Russia Threatens hoped Germany

Now or never. The plot forge selection in this young rebelled against their genetic loser. The players are looking sharp with the faces by wear and faith of the possessed person. It encouraged with words and pushing, with that aggressiveness that is part of the liturgy of a dressing room, where the desire for victory is perceptible even in the smell.

With the antibodies generated by the triumph versus Italy, Spain is measured in semifinals tonight in Vienna, the heir to Russia that the Soviet Union before it won its only title whatsoever in the Euro 1964. If that was against Italy defeat the ghosts of the past, compared to the new rival is necessary to beat real footballers, and grown convinced, thanks to Guus Hiddink has organized his talent and improved self-esteem of the Slavic soul on a playground. This is another Dutch wandering ghosts that Spain should enclose, once and for all, along with others in the attic of their frustrations. Only in this way can defeat Germany in the grand finale.

The Spanish international had not born in 1964 and a good number nor had done when Michel Platini Cole the ball under the body of Arconada, 20 years later. The feats in black and white are not in their ipod. I really interest them or because they have not grown up in nostalgia, but in triumph. They have been champions of Europe and the world in almost all categories, whether Torres, Xavi, Casillas ... together, separately, with colleagues who in some cases no longer engaged, nor soccer and reminiscent between laughs.

They have been winners on their computers and are determined to be faithful to that status in the selection. They lack a game to feel that way and then have 90 minutes in front of Ballack's Germany, fewer names than other times but with the same shaft, in order to catch up by Luis Suarez, Amancio or Iribar. That's history.

The first meeting takes place tonight at the Prater in Vienna and can say that the opponent is not the same as that Spain Golea in Innsbruck for two reasons: its will and its star. The first has changed radically from the caution to boldness, which marks the current tournament. The second is the alignment of Arshavin, who leaves a track where passing inescapable, as an Attila with boots.

Luis Aragones retains the same team from the start and looking like a script, but the tranquility that has enjoyed in Neustift was altered yesterday, the move to Vienna for the announcement of his signing by the Fenerbahçe of Turkey. It was not the right time, but perhaps himself and Luis turkish club wanted to avoid the temptation that in a climate of euphoria, some managers of the Federation or the environment of technical rethink its continuity. Even when confronted with one of the parties that can put a laurel to his career, Luis may discharge small controversies that have overshadowed his good offices behind closed doors. It is their fate.(source: elmundo)

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Prediction Score Semifinal Euro2008 Spain-Russia 2-1 or 1-2?

What: European Championships Semi Final; Who: Russia v Spain; When: 20:45 CET - Thursday, June 26, 2008; Where: Ernst Happel, Vienna

Prediction by Lucas Brown, Goal.com: Spain 2 - 1 Russia

Russia have certainly been reinvigorated since the last time these two met, but it will be a case of them having to outscore Spain given the fact that the defenders will have to cope again with Fernando Torres and David Villa. That combination was the undoing of Russia last time out and will be again here, even if things will be a lot tighter.

Prediction by Ade Adran Syahlan, owner blog: Spain 1-2 Russia

Factor Hiddink, warning to Spain. Action Arshavin, dangerous.

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Germany does not know Discounts

This time the discount was cruel to Turkey, a victim of a golazo Lahm, which defined the pass to the end of a minor and Germany always trailer. Terim's team, with multiple casualties, managed to stay ahead on the scoreboard, but said goodbye to the tournament after signing his best game (3-2).

The end is German and was turkish bath. Despite all the injuries and penalties, survivors Terim as if nothing came out, without fear, with legs and light with the nerve to those who know they have nothing to lose.

After three consecutive deeds, still seemed touched by the divine gift that there called baraka. It was clear that what they remained in the convent, the best thing was abandoned and enjoy. At fifteen minutes, many are rubbing their eyes. These secondary players were giving a tribute.

There was energy and spontaneity in Turkey, which signed the first shot, the first offense and the first ball at larguero. Obviously also was ahead on the scoreboard, thanks to a free kick that banda pilló asleep at the central and Lahm. All their lines were occupied by patches, but at that roster of unknown dazzled Ugur Boral, velocísimo left and executioner of the first Lehmann confused.

The Germans, without the aggressiveness of mourning quarter, or learned during half an hour. Loew remained at once a Rolfes and Hitzspelger, two successful developments before Portugal, but its center of the camp was razed by the turkish optimism, which was going from prudence to the festival. The dynamism of Kazim, the fight of Senturk at the tip of fighting and Mehmet Aurelio.

Failure and redemption for Lahm

Having said all that, in Germany marked its first approach, a loss that took advantage of Altintop Podolski and Schweinsteiger on the left, in an exemplary maneuver despiste, crossed to the network. An action in the best legacy of forceful Germany, which despite the injection of morality, remained behind.

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either is immutable Germany with the passing of minutes. A sample of authority or trust over a tricampeona world can only presume that the speed of Podolski and improvisation of Lahm. It was difficult to believe, but the Turks remained the initiative, although without much joy, victims of fatigue.

