Tournament Seeding and the Need for a Fix

With the increased globalization of the game, major tournaments are heading to new lands. Austria and Switzerland hosted Euro 2008, with next year's event heading to Poland and Ukraine. Last year South Africa staged the World Cup with Russia and Qatar on the horizon. While I'm all for spreading the game around the globe (aside for whatever shadiness helped Qatar land the 2022 World Cup), this trend presents a flaw with regards to tournament seeding.

Tournament hosts automatically qualify, which makes perfect sense. If you're hosting a party, you're obviously getting a seat at the table. For countries such as Austria, South Africa and Qatar, this means a rare chance to compete. For the likes of Russia and Poland, it guarantees entry into an event where sometimes they qualify and sometimes they don't. But I think it's absurd that, when it comes time for the draw, the qualifying hosts are further rewarded with unjustified one seeds that throw off the balance of the opening round.

Take last Friday's Euro 2012 draw as an example. The pre-dertermined one seeds were Spain and Netherlands (certainly deserving) along with co-hosts Poland and Ukraine. Instead of one seeds going to, say Germany and Portugal, those two teams ended up in the Group of Death, Group B, with Holland. Where's the fairness there?

Of course, the potential for a Group of Death adds excitement to the draw and creates better opening round matches. But consider that from the trio of Holland, Germany and Portugal, at least one side will miss the knockout round, while among Russia, Greece and Poland, at least one will advance. The quarterfinals get watered down when teams aren't slotted properly.

Although co-hosts double the problem, at least the 16-team Euro field is deep enough to make this less of an issue. But in the World Cup, where there's a large gap between the contenders and the countries that are just happy to be there, giving a one seed to a South Africa or Qatar is absurd. We still have 10 years until Qatar hosts a World Cup. Let's hope there's a change to the seeding system before then.

And with that post, I'm proud to say that I wrote at least one in 2011, one day shy of the anniversary of my last post. Time and energy for blogging are in short supply these days, but I'm determined not to totally abandon my humble Soccer Haus. If you made it this far, thanks for reading!

World Cup 2010: A Final to Forget

The beautiful game this was not. Spain are the champions, and deservedly so, but those hoping that today's match would provide the perfect cap to an outstanding tournament were left bitterly disappointed. Holland coach Bert van Marwijk capped the unfortunate show best when he said "It's not our style, but you play a match to win."

The Dutch skipper summed up why the World Cup Final so rarely delivers a classic. Teams, especially the underdog, often abandon the tactics that brought them to soccer's ultimate game and instead play a conservative, tactical match that sacrifices fluid, entertaining play. In the case of Holland, they felt their best chances to disrupt Spanish ball possession was through a series of hard tackles, far too many of which resulted in fouls.

Not that Holland didn't have their chances. Arjen Robben unthinkably missed on a breakaway near the midpoint of the second half and minutes later he had a legitimate gripe when Carles Puyol held him up in the box. Ironically, a player who has earned a reputation for diving didn't get the call because he stayed on his feet.

Soccer has a way of rewarding the better team and Spain's reward came in the dying seconds of extra time. The winner by Andres Iniesta, much like the match itself, wasn't pretty, but in the eyes of every Spaniard, it was reason to celebrate. Vicente Del Bosque's men now stand as one of the most accomplished squads of all time. Only West Germany (1972-74) and France (1998-2000) have held both the World Cup and the European Championship simultaneously, and the previous two needed home field advantage to capture the Cup. And let's not forget a point that was raised so often after Spain dropped the opener to Switzerland; they become the first side to win the World Cup despite losing their opening match.

As for the hosts, South Africa, they shook off all the pre-tournament criticism to deliver a fantastic event. The spirit of the home fans was evident throughout, and the nation should be proud. For all the grief Sepp Blatter has taken, he deserves credit for standing behind the hosts when so many were calling for the tournament to be moved elsewhere.

History will not remember tonight's match fondly, but for fans from Barcelona to Zaragoza, the painful night of viewing will be overshadowed by their team's crowning triumph.

World Cup 2010: Holland-Spain Final Preview

There is so much to like about the match-up between Spain and Holland in Sunday's World Cup Final. The two greatest teams never to win the World Cup will look to join an exclusive club that includes Uruguay, Italy, Germany, Brazil, England, Argentina and France. Not since 1978, when Argentina faced Holland, have two teams without a World Cup title met in the Final. And not since 1958, when Brazil won their first World Cup against hosts Sweden, has a squad captured their first title on foreign soil.

