Euro 2012

[joew2005]

The draw for the Euro 2012 qualifying competition starting in September 2010 would be conducted 2day.

Euro 2012 is 2 be co-host by Poland & Ukraine.

51 nations r in the draw, separated into 6 pots.
England could face Scotland or either of the two Irelands.
France could also meet the Irish 2.

Each team in the qualifying groups will play 1 another on a home & away basis, with matches taking place up to October 2011.
The 9 group winners will automatically qualify for the finals 2gether with the runner-up with the best overall record against the teams finishing first, third, fourth, fifth and sixth in their group.
9 group winners + 1 best runner-up will automatically make it 2 the finals with hosts Ukraine & Poland.
The other 8 runners-up will face a 2-legged play off 2 complete the 16-team line-up.

Groups 1 to Group 6 will have results involving the nation which finishes bottom of the group removed 2 determine the best runner-up. The makes sure all second place teams will be evaluated based upon eight matches.
Group 1 to Group 6 would hv 6 teams,whereas Group 7 to Grop 9 would only hv 5 teams.

Warsaw ready to stage Euro 2012 draw - Europe - ESPN Soccernet (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=737669&sec=europe&cc=4716)


SEEDINGS:

Pot 1:
Spain (holders), Germany, Netherlands, Italy, England, Croatia, Portugal, France, Russia.

Pot 2:
Greece, Czech Republic, Sweden, Switzerland, Serbia, Turkey, Denmark, Slovakia, Romania

Pot 3:
Israel, Bulgaria, Finland, Norway, Republic of Ireland, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina

Pot 4:
Slovenia, Latvia, Hungary, Lithuania, Belarus, Belgium, Wales, FYR Macedonia, Cyprus

Pot 5:
Montenegro, Albania, Estonia, Georgia, Moldova, Iceland, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Liechtenstein

Pot 6:
Azerbaijan, Luxembourg, Malta, Faroe Islands, Andorra, San Marino

[joew2005]

EURO 2012 DRAW LIVE: All the updates

Euro 2012 draw Live - February 7 - ESPN Soccernet (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/live?id=736079&cc=4716)

10:45am WET (17:45pm SG time)

[joew2005]

the draws r over,& the groupings r as follows;

Group A:
Germany, Turkey, Austria, Belgium, Kazakhstan & Azerbaijan.

Group B:
Russia, Slovakia, Republic of Ireland, FYR Macedonia, Armenia & Andorra.

Group C:
Italy, Serbia , Northern Ireland, Slovenia, Estonia & Faroe Islands.

Group D:
France, Romania, Bosnia-Herzegovina , Belarus, Albania & Luxembourg.

Group E:
Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Hungary, Moldova & San Marino.

Group F:
Croatia, Greece, Israel, Latvia, Georgia & Malta.

Group G:
England, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Wales & Montenegro.

Group H:
Portugal, Denmark, Norway, Cyprus & Iceland.

Group I:
Spain, Czech Republic, Scotland, Lithuania & Liechtenstein.

Euro 2012 qualifying draw - Europe - ESPN Soccernet (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=736035&sec=europe&cc=4716)


Fabio Capello believes his side hv been given 1 of the toughest draws in qualifying for Euro 2012.

Fabio Capello reflects on "tough" Euro 2012 draw - Europe - ESPN Soccernet (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=737943&sec=europe&cc=4716)

[joew2005]

The exact details of the qualifying games r not yet available,but the dates r.

12 dates r reserved 4 group matches in qualifying:
- 3/4 & 7 September 2010
- 8/9 & 12 October 2010
- 25/26 & 29 March 2011
- 3/4 & 7 June 2011
- 2/3 & 6 September 2011
- 7/8 & 11 October 2011

2 dates r reserved 4 the play-off matches bet the remaining 8 runners-up:
- 11/12 November 2011
- 15 November 2011


16 teams will goto Euro 2012.
Host nations Poland & Ukarine has qualified - Left with 14 spots.
The eventual group winners of the 9 groups would also qualify - Left with 5 spots.
The best runner up of the 9 groups would also qualify - Left with 4 spots.
The remaing 8 runner ups would fight 4 the remaining 4 spots.

[joew2005]

UEFA European Championship Past Winners

1960 USSR (captain - Igor Netto)
1964 Spain (captain - Fernando Olivella)
1968 Italy (captain - Giacinto Facchetti)
1972 Federal Republic of Germany (captain - Franz Beckenbauer)
1976 Czechoslovakia (captain - Anton Ondruš)
1980 Federal Republic of Germany (captain - Bernard Dietz)
1984 France (captain - Michel Platini)
1988 Netherlands (captain - Ruud Gullit)
1992 Denmark (captain - Lars Olsen)
1996 Germany (captain - Jürgen Klinsmann)
2000 France (captain - Didier Deschamps)
2004 Greece (captain - Theodoros Zagorakis)
2008 Spain (captain - Iker Casillas)

[Shawn Koh]

UEFA become a poorly run continent organisation when French man Michel Platini take over as its President :rolleyes:

Lennart Johansson is a good President to run UEFA or even FIFA ... not Sepp Blatter or Platini :mad:

[joew2005]

England will kick off their Euro 2012 qualification campaign @ home 2 Bulgaria on 3rd September 2010.
Afterwhich,they will be away 2 Switzerland 4 days later & then face a home match against Montenegro in October 2010.

The draw, conducted today in Tel Aviv, suits England as they hv avoided June matches in Bulgaria & Montenegro, where the heat could have proved a problem.

England take on John Toshack's Wales at the Millennium Stadium on 26 March 2011, b4 hosting the Swiss in June 2011 & then travel 2 Bulgaria in early September 2011, when the temperature is likely to be less of an issue.

The return match with Wales follows at Wembley on 6th September 2011 & they finish their campaign away 2 Montenegro on 7th October 2011.

[joew2005]

Nw tat WC2010 is over,we shld look 2wards Euro 2012,starting with the Qualifying fixtures.


Group A Qualifying Fixtures: Germany, Turkey, Austria, Belgium, Kazakhstan & Azerbaijan.


3/9/10 - Belgium vs Germany / Kazakhstan vs Turkey

7/9/10 - Austria vs Kazakhstan / Germany vs Azerbaijan / Turkey vs Belgium

8/10/10 - Austria vs Azerbaijan / Germany vs Turkey / Kazakhstan vs Belgium

12/10/10 - Belgium vs Austria / Azerbaijan vs Turkey / Kazakhstan vs Germany

25/3/11 - Austria vs Belgium / Germany vs Kazakhstan

29/3/11 - Turkey vs Austria / Belgium vs Azerbaijan

3/6/11 - Austria vs Germany / Belgium vs Turkey / Kazakhstan vs Azerbaijan

7/6/11 - Azerbaijan v Germany

2/9/11 - Germany vs Austria / Azerbaijan vs Belgium / Turkey vs Kazakhstan

6/9/11 - Austria vs Turkey / Azerbaijan vs Kazakhstan

7/10/11 - Azerbaijan vs Austria / Turkey vs Germany / Belgium vs Kazakhstan

11/10/11 - Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan

[joew2005]

Group B Qualifying Fixtures: Russia, Slovakia, Republic of Ireland, Macedonia, Armenia & Andorra.


3/9/10 - Armenia vs Republic of Ireland / Andorra vs Russia / Slovakia vs Macedonia

7/9/10 - Republic of Ireland vs Andorra / Russia vs Slovakia / Macedonia vs Armenia

8/10/10 - Armenia vs Slovakia / Republic of Ireland vs Russia / Andorra vs Macedonia

12/10/10 - Armenia vs Andorra / Slovakia vs Republic of Ireland / Macedonia vs Russia

26/3/11 - Republic of Ireland vs Macedonia / Andorra vs Slovakia / Russia vs Armenia

4/6/11 - Armenia vs Russia / Slovakia vs Andorra / Macedonia vs Republic of Ireland

2/9/11 - Republic of Ireland vs Slovakia / Andorra vs Armenia / Russia vs Macedonia

6/9/11 - Russia vs Republic of Ireland / Slovakia vs Armenia / Macedonia vs Andorra

7/10/11 - Armenia vs Macedonia / Andorra vs Republic of Ireland / Slovakia vs Russia

11/10/11 - Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / Russia vs Andorra / Macedonia vs Slovakia

[joew2005]

Group C Qualifying Fixtures: Italy, Serbia , Northern Ireland, Slovenia, Estonia & Faroe Islands.


11/8/10 - Estonia vs Faroe Islands

3/9/10 - Estonia vs Italy / Faroe Islands vs Serbia / Slovenia vs Northern Ireland

7/9/10 - Italy vs Faroe Islands / Serbia vs Slovenia

8/10/10 - Northern Ireland vs Italy / Serbia vs Estonia / Slovenia vs Faroe Islands

12/10/10 - Italy vs Serbia / Faroe Islands vs Northern Ireland / Estonia vs Slovenia

25/3/11 - Slovenia vs Italy / Serbia vs Northern Ireland

29/3/11 - Northern Ireland vs Slovenia / Estonia vs Serbia

3/6/11 - Faroe Islands vs Slovenia / Italy vs Estonia

7/6/11 - Faroe Islands vs Estonia

10/8/11 - Northern Ireland vs Faroe Islands

2/9/11 - Faroe Islands vs Italy / Slovenia vs Estonia / Northern Ireland vs Serbia

6/9/11 - Italy vs Slovenia / Serbia vs Faroe Islands / Estonia vs Northern Ireland

7/10/11 - Northern Ireland vs Estonia / Serbia vs Italy

11/10/11 - Italy vs Northern Ireland / Slovenia vs Serbia

[joew2005]

Group D Qualifying Fixtures: France, Romania, Bosnia-Herzegovina , Belarus, Albania & Luxembourg.


3/9/10 - Romania vs Albania / Luxembourg vs Bosnia Herzegovina / France vs Belarus

7/9/10 - Albania vs Luxembourg / Belarus vs Romania / Bosnia Herzegovina vs France

8/10/10 - Luxembourg vs Belarus / Albania vs Bosnia Herzegovina

9/10/10 - France vs Romania

12/10/10 - France vs Luxembourg / Belarus vs Albania

25/3/11 - Luxembourg vs France

26/3/11 - Albania vs Belarus / Bosnia Herzegovina vs Romania

29/3/11 - Romania vs Luxembourg

3/6/11 - Romania vs Bosnia Herzegovina / Belarus vs France

7/6/11 - Belarus vs Luxembourg / Bosnia Herzegovina vs Albania

2/9/11 - Luxembourg vs Romania / Belarus vs Bosnia Herzegovina / Albania vs France

6/9/11 - Romania vs France / Bosnia Herzegovina vs Belarus / Luxembourg vs Albania

7/10/11 - Bosnia Herzegovina vs Luxembourg / Romania vs Belarus / France vs Albania

11/10/11 - Albania vs Romania / France vs Bosnia Herzegovina

[joew2005]

Group E Qualifying Fixtures: Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Hungary, Moldova & San Marino.


3/9/10 - Sweden vs Hungary / Moldova vs Finland / San Marino vs Netherlands

7/9/10 - Hungary vs Moldova / Netherlands vs Finland / Sweden vs San Marino

8/10/10 - Hungary vs San Marino / Moldova vs Netherlands

12/10/10 - Netherlands vs Sweden / Finland vs Hungary / San Marino vs Moldova

17/11/10 - Finland vs San Marino

25/3/11 - Hungary vs Netherlands

29/3/11 - Netherlands vs Hungary / Sweden vs Moldova

3/6/11 - San Marino vs Finland / Moldova vs Sweden

7/6/11 - San Marino vs Hungary / Sweden vs Finland

2/9/11 - Hungary vs Sweden / Finland vs Moldova / Netherlands vs San Marino

6/9/11 - Finland vs Netherlands / San Marino vs Sweden / Moldova vs Hungary

7/10/11 - Finland vs Sweden / Netherlands vs Moldova

11/10/11 - Hungary vs Finland / Sweden vs Netherlands / Moldova vs San Marino

[joew2005]

Group F Qualifying Fixtures: Croatia, Greece, Israel, Latvia, Georgia & Malta.


3/9/10 - Greece vs Georgia / Israel vs Malta / Latvia vs Croatia

7/9/10 - Georgia vs Israel / Malta vs Latvia / Croatia vs Greece

8/10/10 - Greece vs Latvia / Georgia vs Malta / Israel vs Croatia

12/10/10 - Greece vs Israel / Latvia vs Georgia / Croatia vs Malta

26/3/11 - Georgia vs Croatia / Israel vs Latvia / Malta vs Greece

29/3/11 - Israel vs Georgia

4/6/11 - Greece vs Malta / Latvia vs Israel / Croatia vs Georgia

2/9/11 - Georgia vs Latvia / Israel vs Greece / Malta vs Croatia

6/9/11 - Malta vs Georgia / Latvia vs Greece / Croatia vs Israel

7/10/11 - Greece vs Croatia / Latvia vs Malta

11/10/11 - Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

[joew2005]

Group G Qualifying Fixtures: England, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Wales & Montenegro.


3/9/10 - England vs Bulgaria / Montenegro vs Wales

7/9/10 - Bulgaria vs Montenegro / Switzerland vs England

8/10/10 - Wales vs Bulgaria / Montenegro vs Switzerland

12/10/10 - England vs Montenegro / Switzerland vs Wales

26/3/11 - Bulgaria vs Switzerland / Wales vs England

4/6/11 - England vs Switzerland / Montenegro vs Bulgaria

2/9/11 - Bulgaria vs England / Wales vs Montenegro

6/9/11 - Switzerland vs Bulgaria / England vs Wales

7/10/11 - Montenegro vs England / Wales vs Switzerland

11/10/11 - Switzerland vs Montenegro / Bulgaria vs Wales

[joew2005]

Group H Qualifying Fixtures: Portugal, Denmark, Norway, Cyprus & Iceland.


