2022 World Cup – Monday 05 December 2022

France 3 (0) – (0) 1 Poland (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

France scorers: Giroud (44′), Mbappe (74′, 90’+1’). Poland scorer: Lewandowski (90’+9’ pen)

 

These two teams had met previously in a World Cup back in 1982 when they contested the 3rd/4th place match at the Estadio Jose Rico Perez in Alicante. On that occasion it was the Poles who emerged 3-2 winners. The last competitive fixtures came in the qualifiers for Euro ’96, with both games ending in draws, as France went through to the finals as group runners-up with Poland finishing fourth in the group of six.

Since those times France have emerged as one of the best teams in the world becoming European Champions in 2000 and World Cup winners in 1998 and 2018, and as such came into this game as hot favourites.

Whilst the score-line suggest an easy win for the current World Champions, Poland certainly had their moments before France took the lead just before half-time. The goal was significant not just because it put Les Bleus ahead, but also because it was Olivier Giroud’s 52nd goal for France making his the country’s record scorer ahead of Thierry Henry. Kylian Mbappe was a constant threat throughout with his pace and physicality and his reward was two fine second-half goals which also were record breakers as the French striker bettered Pele’s total of scoring seven World Cup goals before the age of 24. The goals also saw Mbappe lead the race for the Golden Boot with five goals now to his name. Poland though gained a consolation deep into time added-on when they awarded a penalty which Robert Lewandowski converted at the second attempt (Lloris saved the first but was adjudged to have moved off his line too early) to make it 3-1. France looking ominously good.

 

England 3 (2) – (0) 0 Senegal (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

England scorers: Henderson (38′), Kane (45’+3’), Saka (57′)

 

This was the first ever senior international between The Three Lions and The Lions of Teranga (Teranga defined as a combination of hospitality, respect, community and solidarity) but who would be King of the Jungle (and not in a I’m a Celebrity kind of way).

England for the first thirty minutes were in a tight spot (cue Tight Fit’s version of The Lions Sleeps tonight for those of a certain age) as Senegal pressed, created decent chances and forced numerous passing errors. It was a nervous watch at this stage. There followed a switch as the slow playing from the back was replaced by a more direct style which suddenly produced results. As with the Wales game a quick two-goal salvo put the Three Lions in charge. Jude Bellingham was at the heart of both, first providing a break and great ball for Jordan Henderson to sweep home and for the second breaking up play and with a striding run created a move which Harry Kane finished gratefully smashed home. Suddenly that nervy first half hour was just a memory and England were cruising. An early goal in the second half from the Saka after a fine ball from Foden, meant a comfy lead and a chance for Gareth Southgate to ring the changes ahead of the Quarter Final with France. If England are to go any further then they have to do it the hard way. Surely a lion can overcome a cockerel?

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2022 World Cup – Thursday 01 December 2022

Group D:

Tunisia 1 (0) – (0) 0 France (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Tunisia scorer: Khazri (58’)

France had already qualified going into the final round of games, with Australia second on three points and Tunisia and Denmark bringing up the rear with a point apiece.

Tunisia knew that only a victory would give them any chance of progressing to the last sixteen and they would have been heartened by the rotation to the French squad that saw players like Lloris, Griezmann, Giroud and Mbappe on the bench. In what was to prove an emotional and highly charged atmosphere given the historical and political links between the countries. Despite a lack of possession. Tunisia held their own and then struck just before the hour mark, winning the ball in midfield releasing ex-Sunderland player Khazri to advance on the French defence before slotting into the corner. Didier Deschamps the French coach reacted by throwing on his big guns in search of an equaliser, but it was not to be with Griezmann having his late strike disallowed for offside. Tunisia had secured the win they required, but with Australia beating Denmark it was the Socceroos who took second spot and a place in the last sixteen.

 

Australia 1 (0) – (0) 0 Denmark (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah)

Australia scorer: Leckie (60’)

The equation was a simple one for both teams, win and progress. The Danes dominated possession but didn’t convert this into shots on goal and when they did they couldn’t find a way past Mat Ryan in the Australian goal. The vital goal came on the hour, as Australia broke with a lightning-quick counterattack finished off by Mathew Leckie.

For the Danes their Semi-Final spot at the Euros seems a lifetime away as they struggled in Qatar, gaining just a point. For Australia, progressing equals their best tournament in 2006 when they lost in last sixteen to a Italian penalty in time added-on.

 

Group C:

Poland 0 (0) – (0) 2 Argentina (Stadium 974, Doha)

Argentina scorers: Mac Allister (46′), Alvarez (67′)

Going into the final round, Poland topped the group (4 points), with Argentina second who were level on points with Saudi Arabia and Mexico last with a solitary point.

Yet again VAR and those who adjudicate to be frankly embarrassing. The awarding of a penalty to Argentina on 39 minutes was simply comical. Poland keeper Wojciech Szczesny has his eyes on the ball as he attempts to punch/palm the cross away, the contact between his hand and Messi’s face is an accident…and then the acting from Messi for the ‘contact’ – well don’t get me started. Thankfully justice was done as the ex-Arsenal ‘keeper clawed away Messi’s spot-kick. No goals at half time – jeez how many times have I typed that during this World Cup.