But enough about history; tomorrow's match is also about the current generation of players. For Spain, their "golden generation" has a chance to join the game's list of legendary squads by adding the World Cup to the European crown they won two years ago. Holland, meanwhile, will look to clear the final hurdle that the "Total Football" sides of 1974 and 1978 could not.

The key to Spain's stifling run through the knockout stages has been ball possession. You can't score against La Furia Roja if you can't get the ball, and Spain have clamped down on the Jabulani in their last three games. Against a German side that had scored eight goals in the previous two matches, Spain controlled the match throughout, getting the only goal they needed off the head of Carles Puyol. When the opposition has created the rare scoring chance, Iker Casillas has been there to make timely saves. The only question for Spain is whether or not Fernando Torres will start. Reaching the Final with little contribution from their top offensive talent is a testament to Spain's depth and cohesion.

Holland arrive at the Final on the back of Wesley Sneijder, who can complete one of the greatest years in the history of the game. Following a treble winning campaign with Inter Milan, the Dutch number 10 has scored five times in the World Cup. The Holland defense hasn't been as bulletproof as Spain's, but aggressive midfielder Mark van Bommel and defender-turned-goal scorer Giovanni Van Bronckhorst have the potential to frustrate Spain.

Recent World Cup Finals have been disappointing affairs with the pressure of the event choking off hopes of an open game. Not since 1986 have both teams scored a goal from the run of play. While I don't anticipate an offensive show, Spain's clinical ability to control a match is impressive to watch. I expect them to capture their fourth-straight 1-0 win and take the World Cup back to Madrid. Paella for all!

Prediction: Spain 1, Holland 0

World Cup 2010: A Look Back at Holland's Last Final

If you spend some time rummaging through YouTube, you'll find plenty of excellent old soccer clips, including a collection of World Cup Finals recaps. Last week I shared the 1950 Final between Uruguay and Brazil. Here's a recap of the 1978 Final between Holland and Argentina, the last time Holland appeared in the Final.

I've always been fascinated by this match with the streamers all over the pitch, the dingy looking stadium and overcast skies, and Mario Kempes running amok through the Dutch defense. Enjoy.

World Cup 2010: The Pride of Liverpool

There are a handful of certainties going into tomorrow's World Cup Final. We'll see an eighth nation join the fraternity of World Cup champions. A European team will win outside the continent for the first time. And the trophy will be be cradled by a member of Liverpool Football Club. Holland's Dirk Kuyt and Spain's Fernando Torres share the same club jersey and a spot in the Final, but their experiences this past month have been anything but identical. The underrated Kuyt has had a dream tournament, while the hobbled superstar Torres has suffered a frustarting trip to South Africa.

Watching Holland play, you appreciate how Kuyt fits perfectly on the Dutch roster. Calling a player a "hard worker" is often a back-handed compliment, implying his effort is more impressive that his skills. But in Kuyt's case, his determined runs and non-stop energy have made so much possible for his teammates. Whether sending crosses into the box or flicking headers towards teammates, he is the ideal complement up front to Wesley Sneijder, Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie. Kuyt is the classic role player on which championship teams are formed. He doesn't need to be the star, but he does so much to allow Holland's top players to flourish. He's even there to pick Sneijder up - literally - after a goal. The fact that he re-affirmed his commitment to LFC this week only endears him further to the Anfield faithful.

Watching Kuyt play for Holland, you also see why he sometimes struggles for Liverpool. LFC don't have a trio of stars like the Dutch, and when Torres or Steven Gerrard aren't in the line-up, he's asked to take over alpha dog status. That's not his strength. That's a responsibility that belongs to his Spanish teammate.

Two years ago Fernando Torres poked home the only goal in Spain's 1-0 win over Germany in the Euro 2008 Final and his offensive talents were among the reasons that Spain were pegged as a World Cup favorite. And while La Furia Roja can win it's first world title tomorrow night, little else has followed the plan for El Nino. Torres has not been at full strength since he had knee surgery in April, and his struggles forced Vicente del Bosque to leaving him out of the starting XI for the semifinal against Germany. He did look fresher coming off the bench and would have had a goal if Pedro hadn't been the only man in the stadium not to see him wide open in the box. But for a man who is considered one of the world's premier strikers, watching him sweat his place in the starting line-up on the eve of the final is a shame.

