Euro 2008 - Quarterfinals Preview: Croatia vs. Turkey
June 20th 2008 03:21
Both teams have surprised their superior opponents – Germany and the Czech Republic – through sheer determination. They both have passionate coaches in Slaven Bilic and Fatih Terim. The one thing that sets them apart going to this quarterfinal is the number of injuries in the Turkish ranks. All of the team's central defenders have some sort of problem and will find Ivica Olic's constant pressure very tiresome. In midfield, captain Emre Belozoglu is still struggling with an injury picked up in the first game while holding midfielder Mehmet Aurelio has been suspended after picking up two yellow cards in the group stage. To make matters worse, goalkeeper Volkan Demirel is also suspended after his red card against the Czech Republic. In his case, the goalkeeper has been suspended for two games since he didn't leave the field after getting his card, opting to sit on the bench instead.
Croatia, on the other hand, have had the luxury of resting all of their starters since they had secured their qualification after defeating Germany in their second group match. Their speed and vivacity may annoy the Turkish squad who might turn it into an overly physical match. However, Turkey can also count on midfielders Arda Turan and Tuncay Sanli who have a knack for coming up big when it matters.
Croatia, on the other hand, have had the luxury of resting all of their starters since they had secured their qualification after defeating Germany in their second group match. Their speed and vivacity may annoy the Turkish squad who might turn it into an overly physical match. However, Turkey can also count on midfielders Arda Turan and Tuncay Sanli who have a knack for coming up big when it matters.
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