3/9/10 - Portugal vs Cyprus / Iceland vs Norway

7/9/10 - Norway vs Portugal / Denmark vs Iceland

8/10/10 - Portugal vs Denmark / Cyprus vs Norway

12/10/10 - Iceland vs Portugal / Denmark vs Cyprus

26/3/11 - Cyprus vs Iceland / Norway vs Denmark

4/6/11 - Portugal vs Norway / Iceland vs Denmark

2/9/11 - Cyprus vs Portugal / Norway vs Iceland

6/9/11 - Iceland vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Norway

7/10/11 - Portugal vs Iceland / Cyprus vs Denmark

11/10/11 - Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

[joew2005]

Group I Qualifying Fixtures: Spain, Czech Republic, Scotland, Lithuania & Liechtenstein.


3/9/10 - Lithuania vs Scotland / Liechtenstein vs Spain

7/9/10 - Scotland vs Liechtenstein / Czech Republic vs Lithuania

8/10/10 - Czech Republic vs Scotland / Spain vs Lithuania

12/10/10 - Scotland vs Spain / Liechtenstein vs Czech Republic

25/3/11 - Spain vs Czech Republic

29/3/11 - Czech republic vs Liechtenstein / Lithuania vs Spain

4/6/11 - Liechtenstein vs Lithuania

2/9/11 - Lithuania vs Liechtenstein

3/9/11 - Scotland vs Czech Republic

6/9/11 - Scotland vs Lithuania / Spain vs Liechtenstein

7/10/11 - Czech Republic vs Spain

8/10/11 - Liechtenstein vs Scotland

11/10/11 - Spain vs Scotland / Lithuania vs Czech Republic

[joew2005]

Qualification For Euro 2012

Only 16 teams would be @ Euro 2012 Finals.

Hosts Ukraine & Poland alrdy qualified.

The eventual 9 group winners from Group A to Group I will automatically qualify for the finals 2gether.

One group runner-up with the best overall record against the teams finishing first, third, fourth, fifth and sixth in their group would also qualfy auto 4 Euro 2012.

The remaining 8 group runner-ups will be drawn in a 2-legged play off 2 complete the 16-team line-up.

Groups 1 to Group 6 will have results involving the nation which finishes bottom of the group removed 2 determine the best runner-ups.
Tis is 2 makes sure all 2nd place teams will be evaluated based upon the 8 matches.
Group 1 to Group 6 would hv 6 teams,whereas Group 7 to Grop 9 would only hv 5 teams.

[joew2005]

Based on the last FIFA world rankings on 26 May 2010,the ranking r as below.
But aft Spain won the WC2010, it shld see them replace Brazil @ the top of the summit.
Next FIFA ranking update is 2morow.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=0&rank=193&page=3

Group A:
Germany(6), Turkey(29), Austria(68), Belgium(59), Kazakhstan(129) & Azerbaijan(109).

Group B:
Russia(11), Slovakia(34), Republic of Ireland(41), FYR Macedonia(61), Armenia(100) & Andorra(201).

Group C:
Italy(5), Serbia(15) , Northern Ireland(56), Slovenia(25), Estonia(99) & Faroe Islands(125).

Group D:
France(9), Romania(28), Bosnia-Herzegovina(51) , Belarus(82), Albania(79) & Luxembourg(127).

Group E:
Netherlands(4), Sweden(37), Finland(52), Hungary(57), Moldova(89) & San Marino(202).

Group F:
Croatia(10), Greece(13), Israel(26), Latvia(46), Georgia(120) & Malta(157).

Group G:
England(8), Switzerland(24), Bulgaria(39), Wales(77) & Montenegro(64).

Group H:
Portugal(3), Denmark(36), Norway(22), Cyprus(67) & Iceland(90).

Group I:
Spain(2), Czech Republic(33), Scotland(43), Lithuania(49) & Liechtenstein(149).

[joew2005]

Latest World FIFA ranking update 2day. Next update on 11 Aug 2010.

Group A:
Germany(4), Turkey(28), Austria(60), Belgium(48), Kazakhstan(129) & Azerbaijan(106).

Group B:
Russia(17), Slovakia(27), Republic of Ireland(36), FYR Macedonia(66), Armenia(96) & Andorra(201).

Group C:
Italy(11), Serbia(13) , Northern Ireland(59), Slovenia(19), Estonia(95) & Faroe Islands(117).

Group D:
France(21), Romania(42), Bosnia-Herzegovina(57) , Belarus(77), Albania(71) & Luxembourg(116).

Group E:
Netherlands(2), Sweden(35), Finland(51), Hungary(62), Moldova(89) & San Marino(202).

Group F:
Croatia(15), Greece(12), Israel(37), Latvia(50), Georgia(111) & Malta(152).

Group G:
England(7), Switzerland(18), Bulgaria(43), Wales(84) & Montenegro(72).

Group H:
Portugal(8), Denmark(29), Norway(22), Cyprus(63) & Iceland(79).

Group I:
Spain(1), Czech Republic(31), Scotland(41), Lithuania(52) & Liechtenstein(140).

[joew2005]

The Euro 2012 qualification would get kick-off @ Group C on 11/8/10, where Estonia vs Faroe Islands.

The rest of the group games kick-off on 3/9/10:
Group A - Belgium vs Germany / Kazakhstan vs Turkey
Group B - Armenia vs Republic of Ireland / Andorra vs Russia / Slovakia vs Macedonia
Group C - Estonia vs Italy / Faroe Islands vs Serbia / Slovenia vs Northern Ireland
Group D - Romania vs Albania / Luxembourg vs Bosnia Herzegovina / France vs Belarus
Group E - Sweden vs Hungary / Moldova vs Finland / San Marino vs Netherlands
Group F - Greece vs Georgia / Israel vs Malta / Latvia vs Croatia
Group G - England vs Bulgaria / Montenegro vs Wales
Group H - Portugal vs Cyprus / Iceland vs Norway
Group I - Lithuania vs Scotland / Liechtenstein vs Spain


The 2nd group games r on 7/9/10:
Group A - Austria vs Kazakhstan / Germany vs Azerbaijan / Turkey vs Belgium
Group B - Republic of Ireland vs Andorra / Russia vs Slovakia / Macedonia vs Armenia
Group C - Italy vs Faroe Islands / Serbia vs Slovenia
Group D - Albania vs Luxembourg / Belarus vs Romania / Bosnia Herzegovina vs France
Group E - Hungary vs Moldova / Netherlands vs Finland / Sweden vs San Marino
Group F - Georgia vs Israel / Malta vs Latvia / Croatia vs Greece
Group G - Bulgaria vs Montenegro / Switzerland vs England
Group H - Norway vs Portugal / Denmark vs Iceland
Group I - Scotland vs Liechtenstein / Czech Republic vs Lithuania

[joew2005]

2012 European Championship Qualification got underway last nite, with Estonia winning 2-1 against Faroe Islands in Group C.

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=299296&cc=4716&league=UEFA.EUROQ

[joew2005]

Latest World FIFA ranking update yesterday. Not much changes 4 the big guns/
Next update on 15 Sept 2010.
http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=0&rank=195

Group A:
Germany(4), Turkey(28), Austria(60), Belgium(48), Kazakhstan(125) & Azerbaijan(105).

Group B:
Russia(16), Slovakia(27), Republic of Ireland(36), FYR Macedonia(66), Armenia(96) & Andorra(201).

Group C:
Italy(11), Serbia(13) , Northern Ireland(59), Slovenia(19), Estonia(95) & Faroe Islands(117).

Group D:
France(21), Romania(42), Bosnia-Herzegovina(57) , Belarus(77), Albania(71) & Luxembourg(116).

Group E:
Netherlands(2), Sweden(35), Finland(51), Hungary(62), Moldova(89) & San Marino(202).

Group F:
Croatia(15), Greece(12), Israel(37), Latvia(50), Georgia(111) & Malta(152).

Group G:
England(7), Switzerland(18), Bulgaria(43), Wales(84) & Montenegro(72).

Group H:
Portugal(8), Denmark(29), Norway(22), Cyprus(63) & Iceland(79).

Group I:
Spain(1), Czech Republic(31), Scotland(41), Lithuania(52) & Liechtenstein(140).[/QUOTE]

[joew2005]

sori ha ..... there were some mistakes in the earlier posting.

Group A:
Germany(4), Turkey(28), Austria(60), Belgium(48), Kazakhstan(125) & Azerbaijan(105).

Group B:
Russia(16), Slovakia(27), Republic of Ireland(36), FYR Macedonia(66), Armenia(96) & Andorra(201).

Group C:
Italy(11), Serbia(13) , Northern Ireland(59), Slovenia(19), Estonia(94) & Faroe Islands(118).

Group D:
France(21), Romania(42), Bosnia-Herzegovina(57) , Belarus(78), Albania(70) & Luxembourg(117).

Group E:
Netherlands(2), Sweden(35), Finland(51), Hungary(62), Moldova(89) & San Marino(202).

Group F:
Croatia(14), Greece(12), Israel(38), Latvia(49), Georgia(110) & Malta(151).

Group G:
England(7), Switzerland(17), Bulgaria(43), Wales(84) & Montenegro(73).

Group H:
Portugal(8), Denmark(29), Norway(22), Cyprus(63) & Iceland(79).

Group I:
Spain(1), Czech Republic(31), Scotland(41), Lithuania(52) & Liechtenstein(141).

Countries in RED r those that had changes in their position on the Fifa chart.

[joew2005]

Qualification matches next week.

Group F match on Sep 2:
Israel vs Malta

Group A mactes on Sep 3:
Kazakhstan vs Turkey
Belgium vs Germany

Group B mactes on Sep 3:
Armenia vs Ireland
Andorra vs Russia
Slovakia vs Macedonia

Group C matches on Sep 3:
Estonia vs Italy
Faroe Islands vs Serbia
Slovenia vs Northern Ireland

Group D matches on Sep 3-
Romania vs Albania
Luxembourg vs Bosnia Herzegovina
France vs Belarus

Group E matches on Sep 3:
Sweden vs Hungary
Moldova vs Finland
San Marino vs Netherlands

Group F matches on Sep 3:
Greece vs Georgia
Israel vs Malta
Latvia vs Croatia

Group G matches on Sep 3:
England vs Bulgaria
Montenegro vs Wales

Group H matches on Sep 3:
Portugal vs Cyprus
Iceland vs Norway

Group I matches on Sep 3:
Lithuania vs Scotland
Liechtenstein vs Spain

[joew2005]

Qualification match result -

Group F : Israel 3 - 1 Malta

[joew2005]

Qualification match result -

Group A:
Kazakhstan 0 - 3 Turkey
Belgium 0 - 1 Germany

Group B:
Armenia 0 - 1 Ireland
Andorra 0 - 2 Russia
Slovakia 1 - 0 Macedonia

Group C:
Estonia 1 - 2 Italy
Faroe Islands 0 - 3 Serbia
Slovenia 0 - 1 Northern Ireland

Group D:
Romania 1 - 1 Albania
Luxembourg 0 - 3 Bosnia Herzegovina
France 0 - 1 Belarus

Group E:
Sweden 2 - 0 Hungary
Moldova 2 - 0 Finland
San Marino 0 -5 Netherlands

Group F:
Greece 1 - 1 Georgia
Latvia 0 -3 Croatia

Group G:
England 4 - 0 Bulgaria
Montenegro 1 - 0 Wales

Group H:
Portugal 4 - 4 Cyprus
Iceland 1 - 2 Norway

Group I:
Lithuania 0 - 0 Scotland
Liechtenstein 0 - 4 Spain

[joew2005]

Group A Table
1 Turkey P1 W1 D0 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 3
2 Germany P1 W1 D0 L0 GS1 GA0 GD+1 Pts 3
3 Azerbaijan P0 W0 D0 L0 GS0 GA0 GD0 Pts 0
4 Austria P0 W0 D0 L0 GS0 GA0 GD0 Pts 0
5 Belgium P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA1 GD-1 Pts 0
6 Kazakhstan P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA3 GD-3 Pts 0

Group B Table
1 Russia P1 W1 D0 L0 GS2 GA0 GD2 Pts 3
2 Slovakia P1 W1 D0 L0 GS1 GA GD1 Pts 3
3 Ireland P1 W1 D0 L0 GS1 GA0 GD1 Pts 3
4 Armenia P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA1 GD-1 Pts 0
5 Macedonia P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA1 GD-1 Pts 0
6 Andorra P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA2 GD-2 Pts0

Group C Table
1 Serbia P1 W1 D0 L0 GS3 GA0 GD3 Pts 3
2 Italy P1 W1 D0 L0 GS2 GA1 GD1 Pts 3
3 Northern Ireland P1 W1 D0 L0 GS1 GA0 GD1 Pts 3
4 Slovenia P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA1 GD-1 Pts 0
5 Faroe Islands P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA5 GD-4 Pts 0

Group D Table
1 Bosnia-Herzegovina P1 W1 D0 L0 GS3 GA0 GD3 Pts 3
2 Belarus P1 W1 D0 L0 GS1 GA0 GD1 Pts 3
3 Albania P1 W0 D1 L0 GS1 GA1 GD0 Pts 1
4 Romania P1 W0 D1 L0 GS1 GA1 GD0 Pts 1
5 France P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA1 GD-1 Pts 0
6 Luxembourg P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA3 GD-3 Pts 0