I should also mention the two other LFC players who will be at Soccer City tomorrow night, Holland's Ryan Babel and Spain's Pepe Reina. Unfortunately neither has seen a minute of action in South Africa. This is especially tough for Reina, a man who is talented enough to start for most national teams, but lands behind Iker Casillas on the depth chart. But at least Babel and Reina will have excellent seats for the world's greatest sporting event.

World Cup 2010: Arjen Robben, Please Stop

As much as anyone with no ties to Holland, I have always been a fan of Dutch soccer. I've watched highlights of Johan Cruyff's "Total Football" teams of the '70s, and enjoyed the stylish play of the '80s and '90s squads, first with Marco van Basten, Ruud Gullit and Frank Rijkaard, and then with Dennis Bergkamp and Patrick Kluivert. A throwback Ajax jersey I owned in college probably contributed to the lack of women I dated at the time, but it was the shirt of choice for my passport photo. In 2006 my brother and I partied with the Orange Army in Stuttgart. As a Liverpool fan, I of course love the hard working, playmaking abilities of Dirk Kuyt, and during this tournament I've been awed by the talents of Wesley Sniejder. So despite not a single Dutch ancestor that I'm aware of hanging off my family tree, I'm thrilled to see them in the Final. That's why I must add the following: Arjen Robben, you're killing this for me.

Soccer haters usually bring up one of two arguments. Not enough scoring or they can't stand the flopping and diving. I won't listen to the first point unless that person's favorite sport is bowling. As for the second, while no soccer fan enjoys the theatrics, I typically counter with a list of countries who don't engage in such tactics. And in the past, Holland has been on the list. Not anymore after Arjen Robben has emerged as the premier flop artist at the 2010 World Cup.


What's a shame is that Robben is a tremendously skilled player who doesn't need to turn to the dark side. His magnificent strike in this spring's Champions League against Manchester United helped propel Bayern Munich to the Final, and his opening goal against Slovakia showed his remarkable ability to cut to the inside and let fire from long range. But on the flip side, we have seen a player who is eager to take minimal contact and act like he's been cut down by a sniper. His hysterics against Brazil lead to the free kick that set up the first of Holland's two goals. Today he was rightfully criticized by the ESPN broadcast duo of Ian Darke and John Harkes for exaggerating an injury after a slight collision. His antics are an unfortunate exception on an otherwise exceptional Dutch team. Heading into today's game, his coach claimed he "doesn't do it on purpose," a statement that's tough to validate.

Robben's skills will be on display for a global audience in Sunday's showpiece final. (FYI, I love using the phrase "showpiece final.") I'll be breaking out my contraband Dutch overalls for the occasion. If I'm bringing my Dutch best, I hope Arjen Robben can do the same.

World Cup 2010: Holland-Uruguay Semifinal Preview

Holland meet Uruguay in Cape Town in the first World Cup semifinal. The match pits two unlikely participants; Holland were twice runners-up 1974 and 1978, and last appeared in the semifinals in 1998. Uruguay won two of the first four World Cups, but haven't reached the final four in 40 years.

Wesley Sneijder elevated himself to Dutch legend status with his play against Brazil in the quarterfinals. His looping ball into the box became the own goal that got Holland level, and his header off a corner kick won the match. While Sneijder, Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie are the focal points of the Dutch attack, the contributions of Dirk Kuyt have been critical to Holland's success. His non-stop engine has set up several scoring opportunities, including the flick-on header that found Sneijder last Friday.

While Holland's near-perfect second half was the highlight in the win over Brazil, the play that saved the match was a stunning one-handed save by Maarten Stekelenburg to deny Kaka late in the first half. If Stekelenburg gets beat for a 2-0 Brazil lead, Holland are already home. Instead they stand 90 minutes away from their third crack at the World Cup crown.

Overlooked in the post-game furor over Luis Suarez's intentional hand ball that saved the match against Ghana was the red card suspension that will cost Uruguay one of their top offensive threats. With Suarez gone, the pressure rest on Diego Forlan, whose majestic free kick leveled the quarterfinal match. With out his attack partner, may prove easier for the Dutch to contain.