But doubting the effectiveness German is doubt as daylight. It intuía in the environment of any concession Rustu, a goalkeeper who had to leave this business for some time. Three defenses defended a centre from the left when former Barcelona goalkeeper left his post to put the goal on a plate to Klose. A pifia similar to the quarters, where at least it was the revenge of the penalty thanks to Senturk.

An error such as the resounding silence of Bussaco after Lahm on an entrance to the bay area, for example that children learn what is a penalty. Light reward for corajuda Turkey, which drew arrests for Amager with another heroic. Patino Lahm before Sabri, one of the heroes of Tehrim, and Lehmann was left waiting while nothing Senturk put the tie.

The match was upside down. Maybe that's why fill the soccer fields. Also to see how in the middle of the maze is no time for the redemption of convicts. Lahm began and ended the German collective best move, with the clock and threatening to further extension. Germany will play another final. He may also fill the fields to see that.

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'Bild' and 'Hurriyet', the 'German-Turkish friendship'

The two newspapers with the largest circulation in Germany and Turkey published in its edition of Wednesday, the day of the semi-final between their two selections, in a joint statement calling for "friendship" between the two communities.

The German Bild and Hurriyet turkish remind his readers that "the German-Turkish friendship should today be in the foreground, whatever equipment is classified for the final of Euro. "We do not know which team will win today [to read in both rotary on Wednesday]. But the editors of Bild and Hurriyet already know the names of the winners: friendship and cordiality," says the manifesto signed by journalists Kai Diekmann, German newspaper, and Ertugrul Ozkok, the turkish.

"The 2006 World Cup gave us wonderful scenes in Germany: Turks with German and Turkish flags celebrating German victories. We wish to see repeated those images today. Germans and Turks at a party together," continues the editorial package.

The newspapers also highlight the fact that 2.4 million people from Turkey living in Germany and that more than three million Germans choose each year the turkish country for a vacation.

Captains call against racism

In an act with the same goal of peaceful coexistence, captains of four teams in semifinals issued a message against racism and for equality in the same playing field before the start of each game, as reported by the network fare (Football against Racism in Europe), an organization that works with the UEF.

Both the German midfielder Michael Ballack and goalkeeper Rüstü turkish, at the meeting on Wednesday in Basle, as the Spanish captain Iker Casillas and medium Russian Sergei Semak, on Thursday in Vienna, will be directed directly to fans across the the stadium PA system just after the national anthems.

In each semifinal, teams tree two giant banners bearing the inscription "United Against Racism '. Also before the start of the matches, spectators will participate in a choreography against racism. Both the 40,000 spectators in the capacity of Basle as the 50,000 who go to the stadium in Vienna find their seats on a pennant yellow, green, blue or red with the antiracist registration, which will be invited to move at the same time.

"We want to ensure that all major football competitions are conducted in a respectful and harmonious environment," he argues satisfied the Uefa president, Michel Platini.

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Turkey cree in the fourth miracle

Act first. After losing to Portugal in the opening match, Turkey comes to rest in the second encounter virtually eliminated and almost no options. Loses by 1-0 with the hosts and the Swiss delegate for issuing tickets begins to prepare for the rapid return to Istanbul. In the second part, comes the comeback with a goal in minute 90. The 1-2, the first cat Ottoman life.

Events second. The Czech Republic 2-0 to Turkey marks the failing 15 minutes from the end. The kamikazes of Fatih Terim is to launch a suicide attack and end up winning by 3-2 with two goals from Nihat, after the first big mistake of goalkeeper Cech. The sorting room is assured. The delegate returns of return tickets.

Events third. The harder still, squaring the circle, the triumph of faith of the enlightened. The Croatian goalkeeper Rustu Klasnic to bat in 119 minutes, 60 seconds of the final whistle. The delegate turkish back to thinking about tickets for the sad trip home. Before opening your wallet, Semih Senturk tie. In the penalty was decided that the Croats are those who have to fly.

Events quarter. Turkey is in the semifinals before winning the German team and arrogant, that he carries inside his shirt three stars by the World conquered and that passage is in their showcases three other Euro. Terim said his troops and is lower than with Napoleon after the flight from Moscow. There are four sanctioned, the goalkeeper Volkan Demirel, the defense Emre Asik, the steering wheel Tunkay and mediapunta Arda Turam, one of the sensations of the tournament.

Five other players are injured, including the big star, Nihat, always incisive attacker's Villarreal. The situation is desperate and the technician admits that at best will have to place the third goalkeeper, Tolga Zengin, as a forward, at some point in the semi-final clash, while acknowledging, somewhat ironically to subtract drama, that the lad is a disaster with the ball at his feet. Its strength lies in their hands.

Events fifth. What to emulate the extreme measure taken by Javier Clemente, who face Norway in a friendly placed the goalkeeper Molina as far left, was really a joke, as recognized Terim. But the reality of the Turks is desperate. Nevertheless, the agony in which they have moved with dexterity throughout the European allows them to think that all is not lost. Yes, really think they can beat Germany with half the army in the infirmary.

Neither Asterix would have dared to so much in their struggle to save the irreducible village of Gauls. But the Turks have learned to live permanently with the risk and have taken pleasure. In addition, the stands will be supported by the vast tide of immigration on arrival from Germany. A plus to raise self-esteem and rebelliousness to forecasts.

