"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.

------

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.

"Dutch hopeful over Robben"

Arjen Robben is set to return from injury in time to feature in the Netherlands against France on Friday.

Real Madrid lost its edge opening 3-0 Group C victory over Italy on Monday with a groin injury picked up in training, but coach Marco van Basten cree which will be available for the game in France.

However, the Arsenal striker Robin van Persie is a major doubt with a thigh problem.

"Robben came through the joint training of staff today (Thursday) and is fit for France match," said Van Basten.

"Robben is fit before the tournament, then was out for a few days, but recovered quickly, and can start again immediately.

"It's different to the situation Van Persie, was injured before the tournament."

"Euro 2008 match prior - Croatia v Germany"

Croatia coach Slaven Bilic was confident mood ahead of his team's Group B encounter with Germany in Klagenfurt.

After winning his start against co-hosts Austria four days ago, Germany and the 2-0 victory over Poland, tonight's group must ensure qualification for the knockout stages for the victors.

"We are approaching this game like the self-confidence as Germany," he said. "Like them, also won our first game and we are relieved after the negative pressure that we had beforehand. The winner has to start giving us great faith in ourselves and the way they are playing."

Bilic has a lot of respect for Germany, saying that Croatia can consider themselves potential winners of Euro 2008 title if they claim a victory.

"I will definitely consider us a strong contender if we beat Germany," said 39-year-old. "I think any team that beats Germany can expect to beat anybody."

Luka Modric is ready to play after training alone on Monday as a precaution because of a slight pain in his Achilles tendon.

Bilic may opt to freshen his attack - which was disappointing in Croatia 1-0 victory over the hosts Austria on Sunday, with Werder Bremen forward Ivan Klasnic eager to get his chance.

Klasnic, who was born in Germany, is the first player to be elected for a European Championship after a kidney transplant.

"I'm here and I am 100% ready to play," said Klasnic.

"I never thought I would be in Euros. My first relates to my health and returning to play football. Playing the euro is just a bonus."

German Self-confidence
Germany coach Joachim Low admitted his players feel confident, but expects a tough game against the Croats.

"It is true that in recent months we have become more and more confidence in themselves," he told the 48-year-old.

"We've shown that we have been able to implement what we have practiced in games. We are confident going into this game, but Croatia is a good team with the attack-minded players and we will face a tough challenge. We want to dictate our rhythm in the game - that is our goal. "

Asked if they settle for second place in the group, Baja said that not satisfied with a victory tonight.

"It's logical that we want to win tomorrow, simply because both ourselves and Croatia have three points each," he said.

"But so far, I have not spent much time thinking about whether it will be first or second. We want victory because I believe that we have been put into the quarterfinals."

With the injury is concerned, the only potential change could make low at the side that beat Poland might be to give his defender Arne Friedrich opportunity rather than Marcell Jansen. Friedrich, a regular at the World Cup two years ago, could return to right-back Philipp Lahm with moving to the left.

"Not many changes will happen, but one or two players may be new," said Low.

German captain Michael Ballack cree that there is little point in changing a winning team.

"I do not see that changes are necessary but, of course, it is up to coach - and depends on the opponent as well," said Ballack.

"Maybe we will change one or two positions."

"Switzerland 1-2 Turkey"

Co-hosts Switzerland are out of Euro 2008 after they fell to a 2-1 defeat to Turkey in a dramatic night in Basle.

Switzerland went ahead through Hakan Yakin, but in a match played in treacherous conditions caused by a torrential downpour first half, Turkey hit back with second half goals from Semih and Arda Turan - the latter comes into injury time.

At one point there were fears that the game may have to be abandoned as the playing surface became virtually unplayable. Fortunately, conditions eased in the second half and was Turkey who were able to ride the storm.

The Turks started with real purpose and forced Switzerland to the back foot from the kick. Fatih Terim party came close to taking the lead on 29 minutes when Nihat Palmer is a free-kick outside Switzerland goalkeeper Diego Benaglia at the head of Arda Turan and gets back onto the post.

In the half hour mark the torrential downpour had made under treacherous and any attempt to pass or run with the ball seemed futile.

The game became increasingly farcical as a means carrying Turkey and the attempt to play their short passing game made it impossible for the ball consistently remained stagnant water on the pitch.