Within a minute of the restart though they had their goals with Mac Allister’s shot going in off  the post. When Alvarez scored with twenty-three minutes remaining to make it 2-0 and the score over in Lusail, having started top the Poles were in danger of missing out on second spot. Indeed they were ragged in the last quarter of the game and can be grateful for Argentina’s profligate finishing which could have sent Poland home. Argentina recovered from the defeat against Saudi Arabia to finish top of the group and finding a bit of a groove.

 

Saudi Arabia 1 (0) – (0) 2 Mexico (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail)

Saudi Arabia scorer: Al Dawsari (90’+5’). Mexico scorers: Martín (47′), Chavez (52′)

Mexico despite victory missed out on the last sixteen on goal-difference. They were ahead 2-0 after fifty-two minutes, the second a stunning free kick from Chavez. And as they went in search of more goals, the situation though in the group took some understanding (and believing). With Argentina beating Poland 2-0 and Mexico leading by the same score-line at Lusail Stadium in the fourth minute of time added on, El Tri (The Tricolour) needed one more goal to prevent them from going out according to FIFA’s fair play rule for having more yellow cards than Poland. However, this didn’t come into play as Salem Al Dawsari’s goal in the fifth minute of time added-on sent Mexico home on goal difference instead. Some drama at least in a World Cup that has yet to burst into any sort of life.

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2022 World Cup – Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 November

Group B: Wales 0 (0) – (0) 2 Iran (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Iran scorers: Cheshmi (90’+8’), Rezaeian (90’+11’)

The Welsh will say that the sending-off of ‘keeper Wayne Hennessey with four minutes remaining was the turning point in this game, but the harsh truth is that Iran were the better side even before the red card. Gareth Bale had a quiet game and all in all it was a nervy and lacklustre performance from a side known for its passion and fighting qualities. Was there a touch of complacency on the part of the Wales team? Were they too focused on saying what they are going to do to England without dealing with the game in front of them? Whatever the reason, Wales are now in real danger of being on an early flight home.

 

Group A: Qatar 1 (0) – (1) 3 Senegal (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

Qatar scorer: Muntari (78′). Senegal scorers: Dia (41′), Diedhiou (48′), Dieng (84′).

Thankfully the results in Group A today meant that the hosts are out. What was telling yet again was the sight of ‘fans’ hitting the exits at half-time. Proof if needed that there is no appetite for the game in the country. I just hope those who voted for Qatar enjoy their thirty pieces of silver. It’s a tournament doing nothing for the game except bringing controversy.

 

Group A: Netherlands 1 (1) – (0) 1 Ecuador (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Netherlands scorer: Gakpo (6′). Ecuador scorer: E Valencia (49′)

The Dutch have been deeply criticised by their own media and pundits back home and this display showed why. They scored early in this game through Cody Gakpo with a powerful strike but then struggled therein after although credit must go to spirited Ecuador side. The South American’s will have felt slightly aggrieved that they had a first half goal struck off, with the decision that a player was in an offside position and in the ‘keepers eye-line. However, they were level soon after a Enner Valencia scored his third of this tournament with a tap-in and could have gone ahead when a Gonzalo Plata effort rattled the crossbar. All to play for in the final round of games, with the Netherlands, Ecuador and Senegal battling for the two places to progress.

 

Group B: England 0 (0) – (0) 0 USA (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

It was mentioned more than once in commentary that this was a mirror of the Euros when England drew 0-0 with Scotland in their second group game. Then as now it was a poor  performance, but it meant the Three Lions have their destiny in their own hands when they face Wales next week. This was a return to the disappointing displays of this summer and once again dissenting voices questioned Gareth Southgate’s tactic and substitutions during this encounter. Credit though to the USA for getting their tactics right and more than deserving a point.

 

Group D: Tunisia 0 (0) – (1) 1 Australia (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah)

Australia scorer: Duke (23′)

Whilst driving I caught the last 15 minutes of this game on the radio, and it sounded all Tunisia and only some superb defending and solid goalkeeping from Mat Ryan preserved their clean sheet and enabled the Aussies to claim the win thanks to a deft header in the first half thanks to Mitchell Duke. Australia know that victory over the Danes in their final game would guarantee a place in the last sixteen.

 

Group C: Poland 2 (1) – (0) 0 Saudi Arabia (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Poland scorers: Zielinski (39′), Lewandowski (82′)

By the time I arrived at my destination (Long Eaton United v Pontefract Collieries) this game was already underway, and despite the fact that the fixture was on various screens, their seemed little appetite for the action, which is a shame given from the highlights it looked a bit of a cracker with chances and incidents galore. Whilst 2-0 looks a solid win, it tells nothing of the Saudi’s attacking threat and some great saves from Wojciech Szczesny in the Polish goal including an excellent penalty save at the end of the first half. Robert Lewandowski scored late on to seal the points and take Poland top of the group.