Straits ties between both countries

Faced with few rivals enfebrecidos and able to throw against a car in motion with the assurance that remain alive, the Germans, who repeated the block that was imposed to Portugal, take the party with suspicion. We know undisputed favorites, but opt for caution. There is also an enormous respect for an opponent who has taken the party as a derbi by the close ties that unite the two countries' soccer. Not only that the Turks are the largest minority in Germany.

In strictly football terms, the interrelationships abound. More than a dozen German technicians had trained in Turkey, a country that has soaked the winner of his football philosophy, the tradition of triumphant Germans with the ball. Joachim Loew, the current selector, is one of them. He made many friends in Istanbul and Ankara that occasionally organizes your vacation there. He has several houses available.

In Germany have grown many players who now defend the colours of the Turkish selection. Hamil Altintop plays for Bayern Munich, was born in Gelsenkirchen and the shirt was sheathed in Turkey even though he had only seen that country as a child on a trip with his parents, immigrants from Trabzon.

Sahim Nuri, who has 20 years and has not been convened by Terim, is considered a future star of the selection. He also was born in Germany and plays for Borussia. There are things in the environment of concern to the Germans. Not relying on the three Turkish lives. Or are seven? (source: elmundo)

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Prediction Score Semifinal Euro2008 Germany-Turkey 2-1 or 1-0?

What: Euro 2008 Semi-Final 1; Who: Germany (2nd, Group B) vs Turkey (2nd, Group A); When: Wednesday 25 June 2008, 20:45 CET; Where: St. Jakob-Park, Basel, Switzerland; Referee: Massimo Busacca (Switzerland)

Prediction by Ewan Macdonald, Goal.com: Germany 2-1 Turkey

I did not have faith in Turkey to progress in the last round and was proved wrong. This time around, I feel that injuries and suspensions will ultimately trump character and guile, and Germany will emerge the victors. Let's see if I'm right!

Prediction by Ade Adran Syahlan, owner blog: Germany 1-0 Turkey

I feel, Turkey difficult play. Crisis player. But, Turkey passion is dangerous. Germany have offensife.

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Hiddink: We want revenge

The Dutchman Guus Hiddink, coach of Russian team, has ensured that his team wants "revenge" with Spain next Thursday after the 4-1 embedded in the game of the first phase.

"A team always wants revenge," said Hiddink, who recalled that the ultimate goal of Spain at the meeting of the first phase, achieved by Cesc Fàbregas, was offside.

The Dutch hopes that the party is very different from then. "In the opposite case, we would have many problems. Spain has benefited the most, the 9 points in the first phase, a team is indeed very experienced, while we reacted after the defeat against Spain and hopefully the team reacts even better, "he said.

Hiddink believes that the party that Russia vs. Greece was "key" in order to qualify for quarters. "Having reached the second phase is for Russia a great success, after we played against Holland and tactics, physically and mentally, the team improved enough," he indicated.

Have clear that the role of Andrei Arshavin has been instrumental in improving his team, believing that the player's Zenit St Petersburg gives "great capacity" to play the Russians.

Anyway, recalled that without Arshavin Hiddink-who was punished first two matches, his team and played "pretty well" against Greece. "Anyway, taking him, gives us more tranquillity", he argued.

Despite the improvement experienced by his team, Hiddink that Russia is no cree favorite before the match in Spain next Thursday. "How can you say that? Russia came from far-in the world ranking, while the (players) and their selection Spaniards are accustomed to playing strong games every 4, 5 or 6 days before the game against us Sweden before or after the Netherlands, almost nobody knew the names or clubs where they played the (players) Russians, "he suggested.

The Russian selector admits that it is "a great success" to have reached the semifinals of the competition. "If before the tournament tell us that we were going to qualify for the second round, we had already signed," said Hiddink, who want to check "limits" of his team.

Regarding the chances of victory, the Dutch coach gives a 60 per cent of options for Spain and 40 for Russia. For Hiddink he escaped a smile when asked about whether the form of Iker Casillas, shown in the victory to Italy, should not reach the penalty and the Dutch responded that he personally has "good experience" with Madrid goalkeeper in a wave.

He was referring to when, where selector from South Korea, his team eliminated Spain from the point penalty in the World 2006. "Anyway, he is very calm," he insisted.(source: elmundo)

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Aragones has doubts about the ownership of Villa and Senna before Russia

How had David Villa and Marcos Senna forces to launch their penalties after 120 minutes without stopping to about 30 degrees temperature? On Monday morning they have not understood the very Luis Aragones, who found the level of their fuel tanks. Or the two refuel urgently or not arrive in time to start at the event semifinals. The striker and midfielder could be the first two changes in the eleventh day of Louis holder since the start of the Euro.

The team will undergo tests contrast to recover muscles, quite worn at this stage of the tournament. Once the study results, doctors notify him if you can count on Luis Villa and Senna for a long effort or just for an extra game.

The selector prefers to get in the bad, because it meets two of its footballers emblematic of the team, and already studying possible changes in front of the set of Guus Hiddink. The output of Villa team would give entry to Cesc Fabregas, the post of Senna would be occupied by Xabi Alonso. Both changes will not discourage the technician, especially in the case of striker, who looks pretty tired. In addition, since beginning to outline a plan before this new Russia that so little seems to rival with which started the tournament.

