"Spain triumph"

Spain claimed his first major title for 44 years after winning Euro 2008 with a 1-0 victory over Germany.

Fernando Torres scored the only goal of the game when chipped over Jens Lehmann but the 1-0 scoreline hardly reflect the true nature of a contest in which Spain were in complete control throughout.

Germany simply had no answer to the oppression exercised in the center of the field by the likes of Xavi, Iniesta, Fabregas, Silva and Senna, who combined to provide a measure of finesse and agility that neither side in the tournament could match . With the defensive security underpinned by reliable Casillas and a potent front line composed of Torres and Villa, Luis Aragno coach has done what many of his predecessors had failed to achieve: namely, a mixture of a group of prominent individuals into a formidable team . Now steps down, mission accomplished.

Spain started the game patient in his possession but it was Germany who led the initial threat, particularly by the left flank, where Lukas Podolski and Philip Lahm is combined well and it causes problems for Sergio Ramos.

The game's first chance fell to Klose who pounce on a step wandering Sergio Ramos but overran the ball under pressure from Carlos Puyol. Ballack, who had been a fitness doubt right until kick-off, broke left and cut inside Puyol before delivering a dangerous cross into the penalty area.

Although not rattled, Spain took time to get their intricate passing game going, but when they finally found their rhythm, almost opened the scoring. In 14 minutes, Iniesta sailed in a wonderful pass from Xavi and crossed into the box where the reverse Per Mertesacker forced goalkeeper Jens Lehmann into a sharp reaction save. It was the closest it had reached a goal and highlighted the growing threat of Spaniards.

Another proof of the growing dominance Spanish came midway through the half when Sergio Ramos' cross was met by a firm downward header from Fernando Torres in the post.

As the half wore on, Germany were looking increasingly vulnerable and that there was a big surprise when Spain finally achieved the breakthrough. Xavi was the architect of the goal, but the pace and strength Torres that ultimately undid Germany. Collecting a pass measured the Barcelona midfielder, Torres flick the ball beyond Lahm Dinka and a delicate chip over Lehmann into the far corner of the net.

Ballack, who was running repair a cut eye, saw his frustration get the better of him when he squared up Puyol and received a reserve for its problems. With his most influential player struggling to have any impact, rudder and Germany are looking devoid of ideas.

Joachim Low responded to the growing crisis of replacing Philip Lahm with Marcell Jansen. This is a like for like replacement and it is difficult to see how the introduction of another defender could change the shape of the game.

However, Germany are nothing if not tenacious and a brief spell after the interval finally began to take the game to their opponents. Schweinsteiger, who had been anonymous in the first half, began to make some races that threaten the right flank, although his delivery remains patchy. Their best chance fell to Ballack to volley just wide after Puyol had given the ball away near his own corner flag.

Spain were lucky to still have eleven men on the pitch when David Villa headbutted Lukas Podolski. The incident was not spotted by the referee, much to the dismay of the German side. Soon after Aragones wisely removed Silva.

Aragones responded to the growing threat of taking off Cesc Fabregas and lead to more defensive-minded Xabi Alonso. If the switch is intended to regulate the ship worked, but more importantly also the improvement of Spain as a joint attack. A barrage of opportunities fell their way in a frantic spell midway through the half, with Sergio Ramos and Iniesta with what a fine save from Lehmann.

As Germany pressed forward in search of a tie, became more vulnerable to rapid counter-attack of the Spaniards. In fact, if a second objective is reaching Spain seemed much more likely to score, earrings and Marcos Senna was only inches away from sealing victory after another sweeping move from Aragones'.

The game ended with Germany struggling to clear the ball outside their own half. They spent a force that seems unable to muster the necessary self-belief to challenge the authority of Spain. It has been this way for much of the game as men in red finally banished his international reputation as the football great underachievers.

However, for some derives from finishing the victors the margin would have been much higher. Sometimes, Spain were playing with their opponents, and only a propensity to develop along the front of goal denied the most emphatic victory of his overall superiority deserved.


Germany 0-1 Spain
Top Scorers: Fernando Torres 33

Half: 0-1

Attendance: 51,428

Teams:
Germany: 1-Jens Lehmann, 3-Arne Friedrich, 17-Per Mertesacker, 21-Christoph Metzelder, 16-Philipp Lahm (2-Marcell Jansen 46), 7-Bastian Schweinsteiger, 8-Torsten Frings, 13-Michael Ballack, 15 -- Thomas Hitzlsperger (22-Kevin Kuranyi 58), 20-Lukas Podolski, 11-Miroslav Klose (9-Mario Gomez 79)

Spain: 1-Iker Casillas, 15-Sergio Ramos, 5-Carles Puyol, 4-Carlos Marchena, Joan Capdevila 11-, 19-Marcos Senna, 6-Andres Iniesta, 8-Xavi, 10-Cesc Fabregas (14-Xabi Alonso 63), 21-David Silva (12 Santi Cazorla 66), 9-Fernando Torres (17-Daniel Giza 78)

Referee: Roberto Rosetti (Italy)

"Euro 2008 final preview - Germany v Spain"

After a captivating tournament which has been elevated to the quality and refreshing and low in the dispute, tonight sees the culmination of a glorious Euro 2008 with a final assembly in Vienna between two of soccer's most powerful nations.


Despite the undoubted individual excitements offered by the previous group and knockout stages, nothing can match the anticipation aroused by this encounter weather. For both teams and their players and what a privilege it offers a rare opportunity to write themselves in the folklore of their respective nations and in the annals of football history.

On paper the tie offers an intriguing clash of styles, ideologies and stereotypes: the pace, talent, enthusiasm and passion of the Spaniards against the sand, efficiency, determination and traditional cruelty of the Germans. We have a young team Spanish, desperate to redress a generations-old national discrepancy in the balance between the undoubted ability and winning titles, which have hardly been sufficient. And we have a German side, eager to demonstrate its capability to continue its tradition of sporting nation of triumph when we have the majority against a more fashionable, dashing and critically acclaimed opponent - an event that has already happened several Sometimes too often in the eyes of the romantic neutral.

There is, however, a shadow hangs over the preparations due to the possible absence through injury of two of the tournaments biggest stars. Spain David Villa forward, top scorer of the finals so far, is struggling with the thigh injury he picked up last week in 3-0 semi-final victory over Russia, while Germany captain Michael Ballack is also a doubt with a calf strain. Of the two is that Villa is worth the most doubtful to play, but Ballack injury could also rule him yet. It would be a bitter disappointment if the end was stolen from these two brilliant players,

Strike devastating
The impression is that the absence of Ballack would be the most devastating blow to his team the chance of success, despite the objectives of the Villa. The Chelsea midfielder has been crucial to his side both on and off the pitch this summer, the brilliant performance in the quarter-final victory against Portugal and providing real leadership in the aftermath of the group stage of shock defeat of Croatia. In a team containing a mixture of young and promising solid experience is the established world-class player at the peak of his career. The coach Joachim Low must be praying that the positive noises coming out of the German chamber of treatment are well founded.

Germany were the pre-tournament favourites and the selection of many knowledgeable pundits before the final, but have been a model of inconsistency so far. Three good results against Poland, Austria and Portugal have been tempered by sad showing in their other two games. They paid the price for not turning in the intermediate group match against Croatia in the form of a well-deserved defeat, while in the semi-final against Turkey were a few very fortunate to win.

Much will depend, therefore, that Germany will become Vienna tonight. Those with decent memories will allude to the fact that this German team, like those of past generations, seem to thrive when underdogs, which undoubtedly are tonight, despite its own skinny pre-tournament odds.

After his fallibility was exposed in the group stages, no one expected the defeat to Portugal in the quarter-finals, but they did, and convincingly. Germany, and his predecessor as West Germany, have a history of upsetting the form book in big tournaments - look no further than the end of 1954 and 1974 World Cup tests. Both parties face the teams considered by the masses to be the legitimate winners, the proponents of football at its most dazzling style and form - and in both matches, against all odds, Germany emerged with the spoils. Tonight they face a similar dilemma in the form of a side that Spain had all of us to reach the superlatives after a scintillating second half performance against Russia last week in the semi-final.

Caution and Paranioa
However, if the history book offers comfort to Germany for the Spanish fans are offered only prudence and paranoia. While the Germans are looking to expand its relevance to the Spanish will rip it is composed.

It has been well documented that the Spanish football has produced 25 winners of European club soccer competition first, yet has produced one national team, some 44 years ago, capable of winning a major trophy. Among Spain have been at one another grand finale, which lost to hosts France to 84 euros. To illustrate the historical difference between the two sides, this will be the thirteenth and final principal Germany, if victorious, his seventh title.

However, if the outbreak is left to only tonight, to a single football game on paper, then is German fans surely will be the wiser. This morning the major newspapers in Europe are full of comparisons between the two formations, with almost all of them give Spain a significant advantage in all positions. It's easy to see why.

In goal, Iker Casillas of Spain has been one of the stars of the tournament shifts, while his counterpart, Jens Lehmann, has looked beyond his best in 38 years of age.

Spain is defending combination of athletics, in the form of Sergio Ramos, strength and determination in the form of centre halves Puyol and Marchena, and unfussy, the position of collateral in the form of the left side, Joan Capdevila. On the side, possibly, the Germans are a group match for Spain, but the German association of central defender Mertesacker and Metzelder notoriously lacking pace and mobility. Their job tonight could be made easier by the absence of Villa Quicksilver, but the pace and power of Fernando Torres is likely to cause them a lot of problems. It is unlikely to be intimidated by the German pair, who compensate for their lack of pace with the size and strength.

