 Italy 0: Another goalless afternoon game, although I guess we should take into account the kinds of temps that these players are running around in, as they are akin to lying on the beach rather than playing football. The game itself was far better than yesterday's first encounter and would have produced goals had it not have been for both keepers who each made a superb double save. Italy didn't dominate in the way that many, myself included, thought that they would and the Danes more than held their own and would hope to be in a good position to qualify having played the groups supposed top club.

Bulgaria 0 Sweden 5: Wow, what a romp in the evening sunshine this was for the Swede's, although the final scoreline doesn't quite give the full story. Group outsiders Bulgaria were arguably the better side in the first half and were unlucky to be a goal down at the break. Even into the second half things looked promising and they almost levelled matters ten minutes in, only to then fall to two Henrik Larsson goals in 71 seconds! The rest was history and whilst Bulgaria could well go on and sink without trace in this competition, Sweden could yet become a surprise package. That said, the way this game goes with twists and turns everywhere, they may not even get past the group stages! In the 1982 WC, Hungary beat El Salvador 10-1 in a group game, yet still didnt qualify for the second stages.

Tuesday 15th June 2004
"I was dreaming of the past. And my heart was beating fast. I began to lose control." (Song)

Which Portuguese player was one of only two players to score a hat trick during Euro 2000?
Sergio Conceicao (v Germany): Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

A little light relief ahead of today's games. According to the radio this morning, British men are among the most `uncool` in the World! Now, I missed where this stunning fact originated from, although I did catch the primary reasons, which are:
1. They pick their noses whilst driving!
2. They have a very poor dress sense!
3. They wear their wife's or girlfriends underwear in bed!
4. They try and sing along to songs that they don't know the lyrics to!
5. They wear football/rugby shirts in public even when no games are taking place!
Now, I'm guilty of four of these five....but I'm not saying which ones!!

Czech Rep 2 Latvia 1: For over half an hour, it looked as though we were on target for the competition's second big shock result as rank outsiders Latvia led fancied outsiders the Czech Republic at half time. It wasn't to be however as the Czech did what Portugal couldn't and battled back for victory. For myself and my daughter it was a tense time as we've both taken part in a prediction competition and although Latvia's goal blew both our chances of the correct scoreline, the late winner gave her the chance of points by not only predicting the correct winner, but also the right margin (she went for 1-0). So, we spent the final few minutes at loggerheads as she wanted no more goals, whilst I needed another as I went for 2-0 (thereby also getting the right margin!). Ultimately, the kids win again!!

Germany 1 Holland 1: A rare and momentous occasion as my wife actually sat through the entire game which is almost a first! Nothing to do with her having a bet on it of course, however she ultimately witnessed a disappointing clash between two great rivals which was built up to be one of the games of the round and resulted in a tame draw. The Germans were better than the pre-game hype whilst the Dutch did everything to look ordinary, probably to do with my mentioning that I'd like them to win it! Van Nistelrooy did nothing until his admittedly well taken goal, although to be fair to him, he didn't have the service either. So, a point each although both may fell that it's two dropped. The pressure remains on them both, especially with the Czech's winning earlier.

Wednesday 16th June 2004
"Oh yeah, life goes on. Long after the thrill of livin is gone, they walk on." (Song)
Jack & Diane - John Cougar Mellencamp: Correctly answered by Jeff Slater

In England's opening Euro 2000 game against Portugal, which two players (one a starter and one a sub) are now lower league managers in England?
Tony Adams & Dennis Wise: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Slap on wrist for the English FA as they committed a cardinal sin in not giving keeper David James any videos on Zinedine Zidane taking a free kick! Okay, so they did compile a video dossier, covering the last seven French games, however none included anything remotely like the effort which sailed past James on Sunday! Now, maybe I'm missing something obvious, but are we to assume that unless it's played out on video in the days before a game, that no England player is aware of ZZ's free kick qualities - David Beckham is his bloody team mate for goodness sake!! Are we to assume that David James never takes time out from being a male model and actually does a little football watching himself, especially on future opponents? Well, apparently we are! I dunno, these modern players want everything on a plate for them don't they!

