Euro 2008 — Running Thread

Hickersberger was arguing with an official; I could understand that. Löw did the same. I guess both were unhappy with the officiating; it was 0-0 at the time.

 

Bring on the Diving Pork Chops!

 

Well, Germany finishes it off. So now two q final matches set up: Croatia v Turkey and the potentially salivating Portugal v Germany.

 

Gawd, I hope ze Germans slap Portugal.

 

They're going to have to improve a great deal to beat Portugal.

Getting Schweiny back will help. I think they should bring him in on the left, and push Podolski up alongside of Klose instead of Gomez.

 

The Turks will be dirty, but ultimately they should fall to Croatia.

Portugal could end up putting a real hurting on Germany. Both teams have really shaky keepers, but Portugal always has Ronaldo. Ballack remains one of the most overrated players in Europe.

 

A lot will depend on Portugal's diving ability. And ze Germans are a physical bunch, which bodes well for Portugal.

I predict a minimum of eight Portugal players suffering "injuries" the next game.

 

I disagree. Germany was only able to score one goal against the hapless Austrians. Hell, half of Austria didn't even want their team in the tourney for fear that they would be embarrassed.

 

Should have used my blue font.

 

Disappointed that you didn't get to see a penalty shootout yesterday? Salivating at the chance for history, however bizarre? Fear not. Your day may yet be nigh.

If Italy and France draw and Romania draw or win to go through, Italy and France would be forced into a penalty shootout ... for THIRD PLACE in the group. Apparently it affects coefficient ratings and such, but Lord almighty, that would be high comedy.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/euro_2008/italy/7457863.stm

 

Not just high comedy. It would be downright embarrassing for those two nations.

I'm hoping it happens.

 

Story's been changed to say there's no possibility for PKs.