Both teams are likely to start with a top forward, Torres with Spain and Germany with Miroslav Klose. Both players are first class, with Torres comes from a superb debut season in the English Premier League and a scorer Klose tested in more than one of the major tournaments in the past. Torres is undoubtedly the most industrious and versatile of the two, and he will throw in positions of great regularity to offer a way out and give space for Spain interchangeable attacking midfielders to exploit. With Lukas Podolski and Bastian Schweinsteiger to the Germans that offer greater width midfield enjoying Spain, Klose will play their normal game inhalation opportunities in and around the penalty area.

It is at the center of the field that Spain has won the majority of people's hearts, with the duo Barcelona Xavi and Iniesta effort complemented by Valencia David Villa. All three are gifted technically, blessed with great vision and offer a threat Goalscoring, and all are also more hard work that they are given credit. Behind them sits Villarreal's Marcos Senna, a contender for the unsung but most effective player throughout the competition, the insurance policy that allows the three most advanced midfielders to express opposition half.

In the likely absence of Villa, Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas is likely to resume its role as a second striker behind Torres filled with such devastating effect in the second half of the semi-final. Despite starting only two games in his name is most people list as the star of the tournament so far, a turnover that could very well continue to cement a berth tonight from one of the biggest stages of all.

Therefore, much depends on the ability Ballack and his presence, or not, in the German midfield. Torsten Frings is a great companion to the captain and he will have to be at his best in the holding role to nullify the threat of Fabregas. The other midfielders faces the biggest game of his career so far. Podolski, a converted striker, has been effective but inconsistent in the left wing, with the same analysis applies to Schweinsteiger and Thomas Hitzlsperger. Of the three of them can be Schweinsteiger assume that most of the responsibility if Ballack has not made the starting signal. Only time will tell if his young shoulders are broad enough to carry him and the rest of his team.

"No one remembers the finalists"
"I've told my players that no one remembers the finalists," Spain coach Luis Aragones told media on Friday.

Aragones, who will be 70 next month, was celebrating the move to Madrid athletics as a striker in the summer of 1964 when Spain won the past a major title. He is better equipped than most for putting into context of Spain shortage of success, and you're eligible if a man who has witnessed all the ups and downs in the Spanish football since his last title leads them to glory tonight.

"We face a Germany side who are very good and we can cause problems. They do not play a game as fluid but we are very good in the counterattack. We must also ensure them a set of pieces, but we will be ready. We will give our people something to celebrate after all this time in the desert. "

Germany coach Joachim Low is realistic about the threat posed by the Spanish midfielders, and acknowledges that his team are underdogs - something he can disconcert cree Spain. He emerged half-Jürgen Klinsmann's predecessor in the shadow of taking his team to the finals, and hope to leave behind him lifting the trophy permanently.

"Spain has been the best and most consistent in this team," said on Saturday.

"They seem to have no weaknesses and most of its players are accustomed to playing in the Champions League under pressure. We have not been at a high level permanently, but have shown signs of our class. Now we are in the final pressure is shut down. Spain is expected to win and we can enjoy more of them - this could work in our favor. "

"Criticism inspired Spain - Aragones"

Luis Aragones said that Spain had been inspired by their desire to confound the critics at Euro 2008.


The Spaniards easily beat Russia 3-0 on Thursday to reach her first Sunday in the finals, where they will face Germany.

Coach Aragones said: "Criticism has taught me a lot, except when I was insulted. I have been stimulated and encouraged me to do things better.

"When we arrived at the tournament we realized we had a good team and we can go far.

"We've had some difficult moments but we have always believed in ourselves. We have a great team.''

Spain outplayed Russia in the second half in Vienna, although Aragones is aware that Germany is a challenge harder.

"We are not doing very well in the first half against Russia, but in the second half we were able to play with more freedom and rediscover our game," he said.

"We are at the end and the opponent is Germany. It's a hell of a task."

With striker David Villa set to miss the finals due to a thigh injury, Cesc Fabregas is expected to start the game.

"With another midfielder Cesc we have had and it is difficult to control," said Aragones.

"I know how well they can perform, is a great player, like others in our squad.

"Cesc is 21, he and other players have gained experience you might have a player older.

Midfielder Fabregas added: "There are always doubts. Nobody expected that we would be where we are now."

"Spain hopes that they can cope without Villa"

Spain hopes to be able to cope with the absence of leading striker David Villa on Sunday for the Euro 2008 final against Germany in Vienna.

The 26-year-old who is the top scorer in the tournament with four goals, was forced out late in the first half of Thursday's 3-0 semi-final victory over Russia with a thigh muscle injury. You will almost certainly miss the finals.

The team doctor told the official press in Spain on Friday that tests carried out at a hospital in Vienna showed the striker had suffered a minor injury to the muscle.

The players remained upbeat about the chances of winning side of the first trophy in 44 years despite Villa likely absence.

"It's going to be difficult for him to be fit for the finals', midfielder Xabi Alonso told reporters after a training session recovery in Vienna.

'Having a strain on his hamstring and probably will not be available. Whoever is playing I think we have different options ... and have enough courage to have a good system and will not be a problem for us. "

Fellow midfielder Santi Cazorla according to Alonso.

'You can cope with anything and we have great players in every position and whoever plays will do their job well and hope that does not affect us,' she said.

"We must keep faith with the same philosophy of football that we have shown so far. We hope to maintain the level to the end as champions'.

Alonso said that one of the most important factors in the success of Spain was a strong team spirit, because the bid to repeat their success of the 1964 European championship - its only major trophy.

'Of course we do not know how it worked 44 years ago, "he told journalists.

'But having been here a month with the boys share a lot of time, the group has been fantastic and we have a great atmosphere in the dressing room and that is one of the keys to success at this time. "

"Russia 0-3 Spain"

Spain produced a wonderful second half display to defeat Russia 3-0 and earn a place in the finals of Euro 2008.

After a first half goals, Spain attacked across Xavi, Danny Giza and David Silva to overwhelm a Russian side that struggled to compete with the fluid movement and slick passing of Luis Aragones'.

The margin of victory was the same as Spain had succeeded in their opening group match win over Russia, but in many ways was a more impressive performance against a team that has evolved into genuine contenders in the course Tournament.

The result means that arrived in Spain have reached the end of a big tournament for the first time since 1984, and tonight shows that the fantasy that their chances of ending their 48 year drought of trophies.

Spain, which show no harmful effects of the exhausting 120 minutes of football that endured against Italy in the quarterfinals, were the first to settle. Russia, for its part, perhaps wary of suffering a recurrence of that drubbing, were considerably less adventurous than it had been in his victory over Holland.

It took only six minutes to Aragones's side to create their first decent opening when David Villa Torres found at the edge of the six-yard box, but the Liverpool striker could not get any power into his shot and Igor Akinfeev cleared with his feet.

Villa Akinfeev to test himself when cutting infield from the left before leaving to fly with a shot that goalkeeper Russian Palmer away from a corner.

Arshavin, of whom much was expected after his impressive displays in the last two games, are struggling to impose himself in the game and will convey to his fellow Roman Pavlyuchenko posed a greater threat in the first half. The striker was set up by Yuri Zhirkov, but his curling left foot shot sailed just wide of the post.

Spain suffered a blow on 34 minutes when David Villa was forced to leave the field through injury. The leading scorer in the competition seemed to jar his leg after a long range free-kick. Cesc Fabregas was brought in place of Villa, but its introduction was a need for a change of formation, with Spain and the adoption of a 4-5-1 set-up.

As half-time had come little to choose between two evenly matched sides. Spain had shadow that sometimes, but Russia is playing its part in a tactical encounter intriguing. The opportunities were at a premium, but there was much to admire and none of infertility that has hit Spain in the quarter-finals with Italy stagnation.

Five minutes after the break Spain were ahead. It is a goal created and completed in Barcelona with Iniesta cut infield before crossing for Xavi to volley past Akinfeev from close range.

The goal boosted by the Spanish and within two minutes that could have doubled their advantage when Torres was Xavi received a cross only to shoot. The striker squandered more chances to extend Spain to the head and was eventually replaced by Danny Giza.

Guus Hiddink rang the changes in Russia by introducing Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Dmitri Sychev, but with anonymity throughout Arshavin, substitutes are unable to make any impact on proceedings. Perhaps distracted by the praise from his luxurious way in recent days, Zenit St Petersburg playmaker was removed from the game tonight, and without him, Russia simply does not work after the break.

It was the substitute Giza that Russia finally ended the hopes of a return when they picked up a beautiful weighted chip Fabregas and finished coolly past the promotion of Akinfeev.

Fabregas, a growing influence on the game, was very active in Spain's third goal when he sailed to the left touchline and set up David Silva, who took a touch before calmly stroking the ball past Akinfeev.

Thus, Spain, the perennial underachievers have finally come good. They face a battle scars from Germany at the end of Sunday, but it produces enough in these results indicating that the game will start as favourites.


Spain 0-3 Russia

Annotation: Xavi 50, Daniel Giza 73, David Silva 82

Half: 0-0

Teams:
Russia: 1-Igor Akinfeyev, 22-Alexander Anyukov, 2-Vasily Berezutsky, Sergei Ignashevich 4, 18 Yuri Zhirkov, 17-Konstantin Zyryanov, 11-Sergei Semak, 20-Igor Semshov (15 Diniyar Bilyaletdinov 56), 9 - Ivan Saenko (21-Dmitry Sychev 57), 10-Andrei Arshavin, 19-Roman Pavlyuchenko.

