Euro 2008: Group C - (09/06/2008)France 0-0 Romania, Netherlands 3-0 Italy

After all the hype about the dreaded ‘Group of Death’, the opening game between Romania and France finished goalless in a dull stalemate. France, without both Vieira and Henry, looked a shadow of their former selves, and couldn’t break down a disciplined Romanian side. Clearly they are nowhere close to finding their shooting boots. The possession was all very well, but i don't really see the use as a car without petrol is understood to be useless.Frank Ribery had an awfully quite game and Nicholas Anelka never really looked like scoring. Karim Benzema posed a real threat and portrayed his class with some cheeky bits of skill. Makalele picked up the Man of the Match award. The best player for romania was clearly Christian Chivu who stood strong at the back, displaced all french offences and therefore helped attain the one point that Romania were looking for. It could be all but over for the French if they lose to Netherlands, with my assurance to you that Italy will dispatch Romania.

Here are the highlights compiled by Blizzard, Goal Centre!!

First Half Highlights



Second Half Highlights



NETHERLANDS VS. ITALY

The second match of the night included thrice the tension, thrice the heartbreak, thrice the pace and tempo and of course thrice the goals.The Dutch ran out clear winners with a 3-0 thrashing of the Italians with absolute stunning goals from Sneijder,Nistelrooy(actually offside) and Van Bronchorst.The entertainment level was at it's peak as Italy's defence was torn apart by "Arsenal-like football". The manager will have to rethink his tactics as he has already faced criticism for his 3-3-4 formation. In my opinion, I firmly believe Italy do not have the class to make it through and,if beaten by Romania, will leave the competition without the similar world cup bang.
In the end it was a great day for football, and with a real knockdown approaching us(France vs Netherlands), it is only a matter of time until we once again see classy, pacey , determined and entertaining football.

Here are the highlights compiled by Blizzard, courtesy TVGOLO!!

Nisteltrooy, 26th minute, 1-0



Sneijder, 31st minute, 2-0



Van Bronchorst, 79th minute, 3-0