Group E Table
1 Netherlands P1 W1 D0 L0 GS5 GA0 GD5 Pts 3
2 Sweden P1 W1 D0 L0 GS2 GA0 GD2 Pts 3
3 Moldova P1 W1 D0 L0 GS2 GA0 GD2 Pts 3
4 Hungary P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA2 GD-2 Pts 0
5 Finland P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA2 GD-2 Pts 0
6 San Marino P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA5 GD-5 Pts 0

Group F Table
1 Croatia P1 W1 D0 L0 GS3 GA0 GD3 Pts 3
2 Israel P1 W1 D0 L0 GS3 GA1 GD2 Pts 3
3 Greece P1 W0 D1 L0 GS1 GA1 GD0 Pts 1
4 Georgia P1 W0 D1 L0 GS1 GA1 GD0 Pts 1
5 Malta P1 W0 D0 L1 GS1 GA3 GD-2 Pts 0
6 Latvia P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA3 GD-3 Pts 0

Group G Table
1 England P1 W1 D0 L0 GS4 GA0 GD4 Pts 3
2 Montenegro P1 W1 D0 L0 GS1 GA0 GD1 Pts 3
3 Switzerland P0 W0 D0 L0 GS0 GA0 GD0 Pts 0
4 Wales P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA1 GD-1 Pts 0
5 Bulgaria P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA4 GD-4 Pts 0

Group H Table
1 Norway P1 W1 D0 L0 GS2 GA1 GD1 Pts 3
2 Cyprus P1 W0 D1 L0 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 1
3 Portugal P1 W0 D1 L0 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 1
4 Denmark P0 W0 D0 L0 GS0 GA0 GD0 Pts 0
5 Iceland P1 W0 D0 L1 GS1 GA2 GD-1 Pts 0

Group I Table
1 Spain P1 W1 D0 L0 GS4 GA0 GD4 Pts 3
2 Lithuania P1 W0 D1 L0 GS0 GA0 GD0 Pts 1
3 Scotland P1 W0 D1 L0 GS0 GA0 GD0 Pts 1
4 Czech Republic P0 W0 D0 L0 GS0 GA0 GD0 Pts 0
5 Liechtenstein P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA4 GD-4 Pts 0

[joew2005]

Qualification matches next week on Sep 7.

Group A:
Turkey vs Belgium
Austria vs Kazakhstan
Germany vs Azerbaijan

Group B:
Russia vs Slovakia
Macedonia vs Armenia
Ireland vs Andorra

Group C:
Serbia vs Slovenia
Italy vs Faroe Islands

Group D:
Belarus vs Romania
Albania vs Luxembourg
Bosnia-Herzegovina vs France

Group E:
Sweden vs San Marino
Hungary vs Moldova
Netherlands vs Finland

Group F:
Georgia vs Israel
Malta vs Latvia
Croatia vs Greece

Group G:
Bulgaria vs Montenegro
Switzerland vs England

Group H:
Denmark vs Iceland
Norway vs Portugal

Group I:
Czech Republic vs Lithuania
Scotland vs Liechtenstein

[machoman]

http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i229/zls13/euro2012.jpg

[joew2005]

Latest World FIFA ranking update on 11 Aug. Next update on 15 Sep 2010.
http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=0&rank=195

Group A:
Germany(4), Turkey(28), Belgium(48), Austria(60), Azerbaijan(105) & Kazakhstan(125).

Group B:
Russia(16), Slovakia(27), Republic of Ireland(36), FYR Macedonia(66), Armenia(96) & Andorra(201).

Group C:
Italy(11), Serbia(13) , Slovenia(19), Northern Ireland(59), Estonia(94) & Faroe Islands(118).

Group D:
France(21), Romania(42), Bosnia-Herzegovina(57) , Albania(70), Belarus(78) & Luxembourg(117).

Group E:
Netherlands(2), Sweden(35), Finland(51), Hungary(62), Moldova(89) & San Marino(202).

Group F:
Greece(12), Croatia(14), Israel(38), Latvia(49), Georgia(110) & Malta(151).

Group G:
England(7), Switzerland(17), Bulgaria(43), Montenegro(73) & Wales(84).

Group H:
Portugal(8), Norway(22), Denmark(29), Cyprus(63) & Iceland(79).

Group I:
Spain(1), Czech Republic(31), Scotland(41), Lithuania(52) & Liechtenstein(141).

Countries in RED colour hv changes in position fr the earlier FIFA ranking in July aft the WC2010.

[joew2005]

Qualification match results for games played last nite.

Group A:
Turkey 3 - 2 Belgium
Austria 2 - 0 Kazakhstan
Germany 6 - 1 Azerbaijan

Group B:
Russia 0 - 1 Slovakia
Macedonia 2 - 2 Armenia
Ireland 3 - 1 Andorra

Group C:
Serbia 1 - 1 Slovenia
Italy 5 - 0 Faroe Islands

Group D:
Belarus 0 - 0 Romania
Albania 1 - 0 Luxembourg
Bosnia-Herzegovina 0 - 2 France

Group E:
Sweden 6 - 0 San Marino
Hungary 2 - 1 Moldova
Netherlands 2 - 1 Finland

Group F:
Georgia 0 - 0 Israel
Malta 0 - 2 Latvia
Croatia 0 - 0 Greece

Group G:
Bulgaria 0 - 1 Montenegro
Switzerland 1 - 3 England

Group H:
Denmark 1 - 0 Iceland
Norway 1 - 0 Portugal

Group I:
Czech Republic 0 - 1 Lithuania
Scotland 2 - 1 Liechtenstein

[joew2005]

Current Table Standing.

Group A Table
1 Germany P2 W2 D0 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 6
2 Turkey P2 W2 D0 L0 GS6 GA2 GD+4 Pts 6
3 Austria P1 W1 D0 L0 GS2 GA0 GD+2 Pts 3
4 Belgium P2 W0 D0 L2 GS2 GA4 GD-2 Pts 0
5 Azerbaijan P1 W0 D0 L1 GS1 GA6 GD-5 Pts 0
6 Kazakhstan P2 W0 D0 L2 GS0 GA5 GD-5 Pts 0


Group B Table
1 Ireland P2 W2 D0 L0 GS4 GA1 GD+3 Pts 6
2 Slovakia P2 W2 D0 L0 GS2 GA GD+2 Pts 6
3 Russia P2 W1 D0 L1 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 3
4 Macedonia P2 W0 D1 L1 GS2 GA3 GD-1 Pts 1
5 Armenia P2 W0 D1 L1 GS2 GA3 GD-1 Pts 1
6 Andorra P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA4 GD-3 Pts 0


Group C Table
1 Italy P2 W2 D0 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 6
2 Serbia P2 W1 D1 L0 GS4 GA1 GD+3 Pts 4
3 Northern Ireland P1 W1 D0 L0 GS1 GA0 GD1 Pts 3
4 Slovenia P2 W0 D1 L1 GS1 GA2 GD-1 Pts 1
5 Faroe Islands P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA10 GD-9 Pts 0


Group D Table
1 Albania P2 W1 D1 L0 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 4
2 Belarus P2 W1 D1 L0 GS1 GA0 GD+1 Pts 4
3 Bosnia-Herzegovina P2 W1 D0 L1 GS3 GA2 GD+1 Pts 3
4 France P2 W1 D0 L1 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 3
5 Romania P2 W0 D2 L0 GS1 GA1 GD0 Pts 2
6 Luxembourg P2 W0 D0 L2 GS0 GA4 GD-4 Pts 0


Group E Table
1 Sweden P2 W2 D0 L0 GS8 GA0 GD+8 Pts 6
2 Netherlands P2 W2 D0 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 6
3 Moldova P2 W1 D0 L1 GS3 GA2 GD+1 Pts 3
4 Hungary P2 W1 D0 L1 GS2 GA3 GD-1 Pts 3
5 Finland P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA4 GD-3 Pts 0
6 San Marino P2 W0 D0 L2 GS0 GA11 GD-11 Pts 0


Group F Table
1 Croatia P2 W1 D1 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 4
2 Israel P2 W1 D1 L0 GS3 GA1 GD+2 Pts 4
3 Latvia P2 W1 D0 L1 GS2 GA3 GD-1 Pts 3
4 Greece P2 W0 D2 L0 GS1 GA1 GD0 Pts 2
5 Georgia P2 W0 D2 L0 GS1 GA1 GD0 Pts 2
6 Malta P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA5 GD-4 Pts 0


Group G Table
1 England P2 W2 D0 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 6
2 Montenegro P2 W2 D0 L0 GS2 GA0 GD+2 Pts 6
3 Wales P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA1 GD-1 Pts 0
4 Switzerland P1 W0 D0 L1 GS1 GA3 GD-2 Pts 0
5 Bulgaria P2 W0 D0 L2 GS0 GA5 GD-5 Pts 0


Group H Table
1 Norway P2 W2 D0 L0 GS3 GA1 GD+2 Pts 6
2 Denmark P1 W1 D0 L0 GS1 GA0 GD+1 Pts 3
3 Cyprus P1 W0 D1 L0 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 1
4 Portugal P2 W0 D1 L1 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 1
5 Iceland P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA3 GD-2 Pts 0


Group I Table
1 Lithuania P2 W1 D1 L0 GS1 GA0 GD+1 Pts 4
2 Scotland P2 W1 D1 L0 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 4
3 Spain P1 W1 D0 L0 GS4 GA0 GD4 Pts 3
4 Czech Republic P1 W0 D0 L1 GS0 GA1 GD-1 Pts 0
5 Liechtenstein P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA6 GD-5 Pts 0

[joew2005]

Qualification matches on Oct 8.

Group A:
Kazakhstan vs Belgium
Austria vs Azerbaijan
Germany vs Turkey

Group B:
Armenia vs Slovakia
Andorra vs Macedonia
Ireland vs Russia

Group C:
Slovenia vs Faroe Islands
Serbia vs Estonia
Northern Ireland vs Italy

Group D:
Luxembourg vs Belarus
Albania vs Bosnia-Herzegovina

Group E:
Hungary vs San Marino
Moldova vs Netherlands

Group F:
Georgia vs Malta
Greece vs Latvia

Group G:
Montenegro vs Switzerland
Wales vs Bulgaria

Group H:
Cyprus vs Norway
Portugal vs Denmark

Group I:
Czech Republic vs Scotland
Spain vs Lithuania


Qualification matches on Oct 9.

Group D:
France vs Romania

Group F:
Israel vs Croatia


Qualification matches on Oct 12.

Group A:
Azerbaijan vs Turkey
Kazakhstan vs Germany
Belgium vs Austria

Group B:
Armenia vs Andorra
Macedonia vs Russia
Slovakia vs Ireland

Group C:
Faroe Islands vs Northern Ireland
Italy vs Serbia

Group D:
Belarus vs Albania
France vs Luxembourg

Group E:
Finland vs Hungary
Netherlands vs Sweden
San Marino vs Moldova

Group F:
Latvia vs Georgia
Greece vs Israel

Group G:
Switzerland vs Wales
England vs Montenegro

Group H:
Denmark vs Cyprus
Iceland vs Portugal

Group I:
Scotland vs Spain
Liechtenstein vs Czech Republic

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=821645&sec=euro2012&cc=4716

Portugal confirm departure of coach Carlos Queiroz

Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz has been dismissed following the country's poor start 2 Euro 2012 qualifying & the coach's own lengthy suspension 4 disciplinary reaons.

Queiroz, who had 2 yrs remaining on his contract, was banned fr coaching the national side for 6 months by Portugal's Sport Institute aft he was adjudged 2 hv disrupted a drugs test prior 2 the WC finals.

The Portuguese Football Federation had already suspended the former Manchester United assistant manager 4 a month due 2 his use of foul language towards testers in the same incident.

Queiroz said he would appeal the 6-month sanction but in his absence, Portugal could only draw 4-4 at home 2 Cyprus & lose 1-0 to Norway on Tuesday to start their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign in unimpressive fashion.

Portugal were also eliminated in the 2nd round of the WC losing 1-0 to Spain and failed to score in three of their four games in South Africa.

A federation statement read: "Given the recent events, and after reviewing the current situation concerning the national coach, the directorate of the FPF decided unanimously [to end] the contract with the national coach, Carlos Queiroz, with immediate effect. This decision was communicated to Carlos Queiroz.

"[The FPF will] start immediately contacts and talks with a view to hiring a technician who performs the functions of national coach in time to prepare and lead the team in the forthcoming qualifying matches for Euro 2012."

Queiroz was appointed as Luiz Felipe Scolari's replacement in July 2008, taking charge for the World Cup qualifying campaign. After struggling in the early stages the country beat Bosnia-Herzegovina in a play-off.

Queiroz, who has a spell as Real Madrid coach on his CV, was previously Portugal boss between the years of 1991 and 1994.

[joew2005]

Latest World FIFA ranking update on 15 Sept.
Next update on 20 Oct 2010.
http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=0&rank=196

Group A:
Germany(3), Turkey(21), Belgium(62), Austria(61), Azerbaijan(102) & Kazakhstan(126).

Group B:
Russia(25), Slovakia(16), Republic of Ireland(33), FYR Macedonia(71), Armenia(105) & Andorra(202).

Group C:
Italy(13), Serbia(15) , Slovenia(19), Northern Ireland(45), Estonia(85) & Faroe Islands(138).

Group D:
France(27), Romania(46), Bosnia-Herzegovina(59) , Albania(67), Belarus(55) & Luxembourg(130).

Group E:
Netherlands(2), Sweden(32), Finland(64), Hungary(51), Moldova(80) & San Marino(203).

Group F:
Greece(12), Croatia(11), Israel(36), Latvia(68), Georgia(89) & Malta(150).

Group G:
England(6), Switzerland(21), Bulgaria(54), Montenegro(40) & Wales(84).