"Physically, is the strongest rival of the four semifinalists. Has improved, but not only by Arshavin, which will undoubtedly improve anything. It is that the team has fewer than ido." Words of praise also for Hiddink, who feared Luis almost as much as he leads the whole "surprise will be very difficult."

Luis thinks pose a usual game: permanent and permanent attacks: "In Russia loves and is attacking what is going to do. We will have to risk quite with the first line pressure. We should not just do shadow, but to adjust very well ". And that will be complicated because Luis knows that at the moment, the Russians have one advantage against one because about one hundredth ahead in sudden movements.

The imminence of the semi-final is also warning that the Euro is near its end and, hence, that of Luis in front of the national team. There is no possibility of reversing a decision that is not only theirs, but took according to the Federation: "I appreciate any praise, but all parties know that when this end, my work will also be completed. Whatever happens, I am leaving. "

Luis seems to be satisfied by the work he has done and will continue cree: "I am grateful to everyone, even those who have criticized me, which led me to think further. I think there is time for selection and that has generated a very important group. " (source: elmundo)

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Casillas buried the curse

Miro to heaven, their peers and pressed his fists. The Spain football and will never be the same. Casillas, with two penalties unemployed in the round to De Rossi and Di Natale, banished two decades of complex and frustrations of rooms, many rounds of tragedy y. .. to Italy. Almost nothing of a stroke. Spain, with more football that the world champion in 120 minutes of tap and drama, wear and twisted auctions, won playing with the Russian sensation a place in the finals of Vienna. Casillas Ave! Since there are no ghosts.

The first act resulted in a purely tactical matter, of fouling and macabre tension that covered over the feísmo a match that ended in the agony of apology. Spain, with Senna emperor of zapa, was devoted to play and perform to distract almost without finishing among the three clubs. Each arrival was like a birth, "hard and difficult and that" it said Zapatón. A tireless teacher of tap sterile and unproductive. To be against the wall in a game that favored the plan racanería Donadoni.

Italy, which began with the top line pressure, handed the ball completely and was fall backward, that, as releasing balonazos, never gave them or give them shame. Barely connected with Luca Toni, who apart from a header that deactivated the nape of Marchena-impeccable-not a single scratch ball in 45 minutes murky as the Italian courage. Cassano, the only offensive option drinking whites, Hurgada on the weak side of Spain-yes, Sergio Ramos addressed to Spanish-and how many times could.

Spain is empacho up balloon, but the trench Italian populous Centurion, monitored very closely mobility Villa and Torres. Silva, as happened with Cassano duel with Ramos on the other side of the field, made to swallow Quini Grosso breaking his waist three times. The penalty was that the arbitrator Birla the Spaniards a couple of faults as clear as dangerous. Spain gave more sense of pride and greatness also because Silva, together with the invaluable work of 'súperSenna' in the marrow, is not tired of stubborn by his side and downtown on a day refused to complete the move. Lottery stalking obstacle to any faux pas.

Luis bet everything for the game against the entry of Cesc and Cazorla-by Xavi and Iniesta in the second half. But Mr Donadoni also commanded top lines. And in a chaos after a ball bounce a shot from De Rossi was an armed cisco in which Italy was about to get another award as many times in his art and abuse feísmo. But Casillas, the man of the night, threw reflexes to save with the left foot of an auction to bocajarro Camoranesi scored one goal that was sung.

Luca Toni-even when it seems that not-always a threat because it began to get more food. And Donadoni Di Natale got a lot less pinturero Cassano in the second half. In Spain he was still lacking truth, the final pass but the ball returned to his power. It rose tension in a few minutes in which Italy returned to acomplejarse, tired of Spain back again HANDS the match, to deny.

And among estirón without head tiritonas of Spain and Italy continued to lead the drama in an extension of long knives. Spain, in a backlash of vertigo, grazed the KO in a double shooting and another Cesc de Silva who was by an inch. Tremble the 20,000 Italians, who do not respond quickly. Always do.

Italy answered with an auction of Di Natale, which led to the best of Casillas, the hero end of the Viennese tragicomedy. Thus continued the walk and bursts of an extension without clear dominator. More cansacio, pure epic of resistance and very few arrivals accurate. Faltaba as usual, the last pass, finishing among the three clubs, precision in controlling the truth, like the one he went to Villa in the second for the extension after a shipment measured Silva.

Yes ... Playing penalty. And this time the figure emerged from Casillas, who flew as those elected in the sentences of De Rossi and Di Natale, and finally banished complexes Spain in the round ... and to Italy. Yes, the same wave taught us that the tragedy in Corea'2002 (to Korea), Inglaterra'96 (England) and México'86 (to Belgium), turned to Spain in the most futbolera dichosos the world. It was about time, since Francia'84, Spain pisaba not like heights. Thanks Casillas.

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Prediction Score Spain-Italy 0-1, No Penalty?

What: European Championships, Quarter Final; Who: Spain vs Italy; When: Sunday 22 June 2008, 20:45 CET; Where: Ernst Happel Stadion, Vienna

PREDICTION by Goal.com: Spain 1-1 Italy

This will surely be a tight game, and the chances are that it could go to extra time or even penalties. Clinical finishing could be the difference.