Switzerland, with a more direct style, best suited to the atrocious playing surface and that there was a big surprise when iban ahead. Philippe Senderos izará a long ball forward and Eren Derdiyok turkish skipped past goalkeeper Volkan Demirel, before squaring to Turkey through the six-yard box, the ball stopping in a puddle of Hakan Yakin to touch a short distance.

Two minutes later, Hakan Yakin should have added a second Valon Behrami when he was found unmarked just five yards, but the Swiss striker sliced his effort wide of the post when it seemed easier to score.

The Turkish side expects disconsolate understandable, since trudge off the pitch at half-time. Faced with imminent elemination and with little prospect of improving conditions, their prospects to revisit the game scarce.

Luckily the rain decreased and the groundstaff drainage from the surface half-time conditions inproved dramatically after the break.

Turkey, relishing the best playing surface, started his string passes together and take the game to co-host.

The tie came just in time when Nihat trademark curling over a wonderful cross from the left and rose to substitute Semih winking Benaglia past that got a hand to the ball but could only deflect into the net.

With both reserves aware that a draw is unlikely to improve their prospects of reaching the knockout stages the game became stretched and there are chances at both ends. Perhaps the best of luck fell to Hakan Yakin whose left foot effort effort was saved by the outstretched arm of Volkan.

With seconds remaining, Switzerland pressed forward in search of another winner, but their attack was broken when Turkey broke with the ball reaching Arda Turan in the left wing. The cut inside two defenders and shot from the edge of the area, the ball over the keeper and rolled across a detour by Patrick Mueller.

Heartbreak for the Swiss, but the joy unconfined for Turkey now meet the Czech Republic on Sunday with a place in the last eight at stake.



Group A
Switzerland 1-2 Turkey

Annotation:
Switzerland: Hakan Yakin 32
Turkey: Semih Senturk 57, Arda Turan 90 +2

Half-time: 1-0

Teams:
Switzerland: 1-Diego Benaglia; 5-Stephan Lichtsteiner, 20-Patrick Mueller, 4-Philippe Senderos, 3-Ludovic Magnin, 19-Valon Behrami, 8-Gokhan Inler, 15-Gelson Fernandes (7-Ricardo Cabanas 76), 16 -- Tranquillo Barnett (22-Johan Vonlanthen 66), 10-Hakan Yakin (14-Daniel Gygax 85), 12-Eren Derdiyok

Turkey: 23-Volkan Demirel, 22-Hamit Altintop, 15-Emre Asik, Servet Cetin 2-, 3-Hakan Balta, 10-Gokdeniz Karadeniz (9 Semih Senturk-46), 11-Tumer Metin (6-Mehmet Topal 46) , 7-Mehmet Aurelio, 14-Arda Turan; Tuncay Sanli, 17, 8-Nihat Kahveci (18 Kazim Kazim-85)

"Czech Republic 1-3 Portugal"

Portugal are virtually assured a place in the last eight after he overcame the Czech Republic 3-1 in Geneva.

Goals from Deco, Cristiano Ronaldo and substitute Ricardo Quaresma were sufficient to ensure maximum points from their opening two games of Luiz Felipe Scolari aside. Libor Sionko responded to the Czech Republic, but now require something of their final game against Turkey in order to reach the knockout stages.

Portugal took just eight minutes to make the breakthrough when Deco and Ronaldo, the two Portuguese players more effectively in the day, along with deadly effect. Deco cut infield and found Ronaldo, one of whose two with Nuno Gomes was intercepted by Czech goalkeeper Petr Cech, but Deco, who had followed his career, was able to hit the ball over the line.

The goal seemed to arouse the Czech Republic and within the ten minutes they were level. A Jaroslav Plasil corner from the right was met with an emphatic header from Libor Sionko and the ball sailed beyond Ricardo.

Portugal continued to set the pace and Ronaldo was denied on several occasions by Cech. However, Karel Bruckner, who worked hard to deny space to Ronaldo, will be pleased to have restricted Manchester United with interest the efforts of long distance.

It was not all one-way traffic and Milan Baros, leading scorer in Euro 2004, launched a powerful run from the halfway line deep into Portuguese territory, but his last crusade was weak and the ball was scrambled with the security.