Group H:
Portugal(8), Norway(14), Denmark(29), Cyprus(43) & Iceland(100).

Group I:
Spain(1), Czech Republic(37), Scotland(47), Lithuania(42) & Liechtenstein(149).

[joew2005]

Qualification matches schedule on Oct 8.

Group A:
Kazakhstan(126) vs Belgium(62)
Austria(61) vs Azerbaijan(102)
Germany(3) vs Turkey(21)

Group B:
Armenia(105) vs Slovakia(16)
Andorra(202) vs Macedonia(71)
Ireland(33) vs Russia(25)

Group C:
Slovenia(19) vs Faroe Islands(138)
Serbia(15) vs Estonia(85)
Northern Ireland(45) vs Italy(13)

Group D:
Luxembourg(130) vs Belarus(55)
Albania(67) vs Bosnia-Herzegovina(59)

Group E:
Hungary(51) vs San Marino(203)
Moldova(80) vs Netherlands(2)

Group F:
Georgia(89) vs Malta(150)
Greece(12) vs Latvia(68)

Group G:
Montenegro(40) vs Switzerland(21)
Wales(84) vs Bulgaria(54)

Group H:
Cyprus(43) vs Norway(14)
Portugal(8) vs Denmark(29)

Group I:
Czech Republic(37) vs Scotland(47)
Spain(1) vs Lithuania(42)


Qualification matches schedule on Oct 9.

Group D:
France(27) vs Romania(46)

Group F:
Israel(36) vs Croatia(11)


Qualification matches schedule on Oct 12.

Group A:
Azerbaijan(102) vs Turkey(21)
Kazakhstan(126) vs Germany(3)
Belgium(62) vs Austria(61)

Group B:
Armenia(105) vs Andorra(202)
Macedonia(71) vs Russia(25)
Slovakia(16) vs Ireland(33)

Group C:
Faroe Islands(138) vs Northern Ireland(45)
Italy(13) vs Serbia(15)

Group D:
Belarus(55) vs Albania(67)
France(27) vs Luxembourg(130)

Group E:
Finland(64) vs Hungary(51)
Netherlands(2) vs Sweden(32)
San Marino(203) vs Moldova(80)

Group F:
Latvia(68) vs Georgia(89)
Greece(12) vs Israel(36)

Group G:
Switzerland(21) vs Wales(84)
England(6) vs Montenegro(40)

Group H:
Denmark(29) vs Cyprus(43)
Iceland(100) vs Portugal(8)

Group I:
Scotland(47) vs Spain(1)
Liechtenstein(149) vs Czech Republic(37)

[joew2005]

Results of qualification matches played tis morning -

Group A:
Kazakhstan(126) 0 - 2 Belgium(62)
Austria(61) 3 - 0 Azerbaijan(102)
Germany(3) 3 - 0 Turkey(21)

Group B:
Armenia(105) 3 - 1 Slovakia(16)
Andorra(202) 0 - 2 Macedonia(71)
Ireland(33) 2 - 3 Russia(25)

Group C:
Slovenia(19) 5 - 1 Faroe Islands(138)
Serbia(15) 1 - 3 Estonia(85)
Northern Ireland(45) 0 - 0 Italy(13)

Group D:
Luxembourg(130) 0 - 0 Belarus(55)
Albania(67) 1 - 1 Bosnia-Herzegovina(59)

Group E:
Hungary(51) 8 - 0 San Marino(203)
Moldova(80) 0 - 1 Netherlands(2)

Group F:
Georgia(89) 1 - 0 Malta(150)
Greece(12) 1 - 0 Latvia(68)

Group G:
Montenegro(40) 1 - 0 Switzerland(21)
Wales(84) 0 - 1 Bulgaria(54)

Group H:
Cyprus(43) 1 - 2 Norway(14)
Portugal(8) 3 - 1 Denmark(29)

Group I:
Czech Republic(37) 1 - 0 Scotland(47)
Spain(1) 3 - 1 Lithuania(42)

[joew2005]

Current Table Standing.

Group A Table
1 Germany P3 W3 D0 L0 GS10 GA1 GD+9 Pts 9
2 Austria P2 W2 D0 L0 GS5 GA0 GD+5 Pts 6
3 Turkey P3 W2 D0 L1 GS6 GA5 GD+1 Pts 6
4 Belgium P3 W1 D0 L2 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 3
5 Kazakhstan P3 W0 D0 L3 GS0 GA7 GD-7 Pts 0
6 Azerbaijan P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA9 GD-8 Pts 0


Group B Table
1 Slovakia P3 W2 D0 L1 GS3 GA3 GD0 Pts 6
2 Russia P3 W2 D0 L1 GS5 GA3 GD+2 Pts 6
3 Ireland P3 W2 D0 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 6
4 Armenia P3 W1 D1 L1 GS5 GA4 GD+1 Pts 4
5 Macedonia P3 W1 D1 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 4
6 Andorra P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA7 GD-6 Pts 0


Group C Table
1 Italy P3 W2 D1 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 7
2 Estonia P3 W2 D0 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 6
3 Northern Ireland P2 W1 D1 L0 GS1 GA0 GD+1 Pts 4
4 Slovenia P3 W1 D1 L1 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 4
5 Serbia P3 W1 D1 L1 GS5 GA4 GD+1 Pts 4
6 Faroe Islands P4 W0 D0 L4 GS2 GA15 GD-13 Pts 0


Group D Table
1 Albania P3 W1 D2 L0 GS3 GA2 GD+1 Pts 5
2 Belarus P3 W1 D2 L0 GS1 GA0 GD+1 Pts 5
3 Bosnia-Herzegovina P3 W1 D1 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 4
4 France P2 W1 D0 L1 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 3
5 Romania P2 W0 D2 L0 GS1 GA1 GD0 Pts 2
6 Luxembourg P3 W0 D1 L2 GS0 GA4 GD-4 Pts 0


Group E Table
1 Netherlands P3 W3 D0 L0 GS8 GA1 GD+7 Pts 9
2 Sweden P2 W2 D0 L0 GS8 GA0 GD+8 Pts 6
3 Hungary P3 W2 D0 L1 GS10 GA3 GD+7 Pts 6
4 Moldova P3 W1 D0 L2 GS3 GA3 GD0 Pts 3
5 Finland P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA4 GD-3 Pts 0
6 San Marino P3 W0 D0 L3 GS0 GA19 GD-19 Pts 0


Group F Table
1 Georgia P3 W1 D2 L0 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 5
2 Greece P3 W1 D2 L0 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 5
3 Croatia P2 W1 D1 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 4
4 Israel P2 W1 D1 L0 GS3 GA1 GD+2 Pts 4
5 Latvia P3 W1 D0 L2 GS2 GA4 GD-2 Pts 3
6 Malta P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA6 GD-5 Pts 0


Group G Table
1 Montenegro P3 W3 D0 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 9
2 England P2 W2 D0 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 6
3 Bulgaria P3 W1 D0 L2 GS1 GA5 GD-4 Pts 3
4 Wales P2 W0 D0 L2 GS0 GA2 GD-2 Pts 0
5 Switzerland P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA4 GD-3 Pts 0


Group H Table
1 Norway P3 W3 D0 L0 GS5 GA2 GD+3 Pts 9
2 Portugal P3 W1 D1 L1 GS7 GA6 GD+1 Pts 4
3 Denmark P2 W1 D0 L1 GS2 GA3 GD-1 Pts 3
4 Cyprus P2 W0 D1 L1 GS5 GA6 GD-1 Pts 1
5 Iceland P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA3 GD-2 Pts 0


Group I Table
1 Spain P2 W2 D0 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 6
2 Scotland P3 W1 D1 L1 GS2 GA2 GD0 Pts 4
3 Lithuania P3 W1 D1 L1 GS2 GA3 GD-1 Pts 4
4 Czech Republic P2 W1 D0 L1 GS1 GA1 GD0 Pts 3
5 Liechtenstein P2 W0 D0 L2 GS1 GA6 GD-5 Pts 0

[joew2005]

Qualification matches schedule 2nite.

Group D:
France(27) vs Romania(46)

Group F:
Israel(36) vs Croatia(11)



Qualification matches schedule next Tues Oct 12.

Group A:
Azerbaijan(102) vs Turkey(21)
Kazakhstan(126) vs Germany(3)
Belgium(62) vs Austria(61)

Group B:
Armenia(105) vs Andorra(202)
Macedonia(71) vs Russia(25)
Slovakia(16) vs Ireland(33)

Group C:
Faroe Islands(138) vs Northern Ireland(45)
Italy(13) vs Serbia(15)

Group D:
Belarus(55) vs Albania(67)
France(27) vs Luxembourg(130)

Group E:
Finland(64) vs Hungary(51)
Netherlands(2) vs Sweden(32)
San Marino(203) vs Moldova(80)

Group F:
Latvia(68) vs Georgia(89)
Greece(12) vs Israel(36)

Group G:
Switzerland(21) vs Wales(84)
England(6) vs Montenegro(40)

Group H:
Denmark(29) vs Cyprus(43)
Iceland(100) vs Portugal(8)

Group I:
Scotland(47) vs Spain(1)
Liechtenstein(149) vs Czech Republic(37)

[joew2005]

Results of qualification matches played tis morning.

Group D:
France(27) 2 - 0 Romania(46)

Group D Table
1 France P3 W2 D0 L1 GS4 GA1 GD+3 Pts 6
2 Albania P3 W1 D2 L0 GS3 GA2 GD+1 Pts 5
3 Belarus P3 W1 D2 L0 GS1 GA0 GD+1 Pts 5
4 Bosnia-Herzegovina P3 W1 D1 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 4
5 Romania P3 W0 D2 L1 GS1 GA3 GD-2 Pts 2
6 Luxembourg P3 W0 D1 L2 GS0 GA4 GD-4 Pts 0


Group F:
Israel(36) 1 - 2 Croatia(11)

Group F Table
1 Croatia P3 W2 D1 L0 GS5 GA1 GD+4 Pts 7
2 Georgia P3 W1 D2 L0 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 5
3 Greece P3 W1 D2 L0 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 5
4 Israel P3 W1 D1 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 4
5 Latvia P3 W1 D0 L2 GS2 GA4 GD-2 Pts 3
6 Malta P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA6 GD-5 Pts 0

[joew2005]

Results.

Group A:
Azerbaijan(102) 1 - 0 Turkey(21)
Kazakhstan(126) 0 - 3 Germany(3)
Belgium(62) 4 - 4 Austria(61)

Group B:
Armenia(105) 4 - 0 Andorra(202)
Macedonia(71) 0 - 1 Russia(25)
Slovakia(16) 1 - 1 Ireland(33)

Group C:
Faroe Islands(138) 1 - 1 Northern Ireland(45)
Italy(13) P-P Serbia(15)
Estonia(85) 0 - 1 Slovenia(19)

Group D:
Belarus(55) 2 - 0 Albania(67)
France(27) 2 - 0 Luxembourg(130)

Group E:
Finland(64) 1 - 2 Hungary(51)
Netherlands(2) 4 - 1 Sweden(32)
San Marino(203) 0 - 2 Moldova(80)

Group F:
Latvia(68) 1 - 1 Georgia(89)
Greece(12) 2 - 1 Israel(36)

Group G:
Switzerland(21) 4 - 1 Wales(84)
England(6) 0 - 0 Montenegro(40)

Group H:
Denmark(29) 2 - 0 Cyprus(43)
Iceland(100) 1 - 3 Portugal(8)

Group I:
Scotland(47) 2 - 3 Spain(1)
Liechtenstein(149) 0 - 2 Czech Republic(37)

[joew2005]

Current Table Standing.

Group A Table
1 Germany P4 W4 D0 L0 GS13 GA1 GD+12 Pts 12
2 Austria P3 W2 D1 L0 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 7
3 Turkey P4 W2 D0 L2 GS6 GA6 GD0 Pts 6
4 Belgium P4 W1 D1 L2 GS8 GA8 GD0 Pts 4
5 Azerbaijan P3 W1 D0 L2 GS2 GA9 GD-7 Pts 3
6 Kazakhstan P4 W0 D0 L4 GS0 GA10 GD-10 Pts 0


Group B Table
1 Russia P4 W3 D0 L1 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 9
2 Armenia P4 W2 D1 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 7
3 Ireland P4 W2 D1 L1 GS7 GA5 GD+2 Pts 7
4 Slovakia P4 W2 D1 L1 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 7
5 Macedonia P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 4
6 Andorra P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA11 GD-10 Pts 0


Group C Table
1 Italy P3 W2 D1 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 7
2 Slovenia P4 W2 D1 L1 GS7 GA3 GD+4 Pts 7
3 Estonia P4 W2 D0 L2 GS6 GA5 GD+1 Pts 6
4 Northern Ireland P3 W1 D2 L0 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 5
5 Serbia P3 W1 D1 L1 GS5 GA4 GD+1 Pts 4
6 Faroe Islands P5 W0 D1 L4 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 1


Group D Table
1 France P4 W3 D0 L1 GS6 GA1 GD+5 Pts 9
2 Albania P3 W1 D2 L0 GS3 GA2 GD+1 Pts 5
3 Belarus P4 W2 D2 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 8
4 Bosnia-Herzegovina P3 W1 D1 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 4
5 Romania P3 W0 D2 L1 GS1 GA3 GD-2 Pts 2
6 Luxembourg P4 W0 D1 L3 GS0 GA6 GD-6 Pts 0


Group E Table
1 Netherlands P4 W4 D0 L0 GS12 GA2 GD+8 Pts 12
2 Hungary P4 W3 D0 L1 GS12 GA4 GD+8 Pts 9
3 Sweden P3 W2 D0 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 6
4 Moldova P4 W2 D0 L2 GS5 GA3 GD+2 Pts 6
5 Finland P3 W0 D0 L3 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 0
6 San Marino P4 W0 D0 L4 GS0 GA21 GD-21 Pts 0


Group F Table
1 Greece P4 W2 D2 L0 GS4 GA2 GD+2 Pts 8
2 Croatia P3 W2 D1 L0 GS5 GA1 GD+4 Pts 7
3 Georgia P4 W1 D3 L0 GS3 GA2 GD+1 Pts 6
4 Israel P3 W1 D1 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 4
5 Latvia P4 W1 D1 L2 GS3 GA5 GD-2 Pts 4
6 Malta P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA6 GD-5 Pts 0


Group G Table
1 Montenegro P4 W3 D1 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 10
2 England P3 W2 D1 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 7
3 Switzerland P3 W1 D0 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 3
4 Bulgaria P3 W1 D0 L2 GS1 GA5 GD-4 Pts 3
5 Wales P2 W0 D0 L2 GS0 GA2 GD-2 Pts 0


Group H Table
1 Norway P3 W3 D0 L0 GS5 GA2 GD+3 Pts 9
2 Portugal P4 W2 D1 L1 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 7
3 Denmark P3 W2 D0 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 6
4 Cyprus P3 W0 D1 L2 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 1
5 Iceland P3 W0 D0 L3 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 0


Group I Table
1 Spain P3 W3 D0 L0 GS10 GA3 GD+7 Pts 9
2 Czech Republic P3 W2 D0 L1 GS3 GA1 GD+2 Pts 6
3 Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
3 Lithuania P3 W1 D1 L1 GS2 GA3 GD-1 Pts 4
5 Liechtenstein P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0

[joew2005]

Qualification Matches Schedule On 17 Nov

Group E - Finland vs San Marino
Group F - Croatia vs Malta

[joew2005]

Latest World FIFA ranking update on 20 Oct.
Next update on 17 Nov 2010.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=0&rank=197


Group A:
Germany(4), Turkey(29), Belgium(62), Austria(49), Azerbaijan(91) & Kazakhstan(137).