 

Group D: France 2 (0) – (0) 1 Denmark (Stadium 974, Doha)

France scorer: Mbappe (61′, 86′). Denmark scorer: Christensen (68′)

France secured the win and a place in the last sixteen with a late win in an entertaining encounter. Les Bleus dominated the first forty-five but couldn’t finish any of the chances they created. It took until just after the hour to go ahead from Mbappe which spurned Denmark into action and indeed they levelled on sixty-eight minutes. Both sides had chances to win it but with four minutes remaining it was the World Champions who claimed the win with Mbappa bundling in at the post for his and France’s second goal.

 

Group C: Argentina 2 (0) – (0) 0 Mexico (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail)

Argentina scorers: Messi (64′), Fernandez (87′)

After the shock defeat to Saudi Arabia, Argentina knew that nothing but a victory would be enough against Mexico. Given that pressure it was perhaps not surprising that this was best described as a cagey game. It took two smart finishes from Messi and Fernandez to see off the spirited Mexicans. Poland await Argentina in the final game of the group stage, whilst Mexico play Saudi Arabia will the group wide open.

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2022 World Cup – Wednesday 23 November 2022

GROUP C: Argentina 1 (1) – (0) 2 Saudi Arabia (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail)

Argentina scorer: Messi (10’ pen) Saudi Arabia scorers: Al-Shehri  (48′), S. Al-Dawsari  (53′)

 

GROUP D: Denmark 0 (0) – (0) 0 Tunisia (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan)

 

GROUP C: Mexico 0 (0) – (0) 0 Poland (Stadium 974, Doha)

 

GROUP D: France 4 (2) – (1) 1 Australia

France scorers: Rabiot  (27′), Giroud (32′, 71′), Mbappe (68′). Australia scorer: Goodwin  (9′)

 

Four games, two goal-less, a win for the current World Champions and the first big shock of the tournament.

In a day of four games, it was an early start for those in the UK with the Argentina game starting at 10:00 and La Albiceleste quickest out of the blocks. Messi had an early effort after two minutes saved but had put Argentina ahead just eight minutes later. Again you have to question the VAR decision. From a free-kick, Leandro Paredes was pulled down and the spot-kick awarded after a check. Please can someone tell me how this was different to the Harry Maguire incident in the England v Iran game…Anyway Argentina didn’t capitalise on their first half dominance with VAR doing its best to ensure it was 1-0 at the break. Out came the Saudis who were level within three minutes of the restart and ahead on fifty-three minutes with a superb strike from Al-Hilal  forward Salem Al Dawsari. The South Americans huffed and puffed and even with fourteen minute of time added on couldn’t find an equaliser. Credit to Saudi Arabia, but don’t write off Argentina just yet.

Group C’s other game between Mexico and Poland ended 0-0 where the crucial moment came on fifty-eight minutes as Polish captain Robert Lewandowski had his penalty saved.

Group D also saw a 0-0 with Denmark and Tunisia with Danes having the best chances in the second half.

The final game of the day for anyone still gorging on the fourth fixture saw Australia give World Cup holders a bloody nose with a Craig Goodwin goal after nine minutes. Two quickfire goals after twenty seven minutes and thirty two minutes saw the French go 2-1 ahead. First Rabiot headed home and them Oliver Giroud scored his fiftieth international goal after Australia gave the ball away at the back. France could have been out of sight at the break as they created further decent chances. Into the second half and the French eased to a 4-1 win with the ever busy and creative Mbappe heading in on sixty-eight minutes and then turning provider three minutes later as he delivered the perfect cross for Giroud to score with a header, equalling Henry’s record of 51 France goals in the process. France looking ominously good.

 

GROUP F: Morocco v Croatia (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

Morocco qualified as CAF third round winners so making it to the finals for the sixth time. Nayef Aguerd (West Ham), Ilias Chair (QPR), Hakim Ziyech (Chelsea) and Anass Zaroury (Burnley) will be familiar to English fans and are part of a squad who didn’t concede in their last three games before Qatar with wins over Chile (2-0) and Georgia (3-0) and a draw with Paraguay (0-0). Croatia of course put pay to the Three Lions hope of a final appearance in 2018 winning 2-1 in the Semi-Final clash. The side is led by the mercurial Luka Modric supported by the vastly experienced squad members Domagoj Vida, Dejan Lovren, Mateo Kovacic, Ivan Perisic and Andrej Kramaric. I really can’t see anything other than a victory for Kockasti (The Checkered Ones).

GROUP E: Germany v Japan (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Four-times World Cup winners strolled through qualification from UEFA Group J with nine wins and a surprise 2-1 loss to North Macedonia. Die Mannschaft like England were far from convincing in their recent Nations League campaign and at the 2018 finals in Russia failed to make it out of the Group Stages, whilst at the Euros exited in the last sixteen to England. Will this be another tournament of frustration? Certainly their opening game against Japan will be a tester. Previous to 2022 the Blue Samurai have appeared at the last six finals reaching the last sixteen in 2002, 2010 and 2018. The Japan forward line looks short on goals at international level and this will be a concern.

