The protanopios, those unfortunates who do not see the red

Protanopia is a visual dysfunction that is the lack of sensitivity to red, as is also known as red dicromacia. Is one of the most common types of blindness as, in the vast majority of cases, blindness toward the red color is accompanied by the same problem with the green. In Spain have some form of color blindness 8% of men and 1% of women. But in the football world there are many, many more.

Thanks to recent major tournaments he has played the Spanish, including one that is ongoing, Euro 2012 Poland and Ukraine, which we have already qualified for the finals, we proved that in Spain there are many more protanopios of what one would expect: a crowd of people, too, which has serious trouble seeing the color red and, instead, just come in white or Blaugrana, as appropriate.

Germany 1-2 Italy: Graduation from Balotelli

Football is a sport invented eleven against eleven British and in which Germany always wins ... unless you play against Italy. A few days ago, Spain showed us that statistics are useless for the first time by defeating France in the official party, and this time could have been Germany that could remove the line that has always prevented defeat to Italy, but will to wait another day. The Azzurri not only defeated Germany in order to earn a spot in Sunday's final, but it has played a great game and still higher than its rival. Two were the architects of victory: a great Pirlo, again, as transalpine steersman, and Mario Balotelli, with two goals, I needed a game like this to confirm that beyond his stuff is a great striker.

It was assumed that Germany was the favorite to succeed Spain and Italy atop a large rundown, but the ball had the last word and we had a surprise: Italy is in the final of this tournament. An Italy that wants the ball, dominating games and take the lead, all by the boots of a Pirlo which would not be unreasonable to say that is still the best player in this tournament. Not doing anything that has not made throughout the year at Juventus, but the echo of the tournament causes his football voices reach all corners of old Europe. Give more passes than anyone else, marks time, always knows where you will be more comfortable on the ball and all he does with great delicacy, with details that are left in the retina of the viewer. Furthermore, the Azzurri is a luxury squire like De Rossi, in a great moment.

Preview, Spain-France: A break with history

Spain has a date tonight with his Everest particular, France. The quarter-finals of Euro 2012 offered a new opportunity for the Spanish team to win the first time in history the Gauls in an official tournament. The difference is that this time that Spain is a favorite part, to a French team full of doubt after a 2-0 loss to Sweden and some wardrobe problems.

After two mediocre games regardless of the outcome, Italy and Croatia, and a good level but very weak against an opponent-Ireland-the Vicente del Bosque will try to regain the feelings of the past, the mentality that it plays everything on one card and must therefore go for the win, not speculation.

Germany 4-2 Greece: From scared to blitzkrieg

The blitzkrieg or lightning war was a military offensive model was implemented in Germany several times during World War II. It consisted of a massive attack armored forces (the tanks) on a given area in the shortest possible time. The surprise attack was effective if an enemy off guard, unprepared and unable to react. The German blitzkrieg practiced against Greece in the game in the quarter-final tie after the amazing of the Greeks, those of Loew did not lose your cool and attacked with everything within Greece unable to react to the three goals that were falling in a space of thirteen minutes. The penalty closed Salpingidis marked by a score of 4-2 in favor of a Germany that reached an uncontested victory led by a magnificent Özil.

The game started with surprise in the lineup of Germany, as Löw proposed a revolution in attack that has been given the defeat of the Germans would have been frivolous or a lackluster attack coach, but the gamble paid off. Schürrle, Reus and Klose saw his name on the board of the owners at the expense of Mario Gomez, the great scorer Teutonic, Müller and Podolski. Loew yesterday showed that not only provides a good eleven, but also a good bench.

An illustrious eleven missing

Euro 2012 continues its course to enter the quarterfinals. Gone was the group stage where we have seen more or less clarity to some of the best players in the world. And is that a European Championship is a tournament that you want to see the best, but that is not always possible. Not because of injuries or technical decisions, but also for those teams that did not achieve their ticket to Ukraine and Poland. Some combined could not enter after fighting to the end, while other teams rarely have the potential to participate in a major tournament. For example, a player like Giggs has never participated in a European Championship or World Cup. In this post we will see some players to which we would have liked to see in the tournament and could not qualify.

A few days ago highlighted the lack of Belgium and its magnificent generation of players , a team with enormous potential to be developed. Four of his players, Courtois, Kompany, Witsel and Hazard, are part of this once, and could be more because there are those Fellaini, Vertonghen or Mertens. Germany and Turkey in their way and were deprived of seeing one of the most talented teams of the current scene. But you know: this is a team game. For its part, the selection we would have liked to see Ottoman players like Sahin, perhaps resarciéndose of bad year in Madrid, Atletico Arda or a good front and Yilmaz of Trabzonspor.

Euro 2012: The stars of the day 3

Best player: Cristiano Ronaldo

Was expected and appeared. Portugal needed his star to enter the next round and crack Luso completed a great individual performance to score two goals to overthrow the Netherlands and seal the ticket to the quarterfinals. Always at the center of the storm, blame if things go wrong and hero of the opposite: the role of leader of the combined Luso. I needed vindication after a poor performance against Denmark and made by far, showing a physical superiority difficult to see at this point in the season and always carrying danger to Stekelenburg's goal: besides the two goals fired two shots into the club.

England 1-0 Ukraine: Rooney Finally ... and bit

England has won by Ukraine minimum thanks to a goal from Rooney reappeared. A goal that allows them to climb onto the top spot in Group D building on the resounding defeat of France to Sweden to avoid the crossing with Spain in the quarterfinals, where they will face Italy Cassano for a spot in the semifinals.