Spain 1 Greece 1: And the surprises just keep on coming! Whilst few would have bet on Greece beating hosts Portugal in the opening game, the same few would have bet against anything but a Spain win today, however those Greeks came from behind to grab a draw and out themselves in with a great chance of going through with the toughest two nations already played! I missed a good chunk of the game due to having to go back to work, however from what I saw, the Greeks defended well and solidly, aside from an awful pass leading to the Spanish goal, and whilst their attacks were brief, they caused Spain a few concerns and could easily have beaten lesser nations. More significantly, if there is a winner in the later game tonight, then the loser will be eliminated - and yes, that could be Portugal...!

Portugal 2 Russia 0: ...but is actually Russia who'll catch the first plane home after their final game against Greece at the weekend. The early goal certainly settled the nerves of the hosts and they should have been eased even more after the somewhat unlucky sending off of Russian keeper Ovchinnikov on half time. Ultimately it only spurred the Russians on and they gave the home crowd a few nervy moments in the second half before two subs - Ronaldo and Rui Costa - decided the game. One of the highlights was the Rivaldo style over-reaction (remember WC 2002??) of Maniche late on when the ball was kicked at him whilst grounded. His rolling around in `agony` was akin to being clubbed in the face by a sledgehammer! The result though sets up a mouthwatering `win or bust` game for Portugal against Iberian rivals Spain on Sunday. Now that WILL be worth watching!

Thursday 17th June 2004
"We're missing three bags." - "What's in them?" - "Suits, socks, 100 million dollars - the usual stuff." (Film)

Although Holland won Euro 88, they lost against whom in their opening game?
USSR: Correctly answered by Jim Blair

England 3 Switzerland 0: Maybe the doom and gloom merchants will shut up now and maybe the fans can have a drink and enjoy themselves without smashing up city centres in Portugal and England! Comfortable without ever looking certain until the final 15 minutes. Even the sending off of Premiership based Bernt Haas failed to settle England who looked nervy and unsure for long spells. We also witnessed history as Wayne Rooney became the youngest ever scorer in the Finals, or at least I witnessed it live on radio as I was taking my daughter to swimming lessons at the time! Two well worked goals and one from the top drawer of flukes was ultimately enough, leaving England knowing that a win (or even a draw depending on the later result) against Croatia on Monday will be enough. The only question, who gets credit for the second goal? I'm giving it to Rooney for now as the TV caption did similar, however my hunch is that it'll go down as an own goal from the keeper as, had Jorge Stiel not got his head to it, the ball would have rebounded into the penalty area.

Croatia 2 France 2: Ah, now this was better for the neutrals. The kind of game we've been hoping would arrive, finally did! With the French leading at half time, it seemed a matter of `How Many?` rather than anything else, however two goals in four minutes put Croatia ahead only for them then to commit footballing suicide and let the French in to equaliser, courtesy of an underhit backpass and the keeper blasting the ball against the hand of the goalscorer. But as a spectacle, it was great with the underdogs battling back and almost snatching a stoppage time winner when Mornar shot wide from four yards. Add to that another penalty against France and Silvestre in particular, an own goal and end to end action in the second half and you had what surely was the game of the tourno to date. Hopefully it's what was needed to just kick start Euro 2004.

Friday 18th June 2004
"Call you up in the middle of the night. Like a firefly without a light. You were there like a slow torch burning. I was a key that could use a little turning." (Song)

During Euro 2000, two games had seven goals scored in them. Which nation lost them both?
Yugoslavia (4-3 v Spain and 6-1 v Holland): Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Bulgaria 0 Denmark 2: Not the most inspiring game to be fair, notable for a goal at the end of each half, both of which were well worked, and the elimination of Bulgaria who'll follow Russia home by the middle of next week. Good to see Jesper Gronkjaer back with a goal after missing the opening week due to the sad death of his mother, however as a spectacle, his and Tomasson's goal were as good as it got, although the Danes won't be concerned after giving themselves a decent chance of qualification.

