SWE 1-2 ESP - The two strikers made it happen in the first half. Sweden took off Ibra at the half, which would, to a team with more grit than the Spaniards, signal that the match is there for the taking. Spain didn't pounce. As usual, Spain was ineffective when the game wasn't pretty and needed a horrid blunder to take the points.
To be fair, Spain did show some grit to hang with- and defeat- the tough Swedes. Spain got hosed by not getting a penalty when their man was run down. They did enjoy far more possession, even if they didn't capitalize. But, they will have to do more if they want to win this show.
GRE 0-1 RUS - The difference here was Clooney going after a stray cross like a child chasing the ice cream truck. Some Russian flipped it back over his shoulder to another Russian who was left unmarked, likely due to the Greek back line's stunned disbelief at their keeper's jaunt. Facing elimination, the Greeks actually tried to push for a goal, which left them exposed. But the Russians missed all of their many opportunities.
The Greeks hardly made any half chances from their efforts and are left to cry foul from a dubious offside flag that nullified a potential goal. Vainly chasing the game should make it clear to the Greeks that they caught lightning in a bottle with their success of 2004. They are shown the exit door, as the nominal holders go two and done. See y'all later, boys; rework that phalanx and...don't forget to drop off the cup.
No comments:
Post a Comment