A trip to the semifinals has given the Uruguay side a sense of proud accomplishment. The Dutch, meanwhile, feel that they're just getting started. Their march to an elusive title continues.

Prediction: Holland 1, Uruguay 0

World Cup 2010: Quarterfinals Preview- July 2

After 20 straight days of World Cup action, a two-day break felt like a week. Thankfully the Cup returns tomorrow with the first two quarterfinals- Brazil vs. Holland and Uruguay vs. Ghana. I hit seven out of eight Round of 16 picks, nailing the exact score on half the matches. Let's see if I can keep the hot hand going.

Brazil vs. Holland
In 1994 these sides met at this stage in what was, in my opinion, the best match of that tournament. (Check out the fantastic game open.) In a five-goal second half, Holland rallied from 2-0 down, only to be ousted by Branco's 81st minute goal. Four years later in the semifinals, Brazil took the rematch, advancing in a shootout after a 1-1 draw.

The rosters have changed since those 1990's clashes, but Brazil-Holland still promises to be a showcase match. Team in-fighting has dashed previous Dutch hopes. Robin van Persie and Wesley Sneijder are anything but best buddies, but with Arjen Robben returning to form, Holland has the talent to overcome their personal issues.

Brazil has some concerns in the midfield. Felipe Melo and Elano are nursing ankle injuries, while Ramires is suspended. But with Luis Fabiano, Kaka and Robinho all on the roster, Brazil have little reason to worry. In net, Julio Cesar has conceded only one goal through four matches.

Holland are 4-0, but their play has been more workmanlike than dazzling. Brazil, meanwhile, looks as though they approaching the form of previous championship sides.

Prediction: Brazil 3, Holland 1

Uruguay vs. Ghana
At the African World Cup, Ghana look to become the African side to reach the semis of a World Cup. Cameroon (1990) and Senegal (2002) reached the quarters, and if the Black Stars are to do what their predecessors could not, they'll need to bottle up Uruguay's dynamic duo of Luis Suarez and Diego Forlan.

Ghana took advantage of some shoddy American defending to win their last match, despite being outplayed for most of the second half. Uruguay features a tighter defense and more effective strikers than the U.S. did, two aspects that could tip this one in the South Americans' favor. But Ghana, the only group runner-up to win their second round match, will have the crowd at Soccer City in their corner. If Asamoah Gyan and his teammates can channel the energy, they'll make history with a win.

Prediction: Uruguay 2, Ghana 1

World Cup 2010: Round of 16 Previews- June 28

Holland vs. Slovakia
The second of three all-European second round matches pits Group E winners Holland against Group F runners-up Slovakia. Holland were one of only two 3-0 teams in the group stages, besting Denmark, Japan and Cameroon. The Slovaks had only one point after two matches following a draw with New Zealand and a loss to Paraguay. But they upset Italy in their final match to take second.

The Dutch may not always get along, but when Wesley Sneijder and Robin Van Persie are scoring goals, everyone's happy. The return of Arjen Robben gives Bert van Marwijk's troops added fire power. Slovakia's defense will be under constant pressure, and they'll look to Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel to neutralize club teammate Dirk Kuyt and the rest of the Netherlands offense.

Holland are the more potent side here and Slovakia's defense has been far from bullet proof. Those two factors add up to a Dutch victory.

Prediction: Holland 2, Slovakia 0

Brazil vs. Chile
For the first time in this World Cup we will see a South American team eliminated as Brazil face continental rivals Chile. Brazil was efficient in their trip through Group G, defeating North Korea and Ivory Coast before locking up the top spot with a scoreless draw against Portugal. Chile jumped out to a 2-0 start by topping Honduras and Switzerland before a loss to Spain dropped them to second.

A rested Kaka is back for Brazil after he was absurdly sent off against the Ivory Coast. With Luis Fabiano and Elano each scoring twice in Group G play, Brazil have no shortage of attacking options.

Chile's punishment for their rugged play against Spain was yellow card suspensions for starting defenders Gary Medel and Wando Ponce. With an inexperienced backline in front of him, goalkeeper Claudio Bravo will need to steal the match for Chile.

Chile actually won more matches than Brazil in South American qualifying, but none of those victories came in two meetings with the five-time champs. That trend continues in South Africa.