Spain: 1-Iker Casillas, 15-Sergio Ramos, 5-Carles Puyol, 4-Carlos Marchena, Joan Capdevila 11-, 19-Marcos Senna, 6-Andres Iniesta, 8-Xavi (14-Xabi Alonso 69), 21 -- -- David Silva, 7-David Villa (10-Cesc Fabregas 35), 9-Fernando Torres (17-Daniel Giza 69)

Referee: Frank De Bleeckere (Belgium)

"Momentum with Russia against faltering Spain"

Vienna, June 25 (Reuters) - Spain hammered Russia 4-1 in the group stage of Euro 2008, but must be a very different game when they meet again on Thursday, the semi-final after their fortunes were transformed by return of Andrei Arshavin.

Spain won the first clash on June 10 thanks to enterprising attack, loose Russian and defending a hat-trick from David Villa, but is that the losers now have the momentum to their side.

With each game, accumulation of Spain has become its slower and less dangerous attacks. They hardly threatened their goals in the quarter-finals with Italy which won in penalties.

However, Russia has ido in the opposite direction of tightening up on the back and surfing a wave of attacks that culminated improvement as a whole deserved and very entertaining 3-1 victory over Holland in their quarter-finals.

Suddenly, it seems Innsbruck long ago.

"If we think that Russia will be the same as the opening match that will be very wrong ', warned Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas.

The progress Russia has much to do with the efforts of playmaker Arshavin, who was suspended for the first two games, and striker Roman Pavlyuchenko, who has rediscovered the form that played such a key element in his country by the end.

Arshavin was outstanding in the 2-0 group win in Sweden and again against the Dutch, where his direct running, great ball control and vision passing tore two holes in the defenses.

Three goals from Pavlyuchenko has regained its appetite for the fight lightweight and the central Spanish will be at the top of their game to maintain control over it.

Free High-Performance and passing midfielders Konstantin Zyryanov and Igor Semshov, along with the virtual wing-backs Alexander Anyukov and Yuri Zhirkov, adding more menace.

"The way we play, with expertise and talent, is always happy to see that, 'said the source of inspiration Russia Dutch coach Guus Hiddink.

Hiddink's major concern is the absence of suspended central Denis Kolodin, who helped reorganize the defense in a unit that has only granted a new target after the defeat Spain.

Vasily Berezutsky is likely to replace him and, along with Sergei Ignashevich must maintain constant shackles at Villa and Fernando Torres to keep Spain at arm's length.

After showing their entrepreneurs in the opener of Spain have slowed his midfield to play the point where Italy happily sat with eight men behind the ball patiently watching short step that was ordered desperately, but lacked penetration.

Only when reaching Fabregas, usually after an hour, there appears to be no joy and his coach Luis Aragones knows that it must find new ways to imperil if they are to progress.

"It will be difficult to surprise Hiddink, but we will try, 'she said.

"Germany 3-2 Turkey: Late heartbreak for Turks"

Philip Lahm one minute the 90th winner as Germany claimed the first final berth at Euro 2008 as the struggle of Turkey's implementation of fairies finally came to an end at St Jakob-Park in Basle.

A much weakened Turkey side had dominated the first half, but only at half-hour after Bastian Schweinsteiger of Germany had cancelled out the opener Ugur Boral.

The second half was a more even contest and hopes to be extra time after Germany striker Miroslav Klose and Semih Senturk of Turkey had each scored in the final 11 minutes.

But there was still time to crush Lahm house as the winner of European champions three times - twice as West Germany in 1972 and 1980 - reached the final, where they will meet either Spain or Russia.

Turkey, playing in its first Euro semi-final, had captured the imagination of neutrality back on the scene after remarkable victories in their last three matches, but with a team ravaged by injuries and suspensions a first appearance is always a tough final ask.

Despite that, although the Turkish side makeshift even faster from the blocks, with Germany goalkeeper Jens Lehmann need to be alert to the efforts of Colin Kazim-Richards and Hamit Altintop in the first 10 minutes.

Turkey then hit the wood in 13 minutes across London born Kazim-Richards, whose rising shot crashed against the top of the crossbar from 12 yards out after Ayhan Akman's Cut-back.

The German defence was all at sea in the opening stages, while there was little to encourage Joachim Low part in the future either as Turkey Boss procedure.

Therefore, it was not unexpected when Turkey took a deserved lead on 22 minutes through Ugur Boral.

The opportunity came after Kazim-Richards had beaten Germany crossbar for the second time - this time with an effort that wrapped up in the air and at the bar - Boral and slotted home the rebound, despite Lehmann's best efforts in line.

Of Turkey's joy was short-lived though, as Germany equalised with his first opportunity of the match five minutes later through Schweinsteiger.

Lukas Podolski through a low cross from the left and Schweinsteiger dart in front of Mehmet Topal and with the outside of his right foot guided the ball across Recber Rustu and into the far corner of the net.

Opportunities were coming thick and fast at both ends with Semih header saved by Lehmann, who was then almost left red-faced by the deep Altintop free-kick, the former Arsenal goalkeeper misjudged and needed to dive backwards During the peak.

Podolski then wasted a good opportunity for Germany when he was put clean through Thomas Hitzlsperger, only for the Bayern Munich man in the course of fire with only Rustu to beat.

Turkey scorer Boral chopped the knuckles of Lehmann with a free-kick before Sabri Sarioglu fired just over the distance as underdogs finished the first half just as it began - in total control.

At the beginning of the second half Germany could have had a dream began Swiss referee Massimo Busacca whistled for a flagrant failure to Lahm.

There was little doubt it was a foul and the only question was whether Turkey was within the zone or not - but the official gave nothing.

The match was even more in the second half with both defences looking far less charitable to the opening period.

The ever-threatening Boral fired a shot on rare Lehmann in the 71 st minutes before former Aston Villa midfielder Hitzlsperger saw his effort go left leg just wide at the top.

Germany took the lead through Klose on 79 minutes. Rustu expected favorite to go out and claim Lahm lofted cross into the area, but Klose beat both the goalkeeper and Topal the ball to send a header glance unattended on a network.

That might have explained the end of the hopes somewhere, but Turkey has shown a stubborn opponent in the three previous matches and, surprisingly, they managed to net another late goal.

Sabri sent over a low cross and Semih managed to overlook the ball past Lehmann for his near post.

That is not the end of drama despite the fact that Germany showed its determination of compensation in the last oh winner over Bayern Munich full-back Lahm, who raced into the area before being elected by Hitzlsperger and maintained his composure to fire in past Rustu near the top.

"Turkey's Emre ruled out of semi-final"

Turkey Emre Belozoglu captain remains unfit and not play on Wednesday the Euro 2008 semi-final against Germany, coach Fatih Terim said.

The midfielder suffered a hamstring tear after the opening group defeat by Portugal and has been rated 50/50 to recover in time for the match in Basel.

"With Emre, it is impossible for him to play," said the coach on Tuesday, adding that midfielder Tumer Metin, who has a groin strain, may be able to play the last 30 minutes.

Turkey had goalkeeper Volkan Demirel, defender Emre Asik and midfielders Arda Turan and Tuncay Sanli suspended for Wednesday, while injured striker Nihat Kahveci is out of the tournament alongside Emre Gungor.

Defender Servet Cetin is almost certain to miss the semi-final with a knee problem.

Fatih joked during the week that the election of the third goalkeeper Tolga Zengin might have to play as an outfield player given its ills.

"This is a joke but people took seriously. It's just a joke to show that we had many injured and suspended players, 'said on Tuesday.

"Nihat is one of the best strikers in Europe. However, I think we just have to look forward and accept the facts as they are. The players who replaced the injured and suspended he will do equally well. We are not looking for excuses. "

"Cesc wary of the dangers of Arshavin"

Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas admits his side will have to pay special attention to Russia playmaker Andrei Arshavin when the two nations meet in the Euro 2008 semi-finals on Thursday.

Arshavin fue el único jugador que desempeñar en todos los 12 de Rusia de partidos de clasificación, pero una tarjeta roja contra Andorra significaba que estaba suspendido por la apertura de dos partidos de grupo en Austria y Suiza - incluida su lado la derrota 4-1 a España.

Desde entonces, aunque los 27 años de edad, Zenit de San Petersburgo estrella se ha dedicado a impulsar su ya impresionante reputación con una serie de pantallas finas, y él podría ser un actor clave en la semi-final contra España.

Media especulación sugiere Arshavin podría ser un equipo de mate-Fabregas en el Arsenal la próxima temporada, pero mientras que el centrocampista España admite que fue anteriormente en la oscuridad acerca de su próximo oponente talentos, que ya no es el caso.

"Lo vi (contra Holanda), que es un buen jugador. Yo no lo conocía antes pero se ve bien por lo que tenemos que ser cuidadosos, "dijo Fabregas.

Fabregas se trata de períodos de origen después de ganar el terreno tiro a su lado la pena de 4-2 tiroteo en ganar más de Italia en Viena, un resultado que envió a España a través de los últimos cuatro.

Los 21 años de edad, es cualquier cosa menos un beneficiario de pena de club o país, sino que dispararon pasado Gianluigi Buffon con aplomo para ganar España su primera victoria sobre la competencia Italia desde 1920.