The English Team is a team that lacks many things: it has generated game who does not own any top striker Rooney plus their solid defense and more dependent on the accumulation of two lines in front of your area a good plan. But there they are: after a draw with France on the first day, have been able to prevail against Sweden (3-2) and co-host Ukraine, bringing the total to seven points that make them champions of Group D.

Italy 2-0 Ireland: Azzurra does its part

There was a groundless fear to biscotto but draws on the experience: eight years ago was when Sweden and Denmark sentenced her go with that tie to advance two both classified and Italy wary of that history is repeating return, but was not so, Spain beat Croatia , but not without suffering, and the Azzurri kept his part to win over Ireland, less agonizing but also to pass to the quarterfinals in the air to the irish threat of a goal that never came. Yes it did Balotelli a few minutes left, and united to Cassano certified in the first half although a pass has not been brilliant is not without merit: strong selection as Croatia has been out and the world champion was unable to bend.

Barzagli recovered from his injury and given superiority over rival Prandelli returned to his classic 4-3-1-2 with two central and De Rossi back to midfield. This was a revolution in defense where Barzagli came home with Chiellini, Bonucci leaving the bank, and the sides were occupied by Abate and Balzaretti, more facts to back four at the expense of Maggio and Giaccherini. The left-handed side of Palermo was more incisive than the Rossoneri. In attack, Di Natale sat on the bench Balotelli to address the problems with the goal of the Alpine combined. Across from this Italy which moves the ball flush of grass, a professor of catenaccio as Trappatoni.

Croatia 0-1 Spain: A quarterfinals with much suffering

We did not expect an easy match against Croatia, but not suffering. Victoria of Spain 0-1 to Croatia, thanks to a goal by Jesus Navas at minute 88. A breath of fresh air after a performance full of nerves and uncertainties, while Croatia was growing Casillas finished erecting the pedestal again. With the victory Spain is classified as group-which could mean avoiding France in the quarter, while Italy with us as a second group.

Mourning has made ​​it clear that what Ireland was child's play . It was a daring make the selection through the roof by winning 4-0 to an opponent as weak. Spain is at its best. Was demonstrated against Italy and Croatia to be confirmed. The fact that from now the only goal in every game is the win will help Spain to face matches running more risks and being less speculative attack.

The First Valladolid again

It's been a very, very long for Real Valladolid but in the end all suffering was worthwhile: the blanquivioletas again be a team first. After a whopping forty-two days and two rounds of play-off over two legs, the League again Pucela BBVA after two years in the second.

On the orders of Miroslav Djukic, Valladolid got into the first wagon train length is the Liga Adelante. He was able to react to the great run of results they achieve Deportivo and Celta in the middle of the second round and ended up hooking up with the south of Galicia in a fight several days tied on points (goal average for the objects), until the penultimate round poked precisely against Alcorcón.

Preview, Croatia, Spain: First all or nothing

Time has come close tonight this Group C Euro 2012 , and Spain will face Croatia to seal the pass to the quarterfinals. A Spain than on paper and also the tie is enough to be in the next round, but ill do if infravalorásemos a Croatian team has demonstrated quality and knowing how to compete.

Spain must forget the thrashing of Ireland and the cabals of the press, speaking as a semi-final against Portugal. Facing this meeting as an alleged second round match, which if you lose you go home. Victory is necessary not only to avoid problems, but to secure the first position of the group. It would be very different cross quartered with France, or England or Ukraine.

Germany and Portugal to the quarterfinals of the Euro

Germany and Portugal are in the quarterfinals of Euro 2012. The whole Germanic beat Denmark and the Netherlands managed to defeat Luso. Germans pass with perfect score and the Dutch go home without getting points.

Germany is showing their cards to be considered a strong candidate to keep Euro 2012. The group led by Joachim Löw got his third consecutive victory in the tournament by winning 2 to 1 against the Danish. Podolski opened the scoring after 19 minutes, Krohn-Deli tied at 24 and Bender declared a 2 to 1 end for the Germans. Germany is the only team throughout the tournament that reached 9 points in the group stage and there will be another team that can accomplish the same thing: in groups C and D no team won its first two presentations.

In the match between Holland and Portugal, the Dutch opened the scoring at the hands of Rafael Van der Vaart, but lusos asserted their trump card to keep the meeting: at 28 and 73, Cristiano Ronaldo scored to put your selection in the second phase of the Euro.

Germany and Portugal are in the quarter as well as Czech Republic and Greece (the first and second respectively in group A). The Germans will be measured against the champions of 2004 in the next phase (next Friday), while Czech and Portuguese will play each other (the match will be played on Thursday).

Portugal 2-1 Holland: Ronaldo Sobrado

A few days ago, saying Cristiano Ronaldo as the disappointment of the Day 2 good chances for their wrong against Denmark, just that paragraph by saying that "would not be surprising that before we leave Holland a couple of goals to tip." And so it proved. Cristiano Ronaldo has taken the last game of the group stage to shake all the reviews, rated to Portugal for the quarter-finals of Euro 2012 , and starring in the best individual performance so far this tournament.

2-1 win against Holland with Cristiano Ronaldo absolutely authoritarian in the game, scoring two goals for his team, smashing two balls to the pole, lead every play Benfica's attack and especially playing with collective mentality. Of course, there have been several occasions where action has been addressed with staff, but always with justification. When should have done, learned to use his teammates.