Prediction by Ade Adran Syahlan, owner blog: Spain 0-1 Italy, no drama penalty

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Arshavin manages threads

Arshavin and Russia. Russia and Arshavin. Unable to understand what one without the other in Basel, witnessed an exhibition without precendentes in this Euro, a chant at football's brilliant tip and half a masterpiece group Hiddink, who was removed from enmedio the great favorite, gripped for the accuracy and speed Slavic (1-3).

Nobody wins to shocks in a tournament where Portugal and Holland, the two major references for the first phase, already have suitcases full of dirty clothes. The Dutch were eliminated in all fairness in a game that was long remembered. The Russians offered a recital, an ode futbolera to tell their grandchildren.

Russia was one equipazo, which sometimes tries to sleep and embaucar in Cyrillic, but who speaks clear with the ball at his feet. Faced Sweden had already Amager than they were capable. Faced with Holland, just skirting the football.

For some remained skeptical whether in the courtroom, left no alternative to rival the ever and always wanted envy first. This is a team that plays like a clock, with specific orders to be fulfilled by decree. Arshavin put the magic. He was almost always looking, but their centrocampistas provided to quite, you know that two taps accurate are the best way to approach the goal.

The first partnership, in 7 minutes, ended with a header from Pavlyuchenko that was lost centimetres in the squad. Holland took 20 minutes to tread area rival. We could hear the gears grinding Dutch, before the apparent invisibility of their brains. Only asomó with a lack of lateral Van der Vaart was right not to riveting Van Nistelrooy.

Russia was left wanting un ratito up to a mistake that opened the way Engel of the first against truth. In the book, modelled on those of Zenit who made slurry to Bayern. Van der Sar was stretched to almost break to draw all the venom Arshavin. The Russians knew what they were doing yy only remaining rival to the ball stopped, the desperation of Hiddink, the condemnation of its central, stiff as mannequins. But Kolodin, the highest and blond, surprised with two estacazos since its' dacha 'forced back to Van der Sar.

Restlessness in the ball stopped

Kuyt, as selfless as insubstantial, gave way to Van Persie after the break, but Holland followed with a venda in the eyes. The Russians were playing and ran, but they had lost all the virtues with which they had love in the first phase. It even allowed the violent response Boulahrouz, author of a chilling kick to muzzle Arshavin.

Van Basten exhausted changes with 30 minutes ahead because in Holland seemed dead. Semak dealt with Sneijder and flyers Russians, with special mention for Semshov and Saenko, showed a special intelligence for the walls and ambushes. He was able to define the lateral Anyukov paper'9 ', two minutes after the failed Pavlyuchenko and harder still forgave Torbinski. Well that was going to agree Hiddink.

Netherlands hurry their last puffs of life. There was no improvement, or distribution, nor surprise. None of anything except a handful of shots from midway of Sneijder, which would aim to refine in each attempt. Five minutes from the end, put a ball directly to the second pole at the head of Van Nistelrooy. A word of mouth just in time, a respite for the entire Basle orange.

However, there was no subidón morale in the 'Oranje'. He won weight Sneijder and Van Persie threatened a couple of times since the right, but the field always seemed inclined in the same direction. A slight respite Prelude the final Russian cargo, a catalogue of luxuries left of Zhirkov and punch final Arshavin.

In those few minutes seemed the best footballer on earth, capable of everything, and attend racing. Holland did not give credit. I was being overwhelmed by a Trans to any machine. Pavlyuchenko tasted the flavor of wood and Heitinga slowed in penalty to Zhirkov, but Lubos Michel left forward.

Holland had water to the neck and arsenic in the lungs. There was no way to stop that. The settlement came with a glorious center Arshavin from the left that Torbinski placed on the network. There was justice in the world. It was confirmed four minutes later, with the judgement of the'10 'after a free kick banda. Sometimes also won the best play.

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Prediction Score Netherlands – Russia 1-2?

What: European Championship quarter-final; Who: Netherlands vs. Russia; When: Saturday, 21 June 2008, 20:45 CET; Where: “St.Jakob-Park”, Basel, Switzerland; Referee: Ľuboš Michĕl (Slovakia)

PREDICTION by Panos Bletsos, Goal.com: Netherlands – Russia 3-1

With a host of players in scintillating form and a frightening wealth of talent at their disposal, the Dutch are certainly the favourites in this encounter. But perhaps they won’t go through that easily, against a side with a never-say-die attitude which also enjoys its own passing game. However, fatigue could well play its part – and that’s to the favour of the Netherlands.

Prediction by Ade Adran Syahlan, owner blog: Netherlands – Russia 1-2

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Terim: This is something unique in history

The turkish selector, Fatih Terim, said after the 1-3 victory in the shoot out against Croatia, that what happened to his team, which tied in the final minute of the extension, "is something unique in history" .

"We are a strong team. We fought and we got to penalties. The victory and what happened is truly unique," said the technician to discuss the goal to tie the one who managed to Turkey at the last minute of the extension and one after the fit of both the Croatian Ivan Klasnic.

