Croatia shocked Germany today with a 2-1 victory to help secure them of a quarter-final spot. Croatia goals were from Darijo Srma (24) and Ivica Olic (63). Germany lone goal by Lukas Podolski in the (79)  was his third of the Championship. With a Croatia win they now have six points to Germany’s 3 in Group B.

This game started off quickfor Croatia  until there first goal then they seemed to be a little more defensive, this put a scare into the Germany as their play started to pick up however any decent chance they had was wide, over the goal or off a defender. This seemed to really frustrate Germany,  I noticed especially Ballack was continually discussing his displeasure with the Belguim ref. Croatia however deserves full credit for the victory as they looked like a fearless group attacking Germany and taking advantage of their mistakes.

Germany had a late charge but their hopes of getting back into the match all but disappeared when Schweinsteiger was given a  red card for pushing Jerko Leko to the ground. Ballack and Lehmann also recieved yellow cards toward the end.

Here is a quote from Croatia coach Slaven Bilic which sums it up nicely,”We played a phenomenal game, We closed the lanes. We attacked them early. We shut them down where they are most dangerous.We were dangerous. We managed to control the whole game. They had some chances because Germany is Germany.”

Germany’s next opponent is Austria, let’s hope they have a better performance than today.

Tommorow’s matches: Italy vs. Romania

On paper it should be no contest with Italy as the winner however I’m going to pull a Mark here a say Romania will win or draw. I have no reason at all, I just lookat Croatia beating Germany.

Netherlands vs. France

I’ll have to say the Netherlands will win this one. Beating Italy 3-0 has to be a boost to this group and the Dutch will be to much for France to handle.

Enjoy tomorrow’s games,

Brett

 

 

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