Euro 2004 Day Seventeen

Today we watched the first semifinal match between the host nation Portugal and the Netherlands, and were treated to a proud display of talent from the Portuguese, who led their side to a first-ever spot in a final of a major tournament.

I was excited to find out that the Portuguese were starting their previously prolific striker Pauleta, while the Dutch inserted Marc Overmars into the starting lineup. These two players have been able to light up a pitch in years past and was hoping they would do the same again today. Sadly it would prove to be frustrating for these men, as they both missed clear scoring opportunities.

Cristiano Ronaldo is one player who did not dissapoint, scoring the first goal for Portugal on an open header. He then began his celebration by taking off his shirt and ran to the supporters to flex his muscles. Apparently you can't take your shirt off now, or you get yellow-carded.

Portugal looked to have the game in hand but Pauleta had several shots stopped by Dutch keeper Edwin Van Der Sar, and didn't find their second until Maniche connected on a beautiful long-range drive into the upper right corner of the net. Van Der Sar could only watch in shock as the ball sneaked past his long frame. Maniche seemed a bit surprised himself, and so were Ryan, Steve and myself--the TV broadcast missed showing the goal live due to an instant replay running past the quick corner kick.

It was probably the goal of the tournament, and would prove even more important when Portuguese defender Jorge Andrade diverted a cross into his own goal in the 63rd minute. The Netherlands had been given a lifeline, and they desperately fought to find an equaliser, but it was not meant to be on this day.

A distraught Ruud Van Nistelrooy collapsed after the game. He later found his way over to congratulate his Manchester United teammate Ronaldo. I must say I've been pleasantly surprised at how well this "other" Ronaldo has played in the Euros, he seems much more sure of his role than when he plays for Man. U. Comapre the confidence here with that of Ducth captain Philip Cocu's sad, exhausted face

For Portugal it was time to celebrate. Just don't hurt a dude!

Photos:

1. Portuguese street supporters who want to get on True Fan with their english-language sign.

2. "Big Phil", coach of Portugal is pulling off that old classic, scoreboard!

3. So orange, so sad. Catwoman?

4. Happier times with a cardboard cut-out of Ruud.

5. Oh yeah, old man Luis Figo played a pretty damn good match and is one win away from bringing Portugal its first major trophy.

6. Somehow I missed this old photo of cute British ladies saluting their squad.

Tomorrow brings the still surprising Greeks against the powerful Czech Republic. Game viewed @ 1pm.