Now, Group A & B are finished.
Sunday's game of Czech and Turks are unbelievable. First, we have to give credit to Turks for their never-say-die fighting mentality. It's their second consecutive game where they came from behind. But technically speaking, Turks are lucky, it's Czech's goalkeeper who awarded the victory to Turks. Cech, what a poor guy! He is one of the best goalkeepers in the world now. How can he make such a low-level mistake? Also, the entire Czech team has some responsibility too. They should be 3:0 or 4:0 by 75th minute. If so, Turks would have been buried for the game.
Let me say something else about this Czech team managed by Karel Brueckner. He retired from his coaching career after such a sad ending. I feel sorry for him. He should have been awarded in a different style. His team has brought joys and cheers for fans.
I watched Czech playing in Euro 2004, World Cup 2006 and this tournament. They sometimes played very beautiful game. But, I have a feeling that they need a little extra to move on to the next step - toughness. In Euro 2004, they couldn't break through Greek defense. In World Cup, they totally dismantled USA in the first game. However, their weakness was fully exposed during the second game vs Ghana. After conceding the first goal due to a defender's error, the team collapse. The same collapse occurred again in this game.
Now Brueckner retired, a new and hopefully younger coach will take over. I hope the new manager will inject toughness and consistence into this team. Let's cheer up for them.
Germany went through as a runner-up in group B. They will face Ronaldo and Co. It's interesting! I had thought they would meet in Semi. Based on the German's form during last two games, they will have no chance to beat Portugal. I didn't watch Germany-Austria game for the full 90 minutes. My gut feeling is that Portugal will go through in Q-final unless unexpected things happen.
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