"Our team has played very well and we have not transferred. Our people can celebrate this important victory," said the technician at the end of the match in the Viennese Ernst Happel stadium. "This victory is very important to us. If our people are proud of us, we, too, we are of our people."

For his part, the turkish midfielder Hamit Altintop said that was "a match indescribable. The moral is that we have demonstrated incredible. We are about team, which is not yet mature, but we are on good track and if we continue to believe in ourselves, anything can happen everything. "

He admitted that the combined turkish lacks experience, but that speed, the euphoria and ambition that the offset and who faces the Turks must be prevented.(source: elmundo)

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Turkey does not surrender never

Turkey lifted at the last minute of the extension that had lost a match in the penultimate and finally won on penalty throws. After two and a half hours of intense fighting, Croatia was unable to recover from the latest attack on the Eurasian psychological.

Yes, there are 'other football'. Forget Italy, Germany. Therein lies Turkey, capable of bringing forward the impossible, a team that at the last second of a match of two hours clinging to faith and the rival tomb. What destroza. What a mockery.

There is no question of luck alone. They do not have vertigo these Turkish general Fatih Therim. The hang from the roof and grab. They are cutting off their fingers one by one, but not despeñan. With the last nail in the last little finger traced, are saved and throw the tenant of the next phase of a tremendous boost.

It was 118 minutes of the game and the stadium and arrived Viennese Ruge still the goal that seemed definitive. The best of Croatia, Luka Modric, saved a ball on the baseline, recovering space, sending a ball into the heart of the area and Klasnic sent her inside, with Rustu walk after one of his outings without ton ni son.

Is Croatia in the semi-finals? The Turks were not just party until you earn. I went to the Czech Republic, a sort of miracle that was nothing compared with their access to semifinals from the edge of the precipice. At the last minute, recklessness Rustu sent a ball field since the Croatian area. Failed defence, the ball was loose and without time to prepare the Sentürk stuck with faith.

Draw and the penalty decision.

The Croats, living dead, did not survive much longer. Modric failed the first of the series; Rakitic threw away in the third launch, and the fourth appeared Rustu, star of the night, to stop the chut of Petric. Only Srna was right from 11 metres, while the Turks put everything: Arda, and Sentürk Altintop. Not took more pitches. Turkey boiled football, is in semi-finals.

Glory to the Turks. A Hamit Altintop, Arda Turan, Tuncay, perhaps the best of the match, Nihat ... At all. They are a banda with some football, unless the best Croatia, a lot of physical strength and indomitable spirit.

Pena by Croats, too. Not rightly clog the latest blow and fell on the canvas after what could have been a victory on points. For most of the match Croatia had a right direction. At some point he felt very uncomfortable, but jumped all the obstacles that Hasan mazazo end.

Turkey found the way to short at times to the Croats. But his most productive period came in the first part of the extension. The ball fell to the feet. The second was not so easy. O yes, in the light of the outcome, because this selection is only comfortable in situations unsustainable for the rest.

Against Germany, the cast of Terim less important for effective accumulation of cards. Tuncay, Arda Turan and Asik will be lost from the semifinals. One problem, though the team has already far exceeded all limits and has succeeded, above all, survive the worst pests.(source: elmundo)

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Prediction Score Croatia-Turkey 3-1 or 0-1?

What: Euro 2008 Quarter-Final; Who: Croatia (1st Group B, 9/9pts) vs Turkey (2nd Group A, 6/9pts); When: Friday 20 June 2008, 20:45 CET; Where: Ernst Happel Stadion, Vienna, Austria; Referee: Roberto Rosetti (Italy)

PREDICTION by Ewan Macdonald, Goal.com: Croatia 3-1 Turkey

Turkey's never-say-die attitude has served them brilliantly so far, but the Croatians seem to have what it takes to weather late storms. The Balkan side will just about edge it, although they'll be made to sweat. In the end, having a stronger line-up will see the Croats through.

Prediction by Ade Adran Syahlan, owner blog: Croatia 0-1 Turkey

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Cristiano: The chances of going to Madrid are great

Not hid. It did not do so in the voctoria and neither would do in defeat. So Cristiano Ronaldo appeared in the mixed zone with face few friends, but eager to begin to clarify his future after passing the impact of elimination.

As if there were still some skeptical about the details of their pact with the club white, and yesterday launched the first barrage directed at Old Trafford, so that they noting: "The chances of going to Madrid are great, but does not depend on me. I will talk more in the coming days. Now is not the time. But I hope to reach an early agreement. " He said everything in Castilian. What has dominated.

The end also confessed that nobody knew what. "I've been playing three months on my injured foot. I'm going to operate," he announced to journalists briefly Englishmen.

The party also spoke: "I am very sad because I thought we would come up to the final. No more, but we play football is ready and we fail in all moves to the ball stopped. I could not do more, but this selection will top many years" .

Cristiano Ronaldo has already released what the Madrid wanted to hear. That is displeasure at Manchester United and you'd like to hear that the English club bids to escape the cold England. Obviously I would have liked to take that step a few days later, specifically after the end of Vienna, but the Germans have closed the way to what could have been the triple crown of a player called upon to write a legendary career. That's because this year had already won the league and Champions with the shirt that is going to Manchester to despise in the coming days.

