" My only thoughts from now on are about getting married to Estelle. I would like to ask for her hand. " - Raymond Domenech
With the group stages at end, here are some thoughts of mine:
Best Goal (thus far) : Nihat Kahveci’s winner, against Czech Republic.
2nd best goal (thus far): Ballack’s against Austria. 3rd Best: Sneijder’s against France.
Best Team (thus far) : Netherlands. 2nd best: Spain. 3rd best: Croatia.
Best Player (thus far) : David Villa. 2nd best player: Sneijder. 3rd best player: Luka Modric.
Best Match: Czech Republic-Turkey.
My thoughts/preview on the quarter-finals
The interesting aspect that I can see from the quarter-finals is that it’s not only a battle between the players on the field, but it also brings to the off the field tactical battle between 2 different generations of coaches: those who are experienced and have been in the job business for a long time in various coaching jobs and the other is that of the new breed of coaches who do not have as much experience as their counterparts but are trusted immediately in the hot seat in managing their country’ national football squad. Scolari vs Low, Bilic vs Terim, Van Basten vs Hiddink, and Donadoni vs Luis Aragones. The battle that shows whether experience is vital or just experience is just a myth.
Portugal-Germany
Make or break for Cristiano Ronaldo. If he performs, Portugal to go through. Deco will also be key.
Croatia-Turkey
I think with Croatia winning their group, they would go in the game with more confidence. Add that the Turks will be missing some players, Croatia would be having the edge.
Netherlands-Russia
The interesting factor is that Russia has a Dutchman leading them, and he’s considered among the best. The Dutch has the more skillful and established players, and if they play to their strengths, Netherlands should qualify (not forgetting the performances they had showed in their group games against the Italians, the French and the Romanians).
Italy-Spain
I think Spain will have a point to prove in this game. If they can convincingly beat Italy, then I believe they will have the most legitimate shot to be champions.
My predicted victors: Portugal Croatia Netherlands Spain
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