Group B:
Russia(10), Slovakia(20), Republic of Ireland(32), FYR Macedonia(70), Armenia(60) & Andorra(202).

Group C:
Italy(16), Serbia(22) , Slovenia(15), Northern Ireland(41), Estonia(74) & Faroe Islands(133).

Group D:
France(18), Romania(50), Bosnia-Herzegovina(53) , Albania(65), Belarus(42) & Luxembourg(135).

Group E:
Netherlands(2), Sweden(36), Finland(86), Hungary(44), Moldova(78) & San Marino(203).

Group F:
Greece(12), Croatia(9), Israel(56), Latvia(72), Georgia(75) & Malta(168).

Group G:
England(6), Switzerland(23), Bulgaria(43), Montenegro(26) & Wales(104).

Group H:
Portugal(8), Norway(13), Denmark(27), Cyprus(88) & Iceland(110).

Group I:
Spain(1), Czech Republic(31), Scotland(57), Lithuania(48) & Liechtenstein(159).

Colour - Rise in standing
Colour - Decline in standing
Colour - No change

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa ranking update on 20 Oct.
Next update on 17 Nov 2010.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=197

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 4)
4. England (Fifa 6)
5. Portugal (Fifa 8)
6. Croatia (Fifa 9)
7. Russia (Fifa 10)
8. Greece (Fifa 12)
9. Norway (Fifa 13)
10. Slovenia (Fifa 15)
11. Italy (Fifa 16)
12. France (Fifa 18)
13. Slovakia (Fifa 20)
14. Serbia (Fifa 22)
15. Switzerland (Fifa 23)
16. Montenegro (Fifa 26)
17. Denmark (Fifa 27)
18. Turkey (Fifa 29)
19. Czech Republic (Fifa 31)
20. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 32)
21. Ukraine (Fifa 35) - Host
22. Sweden (Fifa 36)
23. Northern Ireland (Fifa 41)
24. Belarus (Fifa 42)
25. Bulgaria (Fifa 43)
26. Hungary (Fifa 44)
27. Lithuania (Fifa 48)
28. Austria (Fifa 49)
29. Romania (Fifa 50)
30. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 53)
31. Israel (Fifa 56)
32. Scotland (Fifa 57)
33. Armenia (Fifa 60)
34. Belgium (Fifa 62)
35. Albania (Fifa 65)
36. Poland (Fifa 69) - Host
37. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 70)
38. Latvia (Fifa 72)
39. Estonia (Fifa 74)
40. Georgia (Fifa 75)
41. Moldova (Fifa 78)
42. Finland (Fifa 86)
43. Cyprus (Fifa 88)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 91)
45. Wales (Fifa 104)
46. Iceland (Fifa 110)
47. Faroe Islands (Fifa 133)
48. Luxembourg (Fifa 135)
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 137)
50. Liechtenstein (Fifa 159)
51. Malta (Fifa 168)
52. Andorra (Fifa 202)
53. San Marino (Fifa 203)

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=836182&sec=global&cc=4716

Spain dominate shortlist for new FIFA Ballon d'Or

7 members of Spain's WC-winning squad hv made it on2 the shortlist 4 the 1st ever FIFA Ballon d'Or award, with Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan the surprise name on the 23-man list.

Xavi, David Villa, Xabi Alonso, Iker Casillas, Carles Puyol, Andres Iniesta & Cesc Fabregas were the Spaniards who made the list, but there was no place for an Englishman, Frenchman or Italian aft their poor performances in South Africa.

The winner will be revealed @ a ceremony in Zurich on January 10, 2011, with the players chosen by football experts fr the FIFA's Football Committee, the Technical & Development Committee & the Committee 4 Women's Football, the FIFA Women's World Cup, as well as by a group of experts fr France Football magazine.

The new award is a combination of the FIFA World Player of the Year award & the France Football Ballon d'Or, & on December 6, 2010, FIFA & France Football will announce the names of the 3 men who hv received the most votes.


Shortlist for the FIFA Ballon d'Or 2010:

Argentina - Lionel Messi.

Brazil - Daniel Alves, Maicon & Julio Cesar.

Cameroon - Samuel Eto'o.

Côte d'Ivoire - Didier Drogba.

Germany - Miroslav Klose, Philipp Lahm, Thomas Muller, Mesut Ozil & Bastian Schweinsteiger.

Ghana - Asamoah Gyan.

Netherlands - Arjen Robben & Wesley Sneijder.

Portugal - Cristiano Ronaldo.

Spain - Xabi Alonso, Iker Casillas, Cesc Fabregas, Andres Iniesta, Carles Puyol, David Villa & Xavi.

Uruguay - Diego Forlan.


World Coach of the Year nominees:

Arsenal - Arsene Wenger

Barcelona - Pep Guardiola

Bayern Munich - Louis van Gaal

Chelsea - Carlo Ancelotti

Germany - Joachim Low

Inter Milan - Jose Mourinho

Manchester United - Sir Alex Ferguson

Netherlands - Bert van Marwijk

Spain - Vicente del Bosque

Uruguay - Oscar Tabarez

[joew2005]

Results.

Group C:
Italy(13) P-P Serbia(15)



http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=837057&sec=euro2012&cc=4716

UEFA awards 3-0 win to Italy after Serbia trouble

UEFA has awarded Italy with a 3-0 victory aft their Euro 2012 qualifier against Serbia in Genoa was abandoned due 2 crowd trouble. Serbia will also hv 2 play their next 2 home games behind closed doors.

The game on October 12 was delayed 4 35 minutes following crowd trouble & when it finally did start, the referee called off proceedings after only 7 mins when Serbian supporters hurled flares on2 the pitch & in the direction of Italian fans.

Serbian supporters were also filmed attempting 2 smash Perspex barriers @ Stadio Luigi Ferrari & cutting thru protective nets separating them fr the pitch.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has said in a statement tat UEFA has awarded a 3-0 win 2 Italy & imposed further sanctions on Serbia, though tis has not yet been confirmed officially by UEFA.

Italy hv also incurred a suspended 1-match stadium ban, according 2 the FIGC.

A statement fr the governing body detailed "a 3-0 victory in favour of Italy & 2 games behind closed doors 4 Serbia, of which 1 is conditional. Italy hv been given a conditional 1 game behind closed doors.

"This is the decision of the disciplinary commission of UEFA which met 2day in Nyon, based on the abandonment of the game between Italy & Serbia on October 12 in Genoa following the crowd unrest by Serbian fans."

The news means the Azzurri will be 3 points clear in Group C aft 4 matches. Serbia are 2nd bottom, abv Faroe Islands, with 4 points from 4 games.


Group C Table
1 Italy P4 W3 D1 L0 GS10 GA1 GD+9 Pts 10
2 Slovenia P4 W2 D1 L1 GS7 GA3 GD+4 Pts 7
3 Estonia P4 W2 D0 L2 GS6 GA5 GD+1 Pts 6
4 Northern Ireland P3 W1 D2 L0 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 5
5 Serbia P4 W1 D1 L2 GS5 GA7 GD-2 Pts 4
6 Faroe Islands P5 W0 D1 L4 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 1

[joew2005]

Results of qualification matches played tis morning

Group E - Finland 8 - 0 San Marino
Group F - Croatia 3 - 0 Malta

[joew2005]

Current Table Standing.

Group A Table
1 Germany P4 W4 D0 L0 GS13 GA1 GD+12 Pts 12
2 Austria P3 W2 D1 L0 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 7
3 Turkey P4 W2 D0 L2 GS6 GA6 GD0 Pts 6
4 Belgium P4 W1 D1 L2 GS8 GA8 GD0 Pts 4
5 Azerbaijan P3 W1 D0 L2 GS2 GA9 GD-7 Pts 3
6 Kazakhstan P4 W0 D0 L4 GS0 GA10 GD-10 Pts 0


Group B Table
1 Russia P4 W3 D0 L1 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 9
2 Armenia P4 W2 D1 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 7
3 Ireland P4 W2 D1 L1 GS7 GA5 GD+2 Pts 7
4 Slovakia P4 W2 D1 L1 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 7
5 Macedonia P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 4
6 Andorra P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA11 GD-10 Pts 0


Group C Table
1 Italy P4 W3 D1 L0 GS10 GA1 GD+9 Pts 10
2 Slovenia P4 W2 D1 L1 GS7 GA3 GD+4 Pts 7
3 Estonia P4 W2 D0 L2 GS6 GA5 GD+1 Pts 6
4 Northern Ireland P3 W1 D2 L0 GS2 GA1 GD+1 Pts 5
5 Serbia P4 W1 D1 L2 GS5 GA7 GD-2 Pts 4
6 Faroe Islands P5 W0 D1 L4 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 1


Group D Table
1 France P4 W3 D0 L1 GS6 GA1 GD+5 Pts 9
2 Belarus P4 W2 D2 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 8
3 Albania P3 W1 D2 L0 GS3 GA4 GD-1 Pts 5
4 Bosnia-Herzegovina P3 W1 D1 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 4
5 Romania P3 W0 D2 L1 GS1 GA3 GD-2 Pts 2
6 Luxembourg P4 W0 D1 L3 GS0 GA6 GD-6 Pts 1


Group E Table
1 Netherlands P4 W4 D0 L0 GS12 GA2 GD+10 Pts 12
2 Hungary P4 W3 D0 L1 GS12 GA4 GD+8 Pts 9
3 Sweden P3 W2 D0 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 6
4 Moldova P4 W2 D0 L2 GS5 GA3 GD+2 Pts 6
5 Finland P4 W1 D0 L3 GS10 GA6 GD+4 Pts 3
6 San Marino P5 W0 D0 L5 GS0 GA29 GD-29 Pts 0


Group F Table
1 Croatia P4 W3 D1 L0 GS8 GA1 GD+7 Pts 10
2 Greece P4 W2 D2 L0 GS4 GA2 GD+2 Pts 8
3 Georgia P4 W1 D3 L0 GS3 GA2 GD+1 Pts 6
4 Israel P4 W1 D1 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 4
5 Latvia P4 W1 D1 L2 GS3 GA5 GD-2 Pts 4
6 Malta P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA9 GD-8 Pts 0


Group G Table
1 Montenegro P4 W3 D1 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 10
2 England P3 W2 D1 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 7
3 Switzerland P3 W1 D0 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 3
4 Bulgaria P3 W1 D0 L2 GS1 GA5 GD-4 Pts 3
5 Wales P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA6 GD-5 Pts 0


Group H Table
1 Norway P3 W3 D0 L0 GS5 GA2 GD+3 Pts 9
2 Portugal P4 W2 D1 L1 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 7
3 Denmark P3 W2 D0 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 6
4 Cyprus P3 W0 D1 L2 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 1
5 Iceland P3 W0 D0 L3 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 0


Group I Table
1 Spain P3 W3 D0 L0 GS10 GA3 GD+7 Pts 9
2 Czech Republic P3 W2 D0 L1 GS3 GA1 GD+2 Pts 6
3 Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
3 Lithuania P3 W1 D1 L1 GS2 GA3 GD-1 Pts 4
5 Liechtenstein P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa ranking update on 17 Nov.
Next update on 15 Dec 2010.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=198

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 4)
4. England (Fifa 6)
5. Portugal (Fifa 8)
6. Croatia (Fifa 9)
7. Greece (Fifa 11) - UP
8. Norway (Fifa 12) - UP
9. Russia (Fifa 13) - DOWN
10. Italy (Fifa 14) - UP
11. Slovenia (Fifa 15)
12. Slovakia (Fifa 18) - UP
13. France (Fifa 21) - DOWN
14. Switzerland (Fifa 21) - UP
15. Serbia (Fifa 25) - DOWN
16. Montenegro (Fifa 26)
17. Denmark (Fifa 27)
18. Turkey (Fifa 29)
19. Czech Republic (Fifa 31)
20. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 32)
21. Sweden (Fifa 35) - UP
22. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 36) - DOWN
23. Belarus (Fifa 40) - UP
24. Northern Ireland (Fifa 42) - DOWN
25. Hungary (Fifa 43) - UP
26. Bulgaria (Fifa 45) - DOWN
27. Lithuania (Fifa 46) - UP
28. Austria (Fifa 49)
29. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 51) - UP
30. Romania (Fifa 52) - DOWN
31. Scotland (Fifa 54) - UP
32. Israel (Fifa 55) - UP
33. Albania (Fifa 58) - UP
34. Armenia (Fifa 59) - UP
35. Belgium (Fifa 62)
36. Co-host Poland (Fifa 71) - DOWN
37. Latvia (Fifa 73) - DOWN
38. Estonia (Fifa 74)
39. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 76) - DOWN
40. Georgia (Fifa 78) - DOWN
41. Moldova (Fifa 84) - DOWN
42. Finland (Fifa 87) - DOWN
43. Azerbaijan (Fifa 90) - UP
44. Cyprus (Fifa 93) - DOWN
45. Iceland (Fifa 110)
46. Wales (Fifa 111) - DOWN
47. Faroe Islands (Fifa 131) - UP
48. Luxembourg (Fifa 133) - UP
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 137)
50. Liechtenstein (Fifa 158) - UP
51. Malta (Fifa 169) - DOWN
52. Andorra (Fifa 202)
53. San Marino (Fifa 203)

[joew2005]

Co-host Poland & Ukraine r in Euro 2012.(2 slots taken)

The final group winner of Group A to Group I will clinch the automatic quanlification berth 2 Euro 2012.(9 slots taken)

The final best runner-up between the 9 runner-ups fr Group A to Group I will also clinch the auto quanlification berth.(1 slot taken)
The best runner up must hv the best overall record against the teams tat finishs 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th in the same group.