GROUP F: Spain v Costa Rica (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

Spain had a fairly comfortable passage to the finals as UEFA Group B winners, whilst Costa Rica were the last side to qualify back in June after beating New Zealand 1-0 in the CONCACAF–OFC play-off final held in the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Qatar. The Spanish side looks light on goals as this level with only Alvaro Morata and Ferran Torres in double figures, 27 and 13 respectively and the feeling is that it is a side very much in transition. This is Costa Rica’s sixth appearance at the finals, reaching the Quarter Finals in 2014 before going out on penalties to the Netherlands. They have an experienced squad with four players over the 100 caps mark, including, Keylor Navas (107), Celso Borges (155), Bryan Ruiz (146) and Joel Campbell (119). This could be a stalemate, although don’t be surprised if Spain pinch it by a single goal.

GROUP E: Belgium v Canada (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Belgium won UEFA Group E going unbeaten with eight wins and two draws and were third place winners in the 2018 World Cup. A vastly experienced and talented squad, the criticism of Belgium teams down the years is that they have always underachieved. Certainly 2022 will be the last chance of World Cup glory for a number of the squad echoed in a recent interview by captain Eden Hazard, who also reflected that his own level is not what it was. Canada qualified as CONCACAF third round winners and last appeared in the finals in 1986 losing all three Group games to France, Hungary and the Soviet Union. They are coached by John Herdman an Englishman who moved to New Zealand in 2001 and coached the New Zealand women (2006–2011), the Canadian women (2011-2018) and the Canadian men from 2018. Within their squad is St Johnstone’s David Wotherspoon and Reading’s Junior Hoilett and eleven squad members playing in the MLS. Belgium to get off with a win must be on the cards.

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UEFA 2020 Euro Championship – Day 15

(c) UEFA

A rest day and a chance to reflect on the group stages. As usual my ability to predict results and outcomes remains as awful as usual – good job I don’t bet! My prediction that England wouldn’t make it out of the group never looked likely after an opening win over Croatia. Germany up next for the Three Lions next and fingers crossed it’s a positive performance with of course a win. Gareth Southgate has insisted that the cautious approach was to ensure progress into the last sixteen, will he now release the handbrake? Is the trouble that once you get into a style of playing is it difficult or even possible to change that mentality?

Who has impressed? Standout for me have been Italy – positive, fluid and solid at the back. They currently are my favourites. But the trouble with knockout football is that a big defensive display from the opposition in ninety minutes and extra-time and then anything can happen in the penalty shoot-out. Spain showed what they can do in their final game,  and you can never write off a side that has Ronaldo in it, although Portugal have a tough tie up against Belgium. World Champions France weren’t at their fluid best, but in a difficult group emerged top and will more than fancy their chances against Switzerland.

Credit must also go to Wales and Denmark who meet in the opening game of the Round of 16, with the Welsh having to deal with the travel to Baku, then to Rome and back, and doing enough with a cracking win over Turkey to get through. Whatever happens in the rest of this competition, the awful on-pitch collapse of Christian Eriksen will always be the abiding memory of Euro2020. The Danes looked like exiting as they played their final group game without a point to their name, but a stunning 4-1 win over Russia propelled them into the knockout phase. It could be a very interesting encounter.

Of those leaving the tournament, the exit of Turkey and Poland must be considered shocks, whilst it was always going to be difficult for debutants Finland and North Macedonia. Scotland will be disappointed that they slipped out of the competition with a whimper rather than a bang, scoring just once and collecting just a solitary point. And Hungary were just six minutes from going through at the expense of Germany.

Other observations. Is it me or are the referees constantly in the way? There have been many occasions when they just seem to be too near the ball in play. I love the game, but I have been genuinely grateful for the two day break before the Round of 16. As I said in my Prologue, the tournament is too big and to have 36 games just to eliminate 8 teams, is just crazy. Given that, so far I’ve not been totally grabbed by the tournament and perhaps the competition will explode into life with the last sixteen.

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UEFA 2020 Euro Championship – Day 14

Group E: Slovakia (0) 0 – 5 (2) Spain

Goal-scorers: Dúbravka (30’og), Laporte (45’+3’), Sarabia (56′), Torres (67′), Kucka (71’og)

La Cartuja, Seville

Spain had come into the game on a wave of criticism, and it looked like it was just not going to be their day in the opening thirty minutes of the first-half. Alvaro Morata had his penalty saved on twelve minutes and other excellent chances went begging until a freakish own-goal opened the floodgates for the Spanish. After half an hour, Sarabia shot from distance, with his shot going straight up in the air off the crossbar. As it came down the Slovakian ‘keeper Martin Dubravka went to push the ball over the bar, but instead simply palmed it into his own net. It was the piece of luck that Spain needed, and they never looked back from that moment. Laporte headed home in time added on at the end of the first-half, with the rout completed with three second-half half goals, including yet another own-goal as Kucka shinned in on the goal-line in a melee in the box. Spain through in second-place edging out Slovakia, with them having to wait until the later kick-offs to find out that Croatia would be their opponents in the last sixteen.

 

Group E: Sweden (1) 3 – 2 (0) Poland

Goal-scorers: Sweden – Forsberg (2′, 59′), Claesson (90’+3’). Poland – Lewandowski (61′, 84’)

Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg

A game which looked all over after an hour with two clinical finishes from Forsberg, sprang to life in the final thirty minutes. With the Swedish fans still celebrating the second goal, on fifty-nine minutes, two minutes later Lewandowski produced a special finish to reduce the deficit. The comeback was complete with six minutes remaining as the Poles looked for a winner that would give them a chance of progress. However, deep into time added-on, substitute Claesson ended Poland’s hopes as he jinked into the box to give the Swedes a dramatic 3-2 victory. Sweden top and a trip to Glasgow to take on Ukraine.

