Euro 2012 Quarterfinals Provide No Surprises

Soccer fans looking for potential upsets will be left disappointed as the first stage of knockout process in UEFA Euro 2012 saw all the favorites move on. 

The first game of the knockout stage saw Portugal take on the Czech Republic in a tightly contested affair. So close in fact, that the first and only goal of the game came from Cristiano Ronaldo’s header in the 79^th minute. The Czechs put in a very respectable effort, fighting for possession in the middle of the pitch, and even double sometimes triple teaming Ronaldo. In the end though, Portugal earned the victory, a deserved one at that. The Portuguese looked more lively early on and took the game to the Czechs. While it seemed the deadlock would continue, the star man stepped up in the crucial moment.   Joao Moutinho the creator for Ronaldo’s diving header that sends Portugal through to the next round. 

Next was Germany vs. Greece. On paper, the Germans were slated to win, and win by a lot. But any soccer fan knows that Greece is known for being very “pesky” if you will, and showing up big when the spotlight is on. The first half actually could have been looked at as a victory for the Greeks. They kept it tight in their own end and frustrated the Germans. Even with the goal by Philipp Lahm, going into the half 1-0 was not too disappointing. Greek improved on their first half showing by getting an equalizer in the 55^th minute by way of Georgios Samaras. This seemed to trigger the Germans, because after Greece’s goal Germany rattled off three straight to earn a commanding 4-1 lead. Greece scored a consolation penalty in the 89^th minute, but Germany showed their dominance and look good going into the next round of play.

On Saturday soccer fans were treated to the first  high profile match of the tournament, Spain vs. France. Two proud footballing countries battling for the right to advance in the tournament. Many people here likely picked Spain without even thinking twice, simply because, well let’s face it… Spain is loaded. The talent from top to bottom on the Spanish roster is undeniable, and arguably the best in the world. France are no pushovers though, and were on a good run of form entering the match, even with their latest defeat to Sweden. Spain got things kicked off in the 19^th minute after a wide open Xabi Alonso coolly finished from point blank range. From this point on, it always seemed that a win was in the cards for Spain. France a few chances, but never really tested the Spanish goal. Spain finished things with a goal from the penalty spot in stoppage time. Xabi Alonso gets his 2^nd goal and his 100^th cap. 

The final game of the first knockout stage was another high profile battle. Italy took on England in a battle of the giants. Before the game Italy were touted as slight favorites, but you could not sleep on England’s solid combination of experience and talent. The game was scoreless at half, and at the end of 90minutes. In fact, the game continued to be scoreless for the duration, and we saw penalty kicks. According to match statistics and chances, Italy deserved a win during regular time. They controlled 64% of possession, had seven corner kicks to England’s three, and had 20 shots on goal compared to England’s four, yet the game would come down to penalty kicks. Consecutive misses from Ashley Young and Ashley Cole gave Italy the opening they needed to win the game. Alessandro Diamanti tucked the away the penalty kick and sent Italy into the next round.

This sets up the semi-final matches of the tournament, which should be very entertaining. Spain will take on neighbors Portugal and Germany will face Italy in a battle of the giants. Be sure to check FTNB for more international soccer coverage.

Written by Joseph Williams