Il Capitano Buffon: less suspicion, more self-critical

Gianluigi Buffon, captain of the Italian, has come out of the gossip about the possible rigging that may exist between Spain and Croatia to remove to Italy, what the Italians call biscotto. Rhetoric with which we are accustomed most players with crystalline eloquence, putting the record straight and demanding more self-critical and less suspicion, Buffon has written a text on your Facebook that you can not miss:

Mamma mia ... Sic transit gloria mundi ("Thus passes the glory of the world") ... In two days here only refers to "biscotto" biscotto here, biscotto there, biscotto above, biscotto below ... As if we had won the match with Ireland. As if others did not have the sacrosanct right to be offended by such accusations, which only belong to us ... As if the others did not have the privilege of thinking that Trapattoni with Ireland we can lend a hand (which is absolutely ruled out). As if the culture We only suspected of belonging to us and we were the only ones able to exercise it. As if the 2-2 as well agree in advance that the two be content in the last 20 minutes with an outcome that benefits both.

Poland 1-0 Czech Republic: The host will see it on TV

One of the organizers of the European Championship is dismissed without score any victory and bottom of Group A. Poland failed to please his fans against the Czech Republic and will have to follow the quote from the TV at home. As happened in 2008, his first, Poles leave without having achieved any victory, leaving the stands between the feeling of lost opportunity. That opportunity itself has used the combination of Michal Bilek, who after a disastrous start, has managed to turn the tables and away leader.

It has earned the selection of Franciszek Smuda with a star the caliber of Lewandowski, to which certainly no shortage of deals this summer to leave Dortmund. The parties co-host with Ukraine have a common denominator and start flashing as disturbing drop in the minutes passed. Against the Czechs happened again and although we can say that they go through the back door of the event, it is also fair to comment that they have not humiliated. Always with his head held high.

Euro 2012: The protagonists of the Day 2

Best player: Mario Gomez

There is, or was at least one debate in Germany over who should be the center forward of all Teutonic: Mario Gomez and Klose? Well, after scoring all three goals for his team so far in Euro 2012, the player Bayern Munich has shelved the issue.

'Super Mario' does not need to intervene in the game. Just let him come balls and he will do the rest. Against the Netherlands, Schweinsteiger sent two candies and this defined both a pleasure. Especially meritorious first, controlling the ball while doing a back that left him in position to beat Stekelenburg.

Euro 2012: Notes from Day 2

"Holland continues to disappoint

Zero points from two games to one of the top teams that started as favorite for overall victory, is close to running on the road to the first hurdle. Netherlands Germany suffered before the game, leaving everything in the hands of their attackers. Only Van der Vaart in the field the team improved its image, but by then it was too late.

Sweden 2-3 England: And Rooney!

A perfect header from Carroll seemed to put things ahead of England, which he had no choice but to win to Sweden if I have aspirations of reaching the quarter. For the Swedes was something similar. If they lost, to the street to the first hurdle. That controversial auction of Liverpool striker served for Roy Hodgson is put at an advantage, it will accommodate ... and sleep. And is that Erik Hamrén never gave up in a duel in which Rooney saw him again from the stands and where it enjoyed Walcott on the green.

The British offensive reference completed its second game of that brutal punishment for a player entry of Montenegro in qualifying and, incidentally, enjoyed a victory of his companions suffered at the combine led by Ibrahimovic. The English, but no surprise as unlikely, are postulated as the rivals of Spain in the quarterfinals, as long as The Red finished first and them second. This should at least draw against Ukraine, with the possibility of tying the ticket. The Swedes, meanwhile, live a procedure against France.

Ukraine 0-2 France: Blanc is imposed on the elements

France's first game in this Championship, against England, we left a bitter aftertaste . Perhaps because they faced two of the candidates to the throne eternal continental, or most likely for fear of losing both, had to resign with a tie to one that did not help to balance our expectations. Above all, those generated by the set of Laurent Blanc, since in the Pross almost no trust his own coach, Roy Hodgson, the 2014 World Cup more concerned that the appointment in Poland and Ukraine .

Yesterday, when we sat down to watch the stake against Sweden, we saw a couple of tweaks to the lineup bleu. Clichy on the left flank of the defense and Menez in midfield left Evra on the bench and Malouda. The start of the meeting brought heavy rain that forced the referee to suspend the meeting as a precautionary measure. After nearly an hour of waiting, fans posted to the Donbass Arena in Donetsk were treated to a party where this time it hit the Gallic trainer in your initial bet.

From Gdansk: Colorín Colorado, this dream ...

He spoke with Aurora, the mother of Joseph, one of the 'Player Escort' that last Sunday left the hand of Cesc Fabregas, on the nostalgia that produce our trip to Gdansk. Knowledge, once back, we were there, and that indeed was not a dream. A similar commented Michael, father of Charlie, what beautiful things fleeting and the ability of humans to stretch them to enjoy all the consequences of them. He, like so many others like Miriam, the proud mother of Alexander, could not refrain from tears when she saw her son threading into the game box. Those tears of joy, able to fill any gaps, were infected as visualized that it was real. Very real.

I write these lines with that sweet feeling of having been there, so close. Enjoying every moment as if the last question. Inside, from time to time, the flowering of a nostalgia that is no less endearing. They were three days in Poland where we had a great time, where we were treated wonderfully and where optimism reigned who has no concern not stop smiling. Simply, that was the end. Brought an end for football, that eternal excuse to be happy. In the following paragraphs I will tell you with more details than I was counting from the hotel room , what we did and what I did and probably will understand the reason for my words.