The pattern of the first half continued after the break, Portugal played the better football, but decent openings are proving difficult to find, and although the score remained level, the Czech Republic remained danergous - especially from set-pieces . In fact, one of those efforts almost Bruckner saw the side take the lead on 62 minutes when Ujfalusi flick in a corner Plasil, but the ball evaded the onrushing Baros at the far post.

A minute later, Portugal regained the lead when Ronaldo Deco elected with a precise pass on the edge of the area and the far led a crisply-hit shot past Cech.

The Czech Republic refused to capitulate and Bruckner, detect a vulnerability in the centre of the Portuguese defence, introduced Jan Koller more inconvenienced Ricardo Carvalho and Pepe. The change almost paid dividends when the two central defenders, distracted by the giant striker, left unmarked Sionko in the six-yard box, but was unable to win any power with his header and Ricardo tip the effort over the bar.

With time running and the Czech Republic pouring men forward in search of an equalizer, Portugal delivered the coup murderer. Quick thinking Deco saw the crane Barcelona playmaker shot free hisown half in the Portuguese defence, which was lurking Ronaldo, who advanced on goal before moving to Quaresma for an easy tap in.

Group A
Czech Republic 1-3 Portugal

Annotation:
Czech Republic: Libor Sionko 17
Portugal: 8 Deco, Cristiano Ronaldo 63, Ricardo Quaresma 90 +1

Half: 1-1

Teams:
Czech Republic: 1-Petr Cech; 2-Zdenek Grygera, 21-Tomas Ujfalusi, 22-David Rozehnal, 6-Marek Jankulovski; 7-Libor Sionko, 3-Jan Polak, 17-Marek Matejovsky (11-Stanislav Vlcek 68) 4-Tomas Galasek (9-Jan Koller 73), 20-Jaroslav Plasil (14-David Jarolim 85), 15-Milan Baros

Portugal: 1-Ricardo, 4-José Bosingwa, Pepe 15, 16-Ricardo Carvalho, 2-Paulo Ferreira, 8-Armando Petit, 20-Deco, 10-Joao Moutinho (5-Fernando Meira 75), 11-Simao Sabrosa ( 17-Ricardo Quaresma 80), 21-Nuno Gomes (9-Hugo Almeida 79), 7-Cristiano Ronaldo

"Czech Republic v Portugal"

Czech Republic striker Milan Baros, leading scorer in Euro 2004, is set to replace midfielder Jaroslav Plasil and Jan Koller partner in advance.

Right of return Zdenek Pospech is in a position again after the flu and Marek Matejovsky could replace David Jarolim in the center of the field.

Portugal is expected to name the same team which beat Turkey 2-0.

Goalkeeper Nuno Espirito Santo with trained staff on Monday after being called up to replace Quim, who fractured his wrist on Friday.

Matejovsky, who has been suffering from an abdominal muscle injury, said he was ready to return.

"I'm 100% fit and ready," said playmaker reading. "The problem has ido.

"I will be happy to play but it is up to the coach to select the line-up. This is not a fight between David and me - the whole world would like to play.

"We are here as a team and we are to succeed."

BIG MATCH STATS

From head to head

Czech Republic (including Czechoslovakia) and Portugal have met 11 times, with the Czechs winning four matches and Portugal won three times. However, their first meeting in January 1926 (1-1) is not recognised as an international civil servant of the Czech Federation.

Their last meeting was in the quarterfinals of Euro 1996 when the Czechs won 1-0 courtesy of a goal Karel Poborsky.

Team facts - Czech Republic

Deploy its oldest starting line-in this competition in its opening match against Switzerland. At 29 years and 298 days, his line-up late the previous oldest since 1980 more than eleven per year.

The victory against Switzerland Karel Bruckner was the 50 th victory in his 74-match reign as head of the Czech national team.

He won his last six competitive matches and are unbeaten in their last eight.

Team facts - Portugal

By beating Turkey in their opening match, Portugal extended its unbeaten streak in competitions to 12, its second best set of all time.

Between September 2004 and July 2006, Portugal was unbroken in 17 competitions. His last defeat in a competitive game was in a Euro 2008 in Poland (2-1) on October 11, 2006.

Never having been awarded a penalty in tournaments in Europe. This operation streak of 20 matches is a tournament record.