Italy 1 Sweden 1: Another turn up for the books as Italy produced one of their best recent finals displays, especially in the first half, only to concede a late goal straight out of the top drawer of unusual goals. Cassano's opener for the Italians was just what they deserved after dominating the first half, however whilst looking fairly comfortable, a one goal lead is always dodgy and so it proved with a freakish, or perhaps that should be inspired, effort from Ibrahimovic, whose back-heeled lob somehow beat the player on the line before dropping in, leaving Italy needing to beat Bulgaria in their final game which they should do. Overall, they'll feel gutted as they missed a number of chances, notable Vieri who missed FOUR headers, not even managing one on target. Maybe it'll prove costly, but unlikely as Sweden and Italy to progress for me.

Saturday 19th June 2004
"There probably was a problem at the post office or something. Sometimes I scribble addresses too sloppy when I jot 'em." (Song)
Stan - Eminem: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Prior to Euro 2004, which Englishman held the record for the fastest goal in a Euro Championships Finals game?
Alan Shearer (v Germany SF 1996): Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Germany 0 Latvia 0: Due to my daughter taking part in a country dancing festival at Wells Cathedral, I missed the opening to this one, however we were back in time to see the majority of what was one of the shock results of the tourno so far. Credit to Latvia, not only did they create the best chance of the game when Verpakovkis broke clear, but also looked to have a clear penalty waved away by English ref Mike Riley who, in my opinion, bottled it. Germany had plenty of possession, but rarely threatened and only in the dying embers when Klose headed wide from point blank range, did they look like grabbing the win. Latvia threatened this sort of result against the Czech's. Tonight, they got it.

Czech Rep 3 Holland 2: Well, fact really can be stranger than fiction after the Czech's clinched a place in the latter stages with a sensational win over Holland. The Dutch were two goals up after 19 minutes of a pulsating game which saw a massive 35 shots on goal, however they capitulated to their opponents and, having been forced back level and down to ten men, then conceded a late winner. But that's it in a nutshell really as there was so much more to enjoy in the game of the competition so far. Great saves, awful misses, controversy and poor defending contributing to end to end football, etc, etc. The pureists would have hated it, but not the rest of us who witnessed a fantastic comeback on a memorable evening.

Sunday 20th June 2004
"What is the feelin' takin' over? Thinking no one could open my door. Surprise, it's time to feel what's real." (Song)

Who were the first nation to win the European Championships in their own country?
Spain 1964: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Now, for many people, this is when the REAL tourno begins. When every game is effectively a knock out match for one or even both clubs. The final group games start today!!

Portugal 1 Spain 0 and Greece 1 Russia 2: Just eight days ago, we wondered at the state of host nation Portugal having lost the opening game of this competition against unfancied Greece. Tonight, they both go through after the hosts beat near neighbours Spain whilst at the same time, Greece lost against Russia but edge through by the narrowest of goal differences on an edge of the seat style evening!

With two games going on simultaneously, I chose the obvious and went for the Iberian derby, only to be ultimately dissapointed for the best part of an hour before sub Nuno Gomes scored what turned out to be the only goal, but what a cracker it was. From there on in, Spain, needing just a draw to go through and eliminate Portugal, missed chance after chance including hitting the woodwork twice and missing a sitter of a header! Similarly, as time eased on, Portugal caught Spain on the break and blew some golden chances themselves, including a goal-line clearance and a miss of the tournament contender! All the while, Greece knew that if they conceded another against Russia, they'd be out with Spain and Portugal going through, so yours truly was frantically switching between games at a rate which surely used most of the battery in the remote! Spain once again crash out having been strongly fancied, especially after that opening day, whilst either the hosts or Greece will face England in the last eight, assuming that they do the business against Croatia tomorrow. There are three more evenings of dual kick-offs, so I'd best prepare some more batteries for that remote, just in case.

Finally, a special mention to Kiricheno of Russia, who opening goal tonight was a new record for the Finals, finding the net in 65 seconds and rendering yesterday's quiz question useless. I've re-worded it now, but blame the Russian, not me!!