Denmark 1-2 Germany: The Mannschaft, a scythe in the Group of Death

Germany has finished its participation in group B with a perfect record after beating Denmark 1-2. The German team has been higher and has justly won the three rivals with forming the group named Death, the most difficult of all, combined with two of the favorites, an applicant and a fourth team, the Danish that no part of the European aristocracy, has done much more than other teams with more popularity.

The Mannschaft needed a point so vital as powerful: a point to confirm the ticket to the quarter and make it as group. He left for the game, true to form and realize that The Olsen Gang not averse to taking the initiative. This worked against the Netherlands, which deservedly won, and against Portugal, against whom should not lose. Joachim Löw repeated for the third time his eleven kinds, but this time with a change in the right side: Bender played instead of Boateng. Morten Olsen, like: single novelty, Poulsen Jakob Rommedhal place. In short: two teams true to their style.

Greece 1-0 Russia: Karagounis exercised Hellenic hero

35 years back, 120 gimped, one of the 'survivors' of the Greek victory at Euro 2004 and a goal that brings hope to a country plagued by disappointment. Giorgos Karagounis exercised yesterday Hellenic hero by scoring the goal that certified Greece's pass to the quarterfinals as the second team in Group A. A right to pass well railroaded in which few believed , got out before the account to a Russian who was left with nothing after specular face with the score and see how the Czech Republic worked in his farewell.

Neither Dzagoev or Arshavin or Kerzhakov. The Russian stars, after a dazzling debut, went off as they passed the first phase. Forces arrived just before a combined full of strength, of hope, of someone who has nothing to lose. This is the Greece of the Portuguese Fernando Santos. Surely the players do not practice the game of development that he would like, but at times it does not matter. With resounding victories such as the successful and relevant in the Warsaw National Stadium, the least is how.

The emotional lesson of Irish pride: The Fields of Athenry

All my life I remember last night's game between Spain and Ireland. But not by goals from Torres, nor vindictive rage of Cesc. Even after attending a recital by the brilliant new pairing of Iniesta and Silva. Last night the always remember the touching lesson of pride that gave us Irish fans.

The thrashing that he was endorsing the Red became the first Irish team eliminated from the Euro in Poland and Ukraine. Where some headhunting begin Turk, where others would give back to your selection, where even some will always cause chaotic and violent riots, the Irish proved an immeasurable pride.

Italy is not the way to goal

It's been two rounds of the Euro and the outlook for Italy has been complicated in excess after the draw against Croatia, after a promising start to draw with good image to the current world champion. Before the Croatian combined the Azzurri started well, setting the pace of the game, curtailing the opponent by a huge Pirlo in midfield and defense with De Rossi solvent and Chiellini in a good form. The problem comes when they exceed three-quarters of field and blur ideas: in Italy it costs to score, and the drop that made ​​the team in the second half cost the loss of two points that could be decisive in the face to pass to the quarterfinals.

Prandelli doubt that the attack is something that has allowed to see the two games: while it is true that in both games the duo has chosen Balotelli-Cassano, the fact remains that two of the three changes made ​​to each party have been the same: Di Natale Balotelli and Giovinco for by Cassano. The first paid off to Spain for Di Natale scored the Italian, and against Croatia would not have missed that apostase by Udinese in the starting lineup, but continued to rely on the previous pair.

Spain 4-0 Ireland: Football without resistance

As expected, overwhelming victory against Ireland 4-0 Spain, Fernando Torres (2), Silva and Cesc. The biggest win so far this of Euro 2012 . Most of our historic win in the final selection of a tournament. Good game in an ideal scenario for remove the thorn from Italy and grow in the competition. Do not remove any merit or players or a Forest that has been able to correct some past mistakes Sunday. But we must be realistic and recognize that Ireland is probably the weakest team in this Championship, and therefore a server believes that despite the beating tonight and the general improvement of the team, the best minutes were far in the second part to the Azzurri.

We said in the preview that Spain should have patience to find the net against an opponent who, conscious of his inferiority, would be armed in defense and attack virtually resign. Lucky for us, in the third minute goal from Fernando Torres pulled by land Trapattoni's approach and passage postponed discussions on duty. The unforgivable for Ireland has been a way to fit the goal, suffering a steal in the middle area. The truth is that there have been several. Difficult to understand that their defenses will try out with the ball under control, being a team that continually looks for his forwards with long balls.

Preview, Spain, Ireland: Forced to beat

Spain faces in a few hours of their second Euro 2012 , before an Irish team to the Vicente Del Bosque are required to win. The Spanish coach comes to this game in the middle of a debate that involves you: Should we play with a 'nine'?

The presence of Cesc as a false front to Italy caused the Azzurri behind their defensive line could advance considerably, causing the creation of Spain was far from the area. The best minutes came in the second half, when forward lines, stretched the front of attack in the presence of Navas, Fernando Torres and served as a reference point.

Did you know why Real Madrid is known as 'Viking' and Atletico as 'Indians'?

The color of the shirt of Real Madrid gives rise to its nicknames known as whites or meringues, but not limited to: Chamartín team is also known by another nickname was born derogatory, it still is for hobbies rivals, especially the athletic, but also adopted by many of the Madrid fans to enhance their pride: we talk about the Vikings, on which revolve several anecdotes, some more true than others, about their origin, we will try to answer these lines about why Real Madrid is related to those peoples Scandinavians who terrorized Europe in the Middle Ages. Just as we know, within the same story, why Atletico is known as the Native Americans.