 

Group F: Germany (0) 2 – 2 (1) Hungary

Goal-scorers: Germany – Havertz (66′), Goretzka (84′). Hungary – Szalai (11′), Schäfer (68′)

Allianz Arena, Munich

At 2-1 with six minutes remaining Germany were heading out, until Hungary were unable to clear the pressure from their box  leaving Goretzka to drive home an equaliser. Hungary held the half-time advantage through Szalai, a lead they held until a mistake by Hungary’s ‘keeper Gulácsi gifted Germany an equaliser, as he came for a cross and got nowhere near it allowing Havertz to bundle the ball home from close range. The lead was short-lived as Schäfer bravely headed home as Neuer rushed out  of his goal to put Hungary 2-1. But it wasn’t to be a fairy-tale ending for the Magyars, as the Germans got that important leveller to set-up a date with England at Wembley.

 

Group F: France (1) 2 – 2 (1) Portugal

Goal-scorer: Portugal – Ronaldo (30′ pen, 60’pen). France – Benzema (45’+2’ pen, 47′)

Puskas Arena, Budapest

Penalties galore in this one! Two for Portugal converted by Ronaldo (who else) which saw him equal Ali Daei’s record set (109 goals) with Iran between 1993 and 2006. Both were pretty nailed on penalties, whilst France could be said to have got a soft one, with Mbappe going down under what looked like a should-to-shoulder collision with the Portuguese defender. Benzema did the business from the spot just before the break and finished neatly just after half-time to put the French 2-1 up, until Ronaldo’s leveller from the pot on the hour mark. France’s best chance to win it produced a brilliant double-save from Rui Patricio, to deny Pogba and then Griezmann from the rebound. Both sides through with France top and a game against the Swiss, with Portugal facing Belgium in Spain. A truly incredible last day of group games.

 

After that dramatic evening, all that now know the last sixteen pairings, which are as follows:

Saturday 26 June 2021

Wales v Denmark (Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam)

Italy v Austria (Wembley Stadium, London)

Sunday 27 June 2021

Netherlands v Czech Republic (Puskas Arena, Budapest)

Belgium v Portugal (La Cartuja, Seville)

Monday 28 June 2021

Croatia v Spain (Parken Stadium, Copenhagen)

France v Switzerland (Arena Na?ionala, Bucharest)

Tuesday 29 June 2021

England v Germany (Wembley Stadium, London)

Sweden v Ukraine (Hampden Park, Glasgow)

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UEFA 2020 Euro Championship – Day 13

Group D: England (1) 1 – 0 (0) Czech Republic

Goal-scorer: Sterling (12′)

Wembley Stadium, London

Football is a results game and England’s first task was to qualify from the group and on that basis on paper that is what has happened. Top of the group, unbeaten in three games and no goals conceded. This was a decidedly better performance than that against Scotland and particularly in the first-half there was some genuinely positive play from Bukayo Saka, Jack Grealish and goal-scorer Raheem Sterling. Harry Kane drew another blank but was unlucky with his one genuine opportunity which Tomas Vaclik did well to save. The Czechs had their moments but huffed and puffed without much success and this result combined with the win for Croatia, saw the Czech Republic drop from top position to third but still make the last 16. England back at Wembley next week and await to see who visits the arch once the games conclude tonight. Whoever it is, it will be a proper test, unlike the phoney war of the group games.

 

Group D: Scotland (1) 1 – 3 (1) Croatia

Goal-scorers: Scotland – McGregor (42′) Croatia – Vlasic (17′), Modric (62′), Perisic (77′)

Hampden Park, Glasgow

This was a do or die game for both sides. The equation was a simple one, only a win would be good enough to have a chance of progress to the knockout phase. With my feet-up watching the England game, the biggest cheers of the night from the Wembley crowd  (other than for England’s winner) was when news from Hampden Park filtered through every time Croatia scored. Despite home advantage the Scots maintained their record of never having progressed from the group stages of major finals. Vlasic opened the scoring for Croatia with McGregor getting the leveller to offer some hope for Scotland to set up a vital second period. However, it was Croatia who got the job done. Modric’s goal on sixty-two minutes can only be described as world-class, with a genius finish and fifteen minutes later the final nail in Scotland’s coffin was delivered by a flicked header from Perisic following a corner. 3-1 to Croatia, a result which saw them leapfrog into second spot and a trip to Copenhagen in the last 16.