Al hablar de su éxito patada, Fabregas dijo: 'La meta se convirtió en un poco pequeño cuando miré, pero afortunadamente para mí me marcó.

«Fue el ganador, pero si mis compañeros no había anotado antes y si (Iker) Casillas no almacenar dos podría haber sido diferente '.

Fabregas España y sus compañeros ahora su atención a los rusos como se ven a pasar un paso más cerca de su primer Campeonato de Europa gana desde 1964.

España registró una fuerte victoria sobre Rusia en su grupo coincide con la apertura, pero Fabregas - que anotó su lado de la meta final después de David Villa había golpeado un sombrero de truco - sabe las cosas es poco probable que sea lo más cómodo este momento.

"Sabemos que será un juego completamente diferente. Ellos tienen calidad, son competitivos, los jóvenes, y creo que será muy muy difícil ', dijo.

Ronaldo hints at Real switch"

After eliminating Portugal from 2008, Cristiano Ronaldo has revealed that it will make an announcement to clarify its future plans in the coming days.

The Manchester United winger has been repeatedly linked with a move to Real Madrid, with the Spanish champions reportedly prepared to make a world record bid for the player.
Speaking after Portugal's 3-2 defeat to Germany, Ronaldo said: "The possibilities are great but as you've all seen it doesn't depend on me," he said.
"In the next few days, we will see if we can arrive at an agreement because my tournament is over.
"I have many desires and in the next days, they will become clear."
"I will speak to United. I will try to reach an agreement and we will see."
When asked if he has made a decision regarding a move to Real Madrid, he replied: "No, not yet."
United issued a swift response to the latest speculation on the club's official website.
"Further to Friday's press speculation about where Cristiano Ronaldo's future lies, the club has moved to reiterate its stance on the matter: United are not listening to offers," read United's statement.
"Ronaldo has continually been linked with a move to Spanish side Real Madrid this summer.
"But the club reaffirmed to ManUtd.com on Friday morning that the 23-year-old United star is "not for sale"."
The midfielder was instrumental in United's [Premier League and Champions League double triumph last season, scoring 42 goals over the course of the campaign. He was less influential for Portugal during Euro 2008, although he revealed that he has been carrying an injury that will now require minor surgery.
"I'm going to have an operation now," said the winger.
"I have had a small problem for about three months. I'll have the operation and then have a good recovery period."
Manchester United have already reported Real Madrid to world governing body Fifa over their public courtship of Ronaldo, although the organisation decided to take no formal action.

"Euro 2008 match prior - Croatia v Turkey"

The Ernst Happel Stadium in Vienna will be a glorious day backdrop for the second Euro 2008 quarter-finals as Croatia and Turkey battle for the right to assemble last night winners Germany in the last four.

Last night's classic encounter between Germany and Portugal already lifted the lofty level of football in this competition to new heights, and enthusiasts from all over the continent are expected over the same tonight in one of Europe most cultured cities.

It is only the third meeting between the two nations since Croatia joined the Fifa in 1992. Easily the most important was the game at Euro 96, that Croats won 1-0. It should be noted that the current Turkey coach Fatih Terim's team is also responsible at that time during his first spell as manager, while the Croatia coach Slaven Bilic was playing in the centre half.

Does this prove to be an omen for tonight is crucial match? Whatever happens, history will be - both teams have never advanced beyond the quarterfinals phase, a fact that has to change tonight. Bilic and his team have won many friends and admirers in the past two years and his rise to the top of Europe's coaching tree has been meteoric. Won 44 caps for his country as a player, Bilic took over the national side in 2006 following a successful spell in charge of the U21s Croatia.

He took with him his backroom staff of former colleagues in the national team Aljosa Asanovic and Robert Prosinecki, and quickly became Croatia in Europe one of the best teams. The self-confidence His mixture of youth, experience, technical ability, tactical awareness and supreme self-confidence proved too much for England in the qualifying campaign.

A 2-0 victory in Zagreb left the English press bemused, bewildered and embarrassed, but the Croatian players showed that it was not chance of winning 3-2 at Wembley - a game that is meaningless for the Croats already qualified but fatal importance for England and now left their former coach, Steve McClaren. The usual myopia, shaking his fist post-mortem was conducted by the English media following the defeats, even more English fans and journalists not to see the simple truth - that, for all of England considerable shortcomings, Croatia is a wonderful football side.

Having defeated the Germans in the group phase, a result that seems all the more impressive after the defeat of Germany to convince Portugal last night, even the most cynical of skeptics are beginning to recognize the quality of men Bilic. A unit on the Croats on the pitch, which reflects the relationship players have with his coach and his backroom staff.

Some of the biggest players in the workforce, as the Kovac brothers, played in the national team with Bilic and his assistants during the late 1990, while the young players have been a mentor and guide them for several years through his initial involvement with the U21. His style of play directly reflects its coach, a lawyer who speaks four languages and plays guitar for a banda de rock in his spare time.

The music and the slope that leads wherever they go proudly suggests that he possesses an artistic and whimsical streak to go with his obvious intelligence, concentration and passion for his embryonic nation. In the field Croats show the same qualities through its fluid movement, technical adventure, iron determination and self belief that guests are important in European football's most exclusive parties.

They have undeniably is the strongest tournament has progressed. A nervous victory against co-hosts Austria in their opening match was followed by the glorious triumph over the Germans, while their 1-0 victory over Poland is undoubtedly equally impressive due to the fact that Croatia were already qualified, Poland had to win to stand any chance of qualification for the knockout phase and Bilic rested nine of their best players.

The result showed two things - Bilic's ability to motivate fringe players and strength in depth of the Croatian squad, something that was questioned by almost all sectors of the media before the tournament. Croatia will be comfortable favourites for tonight's game, in which Bilic is likely to return to the party that beat Germany last week.

Being the hope that the elegant, Tottenham-bound midfielder, Luke Modric (of which only Bilic claims Kaka is superior in a playmaker role), maintained his excellent form, and that the much travelled striker Ivica Olic Hamburg can still replace magnificently in advance for absentee Eduardo Arsenal. The defense must not ignore - with a single goal to give the group stage, Holland is the only record compared to theirs.

The only injury doubt, in relation to men broad Ivan Rakitic and Darijo Srna have been dispelled. "We are not complacent and we will not stop," Bilic told the press on Thursday after being asked if he was satisfied with his team's progress. "We intend to go as far as possible. Of course we are under pressure and the pressure is increasing, but it's a positive pressure and we welcome it. You can only motivate us."

Bilic also had a word of warning to his players in terms of their opponents tonight and never-say-die attitude that helped them overcome enormous odds in their last match of the group, a dramatic 3-2 victory over the well-fancied Czech Republic. "The results of Turkey and how they were reached in shows how strong they are," he said. "They have good morals and not give up. It is laudable, but also shows they have a weakness. Nobody wants to track in every game and have to go back."

Russian Mountain As recognized Bilic, is Turkey who have had their fans to the roller coaster largest so far in the finals. That fell behind each of their Group A matches, failing to turn the tide in an opening defeat to group winners Portugal, but again increasing danger in the coming games against Switzerland and the Czechs. This last game, they had to win to guarantee qualification, saw overcome a 2-0 deficit and sending goalkeeper Volkan Demirel in the last fifteen minutes to defeat their more fancied rivals 3-2. T

he party has already called 'The miracle of Geneva "by the German press and has been the most dramatic of the finals so far. As with the Croats, the Turkish squad are a reflection of their manager, the pugnacious Fatih Terim, who enjoys his second season as team leader. He is a former captain determined in Turkey, their motivation and skills are well known across Europe thanks to his appearances in Italy as director of the Serie A, four consecutive league titles in Galatasaray in the late 90 and its defeat Arsenal Wenger at Arsenal in the 2000 final of the Uefa Cup, when Gala became the first club turkish to win a European title.

Terim is likely to return to club football after the finals, and will be no surprise if it ends in one of Europe's biggest clubs. The Turkey coach has several first-class players to choose from for tonight's game, although suspensions Mehmet Aurelio in midfield and goalkeeper Demirel it causes a slight headache. Colin Kazim-Richards, once of Sheffield United and Bury, could be given his first start in place of Aurelius, while veteran goalkeeper Rustu Recber may replace Demirel - becoming the oldest player ever in the European Championship and earn his 117th cap in the process.

Turkey has eight players a yellow card away from suspension and the staff have received more letters than any other in the finals so far. With injuries to four of their other players, including experienced and influential midfielder Emre Belozoglu, Terim undoubtedly be deposited their hopes of progression in his forwards.

Fenerbahce's Semih Senturk, Tuncay Sanli from Middlesbrough and Villarreal have impressed Nihat Kahveci, while the Galatasaray midfielder Arda Turan Goalscoring has been a revelation. All must be in the song tonight if the Turks are to have any chance of making the semi-finals for the first time in its history. "We will have no excuses," said Terim media on Wednesday. "No matter who plays in the rear, in the center of the field or in advance. The important thing is how the players perform, not the names on their shirts. All of our injured players are important to us, but their replacements are equally so ".