For some, the Vikings nickname goes back to Real Madrid of Di Stefano and Gento, who won five consecutive European Cups. According to some, a journalist from The Times said, after the conquest of the fifth wound continental "Real wanders through Europe as the Vikings once walked, destroying everything in its path." But not found any really reliable source to confirm this theory, and then tell what seems to derail what seems to have left the popular imagination. Or, if it really existed, there is nothing that could justify it.

After a bad game, Cristiano shoots Messi

Cristiano Ronaldo was little thin when it comes to defining clear goal situations I had in the meeting being Portugal and Denmark. Was more erratic when declaring to the press and dodge the issue of his meager performance in the field of play last year arguing that Messi had done well in the Copa America.

Cristiano Ronaldo's views on Lionel Messi not go unnoticed. Except when these are sharp criticism. The Portuguese had a party yesterday for oblivion and tried to dispel the bad image left on the field playing Messi remembering that failed to show its full potential in the Copa America in 2011.

"Last year at this time Messi was eliminated from the Copa America and also playing at home. That's worse, right? I'm here fighting to move to the next phase of the Euro "Ronaldo said after hearing how the stands where fans were Danes coreara the name of Argentina.

On his lack of scoring in this edition of the Euro, Christian said: "I feel good. Sign does not mark a goal and win the European Championship Portugal. "

It is worth noting that the Christian claim about Messi is wrong: after the second game of the group stage of the Copa America, Argentina kept their chances of accessing the second phase and in fact did. The selection albiceleste was eliminated in quarter-final against Uruguay, the team was finally champion of the event, something similar to what happened in Euro 2004: Portugal lost at home to Greece, which ultimately became champion.

Netherlands 1-2 Germany: Mario Gomez left the Netherlands on the ropes

Germany has established a 2-1 to Holland in the second round of Group B, in a party that has ceased to manifest the virtues and shortcomings of each other. While Germany is a solid block, where the collective premium and without a clearly defined style, they really know what to do on the pitch, Holland is a selection rundown on the World Cup in South Africa, depends on their individual and that has obvious defensive problems.

Van Marwijk is aware that his team's defensive fragility, and therefore a double pivot aligned with Van Bommel and De Jong, who are very fair football-being generous, but his defensive work supposedly helps settle behind. The problem is that on days like today, that job defensively absent. And if not just ask a Schweinsteiger who has eaten, has won them back again and again, and has two assists wonderful goal for Mario Gomez scored a plethoric-exceptional definition in the first so.

Portugal 2-3 Denmark: The Olsen Gang won all but stuck

Portugal found victory with a goal three minutes from Varela ending that not only stays alive, but takes the letter itself depend on the last day to qualify. But the selection Lusa did not deserve to win a game in which too negotiated with the result and was lower than Denmark in all but the most valuable: the punch. The luck that eluded them in the match against Germany (they met twice with the sticks), I smiled this time against the Danes.

The end result can redeem Portugal but certainly not condemning Denmark. Not at all. The Olsen Gang deserves all the credit in the world because, contrary to most common drift, the fact of having won the first match is not led them to speculate lusas needs. No way: Morten Olsen is another coat. The Danes came to dominate the match from the opening whistle and took control before the Portuguese astonishment, he met with the team broken in half at the first hurdle.

Greece 1-2 Czech Republic: Defeated in five minutes

The Czech Republic won 2-1 to Greece in the beginning of the second day of Euro 2012 . Within five minutes the game was on track by the Czechs, winning by 0-2 after goals from Jiracek and Pilar. Generally, no one can say with 85 minutes remaining a party is doomed, but in this case everything pointed to it. And not because Greece is not put forward, because if anything has been demonstrated in these two games is that it delivers and fighting their abundance. But football are very fair, and when they have had to prove was evident.

Because the biggest problem for Greece to be with two goals in five minutes, is that the script changes completely. You can not arm themselves behind rivals engage in slow connections, giving away the ball and try to exploit the few opportunities they have. Instead, they must catch the ball and try to find the opponents' playing football, and that's a tall order.

Euro: everything is defined in Group A

Everything must be true in Group A of Euro 2012. Russia, Czech Republic, Poland and Greece have the potential to reach the quarter-finals of the competition.

After a debut draw against 2004 champion, returned to Poland to add a point after drawing 1-1 with Russia. Dzagoev opened the scoring after 37 minutes for the Russians and Blaszczykowski took charge of equality, which would be final, the score at 56.

Meanwhile, Czech Republic got its first win in the competition by defeating Greece by 2 to 1. Early, at 3 minutes, Jiracek opened the scoring and then Pilar, at 5, was responsible for increasing the score for the Czechs. At the beginning of the second half Gekas was commissioned to write for Greece.

With these results, Russia leads the group with 4 points. The Czech Republic follows with 3, while Poland is third with 2 and Greece last with just 1 point. Next Saturday they play the decisive confrontations between Russia - Greece and Czech Republic - Poland.

Meanwhile, in Group B, Germany and Denmark today could secure their place in quarter-finals if they prevail in their respective games. The Germans will be measured against the Netherlands to give birth in 20:45, while the Danes will do the same against Portugal at the same time. Germany and Denmark to win on Sunday in the match played each other, you define which one is first in the group.

