Euro 2004 Day Twelve
Group play ended today in dramatic fashion, as powerhouse Germany were eliminated following a 2-1 loss to the Czech Republic. The Netherlands were rewarded for their enjoyable, attacking style of football with a trip to the quarterfinals following their 3-0 defeat of Latvia. Here's how it happened.
Dutch coach Dick Advocaat might have been a bit worried that Germany would defeat the Czech Republic since the Czechs had already advanced and were playing their second team, but Czech coach Karel Br�ckner proved to be the superior mastermind. His strategy of sitting his regular starters payed off when the reserves delivered an inspired effort and made the Germans work for every scoring opportunity.
Initially things looked good for the Germans, since they went ahead on a beautiful volley by Michael Ballack into the upper left corner of the net. One of the commentators said he considered it the best goal of the tournament. Apparently Marek Heinz of the Czech Republic thought he could do one better and sent a brilliant free kick into the top right corner of Oliver Kahn's net minutes later to level the score. Ballack was bummed as the teams went into halftime tied at one all.
Meanwhile over in the other match in Group D, the Netherlands were busy doing all they could to assure themselves of a fighting chance to advance. Who else but Ruud Van Nistelrooy scored off a PK for the Dutch. Minutes later Ruud headed home his second past the Latvians.
The second half of the Germany vs. Czech Republic match was quite exciting as Germany pushed players forward to go for the win. They created numerous scoring opportunities but couldn't find the net. Meanwhile, the Czechs decided to send on Milan Baros to exploit the stretched out German squad, and he found just enough space to slot home this goal that sealed Germany's fate.
Back at the Netherlands vs. Latvia match Roy Makaay fired home a goal to give his side a 3-0 final score. The Dutch soon found out that Germany had lost and that they were through to the next phase. Dutch dudes were pleased.
Photos:
1. Latvians with swim caps and Dutchmen in uniform are friends at Euro 2004!
2. Can you spot the ball?
3. Different Latvian ladies. Sure am gonna miss them.
4. Ruud is totally lovin' it.
5. German fans are totally bummed
6. Dutch fans are totally psyched about their victory.
7. German coach Rudi Voller resigned after his squad failed to advance.
My favorite part of the Germany-Czech game was the shot that bounced of the post, then the keeper made a great save on the rebound attempt. Inspiring.