"For once we hope that we can start the game, but if we are not ready for 90 minutes, 120 minutes or penalties, and we lost none of our courage." By Mark Robinson Likely teams: Croatia: Pletikosa; Corluka, R Kovac, Simunic, Pranjic; Srna, Modric, N Kovac, Rakitic; Kranjcar; Olic Turkey: Rustu; Altintop, Emre Asik, Gokhan Zan, Hakan Balta; Mehmet Topal, Kazim-Richards, Arda Turan, Tuncay; Nihat, Semih Referee: Roberto Rosetti (Ita)

"Donadoni praises Italian spirit"

Italy coach Roberto Donadoni praised the spirit of his side after they beat France 2-0 to reach the quarterfinals of Euro 2008.

Donadoni qualified part of the last eight as group winners Romania lost to 'Holland, Italy and Spain now play in the quarterfinals on June 22.

"This was a great response from the whole team," said Donadoni.

"Our enthusiasm and spirit pushes us forward, even when all seems lost at any given time."

Andrea Pirlo put Italy ahead of the penalty spot after Eric Abidal was fired on by a lack Luca Toni.

Daniele de Rossi's deflected free-kick in front of Thierry Henry ensured a comfortable victory for the side Donadoni.

"Yesterday I said that it was hair on my pillow. Now I am waiting for my hair will grow back a little," the 44-year-old told a press conference.

"This is a good performance. Perhaps best were playing 11 against 11.

Even as a footballer that was used to achieve things through hard work and sweat. I can not do more than what they have to rely on the boys.

"When we went 1-0 up was a little more tension than I expected but it is only human. In those moments as a coach who wants to go into the field and help. I can not do it now, because if I run 40 meters I get a tear in my thigh. "

"After that, a little fear and nerves were in"

Romania could have both dumping Italy and France out of the tournament if they had beaten Holland Donadoni at the side managed by former Milan team-mate Marco van Basten.

Netherlands won 2-0, but the concerns have been raised about their levels of motivation, who have already qualified for the knockout stages.

But Donadoni said: "I had no doubt. I know Van Basten.

"I know what he has done. When asked me to call him, seems pointless, and disrespectful to him.

"It's ridiculous to even have doubts. It is one of the worst things you can even think. If you have ambitions and love football, you can not even think about these things. Therefore, it is good that Holland played well."

"Aragones champions change ahead of Greece tie"

Spain coach Luis Aragones has dismissed any suggestion of special actions with his face them estimated cost in the last World Cup again as he prepares to ring the changes for tonight's final group game against Greece.

With their victories in the opening two games, Spain has already guaranteed themselves top spot in Group D, while defending champions Greece have nothing left to play for but pride after seeing their quarter-finals Pending ended defeats to Sweden and Russia.

As such, both Aragones and his Greek counterpart Otto Rehhagel set out in draft host of new faces for the meeting in Salzburg.

That is something Aragones did during the 2006 World Cup when, after seeing his side claim impressive victories over Ukraine (4-0) and Tunisia (3-1), made 11 changes to the group's final match against Saudi Arabia.

Spain still going to win that game 1-0 but then lost in the first knockout phase after going down 3-1 to France, leading some to suggest Aragonese things have not changed against the Saudis.

However, with changes expected wholesale against Greece, Spain's veteran coach has defended his selection policy - both for two years ago and now.

"Do not affect anything that replacements have played against Saudi Arabia. Spain won three matches and then face France, and for the first 80 minutes France were not better than Spain, 'said Aragones.

'Change the team is to give a break to those who have played and reward those that haven `t played and to show why there is in the national team.

"All the teams who have qualified are doing the same, some are giving the whole world lies, lies some to give some and we as a template where we have two players for every position, the others play.

"We already have some problems with fatigue with (Carles) Puyol for example, so that the most important thing is that the other players.

"All teams need to rest. We are a template and a coach has to be smart and know that we have reached the next stage and provide an opportunity for other players," added Spain coach, whose side will face Italy in last eight in Vienna on Sunday.

Aragones future "after Euro 2008 was a major topic of conversation before the game at the Stadion Salzburg-Wals Siezenheim, with media reports in Spain claimed an agreement instead of him to take over as coach of Turkish giants Fenerbahce.

Aragones said it was in the dark about this, but did not admit his agent was looking for possible options for when the steps down after the tournament.

'I know what you know,' said Aragones when questions about the link Fenerbahce yesterday during the pre-match press conference.

"I obviously an agent working for me because I knew I was going to leave after Euro 2008 but I have nothing more to add to that.

"I have also heard me linkage with americas of Mexico. At this moment I can not talk about anything, if I knew I would say you '.

Greece coach Rehhagel also plans to mix from its XI as the deposed champions look to salvage something from what has been a disappointing tournament so far.

The German coach, who was 69 at the same age as Aragones, said: 'I believe that like the Spanish will have to change our line-up, there are some players who are injured and we are not going to be on the ground.

"The new faces will have to prove they deserve to play in the national team."

Rehhagel also spoke highly of the Spanish, and cree that whatever team puts out Aragones is still full of high quality players.

"I think all Spanish players, without exception, are great footballers. I think that controlling the ball extremely well and are perfect when it comes to the art, and I think they have shown that over the last two matches, 'he said.

'And that's why, although Aragones did not field the same seven or eight players, I think the other players who have not participated serve on the same line, which is why we must give our best'.

"The Poles after defeating Croatia"

Croatia maintained their 100 percent record intact, as it warmed to a quarter final meeting against Turkey with a comfortable 1-0 victory over Poland.

Coach Slaven Bilic appointed much-changed side with their progress to the knock-out stages as winners of Group B, already confirmed, but still managed to extinguish Poland abroad of the possibility of joining them in the last eight with a solitary Ivan Klasnic strike.

Poland could have qualified as group runners who had won in Klagenfurt in Austria and Germany lost in the other game of Group B.

As it is, the Germans were 1-0 winners on the co-hosts, so that Poland defeat of the second group stage was purely academic.

Poland started the brighter and a few minutes into the game Mariusz Lewandowski had a chance with a free header from a corner, but the midfielder could only head the ball across goal.

Five minutes later and the Poles squandered another chance, this time Daruisz Dudka free header glanced across the other corner.

However, Poland were the only chances created throughout the first half and they tend to sit too often.

Croatia took the game to Poland the match despite being little more than a career and an opportunity to impress several second-string players.

Like the opening half against Austria last week, Leo Beenhakker's side had to rely on the agility of Artur Boruca to keep them in the game.

Half an hour into the game, Mladen Petric was one-on-one with the Celtic goalkeeper, but the impressive number one made a vital save.

The same situation occurred right at the end of the first half, this time Ivan Rakitic have saved his effort to Boruca.

Poland came out fired after the interval, but it was not long until his renewed efforts fizzled.

Croatia throughout the game seemed the most dangerous in the ball and it was a matter of time before scored on a counterattack.

In 52 minutes, Danijel Pranjic threw the ball to Klasnic, who fired a shot low into the bottom corner of the net.

The introduction of Ebi Smolarek gave Poland some much-needed touch in the middle of the park, but were reduced to making long-range shots and never seemed troubling Vedran Runje in the Croatia goal, because they simply ran out of attacking ideas.

"Germany book last-eight spot"

Germany will face Portugal in a thrilling quarter-final showdown after Joachim Low side of Limp past Austria with a narrow 1-0 victory over co-hosts in Vienna.

Michael Ballack is stunning 49th minute free-kick was enough for Germany to sign their Group B campaign on a high, but certainly necessary to improve the fight against an impressive unit of Portugal if we want to go beyond euros in 2008.

The defeat means that Austria joined fellow co-hosts Switzerland failing to be outside the group stages of their own tournament.

Josef Hickersberger's side knew that a victory over Germany and they have not seen the pre-tournament favourites to qualify the last eight, but never really expected capable of causing discomfort in front of a partisan crowd 50000.

Austria showed much spirit and desire, but ultimately lacked quality in the last third and not significantly test Jens Lehmann in goal the opposition over a disappointing 90 minutes.

Germany would have been to go ahead with just five minutes on the clock had Mario Gomez not guilty of a lack of the tournament so far.

Miroslav Klose is low cross across the six yard box bobble and hit the shins of the Stuttgart striker and he could only watch in horror as the ball ballooned into the air and Gyuri Garics cleared off the line.

In a first half devoid of much goalmouth action, the closest either side came to breaking the deadlock after that was a thunderous 20-yard strike from Lukas Podolski that Jurgen Macho round his post with a smart save.

Austria has curio aim Erwin Hoffer fell under a clumsy challenge by Christoph Metzelder after 18 minutes but the referee ruled that the rape had not taken place.

The same player was also unfortunate enough to see Lehmann nip the ball off his toes when he had beaten the offside trap to meet a low cross.

Both Josef Hickersberger and Joachim Low were sent to the stands on the stroke of half time for a touchline argument between the two coaches that was out of character in a decidedly low-key game.

After the interval, moments of attacking brilliance continued to be in a premium Ballack lit up a weak game with a stunning strike that could well prove to be the goal of the tournament.

The captain let fly from Germany with a 30 yard free-kick that found the upper right corner of the net and left the Macho diving grab a place with fresh air.

Philipp Lahm and Klose had half chances to snuff out by the widespread legs of defenders committed as Germany is happy to play at half time after taking the lead.

Macho then submerged in bravely to deny Klose when one-on-one, before substitute Oliver Neuville wasted a glorious opportunity to set the seal on victory in stoppage time after stopping at the ball and allow the defense to regroup when he could having played in one of three companions.

"Portugal 0-2 Switzerland"

Switzerland ended their Euro 2008 campaign on a high with a 2-0 victory over Group A winners Portugal.