Player facts - Czech Republic

Goalkeeper Petr Cech will meet his team Chelsea Paulo Ferreira and Ricardo Carvalho.

Player facts - Portugal

Against Turkey, Nuno Gomes equaled a record of Portuguese appearing in his third European Championship, a total also achieved by Fernando Couto, Luis Figo and Rui Costa.

If Nuno Gomes results, which will become the third player to score in three different championships in Europe, joining Jürgen Klinsmann (Germany) and Vladimir SMIC (Czech Republic). Thierry Henry (France), Henrik Larsson (Sweden) can also achieve this feat in the Euro 2008.

Miscellaneous Info

The Czechs have a good record in matches led by referee Kyros Vassar.

In 2000, won a World Cup 2002 qualification against Iceland (4-0) and in September 2007, a Euro 2008 Qualifier against the Republic of Ireland (1-0).

Portugal also has good memories of Vassar arbitrator. They beat Sweden (2-3) in a friendly match in 2002, crushed Russia (7-1) in a World Cup qualification in 2004 and registered a 4-0 victory against Belgium in a Euro 2008 in March 2007.

"Villa, steamroll Spain 4-1 Russia"

David Villa showed that opponents of Spain in the European Championship have much more to worry that only Fernando Torres.

The Valencia striker scored a hat trick Tuesday to lead Spain 4-1 on Russia, becoming the first player to get three goals in a European Championship game since Patrick Kluivert Sergio Conceicao Portugal and the Netherlands, both the feat accomplished in the 2000 edition.

"I'm happy for all three points instead of the three goals," Villa said.

Torres fed the streaking Villa in a right-footed goal in the 20 th minute.Villa later Andres Iniesta slipped the slick passing under goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev for his second in the 44 th, and then completed his memorable Group D game after dribbling around Roman Shirokov in the 74 to slot past Akinfeev with his right foot.

"Three goals, a hat trick with the national team - is well begun," the 26-year-old told Villa. "We are facing a good start. But there are still two games ahead."

Cesc Fabregas added a quarter of an hour at the expense of Spain give a further boost confidence in a tournament in which he is linked to your favorites.

"Everyone knows about the importance of this. Let's build on this momentum and enhance in the future," said coach Luis Aragones, who has led Spain in a seven-game winning run as part of a party 17 unbeaten streak.

Russia Roman Pavlyuchenko scored the lone goal with a header in the 86 as Russia lost its opening game to Spain for the second European Championship.

Russia had its chances in a rainy, high-tempo first half with Igor Semshov great shot after being played in the area Aleksandr Anyukuv in the 17 th and Konstantin Zyryanov close to reaching the post after the Spanish defence is not clear six minutes later.

"(Considering) how much possession we had ... we were caught out by our own mistakes," said Russia coach Guus Hiddink, whose success streak in major tournaments is in danger of reaching its end. "I hope we can move quickly now because we still have two matches ahead."

Villa showed no effects of the right thigh injury picked up a week ago which had as its objective international tally to 17 from 32 games - two more than Torres, who has played 50 times.

"When I think of Villa, is a name that makes me think of scoring," Spain coach Luis Aragones said. "The Spanish team is fortunate to have players who can Equals. It could be today or tomorrow Villa Torres."

But without left Joan Capdevila, the first two goals would not have been possible.

The Villarreal defender Torres found on the left with space. In a one-on-one situation with the defender Denis Kolodin, the Liverpool striker worked around the Dynamo Moscow defender to feed a target for Villa beat calmly.

Capdevila led to the break in the second goal, also seeking Iniesta with a cross-field pass. Iniesta left flat-footed Yuri Zhirkov agile as the player of FC Barcelona moved around him to feed Villa, who had slipped between two defenders and just in front of Akinfeev for another crisp finish with his right foot.

Villa paid tribute to Torres after scoring the third goal with another impressive move, running to the bank to embrace his companion, who had come out of Fabregas in the 54.

"The game was very important and he is a key player for us so I wanted to devote a third party for him," Villa said Torres, who scored 33 goals in 47 games in all competitions for Liverpool last season .

Russia faces defending champion Greece and Sweden to avoid the drop after the group stage for the fourth time. Hiddink has never ceased to carry out their teams in the group stage earlier in four major championships.

Hiddink likened the defeat of Russia to "naivety" and lack of luck.

