Euro 2008 - Goup A Preview
June 3rd 2008 20:06
Czech Republic
The Czech finished first in their group during the qualifying round. With Chelsea's Petr Cech between the pipes and a solid 4-man defense, they have allowed only five goals during that period. In midfield, the retirement of both Karel Poborski and Pavel Nedved after the 2006 World Cup has left big holes to fill. The absence of Tomas Rosicky (knee injury) as the Czech midfield is filled with question marks. In attack, the duo Jan Koller-Milan Baros is still intact. However, newcomer Martin Fenin may steal Baros' spot from time to time. In my opinion, this is a team that will heavily use long balls and rely on their iron-clad defense when not in possession. Since they are in a relatively weak group (Portugal is the only powerhouse in this group), I don't think they'll have any problem going to the second round if they play well.
Portugal
The Portuguese finished second in their group (behind Poland) during the qualifying stage but no one doubts the immense potential of this team. Led by Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, they'll be hoping to go farther than they did in 2004 where they lost in the final to a surprising Greek squad. From front to back, Luiz Felipe Scolari can rely on several key players. In attack, technical skills are the main assets with players such as Ronaldo, Nani, Quaresma, and Simão striking fear in opposite defenses. The midfield revolves around playmaker Deco as the supply line for the forwards while Petit stays in the holding position. Maniche's absence leaves the door open for youngsters such as Meireles, Moutinho, and/or Veloso. In defense, the center seems solid with four players competing for two spots – Ricardo Carvalho, Bruno Alves, Pepe, and Fernando Meira. On the flanks, look for Miguel and Ferreira to support their team's attacks. This is a squad built for attacking football. There is no doubt that they'll go on to the second round but they might have some trouble against a well-organized defensive team like Greece in 2004.
Switzerland
With a forward as dominant as Alexander Frei and playmaker Barnetta right behind him, the Swiss shouldn't be underestimated. In the 2006 World Cup, they have showed that they can hold their own defensively by not conceding any goal, and going through to the round of 16. Most, if not all, players of that squad are back for the Euro and they could cause a surprise if they play as a tight unit. The fact that they're playing at home will serve as extra motivation.
Turkey
Absent from all major competitions since finishing third in the 2002 World Cup, the Turks will look to prove that their are capable of repeating the same exploit six years later. In order to do that, goalkeeper Rüstü Recber has to be in top form as all other teams of their group have excellent attackers.
The Czech finished first in their group during the qualifying round. With Chelsea's Petr Cech between the pipes and a solid 4-man defense, they have allowed only five goals during that period. In midfield, the retirement of both Karel Poborski and Pavel Nedved after the 2006 World Cup has left big holes to fill. The absence of Tomas Rosicky (knee injury) as the Czech midfield is filled with question marks. In attack, the duo Jan Koller-Milan Baros is still intact. However, newcomer Martin Fenin may steal Baros' spot from time to time. In my opinion, this is a team that will heavily use long balls and rely on their iron-clad defense when not in possession. Since they are in a relatively weak group (Portugal is the only powerhouse in this group), I don't think they'll have any problem going to the second round if they play well.
Portugal
The Portuguese finished second in their group (behind Poland) during the qualifying stage but no one doubts the immense potential of this team. Led by Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, they'll be hoping to go farther than they did in 2004 where they lost in the final to a surprising Greek squad. From front to back, Luiz Felipe Scolari can rely on several key players. In attack, technical skills are the main assets with players such as Ronaldo, Nani, Quaresma, and Simão striking fear in opposite defenses. The midfield revolves around playmaker Deco as the supply line for the forwards while Petit stays in the holding position. Maniche's absence leaves the door open for youngsters such as Meireles, Moutinho, and/or Veloso. In defense, the center seems solid with four players competing for two spots – Ricardo Carvalho, Bruno Alves, Pepe, and Fernando Meira. On the flanks, look for Miguel and Ferreira to support their team's attacks. This is a squad built for attacking football. There is no doubt that they'll go on to the second round but they might have some trouble against a well-organized defensive team like Greece in 2004.
Switzerland
With a forward as dominant as Alexander Frei and playmaker Barnetta right behind him, the Swiss shouldn't be underestimated. In the 2006 World Cup, they have showed that they can hold their own defensively by not conceding any goal, and going through to the round of 16. Most, if not all, players of that squad are back for the Euro and they could cause a surprise if they play as a tight unit. The fact that they're playing at home will serve as extra motivation.
Turkey
Absent from all major competitions since finishing third in the 2002 World Cup, the Turks will look to prove that their are capable of repeating the same exploit six years later. In order to do that, goalkeeper Rüstü Recber has to be in top form as all other teams of their group have excellent attackers.
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