The co-hosts had no chance of advancing to the quarterfinals after being beaten by the Czech Republic and Turkey in their opening two matches, but sent their fans home happy and a wonderful farewell for departing current coach Kobi Kuhn.

Luiz Felipe Scolari made eight changes to his line-up of the team that began to Portugal first two matches, while only goalkeeper Ricardo and defenders Paulo Ferreira and Pepe maintained.

Kuhn made two changes with outgoing goalkeeper Pascal Zuberbuhler delivered a farewell start in place of Diego Benaglia and Johan Vonlanthen near to Barnett in the middle of the field.

Portugal, creating more opportunities in the first half, but the veteran stopper Pascal Zuberbuhler Pepe tip of effort into the wood, Nani had two penalty appeals rejected and Helder Postiga had a goal harshly rejected by offside.

Switzerland improved after the break and took the lead on 71 minutes when Hakan Yakin collected in Eren Derdiyok the film and shot past Ricardo.

Yakin then Switzerland secured victory for their audiences craved with a well taken penalty. Austrian referee Konrad Plautz noted that the spot after substitute Barnett was shot down by Meira and Ricardo Yakin fired past and in the upper left corner.


Group A
Portugal 0-2 Switzerland

Top Scorers: Hakan Yakin 71, 83 pen

Half: 0-0

Teams:
Switzerland: 18-Pascal Zuberbuehler; 5-Stephan Lichtsteiner (13-Stephane Grichting 84), 20-Patrick Mueller, 4-Philippe Senderos, 3-Ludovic Magnin, 19-Valon Behrami, 15 Gelson Fernandes, 8-Gokhan Inler, 22 -- Johan Vonlanthen (16-Tranquillo Barnett 61), 10-Hakan Yakin (7-Ricardo Cabanas 85), 12-Eren Derdiyok

Portugal: 1-Ricardo, 13-Miguel, 15-Pepe, 3-Bruno Alves, 2-Paulo Ferreira (14-Jorge Ribeiro 41), 5-Fernando Meira, 18-Miguel Veloso (10-Joao Moutinho 70), 6 -- -- Raul Meireles, 19-Nani, 17-Ricardo Quaresma, 23-Helder Postiga (9-Hugo Almeida 74)

"Czech Republic 2-3 Turkey"

In a spectacular night in Geneva, Turkey came back from 2-0 down to beat Czech Republic 3-2 and earn a place in the quarterfinals of Euro 2008.

The Czech Republic is expected to slide in the last eight after goals from Jan Koller and Martin Plasil has given them a two goal advantage through midway the second half, but Arda Turan pulled one back for the Turks, before a Petr Cech left howler Nihat for the tie with two minutes remaining. Then, in a remarkable denoument to an extraordinary match, Nihat of Turkey won the game with just one minute of the 90 left.

There is still time for more drama to turkish goalkeeper Volkan Demirel was sent off for pushing Koller, and Turkey, having used all three substitutes were forced to use Tuncay in the goal for the final few seconds.

There was little evidence of the drama to come in the opening half hour with both sides aware that defeat would mean the elimination seems overawed by the occasion.

The Czech Republic expects the most useful part of compensation, with every chance of falling early form part of Karel Bruckner. The 11 minute Jan Koller, reminds one side after being dropped earlier tha game against Portugal, stealing a yard on his marker Servet, but could not direct his header goalwards.

Jankulowsi enjoyed much space on the left flank and gave a wonderful cross by Sionko which was denied by the outrushing Volkan.

Czech pressure finally told when Jan Koller headed home in 34 minutes. Grygera was allowed to roam the right flank and the side of the cross was met by a resounding header front of the tower, and although Volkan tip the ball to the bar, the ball fell over the line.

The Turks were struggling to cope with Koller and the striker was about to add a second when he outmuscled his marker Servet, but could not direct his header from a free kick Jankulowski.

Turkey were transformed after the break, and began to dominate possession as Slovakia seemed content to sit deep and cling to its goal of a lead. However, in a rare break forward, Bruckner's side managed to extend their advantage when they slipped into Plasil in the rear of products Sionko home the cross. The goal was not without a hint of controversy with Turkey, which had been temporarily reduced to ten men for an injury to Emre Gungor, were furious that the referee had not allowed to bring a replacement.

The game is expected to Fatih Terim, but to his credit that followed taking the game to their opponents and were rewarded for their efforts on 75 minutes when Arda become Hamit Altintop to withdraw from the right.

Servet had a wonderful chance to equalise but he could only steer his header wide of goal from just four yards.

However, Turkey continues to move in 87 minutes and scored an unlikely tie. The normally-reliable Petr Cech, under no pressure at all, a shed innocent cross Hamit Altintop and Nihat reacted quickly to take advantage of a vacuum net.

At this stage it seemed inevitable sanctions, but the Turks had not read the script and that evoked a superb winner in the race full time. Nihat broke the offside trap before a brilliant curling right foot shot in off the underside of the crossbar from just outside the area.

The Czechs driven in search of a tie and a long ball created chaos in the penalty area hit the turkish Volkan with defender Emre Ssik, but fortunately for the Turks the ball was cleared to safety. Following the incident Volkan square up Koller and pushed the Czech striker to the ground. The referee dismissed the keeper and Turkey were forced to play in goal for Tuncay closing moments. It is a surreal conclusion to what had been a remarkable game.

At the final whistle players Czech sank to the floor, barely able to comprehend what had just happened, while all around him delirious turkish players enjoyed the moment.

Turkey now face Croatia in the quarterfinals and if they can reproduce the spirit that showed tonight, then anything is possible.




Group A
Czech Republic 2-3 Turkey

Annotation:
Turkey: Arda Turan 75, Nihat Kahveci 87, 89
Czech Republic: Jan Koller 34, Jaroslav Plasil 62

Red Card: Volkan Demirel (Turkey) 90 +2

Half-time: 0-1

Teams
Turkey: 23-Volkan Demirel, 22-Hamit Altintop, 13-Emre Gungor (15-Emre Asik 63), Servet Cetin 2-, 3-Hakan Balta, 17-Tuncay Sanli, 6-Mehmet Topal (18 Kazim Kazim-57) , 7-Mehmet Aurelio, 14-Arda Turan, and 9 Semih Senturk (20-Sabri Sarioglu 46), 8-Nihat Kahveci

Czech Republic: 1-Petr Cech; 2-Zdenek Grygera, 21-Tomas Ujfalusi, 22-David Rozehnal, 6-Marek Jankulovski; 7-Libor Sionko (11-Stanislav Vlcek 84), 3-Jan Polak, 17-Marek Matejovsky ( 14-David Jarolim 39), 4-Tomas Galasek, 20-Jaroslav Plasil (13-Michal Kadlec 80), 9-Jan Koller

"Portugal ready to rest players for Swiss match"

Neuchatel, Switzerland, June 14 (Reuters) - A very different Portugal team could take the field in the Euro 2008 quarter-finalists' last group game against Switzerland in Basel on Sunday.

Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, whose side won the Group A match before being eliminated against co-hosts, could make several changes to rest most of the first-choice players with a potential quarter-final against Germany ahead The June 19.

Germany, the team that most impressed tactically Scolari after the first round of matches, can not win Group B and avoid Portugal after their shock loss to Croatia on Thursday.

Useful player Fernando Meira and goalkeeper Ricardo can not shed light on plans for Scolari in Friday's press conference.

"We all have to be ready to play. The coach can count on me anytime anywhere, 'said Meira, who did not start the win over Czech Republic and Turkey, but is likely to take the midfield holding role Armando Petit give a break.

Ricardo, who may be one of four players remain the first choice starting line, said: 'We have full confidence in the decisions of the coach'.

After the injury ruled out of the tournament understudy Quim, Ricardo has two uncapped reserves at age 34, Nuno Espirito Santo and 20-year-old Rui Patricio.

Meira Portugal said that anything to anyone that victory was picked up by Scolari, who could also kick off ends Nani and Ricardo Quaresma and midfielder Raul Meireles, while Cristiano Ronaldo, Simao Sabrosa and Deco are rested.

Having failed in their attempt to reach the quarter-finals, Switzerland is setting its sights on a first victory in a European Championship.

"Even before we left I had thought it would be a great achievement to get their first victory in a euro," said coach Koebi Kuhn.

"Why not on Sunday against a party that Portugal have already qualified?" Asked Kuhn, due to retire after party on Sunday to be replaced by former Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld.

"I think all our players want to sign off with a good performance and the crowd deserve it too."

Switzerland, already without injured strikers Alex Frei and Marco Streller, may have to make a new change to its front line after the reserve Eren Derdiyok hurt his ankle in the defeat against Turkey on Wednesday.

An attacking midfielder may be needed to carry the line.

The Swiss has won eight and has five of its 19 meetings with Portugal, but his last victory was 26 years ago. Portugal won the last meeting 1-0 in 1993.

"Spain stuns Sweden in injury time"

David Villa capitalised on a defensive mix to score in injury time Saturday, giving Spain a 2-1 victory over Sweden who moved to the gates of a place in the quarterfinals of the European Championship.

The party has sought to establish end in a draw after Zlatan Ibrahimovic had equalized after Fernando Torres' 15th-minute goal, but a long ball from defence in the second minute of time added deceived defender Petter Hansson and fell kindly Villa. The Valencia striker slipped the ball to the left of goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson for his fourth goal of leading the tournament.