Euro 2012: Notes from Day 1

Just as we do each week with the League BBVA During the European Championship in Poland and Ukraine, each time you complete a journey, you will note that more and less we liked the competition, thus complementing the post with The Actors .

»Netherlands or play or win

The Orange Team had a disappointing debut. Maintains the same bet as in the World Cup: the result is the first, the game side. Waiving the historical and admired proposal earned him a deserved defeat Denmark before a less powerful but much more consistent with the style of your template. The worst thing is that there appears to Van Marwijk will change now that the need to win the second game is imperative.

"Manhattan Smuda Blanc and their teams

The opening match and yesterday between France and England were disappointing. Poland, with a one goal lead against ten men and took several steps back for those who deserved to have lost the match (Greece ordered a penalty for it). And as we discussed last night , Blanc and his opportunities dwindled trivote Selection Gala at a much lower England.

Del Bosque defends his approach without 9

A little self-criticism was Vicente Del Bosque in Spain after the match against Italy in the European Championship debut. The coach of the Red defended his game plan without reference area. "We did it in view of training the team," said the coach.

Few fruits yielded the game plan that raised Vicente Del Bosque for Spain at the time of scoring goals. Without traditional Sept. 1, the Red could only specify one of the several chances they had against Italy. Forest defended his approach by stating that "Fàbregas played because he had excellent workouts. He has worked very well in the concentration. In the four trials before the game against Italy, Cesc has always played at the tip of the attack. "

The coach also said that "Cesc has played in front numerous times this season with the club. Knows his job. It is also surrounded by players like Xavi, Iniesta and Silva, which penetrates to perfection. (...) He did a good job. "

However, several supporters of the Red that do not match the coach. A survey of brand sports daily, shows that in the starting line of readers appears in place of Fabregas Torres. However, note that except that difference, the other 10 players who prefer the majority of respondents are the same that came out last Sunday to play the match against Italy: Casillas, Arbeloa, Pique, Sergio Ramos, Jordi Alba, Busquets, Xabi Alonso, Silva, Xavi and Iniesta .

Euro 2012: The stars of the week 1

It took four days of Championship and seen parading through the stages in Poland and Ukraine to all participating teams and their major players. He has seen it all: met expectations, surprises, favorites, unexpected guests, false nines, trying to touch Italian, Germany won ... but no longer see it was the first opening day for all of them and the fear of losing has beaten the the pursuit of victory. In short mattered more than the opponent does not win three points to earn them, and begin losing these tournaments can be a very large slab. However it has not been an obstacle to seeing some good football in games and interesting notes of several players.

Best player: Andres Iniesta

There were several players who seemed appointed to lead their teams and stand out above the rest, we talk of Cristiano Ronaldo, Iniesta, Silva, Pirlo, Benzema, Van Persie, Ozil, Sneijder, Ibrahimovic, Modric ... some have not featured in this first day, however, others have already demonstrated their star status, Benzema is the case with France, which made ​​a great game against England as being more than Ten Nine, looking the ball, offered, but also of goal when looking for had the first chance. The Real Madrid Nasri had a partner in luxury. Pirlo with Italy also showed why he is the leader of the Italian midfield, giving teachers the time to organize the team.

Ukraine 2-1 Sweden: A last dance for Shevchenko

Ukraine and Sweden have closed the first round of Euro 2012 with victory for the local 2-1. Curiously, the parties we least expect, we are getting the most joy. Small teams know they are humble these duels where they score the points that allow them to dream of a round pass. While the clashes between the major powers are emerging yawning, with the exception of the match between Spain and Italy -. Fear of defeat and start running out of room for error, was tangible during these four days.

As we say, the party has been most entertaining to date, with a Ukraine that has a great image, much higher than expected, and that Sweden has left almost in the ditch at the first hurdle. Given that the group will be accompanied throughout France and England , all options are led by Ibrahimovic and very remote. Ibrahimovic scored a goal for his team, and showed that it must have for the Swedish game. The most dangerous moves must go through him.

France 1-1 England: Blanc feared the sky fall on your head and much more

The match played between France and England has been the typical debut match in a final between two teams that happen to be the top seeds of its group ahead having meetings with the two combined are a priori weaker a tie is considered a good way to start the championship. This conservative thought plaguing us all every time you start a tournament of this nature, to the extent that one feels to live a déjà vu that goes back to the past, many parties and disappointed him until he got bored.

With Rooney serving penance and a rookie coach still in office, it is certain that England will not do anymore. Casualties of Lampard and, above all, Barry and Wilshere, limit options in midfield and Roy Hodgson can not be attributed with a better choice than Parker-Gerrard. Also up: Carroll, pointing away from the level a couple of years, would not provide much more than Welbeck or Young. To his credit, daring to align Oxlade-Chamberlain holder with just 18.

Should keep playing Spain without 9?

Is it wrong to play without Forest 9? That's the question many are made after the debut of Spain in the Euro against Italy. After 1 to 1 tie against the team of Prandelli, several sports journalists and fans of the Red wonder if it was a mistake by Forest without a reference area.

Neither Torres nor Negredo or Llorente. The Spanish team took the field of play without 9. Silva and Cesc Fabregas were men more developed and the more danger generated with Iniesta, but not enough to take the 3 points: the Red scored a single goal, the work of Fabregas, when he was behind on the scoreboard.