Monday 21st June 2004
"Are you aware of your drooling problem?" (Film)

Which nation hosted two finals tournaments in twelve years?
Italy (1868 and 1980): Correctly answered by Jim Blair

England 4 Croatia 2 and France 3 Switzerland 1: No great surprise in Lisbon tonight as England reached the quarter-finals, firmly erasing that shattering defeat against France eight days ago, although for 35 minutes in the first half, I'll bet there were a few million English fans sweating! Both opening goals were as scrappy as Rooney's strike on half time was superb, further enhancing his reputation around the continent and probably the world. Few concerns after the break as Rooney and Lampard scored again and the only downside for England was that France also won, albeit thanks to two late goals from Thierry Henry, giving them the easier looking QF against Greece whilst England face host nation Portugal. Good performance from England overall, especially in attack where they look as potent as anyone. I'm still not convinced at the defence though and that may yet be their downfall.

Finally, another record went tonight as Switzerland's Johann Vonlanthen beat Rooney's record of being the youngest scorer in European Championship history at 18 years and 141 days old. Well, be fair, Rooney can't have everything, can he?

Tuesday 22nd June 2004
"Tonight I'll be your mother. I will do such things to ease your pain. Free your mind and you won't feel ashamed." (Song)

Which player appeared in the Final of Euro 84 and later went on to manage a Premiership club?
Jean Tigana: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Denmark 2 Sweden 2 and Italy 2 Bulgaria 1: Wow!! After goodness knows how much channel hopping between tonight's two games from yours truly, we had an amazing finale that saw Italy win their game in the final minute, only to be denied by the one resut which would put both Sweden and Denmark through, also courtesy of a last minute goal for Sweden! BUT, lets get one thing straight - no way was this a contrived result in the way that we saw West Germany and Austria do in 1982. At 2-1 up, Denmark were denied a third on three seperate occasions as they went all out to cement their lead. Doubtless those who didn't watch the game will raise eyebrows and wonder, especially those of Italian origins, but if that's the case, the blame will lie firmly with their own nation for their failure to beat either Scandie nation in their first two games. 2-2 was a fair result and fair reflection of the game, but don't drag this into a `fix` argument because there's no way that was the case.

Wednesday 23rd June 2004
"Run for it? Running's not a plan! Running's what you do, once a plan fails!" (Film)

What was the original name for the European Championships?
European Nations Cup: Correctly answered by Jim Blair

Czech Rep 2 Germany 1 and Holland 3 Latvia 0: Another night of channel hopping, although largely I stayed with the German game and was interested, with the scores at 1-1 midway through the second half, to hear co-commentator Jim Beglin state that the Czech's would surely get one more chance in the game. Ten minutes later and they did, taken well by Milan Baros to send Germany out! The Czech's fielded a reserve team having already won the group and, for the third game running, won it despite going behind. Germany, knowing they had to win, pulverised their opponents in the second half and, even though I yelled with delight at both Czech goals, surely deserved to win. Schneider missed two sitters, Ballack hit the post, they had a header cleared off the line and a shot blocked at close range. In fact, they did everything but score! But looking at the wider picture, they only had a good second half today and a decent first half against the Dutch. Aside from that they were dire. So, it's Holland though after their win over Latvia, keeping my hopes alive of a Dutch triumph overall. From here on in, it's straight knock out, so hold on as there's surely more blood pressures to be tested over the next week and a half.

Thursday 24th June 2004
"Can you hear me, can you hear me, thru' the dark night far away? I am dying, forever trying to be with you, who can say?" (Song)

In Euro 96, Wembley and which other stadium were used for the semi-finals?
Old Trafford: Correctly answered by Michael Muir

England 2 Portugal 2 (5-6 on pens): Well, just where do I begin with this??? Nailbiting tension, edge of the seat drama, controversy and ultimately heartbreak on penalties AGAIN for England!