Prediction: Brazil 3, Chile 0

World Cup 2010: Breaking Down the Groups- Part 2

Well, I didn't exactly set the world on fire with my first set of picks (although I did get USA and England right). Here's hoping for better luck in part two of my group stage breakdown, taking a look at Groups E-H.

Group E
Standings: Holland- 6 points, +3 goal differential; Japan- 3 pts., E; Denmark- 3 pts. -1; Cameroon- 0 pts., -2
Match-ups: Holland vs. Cameroon; Japan vs. Denmark
The situation: Having both posted wins over Cameroon, Japan and Denmark face-off for second-place. While Denmark are the sharper side, Japan have the advantage of advancing with a draw. Barring a highly unlikely set of scores, Holland will top the group regardless of their match with Cameroon.
Prediction: The only group to advance two European teams will see Holland take first, followed by Denmark.

Group F
Standings: Paraguay- 4 pts., +2; Italy- 2 pts., E; New Zealand- 2 pts., E; Slovakia- 1 pt., -2
Match-ups: Paraguay vs. New Zealand; Italy vs. Slovakia
The situation: Despite a pair of lackluster draws, Italy need to only a win in their final match to move on to the knockout phases. But their struggles have allowed Paraguay to seize control of the group; a win over New Zealand will see the South American outfit claim the top spot, and a tie sees them through as well.
Prediction: The Kiwis magic runs out as Paraguay takes first, followed by Italy. The results mean Holland face Italy in the Round of 16.

Group G
Standings: Brazil- 6 pts., +3; Portugal- 4 pts., +7; Ivory Coast- 1 pt., -2; North Korea- 0 pts., -8
Match-ups: Brazil vs. Portugal; Ivory Coast vs. North Korea
The situation: While not technically eliminated, there's no way Ivory Coast are making up nine goals on Portugal. So with Brazil and Portugal assured of going through, it should lead to an open, entertaining match to determine group supremacy. Even with Kaka suspended following an absurd sending off, the world's top ranked team have shown no indication that they'll drop a match here.
Prediction: Brazil stay unbeaten, with Portugal taking second.

Group H
Standings: Chile- 6 pts., +2; Spain- 3 pts., +1; Switzerland- 3 pts., E; Honduras- 0 pts., -3
Match-ups: Chile vs. Spain; Switzerland vs. Honduras
The situation: Chile may sit a top the group with six points, but their position is far from safe. Their failure to improve on a 1-0 scoreline against a weak Honduras side and a Swiss squad that played a man down for much of the match may be their undoing with the goal differential tiebreaker. With Spain and Switzerland both favored, we may see three teams finish with six points. The odd men out would be the first team ever not to reach the knockout stages with five or more points.
Prediction: A win for Spain puts them top of the group, setting up an all-Iberian showdown with Portugal. The punchless Swiss can only manage a draw against Honduras and Chile takes second.

World Cup 2010: Bavaria Stirs up Trouble Again

If you've been following the sideshow news from the World Cup, you've seen the story of a pack of sassy Dutch ladies who found themselves in big trouble for supporting the national team and a renegade beer called Bavaria. Fortunately charges against the two ring leaders have been dropped. Marketing experts will tell you this is a savvy ploy by the folks at Bavaria. It's a lot of publicity for a little bit of trouble.

This isn't the first time Bavaria has brought their ambush marketing tactics to the World Cup. One of my most cherished souvenirs from Germany four years ago is a pair of Bavaria overalls I picked up on the streets of Stuttgart prior to the Holland-Ivory Coast match. As USA Today notes, those same overalls forced some Dutch fans to watch the match in their underwear. They probably do not cherish the memory as fondly.

Also, I'm pleased to note that I've lost about 30 pounds since 2006, so I look better in the overalls today than I did then.

World Cup 2010: Group E Preview

One of only two groups without a past champion, Group E should be a Dutch delight. Holland are the heavy favorites following an impressive qualifying campaign, but Denmark, Cameroon and Japan will look to impede their progress. Here's a closer inspection.

Holland have built a reputation as a consistently entertaining side that threatens but ultimately falls short of final victory. The 2010 edition appears to fit the mold. The talented trio of Robin Van Persie, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder will be complemented by the determined play of scrappy Dirk Kuyt. Together they give the Dutch a strike force as good as any in the tournament. We haven't seen Holland in a major tournament without Edwin van der Sar in net in well over a decade. How well his successor, Maarten Stekelenburg, plays will be critical given the shaky reputation of the Dutch fullbacks. If the goals come in bunches as they did at Euro 2008, Holland will win the group easily.