 

So we reach the last group games and then a couple of days of no action, until the last sixteen games get underway on Saturday (26 June). Group E comes to its conclusion with Slovakia v Spain at La Cartuja in Seville, whilst Sweden take on Poland at the Krestovsky Stadium in Saint Petersburg. Slovakia only need a point against Spain to ensure their place in the last 16, whilst Spain will reach the knockout phase with a win but could also progress if they draw and Poland do not beat Sweden. It has been a strange couple of games so far for Spain, but surely they will win today? Sweden who top the group will maintain that with win over Poland, but a draw and results in the other game could see the drop to second spot. For Poland its all or nothing, with only victory over the Swedes enough to see them through

England will have their eyes on the games in Group F with the runners-up here the Three Lions opponents next week. Germany host Hungary at the Allianz Arena in Munich, whilst over in Budapest World Champions France play European Champions Portugal. Nothing is cut and dried in this group, and this is what each team needs to do to ensure they are not heading for the exits:

  • France will finish first if they win, or if they draw and Germany do not beat Hungary. If France lose and Hungary win, second place will be decided on overall goal difference.
  • Germany will go through if they win, or if they draw and France do not lose. Germany will finish first if they win and France do not. Germany will finish third if they draw and France lose, or if both Germany and Portugal lose.
  • Portugal qualify if they win, or if they draw and Germany lose. Portugal will finish first if they win and Germany do not. Portugal will finish fourth if they lose and Germany also lose.
  • Hungary will go through in second place if they win, and Portugal lose. If they win and France lose, second place will be decided on overall goal difference. Hungary will finish third if they win and the other game is drawn.

After all this I think the two-day break will be a welcome one for all!

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UEFA 2020 Euro Championship – Day 10

Group F: Hungary (1) 1 – 1 (0) France

Goal-scorers: Hungary – Fiola (45’+2’). France – Griezmann (66′)

Puskas Arena, Budapest

This has been to date a tournament very low on shock results, but there was a sniff of one in Budapest when Hungary, who got hit with three late goals against Portugal, had World Champions France trailing at the break. The goal came in time added-on at the end of the half and was a quality one which was wildly celebrated by the full-house at the Puskas Arena. Fiola headed the ball into the path of Sallai, who returned it in a one-two which allowed Fiola to beat Pavard and Varane before finishing past Lloris. As for most of the Portugal game, Hungary were resolute, but their resistance was broken on sixty-six minutes. It was a goal that was more direct that those with the usual flair associated with Les Bleus, as Mbappe ran onto Lloris’ long kick down field playing in Griezmann who scored from just outside the six-yard box. Did France deserve to win this one? They had more possession and more shots, but that would have cruel on Hungary who for their battling qualities deserved a point.

 

Group F: Portugal (0) 2 – 4 (0) Germany

Goal-scorer: Portugal – Ronaldo (15′), Jota (67′). Germany – Rúben Dias (35’og), Guerreiro (39′ og), Havertz (51′), Gosens (60′)

Allianz Arena, Munich

What was I thinking? How could I doubt that Germany would lose this game and be on the edge of elimination from the competition? Well the first fifteen minutes made very interesting watching. Germany were out of the blocks and on fire and had a goal disallowed after a VAR review for offside. They then got caught on the break with Ronaldo tapping home from close range and from nowhere they were behind, and you began to wonder if this was not going to be Germany’s day. From there on in though it was all about Die Mannschaft as Portugal retreated and Germany poured forward. Then in the space of four minutes the game was turned on its head and in the process a record was created. On thirty-five minutes Portugal’s Rúben Dias shinned Gosens’ cross into his own net and four minutes later Guerreiro did the same as Kimmich cut the ball back into the Portugal six-yard box. The record created by this bizarre passage of play was that it was the first time at the European Championship Finals that two own-goals had been scored in a game. In fact, Euro2020 had produced more OG’s than previous tournaments. Into the second-half and it was more of the same from Germany, with Havertz making it 3-1 six minutes after the restart with a simple finish from Gosens cross. The provider turned goal-scorer on the hour mar, as he headed home Kimmich’s cross to make it 4-1 and you wondered if another 7-1 demolition (as over Brazil in the World Cup) was on the cards. It wasn’t to be as Portugal got what turned out to be a consolation from Jota on sixty-sevens minutes, giving the score a closeness that didn’t reflect Germany’s dominance. Write-off the Germans at your peril.

 

Group E: Spain (1) 1 – 1 (0) Poland

Goal-scorers: Spain – Morata (25′) Poland – Lewandowski (54′)

La Cartuja, Seville

After another game where Spain dominated possession but only came away with a draw, many in the media seem to have hit the panic button as far as Luis Enrique’s side is concerned. We should though cast our minds back to 2016 in which Portugal only made it through to the knockout phase after three draws, before going on to lift the trophy.  Yet the Spanish are not creating a great deal from all their ball retention, but you have to be ‘in it to win’ it and Spain will fancy their chances of progression as they face Slovakia in their final game. It all looked good on twenty-five minutes when Alvaro Morata scored from close range but only after a VAR review to send the Spaniards in at the break with a goal advantage. Poland though kept plugging away and with a talent such as Lewandowski in their side, he is always a threat. And so it proved nine minutes into the second-half as he rose to head home and level it at 1-1. That joy though looked to be short-lived as just four minutes later Spain were awarded a penalty. The Villarreal striker Moreno stepped up but put his spot-kick against the post with Morata unable to convert the rebound. As with the France v Hungary encounter did the ‘big’ side warrant a win based on their dominance of the game? Some will argue yes, but the simple fact is it’s a game all about goals and the history books will show it finished 1-1.