The Match: Decent game in truth with both nations just minutes away from progressing before conceding late goals. England had the better of the first half whilst Portugal dominated the second and, to a lesser extent, extra time. Good to see Michael Owen back with a goal and a well taken one at that, although you can only imagine how any Spurs and England fans felt when Postiga equalised. Once Rui Costa netted in extra time with what has to be one of the hardest shots of the tourno so far, I thought that was it only for Frank Lampard to salvage matters.

The Penalties: Plenty of debate about the penalty spot which seemed to resemble an area of sand! Beckham's effort looked awful, however the replay did show that it moved as he struck it. That said, it was the same for both nations so all the whinging afterwards was of little consequence. Postiga gave most of Portugal an extra few marks on their blood pressure with a dinky chipped effort in sudden death and the keeper stepping up to smash in the winner was straight from Roy of the Rovers.

Campbell's `Goal`: England fans will say that there was nothing wrong with the stoppage time header from Sol Campbell whilst Portugal will add that John Terry had his arm on the keepers` shoulder. In a nutshell, you have it perfectly. It's one of those decisions which should be allowed to go, however as we've seen dozens of times in the past, the slightest touch on the keeper is usually called a foul. Had it have been at the other end with David James, England would have equally wanted a foul. Unlucky, but not surprising.

Luis Figo: Enhanced his `high and mighty` reputation by simply walking off the side of the pitch having been subbed, rather than shake hands with his replacement Postiga. Trudged off down the tunnel like a sulking schoolkid.

Wayne Rooney: All the hype and all the build up was ultimately shot down in under half an hour. Unlucky to twist his ankle and have to come off and England never looked the same afterwards. Ironically, things will never be the same again for Rooney as the media will surely continue to build him up to the highest highs. The New Pele? No pressure at all eh Wayne?

Joe Royle: Not a chap I rate as a co-commentator, but wonderfully biased during the game, swinging between being entertaining and bloody annoying!

Finally: England will lick their wounds and wonder `what if` over Campbell's `goal`, Postiga's late equaliser and that penalty spot. Unlucky in certain respects, but credit to Portugal who as an attacking force were undoubtedly the better side on the pitch. Another gallant failure on penalties, but a game to remember!

Friday 25th June 2004
"So what does that make us, since we're the only nation that's ever dropped a nuclear bomb on anybody?" (Film)

What nationality was the referee of the Euro 2000 Final?
Swedish (Anders Frisk): Correctly answered by Jim Blair

Another morning after another night before as the great British public (or should that be English?) wake up to another two years of hurt to add to the 38 previous. Judging from the reaction of the customers in the shop, there's a lot - and I mean a LOT - of bitterness being aimed at the referee over that disallowed goal and what one chap wanted to do with Urs Maier's testicles if he ever got hold of them was frightening. It involved bricks and a vice, but I'm saying no more!

Obviously it's been a major talking point this morning and, with the papers VERY late, we had plenty of time to chat. Indeed, we expected late newspapers as they were almost an hour late the morning after the Croatia game, so with extra time, we had anticipated it. Our wonderful wholesalers outdid themselves by arriving at 5:55am (they should be there before 5am ordinarily) and only then did we get given the memo stating that in the event of extra time, an extra half hours extension to the publishing deadline had been agreed in advance, meaning a delay in delivery. So nice to let us know in advance! A mad panic followed for the next hour as we battled to get 45 paper deliverers out at a reasonable time.

With tempers still just below boiling point for many, especially the early morning brigade who not only endured the defeat, very little sleep (I know that feeling too well!) and their normal paper not being in the shop for them, my boss decided on a ploy to `lighten the mood`! So he put an open box of tissues on the counter whilst I attached a note stating, "England lose on penalties, please help yourself to free tissues!" Thankfully, most saw the funny side!

Best comment of the morning was arguably one of the more blunt and came from a chap who simply stated, "Did you see that depressing crap last night?" He only smiled after I explained that I never watch EastEnders anyway!