Denmark arrive at the World Cup having topped Europe's deepest qualifying group, one that featured Portugal, Sweden and Hungary. Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner leads the offense, while midfielder Christian Poulsen is the team's nucleus. While the fixture list gets off to a tough start against Holland, if they can avoid disaster, they'll find the knockout stages for a third time in as many tournaments.

Twenty years ago, Cameroon were the underdog darlings of the World Cup. Their performance in Italy that summer sparked the African soccer movement that brings the tournament to the continent for the first time. This time a trip to the knockout rounds would be less surprising, especially with Samuel Eto'o on the roster. The Inter Milan star threw a hissy fit last week when Cameroon great Roger Milla questioned his credentials. And while he needs to be at his best for the Indomitable Lions to advance, he can't do it alone. Towering Mohamadou Idrissou has the potential to add goals, while Rigobert Song and Geremi lead the defense.

Japan are in the unfortunate position of group whipping boy. A lifeless offense in the games leading up to the World Cup dampen the Blue Samurai's hopes for a first ever tournament win outside of their homeland. Twenty-four year-old midfielder Keisuke Honda represents their best hopes of pulling an upset.

Prediction: The Cameroon-Denmark match in the second round of games looms as the group's key showdown. Assuming Holland top the quartet, expect the winner of that game to take second. The Danes impressive qualifying run and past group stage success make them the pick.

World Cup 2010: Checking in on UEFA Qualifying

With the club season over, the summer attention turns to qualifying for next year's World Cup. With most nations just past the halfway mark, the race for Europe's 13 slots in South Africa 2010 is taking shape. Nine group winners qualify automatically, while the top eight runners-up will enter four two-legged playoffs for the remaining slots. Here's a look at how the groups stand.

Group 1: Portugal has been one of the biggest disappointments to date, with just one win in five matches. Portugal trails both Denmark and Hungary by seven points, although Portugal does have a game in-hand on the Hungarians. Sweden, with the fewest games played, is also in the mix. Portugal's September 5 trip to Denmark will be a key fixture.

Group 2: The weakest of the nine groups, Greece and Switzerland top the table, three points ahead of Latvia. The Greeks travel to Switzerland on September 5.

Group 3: Northern Ireland are one of the biggest surprises, topping the table with 13 points, but they've played two more matches than second-place Slovakia, which has 12. Poland (10 points in six matches) will also view for top honors. With only eight points through six matches, the favored Czech Republic has work to do.

Group 4: Germany appear in comfortable position with 16 points in six matches. Russia, with 12 points in five matches, should be able to hold off Finland (seven points, four matches played) for second.

Group 5: European champions Spain are perfect in six matches, the best mark of any of the 53 qualifiers. While Bosnia-Herzegovina trail by six points, they're positioned well to take second, four points ahead of Turkey.


Group 6: English fans are giddy over the 15 points in five matches earned by Fabio Capello's men. Croatia and Urkraine will battle for second, with the Croats hosting a June 6 meeting.

Group 7: Serbia are another surprise group leader, two points ahead of 2006 runners-up France. The Serbs are in good shape with two of their next three at home, including a September 9 visit by Les Blues.

Group 8: Despite a home draw to Ireland in their most recent match, Italy are poised to defend their 2006 title. The Irish have yet to lose in six matches, leading third-place by Bulgaria by five points.

Group 9: Holland join Spain and England as the only sides with unblemished marks, and they have more than double the points of second place Scotland (15-7).

Predicted group winners: Denmark, Switzerland, Slovakia, Germany, Spain, England, France, Italy, Holland
Predicted playoff qualifiers: Portugal, Greece, Poland, Russia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia, Ireland

UEFA Euro 2008: Thank You for Drinking

Holland earned plenty of fans at Euro 2008 thanks to their attacking style of play. Their supporters earned praise from Swiss brewer Feldschloesschen for their impressive beer consumption in Basel.

UEFA Euro 2008: Russia-Holland Recap

How do you say "So much for that," in Dutch? After rampaging through Group C, Holland looked completely ordinary and were dismissed in extra time by a deserving Russia, 3-1. The Dutch were fortunate to reach extra time. After taking a 1-0 lead on a 56th minute goal by Roman Pavluchenko, Russia had chances to seal the victory. But instead the game's second goal came off the head of Ruud van Nistelrooy four minutes before the death.