And while on the launch of the second half was marked concrete possibilities, the fact is that Spanish players who reached the final meters with much wasted scoring chances. Forest put his hand on the bench for Torres goal charge of making the missed opportunities, but to no avail: the Child is denied with the goal and missed three clear situations.

The draw left little flavor to the world champions of 2010 and a sense of tranquility to the champions of 2006. Faced with these commitments, assess ¿Forest area include a reference from the beginning? If so, Torres will take charge of that place after blowing clear goal situations that would have earned 3 points? Dear readers, we want your opinion.

The first plan favored Forest of Prandelli

Great game to enter the tournament. Entertaining and often because none of the two contenders left to speculate, but to win. But after that first layer of entertainment, there was an interesting tactical battle between the two coaches. In this post we analyze the most interesting chess match between Cesare Prandelli and Vicente Del Bosque.

Forest tries to counter the plan out without Nine Prandelli

The game started well before the opening whistle. The first move was to Prandelli, who decided to use De Rossi as libero, defensive midfielder or center third, depending on the stage (attack-defense). Del Bosque would change the way to his Italian counterpart and took a daring decision: to play without a natural center forward. Cesc was chosen to serve as False Nine. Brave decision but counterproductive.

Ireland 1-3 Croatia: Until the older children tired of play as

Croatia has taken advantage of the tie between Spain and Italy to climb to the top spot in Group C after beating with crystal clarity to the Irish selection. Any uncertainty about the final result is dissipated when the Croats decided to start behaving like mature team that is left to practice and children's play, in which she anchored the Eire of Trapattoni.

The game started with a goal of most tempranero, when barely had played a couple of minutes. A center that bounced Srna caught far away Mandžukić to mark header. Ahead as soon not served for the Vatreni take control of the party. Quite the contrary: the game entered a give and take between the two contenders, with both teams looking for direct attacks, vertical, combination and too little nerve. A much more conducive to the old Irish football for the Croats.

Spain 1-1 Italy: The Spanish quickly plugged

The Spanish team started its journey in the Euro 2012 Poland and Ukraine tied about with a great Italy. We saw a game too bright, except for a few strokes of the artists ever: Iniesta, Pirlo, Silva ... What I saw from the beginning it was a thrilling tactical battle that both coaches had to counteract.

They have reached the Euro involved in the controversy of gambling, have suffered casualties, attackers may not have the quality to which we have used historically, and even this may Azzurri not maintain the same level of race and character four or five years ago. However, we should not forget that this is Italy. Listening to some, it appeared that Vicente Del Bosque would arrive today to Gdansk and humiliate his rival. Nothing is further from reality. If almost one hundred years that we can not beat them in a competitive match, for nothing.

From Gdansk: Today is the day!

The first day in Gdansk resulted in good feelings. The climate is so varied that we move from the blazing sun to an incipient storm in no time, but not varied our plans. Jacket in hand, raincoat in backpack and sunglasses so you can spend the afternoon became perfect for the sky refused to see us soaked. In the second paragraph I will tell you the first victory of Spain in Gdansk, but we must not forget that the day it is. Which all hope so.

And the eleven small and small accompany this afternoon gave a recital The Red Cup. Were measured at a combined Italian-Polish wore blue and somehow followed the guidelines set by the 'Azzurri': the 'catenaccio'. Meanwhile, our representatives, in a formation marked by the attacking style, did not succumb and managed to find the key to success. The 'mini-stars' harvested uplifting victory: 5-3!

Germany 1-0 Portugal: Mario Gomez chose the balance

We had high hopes of attending a great game between Germany and Portugal, but ultimately none of the two teams meet expectations. At least as far as performance is concerned. Win by 1-0 of the Mannschaf t, thanks to a goal from Mario Gomez on 72 minutes. The Bayern Munich striker made no mistake in one of the few balls that came with choice of finish. Appealed to the far post header, using the only concession defensive throughout the match of a large Pepe.

Probably the fear to encounter in the game's debut, led both teams well behind cover themselves at all times. Especially the set of Paulo Bento, highly concentrated in defense and trying to strike back with only four players. Portugal opted for a party stuck, interfering with the German development. Özil never played comfortable, well guarded by Veloso and Meireles together to Moutinho, formed a trivote very hard to beat for the Germans.

Netherlands 0-1 Denmark: Danes do not understand death group

The predominant orange in the stands betrayed the name of one of the two teams. The color of which is impregnated a stage when Holland jumps on the field can always expect a lot, because the means Oranje soccer, Attack, show, although in the last World Cup when they reached the final, we were surprised with a team that practiced rockier football, also open to not let your opponent think. One way or another, with a defined system and destabilizing players, the team of Van Marwijk presented in this Euro as a favorite, but again, Holland gave way to the unpredictability of its results with an unexpected loss to Denmark was able to handle a party and use their weapons to take the win 0-1 and move from being the stooge of the group of death to potential star.

From Gdansk: Bienvenutti?

We just arrived to Gdansk, a city that apparently has been taken very seriously as one of the venues for the tournament. In the city does not breathe nothing else other than football. I have a few hours but I have been percatar that Spain is not alone in the opener against Italy. I had not a few shirts of our combined and that we just stepped out of the hotel. It was shocking when the plane, with chants of "what viiivaaa Españaaa!».

After a while we go to small to give us a taste of what's coming tomorrow. A Spain-Italy's youngest promises. The illusion does not lack, of course. There are also few smiles of those children you back to childhood and naivety lost. Momentazo before tomorrow, when they leave the hands of the national players, will step into the boots if the weather permits (made sun, then wind and sparkles now ...).