 

Today we reach the stage where teams find out if they need to pack their bags and head for the exits or prepare for the knockout phase as the last round of group games begin. Sensibly these days they kick-off at the same time so that no side has any advantage, or in the case of West Germany and Austria at the 1982 World Cup in Spain, allows any room for collusion. For older readers check out the Disgrace of Gijón – Wikipedia

Group A sees Wales travel to Rome and face Italy whilst the Swiss play Turkey in Baku. These final games are all about ‘ifs and buts’ For instance how do Italy approach the game having already qualified? Do they rest players or simply continue to build momentum with the same side? Do Wales look to play for a point?

The permutations are as follows, so you’ll need to read carefully!

  • if Wales draw with Italy they will finish second and play in their last 16 match in Amsterdam against Group B’s runners-up.
  • If they lose, Wales could still finish second. However, if they lose and Switzerland beat Turkey with a big enough change in goal difference the Welsh could finish third. However, four points would still almost certainly be enough to see them through to the last 16 as one of the tournament’s four best third-placed teams.
  • If Wales win they would win the group and play their next game at Wembley against Group C’s runners-up.
  • Both Switzerland and Turkey need to win their final Group A game to have any chance of reaching the last 16.
  • If Switzerland win Swiss they would need Wales to lose to Italy, with a swing of five on goal difference, to have any chance of finishing second. Four points might be enough with four third-placed teams going through.
  • If Turkey win they would have to hope that their three points were better than two the other third-placed teams. However, with their current goal difference of -5, it is likely they would need a big win over the Swiss for them to progress.
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UEFA 2020 Euro Championship – Day 9

Group E: Sweden (0) 1 – 0 (0) Slovakia

Goal-scorer: Forsberg (77′ pen)

Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg

Given there was so much at stake for both sides, it was incredible to witness an opening half that was so devoid of action. Slovakia seemed content to sit back and take a point whilst the Swedes offered little and looked unlikely to make any sort of breakthrough. As a result I ditched this game at the break. From the highlights in the second period at least both ‘keepers were made to earn their money with Sweden’s Olsen reacting smartly to keep out Kucka’s effort, whilst at the other end as Dubravka produced a superb save to keep out Ludwig Augustinsson’s header. The Slovakian ‘keeper was then called into action again saving at his post as Isak went onto a slaloming run through the Slovakia defence and fires goalward. The defining moment arrived thirteen minutes from time, Isak flicked a ball onto Quaison who touched it on as Dubravka came out and collided with the Swedish player. The referee pointed to the spot. Now I’ve looked at it a few times and I think Dubravka is unlucky as he has to come out and can’t get out of the way of the players as the ‘keeper goes for the ball. However, Forsberg stepped up and coolly placed his kick home. The final round of games will see Slovakia play Spain whilst Sweden will face Poland, with a clearer picture of who needs what emerging after today’s encounter between Spain and Poland.

 

Group D: Croatia (0) 1 – 1 (1) Czech Republic

Goal-scorers: Croatia – Perisic (47′). Czech Republic – Schick (37’pen)

Hampden Park, Glasgow

I’ll be honest and a say I wasn’t fully paying attention to this one, with the England game a nervous distraction. Suffice to say, Croatia put in a better display than they did against England with Perisic’s leveller early in the second-half showing the quality of the Inter Milan striker. The Czech Republic had led through Schick’s third goal of the competition after he earned the Czech’s a penalty eight minutes before the break. With a bloody nose from the foul, he sent Livakovic the wrong way earning himself top spot in the race for leading scorer at this early stage. The Czechs have one foot in the last sixteen with England up next, whilst Croatia know that only a victory against the Scots will give them a chance of progress.

 

Group D: England (0) 0 – 0 (0) Scotland

Wembley Stadium, London

Why are so many people surprised at the result? I said yesterday a point was likely which was exactly as it turned out. Whilst the heavens opened in the Wembley sky, the goals dried up on the pitch. Scotland failed to score for their second group game and England also drew a blank as Harry Kane looking decidedly off the pace was withdrawn for a second successive match. It wasn’t as dour as it could have been with genuine chances on both sides. And what a different game it would have been of any of them had been taken. As ever it was a reality check for England, with their pre-tournament betting as one of the favourites, laughable in the extreme, as they are simply not even amongst the best five teams at this competition. Maybe I’m being too harsh, and this was simply a bad day at the office, with the pressure of the Auld Enemy just too much for the players on the night. Tuesday will be a different game entirely and it will be intriguing to see if there are any changes for the Czech Republic. For now the Scotland game should be confined to the history pages and its onto the next challenge.

 

Today signals the end of the second round of games, which starts with Group F and Hungary hosting France at the Puskas Arena in Budapest and is followed by Germany in Munich who welcome Portugal to the Allianz Arena. Proceedings conclude with Spain hosting Poland in Seville.

