Spain vs Russia preview
Constant underachievers at both continental and world levels, Euro favourites Spain kick off their campaign against Guus Hiddink’s Russia in Innsbruck. Many legends of the game, including Gary Lineker have tipped the Spanish to set this tournament on fire. Luis Aragones has an embarrassment of riches to choose from in midfield- so much that Cesc [...]
Greece vs Sweden preview
Holders Greece start their European title defence when they face Sweden in the Austrian city of Salzburg. Otto Rehhagel and his boys will be hoping for an encore of their opening day Euro 2004 2-1 win over Portugal, but Sweden with a ” returned from retirement ” Henrik Larsson will be stiff opposition. This game [...]
Netherlands vs Italy preview
World Champions Italy will play their Euro 2008 opener against Marco Van Basten’s Netherlands team in what promises to be an extremely tight fought game. The Dutch, winners of the 1988 edition, will be well aware of the hole that Fabio Cannavaro’s absence may create in Italy’s defence. At the same time, they will know [...]
France vs Romania preview
World Cup runners up France open their campaign in the Group of Death when they face Romania in Zurich on Monday. Les Bleus won the tournament the last time it was co hosted- in 2000. Midfielder Patrick Vieira has to take a late fitness test, and if he fails to clear, Lyon’s Jeremy Toulalan will [...]