Russia 4-1 Czech Republic: The Russians displayed their weapons

The second game of the season opener pitting Russia and the Czech Republic was not as competitive as the Poles and Greeks , but it left a better taste. Especially thanks to a Russian team that reached the Euro 2012 without making any noise, but has proved its potential with a convincing 4-1 win.

And that started the match with a shy Czech Republic as willful, which accelerated the pace above their means. Bad choice considering the seniority of many of its players, and the power of the Russian bombers. In this exchange of blows, Arshavin and Dzagoev were found and destroyed at will behind Czech. Especially the Arsenal, which reached a level that we had long delighted.

Poland 1-1 Greece: They both were on hand

Poland could not have started better Euro 2012 before their fans. The Franciszek Smuda faced the meeting with rhythm and verticality. The Greek behind was in distress. I could not go with the ball played from behind even though Polish pressure was not very pronounced. As a result, fifteen-minute barrage of local times. No need to combine too much, just find the gaps.

Because Greece made ​​clear that his biggest weakness is defense. The left wing of Holebas was a continuous hole through which Blaszczykowski percutían Piszczek and unopposed. And indeed it was for that band, the right of the Polish attack, from which a center impeccable Piszcek put your partner at Borussia Dortmund, Lewandowski, leading him to pleasure at the far post to put the 1-0. Great party tall striker, at least during the first half, giving his midfield options and continually struggling with central Greece.

From Gdansk: threading the path to a dream

Can you imagine being one of the protagonists of the debut of Spain in the Euro? Can you imagine jumping into lawn of Gdansk Arena and live a unique feeling to Italy? Well, through the program 'Player Escort' McDonald's, eleven children have the opportunity to fulfill that dream as it will leave the hands of the players who directs Vicente del Bosque on the way to the continental throne. An experience that you will have a server NDF from Gdansk.

It was very moving the way that the elect heard the news. They went to McDonald's as if it were another day. They asked the usual 'Happy Meal' Gift and took ... David Villa's announcement that they were the lucky ones. They could not believe. The joy desfermó between the children, who could not believe what happened. Tomorrow, as in Poland, it's time to complete a wait that has become almost unbearable.

Euro 2012 Group Stage: table with dates, times and channels for all parties

Here is a table with all parties in the group stage of Euro in Poland and Ukraine, with all dates, times and channels that will be issued. As Sport Mediaset has not created a minimally decent outline the purpose and we have found belong to network television in other countries or have contrasting data in Football Notes we decided to create our own table so we can all be in one image all the necessary information.

As we reported earlier , all games will be broadcast on Telecinco and Cuatro, in addition to the online service MiTele.es . The problem is that neither channel is assigned a fixed schedule. Thus we find that a day is an issue that the meeting at 18:00 pm and the next you do the other.

Euro 2012: Odds and favorites

Finally it is time the ball rolling and start enjoying the Euro 2012 Poland and Ukraine . And to go away with our way of previous posts, go with the typical betting favorites that always face in competitions and parties mentioned.

A review of the various fees for bookmakers who forge a sense of focus the eyes of the competition. We check if our favorites match for the vast majority.

Shevchenko fired home

Shares no longer attack to terrorize Rebrov from the east across Europe with Dynamo Kiev that surprised the entire continent, including Madrid and Barcelona, ​​who were unable to stop a young Ukrainian striker explosiveness out of the common. Nor Rossoneri shirt dresses and excluding and the surprise factor but Andriy Shevchenko which reached a new dimension in football, winning a Golden Ball, a Champions League, two Capocannoniere and various other titles. Legend in Milan. Today is 35 years old that no longer allow it to be that player with unstoppable speed and technique, The White Ronaldo called him. But nevertheless continues to set goals for Dynamo Kiev, where he returned three years ago, and remains one of the stars of a Ukrainian national team playing at home and with which Sheva says will be his last major tournament selections.

NDF Survey: What alignment would you take against Italy?

Today at last begins the Euro in Poland and Ukraine , which will open with a meeting between one of the hosts, Poland and the 2004 champion Greece. Spain's turn will come on Sunday (at 18:00 h), making his debut in the tournament against the always dangerous and competitive Italy. Football Notes And we wonder: will already decided alignment Forest?

The only certainty is that we will not know the starting coming out with The Red until shortly before taking the field. And to appease the coach in all of us, we propose a survey to see what would be the starting ideal for Football Notes community. As always we usually do, first we leave the preferred alignment of each editor and then we present a new survey to plasméis sacaríais eleven to face Italy. To see what happens!

NDF Survey: Make your predictions for Euro

Just a few hours of the Euro in Poland and Ukraine take a walk in Football Notes are subject to prior fuming. We have spoken of the favorites of the uncertainties and possible surprises . Also we have told you how we see our first opponent , Italy, and we've had a joke the state of work on the stadium in which to debut our selection. Until we started doing esoteric cabal on the dorsal one that will lead players of the Red.

But we were missing one of the good customs of the house. The pool in our forecasts. As always, the editors break the ice, showing our thoughts about what we think we see in the Euro, and after that we ask you to do the same and leave us in the comments how you imagine that will run the championship. Remember that we have pending publication of the pool for the 2011-12 season, waiting to be settled this week the third team that rises from the League Two to complete all outcomes. Without further ado, we leave with our forecasts.