Given Holland's checkered history with penalty shootouts, the Dutch would have liked a winning score before the 120 mark. But instead it was Guus Hiddink's men grabbing two goals in the second half of the extra session. Dmitri Torbinsky got the game winner in the 112th minute and the dynamic Andrei Arshavin closed things out four minutes later.

More shocking than the upset was the manner in which Russia made Holland look completely ordinary. The swashbuckling style that produced nine goals in the group stages was completely bottled up by Hiddink's disciplined defenders. Keep in mind this was the same defense that was torched by Spain four times in Russia's opener. But since Arshavin's return, Russia are a far more dangerous side, and they now stand one win away from the European final.

The questions as to what went wrong will surround Marco Van Basten's side long after the Dutch legend heads for his new gig at Ajax. While Russia were the better side on the day, if Holland had played anywhere close to the way they did last week, they'd be heading to the semis. Perhaps Group C wasn't as formidable as initially thought. Maybe Holland simply succumbed to the pressure. Either way, it's a blow to the local economy as the throngs of Dutch fans will head home short of the semifinals.

Russia now await Italy or Spain for a Thursday semifinal in Vienna. Russia-Turkey in the Final? Anything's possible.

UEFA Euro 2008: Holland-Russia Preview

It's the Guus Hiddink Grudge Match in Basel as Holland face Russia in quarterfinal #3. The current Russia and former Holland coach said he hopes to earn the title of "the traitor of Holland." If he's to do so, his men will have to bring down the tournament's highest-flying team.

Holland stormed through the Group of Death, winning their three matches by a 9-1 margin. The improved health of players like Robin Van Persie and Arjen Robben have been instrumental in the Dutch run. The strength of veteran goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has been overshadowed by the offensive display, but he could play a key role in securing a trip to the semifinals for the fifth time in six Euros for Holland.

Russia's Euro campaign got off to a brutal start with a 4-1 loss to Spain, but they've yet to surrender a goal since. The return of Andrei Arshavin sparked the 2-0 win over Sweden that earned Russia a spot in the quarters. Between Arshavin and Roman Pavlyuchenko, Russia have the offensive horses to play the up-tempo style Holland prefer.

The venue: St. Jakob Park, Basel, Switzerland
The broadcast: ABC, 2:45 pm ET
The prediction: If Holland maintain their form from the group stages, no one is stopping their run to a title. That run continues with a 3-1 win over Russia. The bright side for Hiddink- he'll still be allowed to go home.

UFEA Euro 2008: Day 11 Recap

Italy 2, France 0
Holland 2, Romania 0

What was expected to be one of the tournament's signature matches was a bit of a letdown, but you won't hear Italian fans complaining. The Azurri earned a spot in the quarterfinals with a 2-0 win over France, combined with Romania's 2-0 loss to Holland. Despite the convincing win, their first of the tournament, the news wasn't all positive for Italy. Midfielders Andrea Pirlo, who scored the first goal, and Gennaro Gattuso, both picked up their second yellow cards of the tournament and will miss Italy's quarterfinal against Spain.

The game was essentially decided in the 25th minute when France's Eric Abidal earned a red card for a professional foul on Luca Toni and Pirlo converted the ensuing penalty kick. France followed with a few offensive spurts, but no sustained pressure, and when Daniele De Rossi's 62nd minute free kick deflected off the foot of Thierry Henry into the net, Italy were through.

By the time the Italians tacked on their second goal, Romania already trailed Holland 1-0. Needing a win to advance, Romania could manage only eight shots for the game, and fell 2-0 to settle for third. While Holland were the story of Group C, the key moment over the past nine days came in the Romania-Italy match when Gigi Buffon's PK save on Adrian Mutu denied Romania three points and kept Italy in position to advance.

For the French, the only highlight on the evening was coach Raymond Domenech proposing to his lady friend during the post game press conference. Interesting timing on Domench's part and no word on if she said "oui."

Italy will face Spain in the quarters Sunday in Vienna, a task that becomes even tougher for Italy without the AC Milan duo of Pirlo and Gatusso. Holland have a Saturday date in Basel with either Sweden or Russia.