"I'm proud of this goal that I was one of three that scored the other day," said Villa. "It's good for me to be there and achieve three points for Spain. Today, we suffered a little more."

The result leaves Spain with six points in Group D, three more than Sweden and the brink of the quarterfinals.

"We are very happy. We had many chances in the second half and we managed (to score)," Spain coach Luis Aragones said. "In the second half, went in search of the goal and things developed.

"We were the head of the ball in the second half. I think we definitely think that Spain is playing better since that point."

Torres had put Spain in front of the lung to a pass from David Silva with his right foot extended to intercept and tap past Isaksson.

Swedish veteran Henrik Larsson had fired over the bar and Johan Elmander, who scored against Spain in a qualifying match for Euro 2008, losing twice before Fredrik Stoor curled a pass from the right to Ibrahimovic in the area in 34. The striker away from marker Sergio Ramos and hit a low shot just made under goalkeeper Iker Casillas.

Spain could benefit later Saturday when defending champion Greece takes on Russia.

"It's obviously bitter to lose like this in the last seconds," Sweden coach Lars Lagerback said.

Sweden continued its game plan of staying patient and paste in the counterattack after Spain had controlled early with Torres disturbing the Swedish area with a mixture of darting runs and deft dribbling.

"We are trapped in some poor play in the first 15 to 20 minutes in the first half," said Aragones.

Torres, who was rumoured to have been unhappy with his early substitution in Spain opening 4-1 win in Russia, soon put his team ahead. Silva chipped a pass diagonally into the area to Joan Capdevila, but Torres stuck his right foot to intercept and tap his first goal of the tournament and 16 overall in 51 appearances for Spain.

His first international goal since September was only his third since the 2006 World Cup.

Spain replaced with centre back Carles Puyol Raul Albiol in the 24 th because of an injury, but still awaits comfortable in the face of erratic and disjointed play for Sweden.

Larsson and Johan Elmander had their chances before Stoor Ibrahimovic found in the rear.

Ibrahimovic Stoor initially tried to volley a cross from the right and regained control before shrugging Ramos to the ground. The Inter Milan striker swerved to score with a low right-footed shot that Casillas has a hand but could not keep out.

It was the second match in which he had scored Ibrahimovic, after he broke a near three-year drought scoring in a 2-0 victory against Greece.

"I do not know if we are too dependent on him, but he is a first-class player," said Lagerback. "Of course, I think we have a better chance with Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the field without that."

Villa was in the team despite maintaining a hair fracture their right index finger while celebrating his first hat trick of goals against Russia, Sweden and the defense kept it under wraps until 38, when Isaksson had to stop a low shot.

Elmander, who started in place of injured Christian Wilhelmsson, Spain was worrying for the flank, but was lucky not to award a penalty for a push Silva just before halftime.

Markus Rosenberg came to Ibrahimovic to start the second half, with Sweden does not want to risk his star player of the swollen left knee.

There were few clear opportunities in the second half, and those who came went to Spain. Sweden's attack that lacked the physical presence of Ibrahimovic, Larsson and Hansson not only to meet the cross at the far post to the 79th of his team the best chance.

"The team looked superior when he went to the ball. This is a good victory against a very good team," said Aragones. "We had a lot to lose coming in."

At the other end, Villa Silva jumped to the recovery of the 63 th and fired directly at Isaksson from close range. Villa then recovered the loose ball and centered to find Torres, whose shot was blocked. Isaksson, who took a blow on the face of Villa knee, and then caught Torres' weak header from a corner post.

The teams seemed content with a draw that would have helped them, but Sweden was captured at the time of Capdevila sent a 40 metre (yard) pass over the head of Torres and on the way from Sweden defender Hansson. Hansson lost the ball under pressure from Villa, who calmly scored with an angled shot from just inside the area.

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Lineups:

Sweden: Andreas Isaksson, Fredrik Stoor, Olof Mellberg, Petter Hansson, Mikael Nilsson, Johan Elmander (Sebastian Larsson, 79), Anders Svensson, Daniel Andersson, Fredrik Ljungberg, Henrik Larsson (Kim Kallstrom, 86), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Markus Rosenberg, 46).

Spain: Iker Casillas, Carlos Marchena, Carles Puyol (Alboil Raul, 24), Joan Capdevila, Sergio Ramos, Marcos Senna, Xavi Hernandez (Cesc Fabregas, 58), Andres Iniesta (Santi Cazorla, 59), David Silva, David Villa, Fernando Torres.

"France 1-4 Netherlands: Dutch master class"

Rampant Netherlands produced a masterclass attack for the second time in four days to bury France in Berne and seal their qualification for the quarterfinals of Euro 2008.

Dirk Kuyt opened the scoring and Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder added another after the break as Marco van Basten as-sank the French team in the same way as did world champions Italy here on Monday.

Les Bleus' consolation came through Thierry Henry in his return to the team, but even its venerable defence could not handle the pace and verve of his opponents' attacks.

Italy meet France on Tuesday, but both could be eliminated if Romania, who are second in the group, the defeat of Holland in the same night.

The Dutch, meanwhile, must now cope with the tag of favourites of the tournament after eliminating the two finalists of the 2006 World Cup in sensational style, scoring seven goals in the process.

They are bound to feel at home because of the Oranje army of fans who had invaded the city centre of Berne during the day, and then the Stade de Suisse Wankdorf at night.

His confidence was sky high after his impressive victory over the Italians, and Kuyt's opener after just eight minutes helped them solve.

This is a simple goal of the species France rarely match, Rafael van der Vaart sending a corner to the right of Kuyt and beat Florent Malouda in the air to head home the next post.

France coach Raymond Domenech, who had returned to a 4-2-3-1 formation in what Patrice Evra, Sidney Govou and equipping Henry again back to one side, have been alarmed by defending the goal.

Comedy Football

Equally alarming for him would have been the confident swagger that had returned to the Dutch team, whose slick passing game is a joy to watch.

They raised all sorts of problems from the outset, Sneijder shooting a little more in 15 minutes and Kuyt then poking a shot across the open bar, when in the area after they pounce on a weak header Lilian Thuram.

France had been criticized back home for his laborious performance against Romania in Zurich but we upped the pace and has created a host of half chances in the final 20 minutes of the half.

His first sight of goal came when Govou near-post effort drew an excellent instinctive save from Edwin van der Sar.

Three more opportunities fell into French in the space of a few minutes - Malouda, Govou and Franck Ribéry everything decent stops van der Sar with a low units.

Henry curling wide from 20 yards with the last chance for half but at the beginning of the second period, he thought he had won his side a penalty.

Govou driven by cross-shot was deflected into his path and the striker of Barcelona goalbound effort was blocked by the hand of Andre Ooij.

Referee Herbert Fandel was obviously Unsight and only gave a corner, much to the chagrin of the French.

Henry had an immediate opportunity to exact his revenge but having been put clean through the 53 th minute Malouda in the spectacular pass, the former Arsenal captain sent his way lobby.

His profligacy was punished by the hour mark, when two of Holland's second half substitutes, Robben and Van Persie, combined to put the Dutch later.

The goal originated from some sublime skills of Ruud van Nistelrooy on the touchline and his Real Madrid team-mate Robben took the ball.

His perfect cross from the left found van Persie, whose volley crept over the line despite the efforts of France goalkeeper Gregory Coupet.

Henry finally got his goal in the 70 th minute when glanced home a cross from the right by Willy Sagnol but, in seconds, Netherlands Robben restored the two-goal cushion.

The extreme left-ran to Sneijder through ball down the left channel, won the same means against the courtyard of Thuram and took home a powerful drive from a tight angle on the roof of the net.

The impressive van Nistelrooy received almost the same in the scoresheet seven minutes with a header insolent, but will be recovered out by Coupet.

It is left to add spice to Sneijder, his superb curling shot from 25 meters to give Coupet no chance.

"Italy 1-1 Romania"

World Champions Italy are still alive at Euro 2008, but was grateful to goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon who pulled off a penalty save late in their 1-1 draw Tih Romania.

The penalty was a controversial decision, awarded after Daniel Niculae fell to the ground under a challenge from Christian Panucci. Up stepped Adrian Mutu, but Buffon pulled out a magnificent stop to deny the Romanian captain. Mutu gave Romania the lead only to draw Italy within one minute through Panucci.

In an open, entertaining game, a draw was probably a fair result. Aside from Mutu penalty miss, Romania office success and forced several fine saves from Buffon, while at the other end, Italy, for whom Luca Toni had a goal wrongly rejected for offside, he created a series of good opportunities.

The best opportunity in the early stages fell to Alessandro Del Piero who asintió wide range of close after good work by Simone Perrotta.

With roving left back Fabio Grosso, playing more like one end of a defender, providing a constant supply of crosses, Italy best hopes of breaking the deadlock appeared to be across the lanky Toni, but the Bayern Munich striker not is enjoying much success against Gabirel Tamas and Dorin Goi, who defended superbly throughout.

The tactic of crossings with a view to Toni almost paid off shortly before halftime when striker headed the ball into the path of Simone Perrotta, but the midfielder was denied by a fine challenge by Paul Codrea.

On one occasion Toni eluded his marker and beat Bogdan Lobont, the flag line offside, although television replays showed the striker was clearly onside.

For its part, the Romanians are shown more attacking intent that they had in their opening game against France. Several far-reaching efforts at risk the Italian goal and half of the half, Christian Chivu of free-kick was deflected into the pole Panucci.