France 0 Greece 1: Wow!! How many people saw this one coming? About as many as tipped Greece to reach the semi-finals I'll bet! There's no in depth look at the game from me as we were out at an ABBA tribute concert from a band called Voulez Vouz, who incidentally, we're absolutely superb, and I missed the entire game, however checking Ceefax on our return revealed what the ITV commentator called `The Biggest Shock Of ALL Time!`. Yes, I did tape the game and have watched the final half an hour, and whilst his statement may be slightly over the top,it's certainly in the top batch of all time. Many of us felt that Greece beating Portugal was as big a shock as we'll see this summer, however the Olympic hosts topped that tonight and could they now go on and win it? Probably not, but we said that in 1992 about Denmark...

Saturday 26th June 2004
"You can take me to hell and back, just as long as we're together." (Song)

Which Frenchman had the original idea for the European Championships, but sadly died before the first tournament?
Henri Delauney: Correctly answered by Jim Blair

Holland 0 Sweden 0 (5-4 on penalties): Another day, another game, another penalty shoot-out, although whilst this one was as dramatic as the previous shoot out two days ago, it certainly lacked the controversy and excitement in the preceeding two hours. I was looking forward to this game well in advance, but ultimately was disappointed after a drab first half and a second half which was a little better, but only in comparison to the first. Maybe the heat and humidity played it's part or maybe nerves and the fear of losing got to the players, but genuine quality and goal chances were rare. Extra time did see a couple of efforts hit the post, but the game will not go down into European floklore as a classic. Holland's shoot out win sets up a mouthwatering semi final against hosts Portugal, although I wonder how many times the commentators will mention that it should have been England facing the Dutch!

Sunday 26th June 2004
"This is 1976 - there's no CNN, there's no CNBC, there's no internet! Now fast forward to today, present time, same situation. How quickly would the modern media make a frenzy over this?" (Film)

In qualifying for the 1984 Finals tournament, which nation scored half of their 24 group goals in just ONE game?
Spain (beat Malta 12-0): Correctly answered by Jim Blair

Czech Rep 3 Denmark 0: A game of two halves as they say in cliche city. The first was dreadful, with even by football hating wife noticing...or maybe it was the fact that she came downstairs to find yours truly had fallen asleep on the sofa (I had been up since 3:30am!). The Czech's stepped up a gear after the break and it was easily enough to avoid another late finish as they sliced the Danes apart with clinical passing and finishing. Jan Koller is a match for anyone in the air and it was no surprise to see him score a header, however Milan Baros has been one of the stars of the competition and his two very well taken goals were enough not only to seal the win, but also to top the goalscoring charts. Not bad for someone who started the tournament as a late sub! Can the Czech's win it? They have every chance with a semi against Greece and a possible final against two nations who have yet to really hit top gear.

Monday 28th June 2004
"Notice me. Take my hand. Why are we strangers when our love was strong? Why carry on without me?" (Song)

In the dramatic Euro 2000 SF, which Italian was sent off against Holland?

No Euro 2004 football for a couple of days, so a quick glance at the domestic scene lately sees the season's fixtures released, along with a shock to the system for us Leeds fans to see no Arsenal or Man United, but instead look forward to midweek trips to Gillingham, Plymouth and Reading! But there we go, maybe this will herald a new chapter in LUFC. In fact it will herald a new chapter, it's just a matter of how it all ends before another new one begins...

Also today, Steven Gerrard left Chelsea and Roman Abramovich furious after his U-turn which snubbed Chelsea in favour of remaining at Anfield. On two levels, this was good to see. Obviously the loyalty side of things, turning his nose up at a significant increase in salary to remain at the club where he's made his name. But, it may also be a lesson to those at the top at Stamford Bridge that they simply cannot expect to wave an unsigned cheque into the face of each and every player they want and expect them to sign. So what if Abramovich is furious. The `kid in a sweet shop` stage is clearly over!

