Euro 2004 Day Nine

Today began the third round of group play, so both matches were played at the same time to avoid any conspiracy problems with teams only playing for ties. This meant that we could only watch the Portugal vs. Spain game (certainly the more important of the two matches), while receiving reports on Russia vs. Greece.

Needing only a tie to advance, the Spanish played some rather lackluster football, and spent most of the first half defending constant pressure from the Portugese. However, to Spain's credit they did a good job limiting any quality scoring opporutunities. Halftime brought a nil-nil scoreline.

In the second half the Portugese looked a bit more interested. Needing a win to advance they broke through when Nuno Gomes found a bit of space outside the box and launched a low shot to the far left corner, just past the outstretched arms of Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas. Finally the home nation had something to cheer about, as Portugal had never beaten Spain in a competetive match, and they last beat them in a friendly over 20 years ago. Nuno Gomes was their hero, and we soon learned Spain were knocked out of the tournament. Spain's captain Ra�l goes home with only one assist to his name, but Real Madrid teammate Figo has at least one more match in him.

Meanwhile, in the other group A match, Russia showed they weren't going to leave the competition without gaining some pride. Dmitri Kirichen capatilized on a poor clearance and cut through the Greek defense after just 68 seconds, scoring the fastest goal in European Championship history. Russia were pumped, although they proved to have more fight in them, as Dmitri Boulykin headed home a powerfrul header over Greece keeper Antonios Nikopolidis.

Greece looked stunned and would have gone home after two impressive games against Portugal and Spain if not for the important goal scored just before halftime. Zisis Vryzas lifted home a loose ball in the box to send the Greeks on to the quarterfinals on total goals scored.

Notable fans.

1. This Portugese lady made a flag around her belly-button.

2. Spanish man is dejected--is that a kazoo?

Tomorrow brings us France vs. Switzerland and England vs. Croatia. The British press are falling all over themselves praising the young man of the moment, Wayne Rooney. Will England advance to a future destiny with France, or will Croatia break down the Brits? Game(s) viewed at noon.