The remaining final 8 runners-ups will face-off in a 2-legged play-off.(4 slots taken)

Euro 2012 shall be compete among 16-teams tat qualify as the 2 co-host, the 9 Group Winners, the 1 best runner-up among the 9 groups & the 4 winners in the 2-leg play-off games.

I would go with the following 2 clinch the winner spot in the 9 groups;
Group A - Germany
Group B - Russia
Group C - Italy
Group D - France
Group E - Netherlands
Group F - Greece
Group G - England
Group H - Portugal
Group I - Spain

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 15 Dec 2010.Next update on 12 Jan 2011.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=199

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 3)
4. England (Fifa 6)
5. Portugal (Fifa 8)
6. Croatia (Fifa 10)
7. Greece (Fifa 11)
8. Norway (Fifa 12)
9. Russia (Fifa 13)
10. Italy (Fifa 14)
11. Slovenia (Fifa 17)
12. France (Fifa 18) - UP
13. Slovakia (Fifa 20) - DOWN
14. Switzerland (Fifa 22)
15. Serbia (Fifa 23)
16. Montenegro (Fifa 25)
17. Denmark (Fifa 28)
18. Czech Republic (Fifa 30) - UP
19. Turkey (Fifa 31) - DOWN
20. Sweden (Fifa 33) - UP
21. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 34) - UP
22. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 36) - DOWN
23. Belarus (Fifa 38)
24. Hungary (Fifa 42) - UP
25. Northern Ireland (Fifa 43) - DOWN
26. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 44) - UP
27. Austria (Fifa 46) - UP
28. Bulgaria (Fifa 49) - DOWN
29. Israel (Fifa 50) - UP
30. Scotland (Fifa 52) - UP
31. Lithuania (Fifa 55) - DOWN
32. Romania (Fifa 56) - DOWN
33. Belgium (Fifa 57) - UP
34. Armenia (Fifa 60) - UP
35. Albania (Fifa 65) - DOWN
36. Co-host Poland (Fifa 73)
37. Georgia (Fifa 73) - UP
38. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 76) - UP
39. Latvia (Fifa 78) - DOWN
40. Estonia (Fifa 82) - DOWN
41. Finland (Fifa 83) - UP
42. Moldova (Fifa 84) - UP
43. Cyprus (Fifa 90) - UP
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 98) - DOWN
45. Iceland (Fifa 112)
46. Wales (Fifa 112)
47. Luxembourg (Fifa 134) - UP
48. Faroe Islands (Fifa 136) - DOWN
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 138)
50. Liechtenstein (Fifa 148)
51. Malta (Fifa 164)
52. Andorra (Fifa 202)
53. San Marino (Fifa 203)

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/857184?cc=4716

Mourinho feels he deserves Ballon d'Or

Jose Mourinho believes he should be named coach of the year @ the FIFA Ballon d'Or awards.

Vicente Del Bosque appears 2 be ahead of Mourinho in the running 4 the award aft he led Spain 2 their 1st World Cup triumph, but the Real Madrid coach - who won Serie A, the Coppa Italia & Champions League with Inter last season - feels his achievements were more substantial.

"I've made my choice - 11 months' work, 57 matches played, 3 titles including the most important of all, the tournament, the Champions League," he told Gazzetta dello Sport. "I hv won everything. I could not do anymore than tat, and nor could the players."

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola is also nominated for the award, which will be announced @ a ceremony in Zurich on January 10.

Mourinho also raised questions over Wesley Sneijder's controversial omission from the 3-man shortlist 4 player of the year. Barcelona trio Lionel Messi, Xavi Hernandez & Andres Iniesta were selected ahead of Sneijder, who played a key role in Inter's success last season b4 helping Netherlands 2 the WC final.

Mourinho said: "If the winner is Andres Iniesta, who unhappily was not able 2 play 4 the first 5 months of the year becos of injury, but aft tat played 6 matches & scored a goal in South Africa, then anything k happen in the year of a WC final & the rest counts 4 nothing."

Madrid president Florentino Perez, in his festive message to the club's supporters, backed Mourinho as the finest coach in football.

"May the dreams of all Madridistas come true," he said on the club's official website. "This will happen by winning titles.

"We hv a young, talented team hungry 4 titles, & we also hv the best coach in the world. We've laid the foundations for 2011 2 bring us all the satisfactions we dream of."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/854713?cc=4716

Global Player of the Year: Xavi

Sometimes, statistics can obscure. They k disguise shortcomings, flatter reputations or fail 2 communicate brilliance. Aft all, no sane critic would judge Pele on the percentage of his shots tat hit the target, or rate Franz Beckenbauer on the strength of his ProZone figures. But sometimes, statistics can illuminate, & cold, hard, tangible facts do serve 2 illustrate jz why Barcelona & Spain star Xavi is ESPNsoccernet's Global Player of the Year for 2010. Aft all, the notoriously self-effacing playmaker is unlikely 2 sing his own praises. We will hv 2 let his statistics do the talking.

Across the breadth of 2010, on only 24 occasions did an individual player exceed 100 completed passes in 1 game. Xavi, who played nearly 90 times, was responsible for 12 of those landmarks. In the WC, he attempted a tournament-high 669 passes, with 544 finding their target - another record. In tat defining & unforgettable rout of Real Madrid in November's clasico, he completed 114 of 117 passes. If possession is 9 10ths of the law, then Xavi is demonstrably football's very own Judge Dredd, no side escaping his 0 tolerance policy towards enforcing his superiority.

But it is not jz the raw data tat makes Xavi such an exceptional player, hw could it be given he is a son of Barcelona, a city besotted with architecture, where the practice of construction & presentation is equal 2 the importance of function. Local hero Gaudi is the man who sculpted the Catalan capital, but now a new architect is feted in the city, a player who is the inspiration behind not 1, but 2 of the most aesthetically pleasing & devastating sides of modern times.

At Barcelona, Xavi is the living embodiment of a philosophy of quick-moving, intricate possession football tat was introduced by the iconic Johan Cruyff & originally channelled through Pep Guardiola. Now coach, Guardiola describes Xavi as "the best midfielder in the history of Barca", & @ the heart of the vast majority of the club's brilliant moves over the past 12 months, stunning team goals tat entailed scores of passes, is the quiet Catalan, dictating the flow & pace of the game with his masterful brushstrokes.

Perhaps Xavi's crowning glory was the 5-0 hammering of Real Madrid in el clasico @ Camp Nou in November, a performance tat led the normally rabidly pro-Madrid newspaper Marca 2 declare: "Xavi broke the game with 20 minutes of genius. There is no other like him. Xavi was a cyclone. He dominated all aspects of the game."

Meanwhile, with Spain, Xavi is equally a force of nature. The player who, @ Euro 2008, shepherded Spain 2 their 1st major title since 1964 added the WC crown 2 his collection in July as Vicente del Bosque's side reigned supreme in South Africa, emerging fr a fractious final against Netherlands with their necks adorned by gold thanks 2 a goal fr Xavi's partner in crime @ Barcelona, Andres Iniesta. But while his was not the decisive blow, it was Xavi, always central 2 Spain's pretty passing patterns, who shaped their tournament & ensured the consummation of a golden age of Spanish football.

Given the pre-eminence of both Spain & Barcelona in football culture @ present, it is a certainty tat in years 2 come, the term tat denotes their shared style, tiki-taka, will become every bit as familiar an entry in the football lexicon as Brazil's joga bonito, or Netherlands' Total Football. Xavi, undeniably, inescapably, is the amplifier thru which tat phrase booms across the football landscape @ present, & will echo through the sport's history.

Infamously, when Cristiano Ronaldo was named World Player of the Year in 2008 & Barcelona's maestro finished 5th, the Daily Mail ridiculously married a picture of the top 5 with the headline: "The best players of the world (& Xavi)".

Now, in a year when Xavi is joined by club colleagues Lionel Messi & Andres Iniesta on the shortlist for FIFA's leading award, his genius k be ignored no longer. As the great Cruyff puts it: "Xavi deserves the Ballon d'Or more than any1 becos it is necessary in a team 2 hv a guy who makes things work. Xavi is the player who sets the rhythm, who takes care of possession. If Xavi has a bad day then Barca do not play even half as well."

That is the influence the quiet man wields in the best club & international teams on earth. Tat is why he is now recognised as a great of the game. Tat is why Xavi is our Global Player of the Year.



Honourable mentions:

Lionel Messi - Barcelona & Argentina
Quite simply the best player in the world, Lionel Messi is beaten narrowly in2 2nd place by our man of the year, Xavi, due 2 the latter's WC win. Messi breathes in a rarefied air - very infrequently is 1 player acknowledged as being so superior 2 his contemporaries. Fr his 4 goals against Arsenal in the Champions League in April 2 his run of 17 goals in 10 games between October 20 & November 24, Messi has shown a remarkable capacity 2 dazzle & destroy, exhilarate & entertain. 'The Flea' just keeps making giant strides.

Wesley Sneijder - Inter & Netherlands
A Treble-winner with Inter & the joint top scorer @ the WC finals, Sneijder was harshly excluded fr the FIFA Ballon d'Or shortlist & would hv been a deserving winner of ESPNsoccernet's award as well. His debut season with the Nerazzurri was nothing short of spectacular, the Dutch playmaker bringing invention 2 the Inter midfield & inspiring the club 2 unprecedented success. Sneijder also scored 5 goals in South Africa but was 2 be denied in the final by Spain.

Bastian Schweinsteiger - Bayern Munich & Germany
Schweinsteiger's transformation fr a talented but erratic wide midfielder 2 a dominant force in a central role became complete in 2010. Aft winning the domestic Double with Bayern Munich, only 2 lose the Champions League final 2 Inter, Schweinsteiger stepped in2 the breach left by Michael Ballack & became the driving force of a wonderfully talented young Germany side tat finished 3rd @ the WC. His performance against Argentina in the quarter-finals was nothing short of a masterclass & demonstrated his potent combination of technique, determination & energy.

Andres Iniesta - Barcelona and Spain
Though fitness issues partially restricted his contribution 2 the conclusion of Barcelona's 2009-10 season, during which they won La Liga with a record points tally, the unassuming Iniesta took centre stage @ the WC in South Africa when scoring the winning goal in the final against Netherlands. With his wonderful vision, accomplished dribbling & expert use of the ball, Iniesta is 1 of world football's leading midfielders & has demonstrated as much over the past 12 months, marked by his inclusion on the Ballon d'Or shortlist.

Diego Forlan - Atletico Madrid & Uruguay
If inspiring Atletico Madrid 2 a first trophy in 14 years when scoring twice in a Europa League final win over Fulham was not enough, Forlan then turned his attention 2 international affairs & played a pivotal role in Uruguay's unexpected run to the WC semi-final. Dropping deep & operating as much as a playmaker as a striker @ times, Forlan still claimed 5 goals as he captained his side 2 their best performance in a WC in 40 years.

[joew2005]

Remaining Matches For Group A, Group B & Group C.