Hungary will hope that home advantage has some benefit after the late collapse against Portugal, but it will be no easy task against a French side brimming with confidence after their win over Germany. Can’t see anything other than Les Bleus taking three points and progress to the last sixteen. Could Germany really be heading out of the competition? They will be in real danger if Ronaldo and Co. take all three points in Munich. It’s not beyond the realms of possibility and would be a sad way for Germany coach Joachim Low to end his stint in charge. Finishing up the day is the Spain v Poland clash. And it could be a very interesting one. Spain all possession and no finish against Sweden, with just a point and Poland undone by Slovakia with no points going into this game. Surely if the Spanish have the same possession again they will surely score? Stranger things have happened. A draw between these two would make for an intriguing last round of games. Things are starting to get interesting!

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UEFA 2020 Euro Championship – Day 5

Group D: Scotland (0) 0 – 2 (1) Czech Republic

Goal-scorers: Schick (42′, 52’)

Hampden Park, Glasgow

This was a game I would have attended if COVID hadn’t intervened. With a reduced capacity for 2021, UEFA held a ballot and I lost out unfortunately. So it was a day at work and meetings in Manchester. I had my laptop so thought great I’ll be able to watch the game on the way back to Leeds. Of course I had forgotten how poor the Wi-Fi can be as the train has to pass through various tunnels and the area around Marsden Moor. Subsequently it was nigh on impossible to make out much of the game – I resigned myself to the fact I was simply not meant to watch this fixture. By the time I reached home it was just in time to watch the last thirteen minutes, so had to settle for catching up on the highlights. It seems that there were chances on both sides, and the Czechs were simply more clinical. Scoring just before half-time is always a significant time for a side to take the lead and Schick was impressive to get behind his markers and plant his header away from the five of Marshall. If that was quality then his second seven minutes after the break will be one of the goals of the tournament, catching Marshall off his line from just inside the Scotland half. Attention in this group moves to Friday and the England v Scotland battle and an intriguing contest between the Czechs and the Croats.

 

Group E: Poland (0) 1 – 2 (1) Slovakia

Goal-scorers: Poland – Linetty (46′). Slovakia – Szczesny (18’og), Skriniar (69′)

Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg

Can this be considered the first shock result of the tournament? Poland ranked 21st in the FIFA list with Slovakia down in 36th position. Yes, I suppose we can. Slovakia were dangerous from the off and it was no surprise when they went ahead, although there was a touch of fortune about their goal on eighteen minutes. Robert Mak ran at the Polish defence and fired low, Wojciech Szczesny in goal got down to his right and pushed the ball onto the post, but it ricocheted off the prone ‘keeper and into the net. Slovakia held the advantage into the break and could have been further ahead. That lead was short-lived as within a minute of the restart Poland were level with a well worked move, and although Linetty didn’t connect cleanly it still found its way in. The game swung Slovakia’s way just after the hour mark after Krychowiak collected a second yellow card for a pretty soft foul leaving the Poles down to ten-men. Within seven minutes Slovakia went ahead, from a corner it was played to Skriniar close to the penalty spot and his sweetly struck finish beat Szczesny nestling in the bottom right corner. A famous victory for Slovakia which put them top of the group.

 

Group E: Spain (0) 0 – 0 (0) Sweden

La Cartuja, Seville

Yes a game that finished 0-0 but not a boring encounter by any means. The stats showed that Spain had 85% possession and had 17 shots to Sweden’s 4. Morata and Olmo had the best chances for Spain which were wasted, but credit must also go to Robin Olsen in the Swedes goal who made some smart saves. As so often in games like this where one side has so little of the ball, they are always dangerous on the break with Alexander Isak unlucky after a charging run into the box that saw his shot deflect off Spanish defender Marcos Llorente onto the post and into the arms of a relieved Unai Simon in the Spanish goal. Isak also created Sweden’s best second-half opportunity as he created a chance for Marcus Berg who wastefully fired wide. Spain will see it as two points dropped and will be desperate to beat Poland in their next game.

 

The first round of group matches concludes today with two games from Group F, with Hungary hosting current European champions at the Puskas Arena in Budapest and Germany welcoming France to the Allianz Arena in Munich.

Hungary and Portugal met in the group stage of the Finals in 2016. It was the last round of fixtures and turned out to be quite a game. Hungary were ahead three time in the game through Zoltan Gera, and a brace from Balazs Dzsudzsak, but each time were pegged back with goals from Nani and two from Ronaldo to ensure a 3-3 draw. It proved to be a vital point for Portugal as it enabled them to qualify to the knockout phase as one of the best third placed sides and of course went on to lift the trophy. This could be a cagey encounter and may well end as a draw.

France and Germany conclude Tuesday’s action in Munich, with their last meeting at Euro 2016 in the Semi-Finals, where Antoine Griezmann got a double to send the hosts through to the Final. Is there discount in the French camp after the recent Giroud and Mbappe spat in public, and will it impact Les Bleus performance? It’ll be a case of wait and see. Whilst this game doesn’t have the friction of a Germany v Netherland encounter, there is bound to be a bit of an edge between these two and for fans of a certain age, Harald Schumacher’s appalling foul (well assault) on Patrick Battiston at the 1982 World Cup which left the Frenchman without two teeth and three cracked ribs necessitating his requiring oxygen on the pitch, is not something easily forgotten. Don’t be surprised if this game ends as the second draw of the day.

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