"The first objective that we are playing well ... and then we do silly mistakes and we are caught in the counterattack," said the Dutchman. "The second goal - only one minute before going into half time - then it's a lack of experience" for not running the clock.

Spain's opener which had allowed to find their rhythm after a bruising start. The Russians were looking to slow the rapid Spain passing physical contact with the game and who worked in 10 minutes, apart from a couple of misses Torres and Villa closely.

But after Iniesta escaped the crowd of white shirts leaf Villa a perfect ball to beat the offside trap and net secondly, the task was too much.

"Against a team defensive Spanish is almost done," said Hiddink.

The Russians had a couple of opportunities early in the second substitute Vladimir Bystrov and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov.

However, Spain was the best performance in Russia, despite the advantage of possession and David Silva was unlucky not to get on the scoreboard after seeing blocked two possibilities, one saved and fly on another goal before coming off Xabi Alonso in the 77 th.

Fabregas scored his first goal in 27 appearances after the departure Xavi's volley blocked. Spain is the biggest victory in the tournament since a 4-3 victory over Yugoslavia in 2000.

"We are a group that is, every day, improving with the aim of seeing if we can get all the way until the end," said Aragones. "For now I'm happy."

Hiddink had to juggle with its line of playmakers Pavel Pogrebnyak with Andrei Arshavin missing. The striker has the responsibility fell on Pavlyuchenko, who also shot wide in the 81 th before taking advantage of defending Spain nervy finish with his header.

" Netherlands 3 - 0 Italy"

Netherlands 3-0 Italy: A Dutch of class

Champions of the world Italy suffered a disastrous start to their Euro 2008 campaign, as it was reduced to an impressive Netherlands in their Group C opener in Berne.

The Dutch were lucky to take a 26th minute lead after Ruud van Nistelrooy became Giovanni van Bronckhorst's effort despite being clearly offside.

Wesley Sneijder then celebrated his 24th birthday in style by adding an impressive breakaway in the second half hour mark.

Italy had numerous opportunities to reduce the deficit after the break, but Edwin van der Sar came to the rescue, making a superb save from Andrea Pirlo free-kick from Fabio Grosso and near the scope of the effort.

Van Bronckhorst completed a wonderful evening for the Netherlands by heading past goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon in 79 minutes as the Dutch held its first victory against the Italians since the World Cup 1978.

The atmosphere in the Stade de Suisse was electric with the Oranje fans far outnumbering the Azzurri supporters.

The duel between the coaches and fellow former AC Milan Marco van Basten and Roberto Donadoni also added an extra edge to the encounter.

The Azzurri should have taken an early lead Luca Toni, but not to get behind Antonio Di Natale dangerous cross.

At the other end, Rafael van der Vaart left-footed strike forced Buffon diving to his right to clear.

Italy responded with Toni's header from Gennaro Gattuso cross passes at Van der Sar, near the post.

In the 17 th minute, Holland should have broken the deadlock after a defensive error from the Azzurri.

Dirk Kuyt set up Van Nistelrooy, who has past Buffon, but lost his balance and the opportunity disappeared.

Shortly thereafter, Sneijder was the bullet strike the bar higher as Holland approached.

In the midst of the first half, Materazzi made it clear from Sneijder free-kick, with Van Nistelrooy ready to head in white.

Holland was lucky enough to break the deadlock, with Van Nistelrooy in an offside position before touching the ball past Buffon.

At the other end, Van Bronckhorst made a crucial goalline clearance after a team mate almost headed into his own net and Holland swept straight upfield to score his second.

Van Bronckhorst long ball found Dirk Kuyt, who in turn created Sneijder inside the area, the midfielder's first touch finish beating Buffon.

Italy could have reduced the deficit, but Di Natale shortly after the close range volley was saved by Van der Sar.

Three minutes before the break, Buffon made a fine save to deny Holland his third of the night.

A beautiful ball from Sneijder found Van Nistelrooy, whose strike was rejected by the goalkeeper.

Di Natale then fired just high over the crossbar on the stroke of half-time.

Italy showed more determination after the resumption and had a good opportunity as Gianluca Zambrotta Kuyt did well to get past, but his effort was wide.

Toni then fired wide on the hour mark as Italy advanced.