Group A
25 March 2011 - Germany vs Kazakhstan
29 March 2011 - Belgium vs Azerbaijan / Turkey vs Austria
3 June 2011 - Belgium vs Turkey / Kazakhstan vs Azerbaijan / Austria vs Germany
7 June 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Germany
2 September 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Belgium / Turkey vs Kazakhstan / Germany vs Austria
6 September 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Kazakhstan / Austria vs Turkey
7 October 2011 - Belgium vs Kazakhstan / Turkey vs Germany / Azerbaijan vs Austria
11 October 2011 - Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan


Group B
26 March 2011 - Republic of Ireland vs FYROM / Armenia vs Russia / Andorra vs Slovakia
4 June 2011 - FYROM vs Republic of Ireland / Slovakia vs Andorra / Russia vs Armenia
2 September 2011 - Russia vs FYROM / Republic of Ireland vs Slovakia / Andorra vs Armenia
6 September 2011 - FYROM vs Andorra / Slovakia vs Armenia / Russia vs Republic of Ireland
7 October 2011 - Slovakia vs Russia / Armenia vs FYROM / Andorra vs Republic of Ireland
11 October 2011 - Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia


Group C
25 March 2011 - Serbia vs Northern Ireland / Slovenia vs Italy
29 March 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Slovenia / Estonia vs Serbia
3 June 2011 - Faroe Islands vs Slovenia / Italy vs Estonia
7 June 2011 - Faroe Islands vs Estonia
10 August 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Faroe Islands
2 September 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Serbia / Slovenia vs Estonia / Faroe Islands vs Italy
6 September 2011 - Estonia vs Northern Ireland / Italy vs Slovenia / Serbia vs Faroe Islands
7 October 2011 - Serbia vs Italy / Northern Ireland vs Estonia
11 October 2011 - Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland

http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro2012/standings/round=15171/group=700959/index.html

[joew2005]

Remaining Matches For Group D, Group E & Group F.

Group D
25 March 2011 - Luxembourg vs France
26 March 2011 - Albania vs Belarus / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Romania
29 March 2011 - Romania vs Luxembourg
3 June 2011 - Romania vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Belarus vs France
7 June 2011 - Belarus vs Luxembourg / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Albania
2 September 2011 - Belarus vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs France / Luxembourg vs Romania
6 September 2011 - Luxembourg vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Belarus
/ Romania vs France
7 October 2011 - Romania vs Belarus / France vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Luxembourg
11 October 2011 - France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania


Group E
25 March 2011 - Hungary vs Netherlands
29 March 2011 - Sweden vs Moldova / Netherlands vs Hungary
3 June 2011 - San Marino vs Finland / Moldova vs Sweden
7 June 2011 - San Marino vs Hungary / Sweden vs Finland
2 September 2011 - Netherlands vs San Marino / Hungary vs Sweden / Finland vs Moldova
6 September 2011 - Finland vs Netherlands / San Marino vs Sweden / Moldova vs Hungary
7 October 2011 - Finland vs Sweden / Netherlands vs Moldova
11 October 2011 - Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino


Group F
26 March 2011 - Israel vs Latvia / Georgia vs Croatia / Malta vs Greece
29 March 2011 - Israel vs Georgia
4 June 2011 - Latvia vs Israel / Croatia vs Georgia / Greece vs Malta
2 September 2011 - Israel vs Greece / Malta vs Croatia / Georgia vs Latvia
6 September 2011 - Malta vs Georgia / Latvia vs Greece / Croatia vs Israel
7 October 2011 - Greece vs Croatia / Latvia vs Malta
11 October 2011 - Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

[joew2005]

Remaining Matches For Group G, Group H & Group I.

Group G
26 March 2011 - Bulgaria vs Switzerland / Wales vs England
4 June 2011 - Montenegro vs Bulgaria / England vs Switzerland
2 September 2011 - Wales vs Montenegro / Bulgaria vs England
6 September 2011 - England vs Wales / Switzerland vs Bulgaria
7 October 2011 - Montenegro vs England / Wales vs Switzerland
11 October 2011 - Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro

Group H
26 March 2011 - Cyprus vs Iceland / Norway vs Denmark
4 June 2011 - Portugal vs Norway / Iceland vs Denmark
2 September 2011 - Norway vs Iceland / Cyprus vs Portugal
6 September 2011 - Iceland vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Norway
7 October 2011 - Cyprus vs Denmark / Portugal vs Iceland
11 October 2011 - Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

Group I
25 March 2011 - Spain vs Czech Republic
29 March 2011 - Czech Republic vs Liechtenstein / Lithuania vs Spain
3 June 2011 - Liechtenstein - Lithuania
2 September 2011 - Lithuania vs Liechtenstein
3 September 2011 - Scotland vs Czech Republic
6 September 2011 - Scotland vs Lithuania / Spain vs Liechtenstein
7 October 2011 - Czech Republic vs Spain
8 October 2011 - Liechtenstein vs Scotland
11 October 2011 - Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland

[joew2005]

Winners of the new FIFA Ballon d'Or would be out 2morow.

Shortlist for the FIFA Ballon d'Or 2010:
Argentina - Lionel Messi.
Brazil - Daniel Alves, Maicon & Julio Cesar.
Cameroon - Samuel Eto'o.
Côte d'Ivoire - Didier Drogba.
Germany - Miroslav Klose, Philipp Lahm, Thomas Muller, Mesut Ozil & Bastian Schweinsteiger.
Ghana - Asamoah Gyan.
Netherlands - Arjen Robben & Wesley Sneijder.
Portugal - Cristiano Ronaldo.
Spain - Xabi Alonso, Iker Casillas, Cesc Fabregas, Andres Iniesta, Carles Puyol, David Villa & Xavi.
Uruguay - Diego Forlan.

World Coach of the Year nominees:
Arsenal - Arsene Wenger
Barcelona - Pep Guardiola
Bayern Munich - Louis van Gaal
Chelsea - Carlo Ancelotti
Germany - Joachim Low
Inter Milan - Jose Mourinho
Manchester United - Sir Alex Ferguson
Netherlands - Bert van Marwijk
Spain - Vicente del Bosque
Uruguay - Oscar Tabarez

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/863859/?cc=4716

Messi named Player of the Year

Barca star Lionel Messi has been named the FIFA Men's World Player of the Year for 2010.

Messi was on a 3-man shortlist with Barca team-mates Xavi & Andres Iniesta but, despite Spain's World Cup triumph, the Argentina 4ward came out on top in the voting.

He becomes the 1st winner of the FIFA Ballon d'Or, which merges France Football magazine's European Footballer of the Year prize with the FIFA World Player of the Year. The awards were based on the votes of the coaches & captains of national sides as well as global journalists.

Messi scored more than any other player in Europe's top 5 leagues in 2010, with 42 goals in 36 La Liga games, as well as finishing top scorer in the Champions League in 2010 with 12 goals in 12 games.

He totalled 60 goals 4 the year 4 club & country.

"To be honest, I didn't expect 2 win 2day, but it was already great 2 be here next to my 2 mates," Messi said as he accepted the award. "2 win it makes it even more special.

"I want 2 share with all of my friends, my family, all the Barcelonistas & the Argentinians."

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho had earlier been named FIFA World Coach of the Year 4 Men's Football. Mourinho won Serie A, the Champions League & Coppa Italia with Inter Milan in the 2009-10 season & has made an impressive start 2 life @ the Bernabeu.

In his acceptance speech, Mourinho paid tribute 2 Spain's Vicente Del Bosque & Barcelona's Pep Guardiola, who had been shortlisted 4 the award.

Speaking 2 Sky Sport Italia, he also reserved special praise 4 the players & staff @ Inter.

"I'm the best coach in the world for 2010 becos I was the coach of the best team in the world in 2010," he said. "We were a family & we continue 2 be a family. I continue 2 be part of it fr afar.

"I 1 Inter 2 win every game except those against my team."

Hamit Altintop won the FIFA Puskas Award 4 best goal in recognition of his strike 4 Turkey against Kazakhstan.

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 12 Jan 2011.
Next update on 2 Feb 2011.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=200

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 3)
4. England (Fifa 6)
5. Portugal (Fifa 8)
6. Croatia (Fifa 9)
7. Greece (Fifa 11)
8. Norway (Fifa 12)
9. Russia (Fifa 13)
10. Italy (Fifa 14)
11. Slovenia (Fifa 17)
12. France (Fifa 18)
13. Slovakia (Fifa 20)
14. Switzerland (Fifa 22)
15. Serbia (Fifa 23)
16. Montenegro (Fifa 25)
17. Denmark (Fifa 28)
18. Czech Republic (Fifa 30)
19. Turkey (Fifa 31)
20. Sweden (Fifa 33)
21. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 34)
22. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 35)
23. Belarus (Fifa 37)
24. Hungary (Fifa 41)
25. Northern Ireland (Fifa 43)
26. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 45)
27. Austria (Fifa 46)
28. Bulgaria (Fifa 49)
29. Israel (Fifa 50)
30. Scotland (Fifa 52)
31. Lithuania (Fifa 55)
32. Romania (Fifa 56)
33. Belgium (Fifa 58)
34. Armenia (Fifa 60)
35. Albania (Fifa 64)
36. Co-host Poland (Fifa 72)
37. Georgia (Fifa 72)
38. Latvia (Fifa 76) - UP
39. Finland (Fifa 79) - UP
40. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 81) - DOWN
41. Moldova (Fifa 84) - UP
42. Estonia (Fifa 86) - DOWN
43. Cyprus (Fifa 89)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 97)
45. Iceland (Fifa 113)
46. Wales (Fifa 113)
47. Luxembourg (Fifa 132)
48. Faroe Islands (Fifa 134)
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 137)
50. Liechtenstein (Fifa 148)
51. Malta (Fifa 163)
52. Andorra (Fifa 202)
53. San Marino (Fifa 203)

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 2 Feb 2011.
Next update on 9 March 2011.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=201

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 3)
4. England (Fifa 6)
5. Portugal (Fifa 8)
6. Croatia (Fifa 9)
7. Greece (Fifa 10)
8. Norway (Fifa 11)
9. Russia (Fifa 12)
10. Italy (Fifa 13)
11. Slovenia (Fifa 16)
12. France (Fifa 19)
13. Slovakia (Fifa 20)
14. Switzerland (Fifa 22)
15. Serbia (Fifa 23)
16. Montenegro (Fifa 25)
17. Denmark (Fifa 28)
18. Sweden (Fifa 29)
19. Czech Republic (Fifa 30)
20. Turkey (Fifa 31)
21. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 34)
22. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 35)
23. Belarus (Fifa 36)
24. Hungary (Fifa 37)
25. Northern Ireland (Fifa 38)
26. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 42)
27. Austria (Fifa 45)
28. Bulgaria (Fifa 51)
29. Israel (Fifa 52)
30. Scotland (Fifa 53)
31. Lithuania (Fifa 55)
32. Romania (Fifa 57)
33. Belgium (Fifa 58)
34. Armenia (Fifa 62)
35. Albania (Fifa 66)
36. Co-host Poland (Fifa 71)
37. Georgia (Fifa 71)
38. Latvia (Fifa 76)
39. Finland (Fifa 78)
40. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 79)
41. Moldova (Fifa 81)
42. Estonia (Fifa 87)
43. Cyprus (Fifa 91)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 99)
45. Iceland (Fifa 114)
46. Wales (Fifa 116)
47. Luxembourg (Fifa 131)
48. Faroe Islands (Fifa 135)
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 137)
50. Liechtenstein (Fifa 147)
51. Malta (Fifa 163)
52. Andorra (Fifa 202)
53. San Marino (Fifa 203)

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 9 March 2011.
Next update on 13 April 2011.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=202

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 3)
4. England (Fifa 6)
5. Croatia (Fifa 8)
6. Portugal (Fifa 9)
7. Greece (Fifa 10)
8. Italy (Fifa 11)
9. Norway (Fifa 11)
10. Russia (Fifa 13)
11. Slovenia (Fifa 17)
12. France (Fifa 18)
13. Serbia (Fifa 20)
14. Slovakia (Fifa 22)
15. Switzerland (Fifa 23)
16. Montenegro (Fifa 25)
17. Denmark (Fifa 28)
18. Sweden (Fifa 30)
19. Czech Republic (Fifa 31)
20. Turkey (Fifa 32)
21. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 33)
22. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 34)
23. Hungary (Fifa 36)
24. Belarus (Fifa 37)
25. Northern Ireland (Fifa 40)
26. Bulgaria (Fifa 47)
27. Scotland (Fifa 50)
28. Romania (Fifa 52)
29. Lithuania (Fifa 54)
30. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 56)
31. Israel (Fifa 58)
32. Austria (Fifa 61)
33. Belgium (Fifa 62)
34. Armenia (Fifa 65)
35. Co-host Poland (Fifa 70)
36. Georgia (Fifa 72)
37. Albania (Fifa 73)
38. Latvia (Fifa 75)
39. Finland (Fifa 78)
40. Estonia (Fifa 82)
41. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 83)
42. Moldova (Fifa 87)
43. Cyprus (Fifa 91)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 100)
45. Iceland (Fifa 115)
46. Wales (Fifa 116)
47. Luxembourg (Fifa 117)
48. Kazakhstan (Fifa 132)
49. Faroe Islands (Fifa 135)
50. Liechtenstein (Fifa 143)
51. Malta (Fifa 156)
52. Andorra (Fifa 202)
53. San Marino (Fifa 202)

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/897756/guus-hiddink-issues-quit-threat-over-turkey-qualification?cc=4716

Hiddink issues quit threat

Turkey coach Guus Hiddink has said that he will tender his resignation if his side fail 2 beat Austria & Belgium in their next 2 Euro 2012 qualifying games.

Hiddink's side currently lie 3rd in Group A - behind runaway leaders Germany & Austria - & suffered a shock 1-0 defeat in Azerbaijan in their last game. Now, the Dutch boss has alerted Europe's top club teams - including his former club Chelsea - with the news tat he could quit if Turkey do not take 6 pts fr their next 2.

''I'm trying 2 make a better Turkish national team,'' Hiddink said. ''If I can't do tat, I'll ask the chairman 2 sack me. 6 pts fr these 2 games is vital. If we don't get tat I k offer my resignation 2 the chairman & then it's up 2 him. It will mean tat I m not a successful manager.''