Tuesday 29th June 2004
"No more carefree laughter. Silence ever after. Walking through an empty house, tears in my eyes. Here is where the story ends, this is goodbye." (Song)
Knowing Me, Knowing You - Abba: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

In Euro 92, which Frenchman famously headbutted Stuart Pearce?
Basile Boli: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Ah, don't ya just love it? David Beckham says that Real Madrid's training regime was to blame for his poor displays in Euro 2004. Not surprisingly, the club state otherwise, feeling that the England captain hopping onto a plane and flying back and forth to England over Christmas and the New Year wasn't the best idea in the world. Handbags out! Enter Portugal's Luis Figo, hardly an inspiration in the win over England, but a team mate of Beckham's at Real. He feels that the regime was fine and that he feels fit, although he wisely doesn't file blame elsewhere. Now, as much as I admire Beckham and the way he bounced back from his WC98 situation, the bottom line is that if he didn't feel fully fit or fit enough to give 100% for his nation, then surely he has an obligation to let the manager know. David Seaman did it in Euro 2000 before the game against Romania and Beckham should have had the courage to do similar and leave the tough decision to Sven Goran Eriksson. Lets face it, had it been any other player bar the captain, he'd likely had been dropped.

Wednesday 30th June 2004
"In touch with the ground. I'm on the hunt I'm after you. Smell like I sound I'm lost in a crowd." (Song)
Hungry Like The Wolf - Duran Duran: Correctly answered by Jim Blair

Which Glasgow born star once scored a winning goal against England in the Finals of the European Championships?
Ray Houghton (1988 for the Rep of Ireland): Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Holland 1 Portugal 2: Well, it had to happen didn't it? Picture the scene! It's around 21:04 and Portugal have just gone 2-0 up in the semi final with just over half an hour left. Motson is pouring out the superlatives after Maniche's superb strike did the damage, however the majority of Europe watching on TV are frustrated. Why? Because some dipstick decided that, rather than see one of the best goals ever scored in a European Championship game, the viewing public would be treated to a replay of the headed clearance which led to the corner. Okay, he wasn't to know that such a stunning goal was imminent, but it's a lesson to producers everywhere surely that live action is better than constant replays. As for the game. Portugal deserved the win as the Dutch barely woke up until the second half. Edwin van der Sar kept the score respectable and only after a fluke of an own goal did Holland get out of first gear. Dutch winger Arjun Robben will be a decent signing for Chelsea, but only if he cuts out the diving! My god, he was throwing himself to the floor if the wind blew and will soon earn the wrath of the Prem crowds next season with that nonsense and it was good to see a strong referee tonight who wasn't fooled. Decent game eventually, but no complaints over the result.

Thursday 1st July 2004
"We ain't partners, we ain't brothers and we ain't friends." (Film)

Prior to 2004, when did Greece last play in the Euro Championships Finals?
1980: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Czech Rep 0 Greece 1: - "What a time to score a silver goal eh? I wish I had money on them at the start!" It's not often that I'm left speechless, but that comment made to me on FRIDAY morning, a full EIGHT HOURS after the game finished, did have that effect. Let me explain. My wife and daughter are off to London as I type (on Friday morning!) on a day trip with the school, so we decided to watch a DVD last night and that I'd tape the football and watch it after they'd gone as I had booked a couple of days off of work. I took all precautions on Thursday evening and Friday morning to avoid finding out the score - no news on the telly, putting a CD on the car radio, the lot! However, after dropping them off at the school at 6:15am, I nipped off to the local shop to get milk and dog food, only to bump into a chap I know from work, who promptly uttered the immortal phrase above. Now after making a hasty retreat with a poor excuse, my brain clicked into gear and whilst he didn't say who had won, it was obvious to me that it was the Greeks, largely due to the betting remark. Extra time was also obvious, although I didn't know the 90 minute score of course. So, having got home and fed the dogs, I watched it anyway in full and, aside from the opening 10-15 minutes, have to say that the Greeks more than held their own and, certainly in extra time, deserved the win! So we'll end with a repeat of the opening game, somewhat ironic for the English fans as, following the French game, all we heard was that there will be revenge in the final! Credit to Greece, they've already beaten the host - and fellow finalists - the holders and now the new favourites. Not bad for a nation who'd never won a Finals game of any kind in their history! Personally I feel a little cheated that I didn't see the game either `live` or `as live`, but there you go. Had I remembered to get milk and dog food yesterday, then I would have, so my own fault really!