After the break Romania continued the probe and that was about 54 minutes when Mutu cut infield from the left and drew a fine save from Buffon.

Moments later they were ahead of Romania. A long pass towards Crossfield Mutu met by Gianluca Zambrotta, who underhit a header back to his keeper, allowing the description Mutu to nip and crush the ball into the roof of the net.

However, the initiative did not last long and within a minute were Italy. Andrea Pirlo the corner was headed back Giorgio Chiellini in goal for the unmarked Christian Panucci to stab home from close range.

All surfaces and all to play, but Italy is, perhaps encouraged by its timely tie that came closer to getting a second. Substitute Antonio Cassano lofting a delicate chip with interest Toni and striker chested the ball into the path of De Rossi, whose header drew a finger diving save from Lobont.

With ten minutes remaining were handed Romania a wonderful opportunity to claim all three points when Norwegian referee Tom Henning Ovrebo determined that Panucci had fouled Daniel Niculae as the pair arrebató in the box. The Italian players, perhaps resigned to an early exit, looked surprised by the decision. Fortunately, Buffon, who possessed one of the world's best maintenance, and Juventus man dived to his left to pull a fine save from Mutu.

The result leaves Group C wide open, as things stand now Italy must beat France in their last group match on Tuesday to pass, although a victory in that game may not be sufficient if results elsewhere go in against them. Romania is in a similar situation, although given the respective ambitions of the two sides before the tournament began, will feel much happier with this situation of Italy.


Group C
Italy 1-1 Romania

Annotation:
Italy: Christian Panucci 56
Romania: Adrian Mutu 55

Lost penalty: 81 Adrian Mutu

Half: 0-0

Attendance: 30,585

Teams:
Italy: 1-Gianluigi Buffon; 19-Gianluca Zambrotta, 4-Giorgio Chiellini, 2-Christian Panucci, 3-Fabio Grosso, 10-Daniele De Rossi, 21-Andrea Pirlo, 20-Simone Perrotta (18-Antonio Cassano 57); 16-Mauro Camoranesi (13-Massimo Ambrosini 85), 7-Alessandro Del Piero (15-Fabio Quagliarella 77), 9-Luca Toni

Romania: 1-Bogdan Lobont; 2-Cosmin Contra, 15-Dorin Goias, 4-Gabriel Tamas, 3-Razvan Rat, 5-Cristian Chivu, 8-Paul Codrea, 6-Mirel Radoi (20-Nicolae Dica 25), 7 -- Florentin Petre (16-Banel Nicolita 59), 10-Adrian Mutu (11-Razvan Cocis 88), 21-Daniel Niculae

"Austria 1-1 Poland"

Austria scored an injury time penalty to earn a 1-1 draw with Poland and preserve their little hope of qualifying for the knockout phase of Euro 2008.

Josef Hickersberger's side had a trailer Roger Guerreiro first half goal scored against the run of play, and the Poles must have thought he had done enough to take all three points until the referee Howard Webb pointed to the march.

Austria began the match at a furious pace, showing that it does not look so far a spirit of adventure, as they tore into the lackadaisical Poles. Indeed, were it not for the excellent reflexes of goalkeeper Artur Boruca, the co-hosts might well have been up three goals in the first fifteen minutes.

Boruca was called into action on 11 minutes when Austria broke the offside trap Polish weak, but Martin Harnik saw his shot pushed wide. Two minutes Harnik missed an opportunity easier, even after being set up by the lively Umit Korkmaz - again Boruca was responsible for pulling off the save. Moments later it was the turn of Christoph Leitgeb to be denied by Boruca after being across goal.

Given their complete domination and its inability to seize the opportunities that came his way, there was a sense of inevitablity on Poland to the head. For the Poles' first meaningful attack of the half, the ball came to Marek Saganowski and his cross was rejected in the way of Guerreiro, who converted from close range.

It seemed a murderer coup in Austria and then they struggled to regain the enthusiasm that has characterized his previous game. Gradually, as the game took in Poland is expected to face more composed and Guerreiro produce some neat touches, who expected much more likely scorers in the second half.

Austria keeper Macho is put into action on several occasions, pulling a double save to deny Jacek Bak and Mariusz Lewandowski. Shortly thereafter, Macho was forced to make a acrobatic save to tip over a thunderous free-kick from Jacek Krzynowek.

With Austria seemingly lack of ideas and Poland control the game, there seemed no way back for the co-hosts. However, with just seconds remaining, Webb discovered Marcin Wasilewski tugging the shirt and said Sebastian Prodl immediately to the scene.

Substitute Vastic was happy to grab the lifeline and he hammered home the place kick to earn his side, which in the balance of play was a deserved point.

Polish coach Leo Beenhakker Strode on the pitch to confront Webb at the end of the game, but by then the damage had been done.

The result means that both sides have a theoretical chance of reaching the last eight, although in this way, although the team is capable of making, remains a moot point.



Group B
Austria Poland 1-1

Annotation:
Austria: Ivica Vastic 90 +3 pen
Poland: Roger Guerreiro 30

Half-time: 0-1

Attendance: 51,428

Teams:
Austria: Juergen Macho 21-, 14-Gyorgy Garics, 15-Sebastian Proedl, 3-Martin Stranzl, 4-Emanuel Pogatetz; 8-Christoph Leitgeib, 6-Rene Aufhauser (19-Juergen Saeumel 74), 10-Andreas Ivanschitz (7 Ivica Vastic-64), 11-Umit Korkmaz, 20-Martin Harnik, 9-Roland Linz (18-Roman Kienast 64)

Poland: 1-Artur Boruca, 13-Marcin Wasilewski, 2-Mariusz JOP (4-Pawel Golanski 46), 6-Jacek Bak, 14-Michal Zewlakow, 18-Mariusz Lewandowski, 5-Dariusz Dudka, 8-Jacek Krzynowek 11; -- Marek Saganowski (17-Wojciech Lobodzinski 83), 20-Roger Guerreiro (19-Rafal Murawski 85), 7-Ebi Smolarek

"Croatia 2-1 Germany: stunned favourites"

Dark horses Croatia sent a message of intent for the other Euro 2008 finalists tonight, because very surprised-fancied Germany to take a huge step toward a quarter-point final.

Darijo Srna and Ivica Olic hit the goals as his side Croatia, which had only beaten once before in Germany, produced undoubtedly the first major upset of Euro 2008 in an entertaining encounter in Klagenfurt.

Lukas Podolski pulled a goal back at the end of Germany with his third strike in two games to establish a final nail biting, but there was not way back to Joachim Low's team, which finished with 10 men following the dismissal 90 minutes from substitute by Bastian Schweinsteiger.

Both sides entered the game having won their opening matches, while Germany has studied much more impressive to see Poland to face defeat in Croatia that had to Austria.

However, Slaven Bilic's side who turned out in style in Worthersee Stadion, since it took control of Group B with two wins out of two.

A frenetic start to the match promised much but for all its huffing and puffing, neither side were able to create something resembling a chance in the opening 20 minutes as defences stood firm.

The ball did find its way into the back of the net in 22 minutes when Germany striker Mario Gomez slotted home past Stipe Pletikosa, but outside of the flag had already passed against Stuttgart man.

The blockade was broken by Real just two minutes after that incident, however, when Croatia went ahead through Srna.

Danijel Pranjic sent through a superb cross from the left and Srna burned in front of Marcell Jansen marker to slide the ball in at the rear end, Germany goalkeeper Jens Lehmann no chance to save.

Croatia had a golden opportunity to do so edged 2-0 in 30 minutes, but Niko Kranjcar wasted.

Ivan Rakitic chipped a pass into the area which was to flick the penalty spot Olic, but in the rush-Kranjcar could not cover well-worked move as it charted.

Germany knew they needed to step across the arts and they finally did earn his keep Pletikosa with two efforts in quick succession.

The first saw Pletikosa expel a thunderous Michael Ballack free kick before the Spartak Moscow custodian of awkwardly diverted away Christoph Metzelder an effort with his knee.

Metzelder and Torsten Frings then headed a corner just over seven meters as the Germans stepped up their efforts to achieve a tie before the break.

However, the bottom very close behind two goals in the 43 th minute, and they need a fine reaction stop to deny Lehmann Kranjcar, who chested down and spend Olic broke into a first-time volley .

Having seen his side let off the hook, Lower opted for a more adventurous in the second half as he sacrificed to return full Jansen jet-heeled end David Odonkor during the interval.

Apart from a Ballack fired over the crossbar, however, Croatia expected quite comfortable at the beginning of the period and also had a decent effort of their own with Luka Modric firing a shot that Lehmann met, but not before seeing that squirm through their hands first.

Lehmann next task is to collect the ball off the back of his net as Croatia stunned the Germans with a second goal on 62 minutes.

A Rakitic cross from the right took a deflection in front of Podolski before arrowing goalwards and although Lehmann, who had begun to leave by the initial cross, made diving backwards and get a hand on it, hit the ball close to his post before rebounding back out to Olic, who had an easy task of slotting home.

Germany hopes for an immediate response but apart from that Schweinsteiger shot fizz across the face of goal, they are still proving difficult to create opportunities against a well-organised Croatia backline.

Low side earned themselves a lifeline with 12 minutes to go well when Podolski lashed home a shot in the half volley after the ball had fallen well entrusted to him in the box.

Germany could not build on that goal, however, its end and hopes to get anything out of the game, but all disappeared when Schweinsteiger received a direct red card for pushing Jerko Leko.