UEFA Euro 2008: Day 11 Previews

Romania, France and Italy are in a three-way battle for second in Group C, while Holland can enjoy the show.

France vs. Italy
The venue: Letzigrund Stadion, Zurich, Switzerland
The broadcast: ESPN, 2:45 pm ET
The storyline: It's the fourth big meeting between these countries in less than two years, following the '06 World Cup Final and two Euro qualifiers. Neither side has a win in the tournament, with each getting thumped by Holland and drawing with Romania. If Romania fail to beat Holland, the winner here gets a Sunday date with Spain in the quarters.
The prediction: Henry? Ribery? Toni? Who's gonna be the hero? Here's guessing a tense affair falls 1-0 to Italy.

Holland vs. Romania
The venue: Stade de Suisse Wankdorf, Berne, Switzerland
The broadcast: ESPN Classic, 2:45 pm ET
The storyline: Holland are on cruise control, having already wrapped up the group's top spot. Of the three teams battling for second, Romania have the upper hand, knowing a win sends them through regardless of the France-Italy result.
The prediction: It's tough to gauge what type of effort Holland will bring, but their wide-open style pitted against a Romania squad that has to win should produce an entertaining affair. A 2-2 draw leaves Romania on the wrong side of the equation.

UEFA Euro 2008: Day 7 Recap

Italy 1, Romania 1
Holland 4, France 1

Any questions? Holland continued their dream run through the Group of Death with a 4-1 win over France. The win clinches the top spot in Group C for Marco Van Basten's men after a sweep of the finalists from the 2006 World Cup. As they did in their opener, Holland took the early lead but continued to press from there. Dirk Kuyt put Holland up 1-0 at the break with a tenth-minute header off a corner kick. In the second half Van Basten's subbed in more attacking players in Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben. Robben scored the second goal in the 59th minute, but the heroes on the play were Ruud van Nistelroy, who made a brilliant sideline maneuver to keep the ball in play and feed Robben, whose long run ended with a cross to van Persie. Thierry Henry netted France's first goal in the 71st minute, but a minute later Robben restored the advantage. Wesley Sneijder capped the scoring with an extra time tally.

Holland's entertaining play through two games evoke memories of the "Total Football" squads of the '70s which were twice World Cup runners-up, and the 1988 squad, led by Van Bastern, that won the nation's only European title. Key to Dutch success has been the contributions of players such as van Persie and Robben whose health was questionable coming into the tournament. Clearly this team is clicking at the right time and having locked up Group C, they enjoy the luxury of resting a bit in their final group stage game.

As for France, they incredibly remain in the picture along with Italy and Romania after those sides drew 1-1. A lively second half saw Adrian Mutu put Romania ahead 1-0 in the 55th minute, taking advantage of a botched head back by Gianluca Zambrotta. It took only one minute for Italy to level the game off the foot of Christian Panucci. Panucci was a central figure in the 80th minute, when his foul in the box gave Mutu the chance to steal the win from the penalty spot. But Gianluigi Buffon made a brilliant sprawling save to secure a valuable point for Italy.

The results leave Romania in second with two points, in control their destiny. But if the Romanians fail to beat Holland, the winner of the Italy-France match will advance.

UEFA Euro 2008: Day 7 Previews

The second day in Group C sees the World Champs Italy looking to rebound against Romania, while France hopes to slow down Holland.

Italy vs. Romania
The venue: Letzigrund Stadion, Zurich, Switzerland
The broadcast: ESPN2, 12:00 pm ET
The storyline: Italy looked old and slow in their opener against Holland. Was that the result of a brilliant Dutch side or the sign of an Italian team that reached their peak two years ago? That question will be answered against a cagey Romanian opponent.
The prediction: Expect a sharper Italian defense and an offense that just does enough to get a 1-0 win.

France vs. Holland
The venue: Stade de Suisse Wankdorf, Berne, Switzerland
The broadcast: ESPN2, 2:45 pm ET
The storyline: France's ability to ground the high-flying Dutch will depend on what contributions they get, if any, from Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry, who both missed the opener with thigh injuries. Overlooked in Holland's win over Italy were key saves from Edwin van der Sar, who will seek a second clean sheet.
The prediction: Holland are brimming with confidence and with the French at less than 100 percent, the Dutch lock up Group C with a 2-1 win.