Thursday, 26th June 2008
Gary Lineker’s Theory: Proved
So at the end of the day Gary Lineker’s theory, upon which he built his own definition of football, is right. Germany, does always win (except when they play against Italy).
The Turkish side was given a taste of their own medicine. A goal in the dying moments of the match saw them out of this tournament. Until now this tactic was applied to the full by Fatih Terim’s boys at the expense of the Czech Republic and Croatia. However against the Germans, even if for a moment they did level the score in the final minutes, this didn’t work.
This German side, which started rather slow, reminds me of the German team which took part in the 2002 World Cup. That time, the team wasn’t as brilliant as the one in German World Cup. However they made it to the final (which they lost against Brasil). Later on today, we’ll know who their opponent will be. I am more than sure that tonight’s semi final has all the right components to be emotion packed, with Russia having all what it takes to upset the other favourite of the tournament.
Black-outs
Something curious had to happen during the Turkey-Germany match. It was the 13th minute of the second half, when the transmissions (at least on Italian state TV) were interrupted. I am lucky enough to be in a position to see the game on German TV. However, even there, interruptions in audio and video signals did hinder the smooth transmission of the match. It seems that the cause for this mishap was a black-out of the international circuit.This black-out seemed to be contagious and reached the field and hit two actors in the match.
Once again, the refereeing levels were not up to the standards that one would expect during a high level tournament. Mistakes and lack of command of the match were very evident. I believe that UEFA (and/or FIFA) have to revisit some of the rules and don’t leave much for interpretation, as most of the referees in this tournament have been hopeless.
The other person who was hit by the black-out was Turkey’s goalkeeper. Germany’s second goal was his fault. Apart from that, I think that even the German’s third goal, was made possible thanks to Rustu’s bad timing and positioning. On the other hand, one can’t minimise the Germans’ ability. Thanks to their constancy they reached their umpteenth football tournament final.
Hoped for better
While you’re reading this blog, most probably, I will be on my way to Milan. Although not planned, as things had evolved, I hoped that I would be able to see Italy in tonight’s semi final, so that I would be able to live the thrill of such a match, with other Italians in Piazza Duomo. However, this is not the case and as such, most probably I would be enjoying the match in some bar in this city. I won’t complain and I hope I will be in a position to update on how it is to see a semi-final without Italy in Italy.
Arrivederci.
RSS
Comments
I wonder what would have happened if De Rossi (for Donadoni) and Terry (for Grant) had scored those two penalties.
Probably the two coaches would be hailed as heroes.
How ironic.