Sequence of events

The sequence of events is as follows. Ronaldo will make a public statement and then everything will be filmed for Real Madrid, which has an agreement apalabrado six years at a rate of 9.5 million net per season, besides publicity, will be offered to become the solution to the problem of United, a player in disgust. It will do so by the modest price of 90 millions euros, or 60 more Robinho, but heading for the bottom to pull it is not negotiating desboque.

Despite yesterday's defeat, the Christian spectacular season, with 46 goals scored in all competitions, including Euocopa, we will win the Golden Ball in December, and probably as a footballer dressed in white. In fact, the only doubt is whether Manchester will fall before they spend three weeks of vacation that gave the player for the same time they finished competing. Christian has held several meetings in this tournament with Jorge Mendes, his agent, who has recommended caution and maintain discipline.

So far, only the attacker was yesterday keen to lamenting a defeat that did not fall within its calculations. Miro traitor to the grass when the referee pit the end of the game, overlooking some tears and left defeated after months and months of idyll with the victory. The he tried everything yesterday, not hid, was key in the first goal for his team, will face throughout the Gaza attack but was not in his hands or his feet to prevent the German hit the ball stopped.

In reality, all problems and future transfers, not only Christian but also the coach and other players, quhan could be key to understanding the neglect of a defensive team that appeared yesterday with the head elsewhere when confused and without soul it was defending.(source: elmundo)

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Germany spends his eternal roller

The Germans were imposed 3-2 to Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal in an open clash, which resolved tense and matched to the ball stopped. Partidazo of Schweinsteiger, Klose, Podolski and Ballack.

Germany imposed its implacable logic. Eliminated in Portugal based on physical strength and philosophical pragmatism. At the counter and a stationary ball. From a football in which the opposing goalkeeper was the only goal and addressed by the shortest route. He also knows the suffering when he was planted in front rates as Deco, who inoculated intelligent life to an inert ball, but at times transcendent goes ahead. Almost always.

The birth of the party launched a Germany different from that which had been ranked second in Group B, behind Croatia. More robust, more cohesive in the middle field, where new faces appeared, and Rolfes Hitzlsperger and Bastian Schweinsteiger as a player, relegated to the substitution in the preliminary stage of the championship and that was owned creditor eternal. Germany had decided not to give the ball to the Portuguese and did it without hanging on the rack their permanent obsession, the goal. The ball itself, but never without depth.

blackout Ronaldo

Portugal was the same as the previous late-night wine and roses. Style refined, satin ball, game by the wings, overflowing individually. Let however track of the suspect millonazos who have to pay some stratospheric for a player who rarely takes off when it is imperative to do so. It is not German, that's all.

the Portuguese hunted a burst of Germany. For the 25 minutes had a resounding 0-2. The first hole is dug Podolski, in a torn left that gave Ballack with a successful pass. Overcame the excellent side-Bosingwa be helped with a little help to find space for the center-and the small area appeared another athlete overwhelming: Schweinsteiger followed the play and found the shot point blank without sparing neither cuts. Direct goal. While Portugal revised its road map, Schweinsteiger became a lack of assistance in second goal, certified by Klose with a head of Orthodox auction.

A 10-Deco

Until then, the selection of Joachim Löw, who watched from the stage, through suspension, its international, had maintained possession of the ball to the Portuguese partner, or even higher. With the wide advantage and Portuguese pride wounded, resigned his piece of the ball without ever an occasion to discard feedback with a run fast in goal by Ricardo.

Deco became the master of the track well escorted by Simao and to a lesser extent, by Ronaldo. Also uncovered power, Regata and insistence the right side Bosingwa, a nightmare for Lahm, who received support from centrocampistas rewarding and forwards, especially Podolski, to try to arrest the Portuguese. In a combination of football clean, Deco found Simao, is deepened toward the distancing of Ronaldo and, although the 'megacrack' Now crashed his shot into the goalkeeper Lehmann, Nuno Gomes got the reward on a pitch that forced Metzelder was unable to divert by millimeters.

Germany is not the decanso bad wine, but what he drew from any doubt was the third goal, modelled on second. Launching a ball stopped Schweinsteiger, Ballack auction. It was the auction of semi-finals, although the referee should not be granted: the Chelsea midfielder Paulo Ferreira clearly pushed to get the ideal position for testarazo.

'Caminho' home

path of elimination of Portugal was charted. Only a 'megacrack' could ruin. And Ronaldo did not appear. Germany was left acorralar, all his men stuck to his goalkeeper. Followed the recital of Deco until he is finished gas. The infallible medicine for oxygenate muscles and brains would have been a goal early, but lusos took too long to find it. And before Postiga the mark compared to culminate with a good action Nani, Luiz Felipe Scolari had suffered some tremor those advanced by the Germans, in particular a obusazo not nailed that Podolski in the squad for a span of Ricardo .

Everyone in their field. Portugal goes on vacation in the head with his German and high covered by an itinerary without macula until its abrupt end in the quarter. And Germany already thinking about the finals, with more reasons than ever. (Source: elmundo)

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Prediction Score Portugal-Germany 1-2 or 0-1?