Shortly thereafter, itching Pirlo free-kick wide with Fizz and Van der Sar beaten.

Donadoni led to Alessandro Del Piero, who seconds later fired on goal but his effort was saved by the goalkeeper.

Just when Italy seemed to have found his rhythm, Netherlands scored.

Van Bronckhorst Kuyt latched onto the cross before heading past Buffon.

Italy never relinquished Netherlands but defended deeply and held at a famous victory.

Van Basten taken aback by Dutch masterclass

Marco van Basten celebrates his best moment as coach of Netherlands leading his team to an 'historic' 3-0 victory over his good friend Roberto Donadoni and world champions Italy.

The Dutch beat the Azzurri for the first time in three decades to their Euro 2008 opener in Berne and handed Donadoni, who has just signed a two-year contract extension, his worst defeat as team leader.

"I am very proud of my team, 'said Van Basten." We have won against Italy, the world champions.

"This is a historic victory because I do not think that they have never beaten the Italians 3-0."

A stunned Donadoni took a brave face after the defeat, and insisted his players would be able to fight in his next game.

"We had a day off, 'said Donadoni." The game started badly and ended terrible for us.

"Our intention was not to start this tournament and award a 3-0 defeat.

"I was not surprised by the display of Holland, who played as we had hoped to play.

"The first objective complicated our lives and I thought they were very naive in the second goal. We reacted well in the second half and despite having chances, could not be '.

Van Basten was pleased with Van Nistelrooy, who scored the opener, but also with his entire team.

Only two years ago in the World Cup in Germany, Van Basten had a rough ride in his first major tournament in charge.

Tonight, they played only several days after losing the far Arjen Robben to injury, and had no problems to overcome his absence.

"I am very happy because my team played as a team, 'said Van Basten." We had to do without several players, including Robben, and the team responded and showed a lot of spirit'.

Italy are now in danger of crashing out of the Championship of Europe at the first hurdle, as did four years ago in Portugal.

"We must be optimistic and forget about this game, 'said Donadoni.

"We need to bounce back in our next game against Romania, an encounter that has become crucial for us.

"Let's learn from our mistakes and make sure we do not repeat them '.

"Austria 0-1 Croatia"

Croatia laboured to a 1-0 victory over co-hosts Austria in the opening Group B game.

The Croats, who had been fancied as dark horses for the tournament, pedestrian waiting for the most part, while Austria could consider themselves unfortunate enough to suffer the same fate as his co-hosts Switzerland to lose a game in which largely dominated.

Austria suffered the worst possible start to his tournament when it awarded a penalty within three minutes of the kick. Ivica Olic broke into the box to collect a pass from Luka Modric, only to be grouped by Rene Aufhauser. The referee had no hestitation in pointing to the place, and the resulting penalty coolly converted Modric.

The goal settled and Croatia they controlled possession without really looking like extending their leadership. Mladen Petric had its best chance when found unmarked at the far post, but his thunderous shot flashed wide high.

Confidence seems to breed complacency within the ranks Croats, and Austria, which has struggled to get a foot in the early stages, began to enjoy some possession as the interval approached. Their best chance fell to Standfest who headed wide from close range, while Simunic had to be alert to scramble clear a dangerous cross from Martin Harnik.

After the break Austria continued to have the game to their opponents and although clear chances were few and far between, their efforts raised the decibel level at the Ernst Happel stadium as the home crowd sensed a tie was imminent.

With veteran Ivica Vastic, at 38 the oldest outfield player in the tournament, which appears as a second half substitute Austria began to enjoy long periods of possession and Harnik a threat to the right, Croatia were forced to backfoot for a significant portion of the second half.

The co-hosts almost made the breakthrough when a shot from Korkmaz was rejected by the goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa in injury time, Kienast glanced a header wide in the strict sense.


Group B
Austria 0 Croatia 1

Top Scorers: Luka Modric 4 pen

Half-time: 0-1

Teams:
Austria: Juergen Macho 21-, 2-Joachim Standfest, 15-Sebastian Proedl, 4-Emanuel Pogatetz, 3-Martin Stranzl, 12-Ronald Gercaliu (11-Umit Korkmaz 69), 10-Andreas Ivanschitz, 6-Rene Aufhauser, 19 -- Juergen Saeumel (7-Ivica Vastic 61), 20-Martin Harnik, 9-Roland Linz (18-Roman Kienast 73)

Croatia: 1-Stipe Pletikosa; 5-Vedran Corluka, 4-Robert Kovac, 3-Josip Simunic, 22-Danijel Pranjic, 11-Darijo Srna, 10-Niko Kovac, 14-Luka Modric, 19-Niko Kranjcar (15-Dario Knezevic 61), 21-Mladen Petric (20-Igor Budan 72), 18-Ivica Olic (8-Ognjen Vukojevic 82).

