Interestingly, despite the merits of the Czech team that, despite having started in the worst way, suffering a rout against Russia, turned out to qualify in first place, the great figure of yesterday and the history of the group A is undoubtedly the coach of the greek selection, the portuguese Fernando Santos.
Contrary to most predictions, Fernando Santos was able to ward off the giant Russian and the co-hosts Poland. Despite the low chance that fell on Greece, one should not take the merit and experience in both the coach and the team, who managed to work well: the coach was able to convey his way of playing, getting the respect of the team, which was very effective to comply with the objectives of the coach.
And let us not forget that the had a very difficult league start, with injuries and expulsions, which complicated the life of the hellenic team.
But back to the defeated. In what was considered the least difficult group, where almost everyone had the same chances, Russia was singled out as the big favorite. In fact, began in the best way beating the Czech Republic, showing that was one of the most offensive teams, showing that it had everything to be successful in this championship.
In the game yesterday, Russia has managed to control the game in possession of the ball and shots, while Greece had a more reactive attitude. However, Greece has something that Russia has not had, nor could achieve (at least in the same way): the ability to reinvent itself, regard to the circumstances.
As to Poland, only had the house factor in their favor. He managed two draws, scoring in both games, but found in the final game of the group stage, a Czech Republic completely redone of the poor start and ready to counter this result.
Still, the game of Poland yesterday showed that they knew that only a victory would put they in the quarter-end: from the beginning they showed that they were on the field to play "seriously" - were very proactive and hardworking, but left much to be desired - not able to make decisions in the face of different situations and attitudes of the game.
The limitations of the Polish team, who only know how to play in one way, much favored the Czech Republic: always commanded the game, but only after the news of the victory of Greece is that accelerated the rhythm of play and increased shots on goal.
Surprises aside, though it may be unexpected and Rússsia has shown that it deserved to continue in the competition, nobody can take credit for the Czech Republic and Greece, as should the transition to its good performance.
As statistics have been halted, it is still a mystery know who goes to the semi-finals, as it also depends of course, the adversaries they encounter.
Congratulations and good luck to both teams!
Who will win the UEFA European Football Cup 2012? Go HERE and vote.
Sem comentários:
Enviar um comentário