Euro '08: The Beautiful Game Alive and Well

The matches of Euro 2008 has reflected what has always been said about European national teams. Their leagues may have the flair and panache but national sides always seem to play with the intent of not losing rather than playing for win. The faith in this view was reaffirmed by the performance of teams at Euro 2008.

But as always there exceptions to any theory and the performances Holland, Portugal & Spain have been a testiment to that. The perennial under achievers Spain and Holland have made an explosive start to their campaign this time. The Dutch have been the team of the tournament during the group stage. Their crisp passing, lighting counter attack and resolute defending has seen them dispatch teams such as Italy and France with great ease.


The stand out feature of the dutch game has been their counterattack with crisp one touch passing. Players such as Van Bronckhorst , Sniejder and Kuyt have been the center pieces of their attack. One has to just watch the Italy game for a master class on how to play counter attacking football.

Spain have also been a revelation, we have always known of their potential but they have always flattered to deceive. This time around they seem to have a lot more focus and intensity about themselves. The team seems to have come of age with players such as Torres, Villa, Iniesta, Fabregas working well as a unit. With Puyol and Casillas marshaling the defense Spain will prove to be a tough nut to crack.

Their performance against Sweden was a good example of their new found spirit.One thing for sure is David Villa is going to be on radar of many a big club.


Portugal in my opinion has been the best of the rest. The lack of pure world class center forward is very apparent in their play. Their game is backed by an assured defense and based on highly creative and skilled mid field. With likes of Ronaldo & Simao running the wings and Deco pulling the strings in the center, their play has been pleasing to the eye.

What these 3 teams have shown is that the beautiful game can be played European teams too. They can also entertain us just as much the south American teams if not more. Call it Total football or whatever you want, these teams are the one's I would gladly pay money to watch.

P.S I would watch Italy too ( Froza Azzuri )