"Poland 2-0 Germany: Podolski brace Poignant"

KLAGENFURT, June 8 - Lukas Podolski offset two goals against the country of his birth to give Germany a winning start to their Euro 2008 campaign against Poland in Klagenfurt.

Bayern Munich mates Miroslav Klose and Podolski - two of the three players born in Poland Germany the squadron - combined in 20 minutes for the latter to put the 1996 European champions ahead, before Podolski sealed the victory midway through the second half.

The victory in Germany remains impressive unbeaten record against the Poles, which now stands at 12 victories and four draws, and saw to replace Croatia at the top of Group B.

Germany, one of the favourites of the tournament despite not having won a final match since the triumph in 1996 in England, suffered a nervy start from where the first attack of the match goalkeeper Jens Lehmann spilled a cross after colliding with team mate - Per Mertesacker.

Fortunately for the former Arsenal custodian, however, Poland midfielder Jacek Krzynowek track the ball loose in the mass ranks of German fans behind the goal.

Joachim Low's side do not have to wait a long time to create your opportunity despite the opening, and what they actually should have resulted in the first goal of the game.

Through Michael Ballack-ball Klose sent away, but instead of taking the opportunity to itself the striker opted to slip the ball inside to Mario Gomez, who with the huge target was unable to stretch enough to get a connection clean and dribble his effort agonisingly wide of the post.

An entertaining start continued with Poland captain Maciej Zurawski not only to get at the end of a low cross from the right as the German defence once more uncomfortable waiting under pressure.

Germany took the lead not long after when Klose although once again broke the offside trap Poland, by sending Gomez striker clear.

Again Klose unselfishly opted to create a team mate, and this time their passage across the face of the goal was Celtic's Artur Boruca offside and allowed Gleiwitz-Podolski was born the simplest of tap-ins.

The Germans are good value for his leadership at that time, but Poland were not without their chances and Wojciech Lobodzinski unit saw its power under the diving Lehmann, Zurawski dragged before a grand bargain decent far post during a purple patch Leo Beenhakker's men.

At the other end Gomez missed a similar opportunity for Germany after good work from Clemens Fritz right before Mariusz Lewandowski saw Lehmann save his long-range piledriver with what was the final effort worthy of a first period.

The average time of the animated introduction Roger Guerreiro gave Poland a spring in his step at the beginning of the second period, but despite that the German back line of much thinking, the Poles are still playing up to date as the game entered the final 30 minutes.

Poland may have been able to enjoy much of the possession, but Germany was looking a threat on the counterattack and substitute Bastian Schweinsteiger tested Boruca with a low drive before the Polish goalkeeper produced a brilliant save to deny Ballack finger at the 70 th minute.

The Chelsea man looked at some Result after locking Philipp Lahm's Cut-back, but Boruca is equal to that of Germany skipper rising shot to Poland to remain in touch.

Boruca the good work was undone however shortly afterwards when Germany pounce on a defensive error by Pawel Golanski to double their lead.

Golanski took too long in an attempt to clear the ball and Schweinsteiger was able to block before feeding the ball inside Klose.

Klose, who turns 30 on Monday, he was unable to seize an early birthday present as he mis-hit his shot but the ball very well for Spooner Podolski an unstoppable volley slammed into the roof of the net.

That left Poland with a mountain to climb to avoid defeat in their first appearance in the European Championship finals, but Beenhakker's side almost took a lifesaver when Guerreiro, near post cross glanced goalwards by Marek Saganowski.

However, Lehmann blocked Saganowski's header and Poland were unable to capitalize on the subsequent loose ball.

Podolski had a chance to grab itself coincides with the ball with two minutes remaining, but shot with his less favoured right foot from 15 yards, but although he did not get his hat trick, he had already done enough to win Germany the points.