What: European Championships, Quarter Final: Who: Portugal vs Germany: When: Thursday 19 June 2008, 20:45 CET: Where: St. Jakob Park, Basel: Referee: Peter Fröjdfeldt (Swe)

PREDICTION by Mathew Burt, goal.com: Portugal 1-2 Germany

With so much at stake it looks set to be a tight affair in Basel as these two sides battle for a place in the semi finals. Form says Portugal, history says Germany.

Germany will have to really step up a gear from what they have shown so far in the tournament. If Mario Gomez and Miroslav Klose wake up and deliver like they can, they will pose a real threat.

Portugal on the other hand have impressed in their ‘two’ games and have the added advantage of an extra few days rest. It’s a very difficult one to call, but as the old adage goes: “Never write off the Germans”.

PREDICTION by Ade Adran Syahlan, owner blog: Portugal 0-1 Germany

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Spain signs full

The Spain of alternate joined the ninth consecutive victory for the selection of Luis Aragones with goals from Ruben de la Red and Dani Güiza in the last phase of the game. Charisteas had advanced to the Greeks in the first part.

Was needed to win, what noses. Those who are not holders also form selection. And Spain will reach the crossing 'death' against Italy with nine consecutive victories in his basket, a record matched to the Cross of the 20's. It also equalled the 36 victories of the 'era Clemente', but in 11 fewer matches. More wood for morale.

This time, selecting the party back to training closes with ways similar to the infinitely more aggressive and dangerous' Azzurra '. A test of the encounter on Sunday in which the two contenders were 'sparrings'.

All new on the field, less Iniesta. Players hooked to perfectly good football. Anyone who left the boots of Cesc Fabregas in some specific moments-although it was off-and that Xabi Alonso unleashed a torrent endless.

The goals elected Spanish players most in need. Ruben empathy of the Network, a footballer who is going to be big and which still lacks conviction. Anduve lost in the first half, but not stopped their advance and Zapatazos at the time confirmed his new step forward.

For framework of the network took a new long pass, accurate, intelligent and measured Xabi Alonso, from his command post, and receipt by Daniel Güiza in the area, turning its back on the baseline. Jerez pitching ago, appeared where the unbridled power of the footballer who has already repescado Real Madrid.

But Güiza not enough to attend and less if the match had not yet been won. A goalscorer as he died and to mark the occasion by him-came after some wandering, these nerve-centre thanks to Sergio García. Mallorca striker endured the Tarasco of the scoreboard and it ended up lying on the grass watching the auction to bocajarro. His first goal with Spain, portico of a whole litany.

The Spanish victory was sealed in 87 minutes, but I had already deserves many minutes, with Cazorla-substitute Iniesta in the 55 - already in the field inventing and punishing the Greek ageing defence.

Nothing was perfect in Spain, despite the victory and the phases of brilliance. The goal from Charisteas in a move to the ball too much to penalize the selection, forced to play uphill from the minute 41.

You could see coming, not because the Spaniards were closing their hands and allowed to finish an attack not Greek to them was surprised to contrapié. Normally stood with a lack 'technical' in the middle, or beyond. And in the game high, the Spanish defense needed help from beyond.

To play for the first time together was not bad. The real Spain, next Sunday, will give much more, although you will be asked simply the same thing: winning.
Spanish

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Russia, for ingenuity

Reason for celebration for Russia ... at least until Saturday. The team of Guus Hiddink, with an image very different from that offered to Spain, failed to pass the quarter-finals after passing over a loose Sweden and was measured at the sensation of the tournament, Holland.

From the outset, Russia took over the command to make clear its intentions. The touch of Arshavin, the crack of Zenit who lost the first two games through suspension, was a plus for the team Hiddink in the final stretch of countryside, where imagination rules. Quality of Ras east to the ball on the Nordic centimeters.

One of the cool mediapunta forced to Isaksson hard at a center poisoned from the left that surprised the goal of Manchester City. With boilers society between Arshavin, Ziryanov and Pavlyuchenko operating at full capacity, the Russian goal seemed only a matter of time. And this was, of course, after a superb combination of his best men. Anyukov took advantage of a Ziryanov interned in from the right to serve Pavlyuchenko, who did not spare the first clear he had to send it inside. Award more than deserved by the record and the best Russian game.

Sweden, spurred by both, it clung to his best weapon, and at a snowy, only larguero prevented Larsson achieve a tie. A mirage in front of the red tide, determined to win by KO. Pavlyuchenko responded with a new genius in a ball impossible that repelled the crosshead. Another warning for the team Lagerback, impotent in the exchange of blows.

With the game on the board won in a clear way for Hiddink, Lagerback bet in the second part by the pressure that he missed the first. Sterile attempt, when Zhirkov, very incisive, braided five minutes with a combination of manual Arshavin, who rounded off his great performance with a goal.

Outside yes, Sweden was unable, no longer rising, but planting a minimal resistance to an imperial Russia at times. The passage of minutes and the physical superiority of the Nordic offered more consistency, although no news of Ibrahimovic, renqueante his knee throughout the tournament. For Swedish relief, lack of targeting Ziryanov and Pavlyuchenko in separate contras avoided humiliation.(source: elmundo)

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