Friday 2nd July 2004
"There's no money, there's no weed. It's all been replaced by a pile of corpses." (Film)
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels: Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

Which player, who starred for Holland in the Euro 88 Final, had previously scored a penalty in an FA Cup Final in the 80s?
Arnold Muhren (1983 replay): Correctly answered by Matt Robbins

No football again today, unless you count yours truly watching last night's game in full at 7am this morning despite knowing sections of the outcome! Domestically though, it's busy, especially at Elland Road where the clearout continued today with three more players leaving, or come closer to leaving. No surprise to see Stephen McPhail go and equally no shock to see him drop a division to Barnsley. Hailed as the new Liam Brady a few years ago, his potential has never come close to being realised and he looks destined to become someone who hovers around the lower leagues. Mark Viduka has almost joined Middlesbrough for just �4m and although that's lower than hoped, it should also be remembered that he was among the highest earners at the club so the wage reduction counts for a lot. I wonder how long it'll be before he gets sent off again! Finally, the jewel in the crown has gone to Newcastle. Yep, James Milner has gone for what could be around �5m, which is excellent business for an 18-year old brought up through the youth system. I'm not surprised in truth, especially after the Spurs rumours earlier in the summer, however my one reservation is how much first team football he'll get.

Saturday 3rd July 2004
"The trench is dug within our hearts. And mothers, children, brothers, sisters torn apart." (Song)
Sunday Bloody Sunday - U2: Correctly answered by Jim Blair

Who were the last nation to win a third placed play off in the European Championships Finals?

Again, no football, which for the day before a major tournament finals is a little unusual as often we are treated to one of the biggest wastes of time in the footballing calender - the Third Placed Play Off! In truth, it's more of a World Cup tradition than a European one, but the fact remains that it serves very little purpose. Few remember who took part in each third placed game, let alone who won it, so credit to whoever decided to scrap this irrelevance after the 1980 competition. As for tomorrow's final, I'd be a fool to predict anything aside from a home win, however not only did I expect Greece to lose all three group games (see 11th June!!), but I also didn't expect them to get past France or the Czech's, but then again, who did? The key for me is the opening goal. If Portugal get it, then that will effectively be game over, however if the Greeks snatch it, we could be in for one of the biggest upsets of all time!

Sunday 4th July 2004
"There is freedom within, there is freedom without. Try to catch the deluge in a paper cup." (Song)

In Euro 2000, which nation played three matches, but only scored and conceded one goal?

Greece 1 Portugal 0: Well, well, well!! If this competition had been a storyline in a fictional tale, we'd have said that it was far-fetched, however Greece - without a single win in a major tournament before this one - have done the seemingly impossible and beaten the hosts twice, the holders and the favourites and won Euro 2004. Playing heavily on their defensive strengths, they have changed the face of major finals in the course of three weeks and never again can we look at outsiders again and brazenly shrug off their chances. Many will bemoan their victory, claiming luck and good fortune was on their side throughout, but whilst it does play a part, you cannot win a competition like this on luck alone and the Greeks are worthy winners due to their ultra-solid backline and their astonishing ability to snatch a goal when it seems most unlikely. They won all three of their knock out games 1-0, all courtesy of headers and poor marking, but they took the chances when they came and all credit to them. Oh, one final thing before I finish today. My prediction on June 11th for the Greeks read simply, "Greece will have a tough time against Portugal, Spain and Russia and could easily go home pointless." Not quite accurate admittedly!

See You In August

The diary will now take a break for the remainder of the month, but will return in the usual place at the beginning of August as Leeds take their place in the ridiculously renamed Coca-Cola Championship. Thanks for visiting and answering the quizzes.

Know any of the trivia answers? Mail Me Now and get an on-site name check!

Group A
Portugal
Greece
Spain
Russia

Group B
France
England
Switzerland
Croatia

Group C
Sweden
Bulgaria
Denmark
Italy

Group D
Czech Rep
Latvia
Germany
Holland

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