Hiddink was an enormously popular figure @ Chelsea during his 6 months in charge, as he led the Blues 2 the FA Cup in 2009. With Carlo Ancelotti's job up 4 review in the summer, many would suggest Hiddink is a shoo-in 2 take over fr the Italian, should both men find themselves without a job in the next few months.

Hiddink is close 2 Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, aft the Blues chief played a big part in luring him 2 the Russian national job in 2006, & another option is tat he could be offered a directorial role with Frank Arnesen's exit 2 Hamburg already confirmed tis summer.

[ballinhigh32]

i think one thing's for sure, his sacking is just waiting to happen. hahaha

[joew2005]

Results of qualification matches played this morning

Group A : Austria 0 - 2 Belgium
Group C : Serbia 2 - 1 Northern Ireland / Slovenia 0 - 1 Italy
Group D : Luxembourg 0 - 2 France
Group E : Hungary 0 - 4 Netherlands
Group I : Spain 2 - 1 Czech Republic


Qualification Matches Schedule today
Group A :Germany vs Kazakhstan
Group B : Armenia vs Russia / Andorra vs Slovakia / Ireland vs Macedonia
Group D : Bosnia-Herzegovina vs Romania / Albania vs Belarus
Group F : Georgia vs Croatia / Israel vs Latvia / Malta vs Greece
Group G : Wales vs England / Bulgaria vs Switzerland
Group H : Cyprus vs Iceland / Norway vs Denmark


Qualification Matches Schedule next Tuesday 29 March
Group A : Turkey vs Austria / Belgium vs Azerbaijan
Group C : Estonia vs Serbia / Northern Ireland vs Slovenia
Group D : Romania vs Luxembourg
Group E : Sweden vs Moldova / Netherlands vs Hungary
Group F : Israel vs Georgia
Group I : Czech Republic vs Liechtenstein / Lithuania vs Spain

[joew2005]

Current Table Standing.

Group A Table
1 Germany P4 W4 D0 L0 GS13 GA1 GD+12 Pts 12
2 Austria P4 W2 D1 L1 GS9 GA6 GD+3 Pts 7
3 Belgium P5 W2 D1 L2 GS10 GA8 GD+2 Pts 7
4 Turkey P4 W2 D0 L2 GS6 GA6 GD0 Pts 6
5 Azerbaijan P3 W1 D0 L2 GS2 GA9 GD-7 Pts 3
6 Kazakhstan P4 W0 D0 L4 GS0 GA10 GD-10 Pts 0

Group B Table
1 Russia P4 W3 D0 L1 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 9
2 Armenia P4 W2 D1 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 7
3 Ireland P4 W2 D1 L1 GS7 GA5 GD+2 Pts 7
4 Slovakia P4 W2 D1 L1 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 7
5 Macedonia P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 4
6 Andorra P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA11 GD-10 Pts 0

Group C Table
1 Italy P5 W4 D1 L0 GS11 GA1 GD+10 Pts 13
2 Slovenia P5 W2 D1 L2 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 7
3 Serbia P5 W2 D1 L2 GS7 GA8 GD-1 Pts 7
4 Estonia P4 W2 D0 L2 GS6 GA5 GD+1 Pts 6
5 Northern Ireland P4 W1 D2 L1 GS3 GA3 GD0 Pts 5
6 Faroe Islands P5 W0 D1 L4 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 1

Group D Table
1 France P5 W4 D0 L1 GS8 GA1 GD+7 Pts 12
2 Belarus P4 W2 D2 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 8
3 Albania P3 W1 D2 L0 GS3 GA4 GD-1 Pts 5
4 Bosnia-Herzegovina P3 W1 D1 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 4
5 Romania P3 W0 D2 L1 GS1 GA3 GD-2 Pts 2
6 Luxembourg P5 W0 D1 L4 GS0 GA8 GD-8 Pts 1

Group E Table
1 Netherlands P5 W5 D0 L0 GS16 GA2 GD+14 Pts 15
2 Hungary P5 W3 D0 L2 GS12 GA8 GD+4 Pts 9
3 Sweden P3 W2 D0 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 6
4 Moldova P4 W2 D0 L2 GS5 GA3 GD+2 Pts 6
5 Finland P4 W1 D0 L3 GS10 GA6 GD+4 Pts 3
6 San Marino P5 W0 D0 L5 GS0 GA29 GD-29 Pts 0

Group F Table
1 Croatia P4 W3 D1 L0 GS8 GA1 GD+7 Pts 10
2 Greece P4 W2 D2 L0 GS4 GA2 GD+2 Pts 8
3 Georgia P4 W1 D3 L0 GS3 GA2 GD+1 Pts 6
4 Israel P4 W1 D1 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 4
5 Latvia P4 W1 D1 L2 GS3 GA5 GD-2 Pts 4
6 Malta P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA9 GD-8 Pts 0

Group G Table
1 Montenegro P4 W3 D1 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 10
2 England P3 W2 D1 L0 GS7 GA1 GD+6 Pts 7
3 Switzerland P3 W1 D0 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 3
4 Bulgaria P3 W1 D0 L2 GS1 GA5 GD-4 Pts 3
5 Wales P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA6 GD-5 Pts 0

Group H Table
1 Norway P3 W3 D0 L0 GS5 GA2 GD+3 Pts 9
2 Portugal P4 W2 D1 L1 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 7
3 Denmark P3 W2 D0 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 6
4 Cyprus P3 W0 D1 L2 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 1
5 Iceland P3 W0 D0 L3 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 0

Group I Table
1 Spain P4 W4 D0 L0 GS12 GA4 GD+8 Pts 12
2 Czech Republic P4 W2 D0 L2 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 6
3 Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
3 Lithuania P3 W1 D1 L1 GS2 GA3 GD-1 Pts 4
5 Liechtenstein P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0

[joew2005]

Results of qualification matches played this morning

Group A :Germany 4 - 0 Kazakhstan
Group B : Armenia 0 - 0 Russia / Andorra 0 - 1 Slovakia / Ireland 2 -1 Macedonia
Group D : Bosnia-Herzegovina 2 -1 Romania / Albania 1 - 0 Belarus
Group F : Georgia 1 - 0 Croatia / Israel 2 -1 Latvia / Malta 0 - 1 Greece
Group G : Wales 0 - 2 England / Bulgaria 0 - 0 Switzerland
Group H : Cyprus 0 - 0 Iceland / Norway 1 - 1 Denmark


Qualification Matches Schedule next Tuesday 29 March
Group A : Turkey vs Austria / Belgium vs Azerbaijan
Group C : Estonia vs Serbia / Northern Ireland vs Slovenia
Group D : Romania vs Luxembourg
Group E : Sweden vs Moldova / Netherlands vs Hungary
Group F : Israel vs Georgia
Group I : Czech Republic vs Liechtenstein / Lithuania vs Spain

[joew2005]

Current Table Standing

Group A
1 Germany P5 W5 D0 L0 GS17 GA1 GD+16 Pts 15
2 Austria P4 W2 D1 L1 GS9 GA6 GD+3 Pts 7
3 Belgium P5 W2 D1 L2 GS10 GA8 GD+2 Pts 7
4 Turkey P4 W2 D0 L2 GS6 GA6 GD0 Pts 6
5 Azerbaijan P3 W1 D0 L2 GS2 GA9 GD-7 Pts 3
6 Kazakhstan P5 W0 D0 L5 GS0 GA14 GD-14 Pts 0

Group B
1 Russia P5 W3 D1 L1 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 10
2 Ireland P5 W3 D1 L1 GS9 GA6 GD+3 Pts 10
3 Slovakia P5 W3 D1 L1 GS5 GA4 GD+1 Pts 10
4 Armenia P5 W2 D2 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 8
5 Macedonia P5 W1 D1 L3 GS5 GA6 GD-1 Pts 4
6 Andorra P5 W0 D0 L5 GS1 GA12 GD-11 Pts 0

Group C
1 Italy P5 W4 D1 L0 GS11 GA1 GD+10 Pts 13
2 Slovenia P5 W2 D1 L2 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 7
3 Serbia P5 W2 D1 L2 GS7 GA8 GD-1 Pts 7
4 Estonia P4 W2 D0 L2 GS6 GA5 GD+1 Pts 6
5 Northern Ireland P4 W1 D2 L1 GS3 GA3 GD0 Pts 5
6 Faroe Islands P5 W0 D1 L4 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 1

Group D
1 France P5 W4 D0 L1 GS8 GA1 GD+7 Pts 12
2 Belarus P5 W2 D2 L1 GS3 GA1 GD+2 Pts 8
3 Albania P4 W2 D2 L0 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 8
4 Bosnia-Herzegovina P4 W2 D1 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 7
5 Romania P4 W0 D2 L2 GS2 GA5 GD-3 Pts 2
6 Luxembourg P5 W0 D1 L4 GS0 GA8 GD-8 Pts 1

Group E
1 Netherlands P5 W5 D0 L0 GS16 GA2 GD+14 Pts 15
2 Hungary P5 W3 D0 L2 GS12 GA8 GD+4 Pts 9
3 Sweden P3 W2 D0 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 6
4 Moldova P4 W2 D0 L2 GS5 GA3 GD+2 Pts 6
5 Finland P4 W1 D0 L3 GS10 GA6 GD+4 Pts 3
6 San Marino P5 W0 D0 L5 GS0 GA29 GD-29 Pts 0

Group F
1 Greece P5 W3 D2 L0 GS5 GA2 GD+3 Pts 11
2 Croatia P5 W3 D1 L1 GS8 GA2 GD+6 Pts 10
3 Georgia P5 W2 D3 L0 GS4 GA2 GD+2 Pts 9
4 Israel P5 W2 D1 L2 GS7 GA6 GD+1 Pts 7
5 Latvia P5 W1 D1 L3 GS4 GA7 GD-3 Pts 4
6 Malta P5 W0 D0 L5 GS1 GA10 GD-9 Pts 0

Group G
1 England P4 W3 D1 L0 GS9 GA1 GD+8 Pts 10
2 Montenegro P4 W3 D1 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 10
3 Switzerland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 4
4 Bulgaria P4 W1 D1 L2 GS1 GA5 GD-4 Pts 4
5 Wales P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0

Group H
1 Norway P4 W3 D1 L0 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 10
2 Portugal P4 W2 D1 L1 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 7
3 Denmark P4 W2 D1 L1 GS5 GA4 GD+1 Pts 7
4 Cyprus P4 W0 D2 L2 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 2
5 Iceland P4 W0 D1 L3 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 1

Group I
1 Spain P4 W4 D0 L0 GS12 GA4 GD+8 Pts 12
2 Czech Republic P4 W2 D0 L2 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 6
3 Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
3 Lithuania P3 W1 D1 L1 GS2 GA3 GD-1 Pts 4
5 Liechtenstein P3 W0 D0 L3 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0

[joew2005]

Results of qualification matches played tis morning:
Group A : Turkey 2 - 0 Austria / Belgium 4 - 1 Azerbaijan
Group C : Estonia 1 - 1 Serbia / Northern Ireland 0 - 0 Slovenia
Group D : Romania 3 - 1 Luxembourg
Group E : Sweden 2 - 1 Moldova / Netherlands 5 - 3 Hungary
Group F : Israel 1 - 0 Georgia
Group I : Czech Republic 2 - 0 Liechtenstein / Lithuania 1 - 3 Spain


Current Table Standing

Group A
1 Germany P5 W5 D0 L0 GS17 GA1 GD+16 Pts 15
2 Belgium P6 W3 D1 L2 GS14 GA9 GD+5 Pts 10
3 Turkey P5 W3 D0 L2 GS8 GA6 GD+2 Pts 9
4 Austria P5 W2 D1 L2 GS9 GA8 GD+1 Pts 7
5 Azerbaijan P4 W1 D0 L3 GS3 GA13 GD-10 Pts 3
6 Kazakhstan P5 W0 D0 L5 GS0 GA14 GD-14 Pts 0

Group B
1 Russia P5 W3 D1 L1 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 10
2 Ireland P5 W3 D1 L1 GS9 GA6 GD+3 Pts 10
3 Slovakia P5 W3 D1 L1 GS5 GA4 GD+1 Pts 10
4 Armenia P5 W2 D2 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 8
5 Macedonia P5 W1 D1 L3 GS5 GA6 GD-1 Pts 4
6 Andorra P5 W0 D0 L5 GS1 GA12 GD-11 Pts 0

Group C
1 Italy P5 W4 D1 L0 GS11 GA1 GD+10 Pts 13
2 Slovenia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 8
3 Serbia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA9 GD-1 Pts 8
4 Estonia P5 W2 D1 L2 GS7 GA6 GD+1 Pts 7
5 Northern Ireland P5 W1 D3 L1 GS3 GA3 GD0 Pts 6
6 Faroe Islands P5 W0 D1 L4 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 1

Group D
1 France P5 W4 D0 L1 GS8 GA1 GD+7 Pts 12
2 Belarus P5 W2 D2 L1 GS3 GA1 GD+2 Pts 8
3 Albania P5 W2 D2 L1 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 8
4 Bosnia-Herzegovina P4 W2 D1 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 7
5 Romania P5 W1 D2 L2 GS5 GA6 GD-1 Pts 5
6 Luxembourg P6 W0 D1 L5 GS1 GA11 GD-10 Pts 1

Group E
1 Netherlands P6 W6 D0 L0 GS21 GA5 GD+16 Pts 18
2 Sweden P4 W3 D0 L1 GS11 GA5 GD+6 Pts 9
3 Hungary P6 W3 D0 L3 GS15 GA13 GD+2 Pts 9
4 Moldova P5 W2 D0 L3 GS6 GA5 GD+1 Pts 6
5 Finland P4 W1 D0 L3 GS10 GA6 GD+4 Pts 3
6 San Marino P5 W0 D0 L5 GS0 GA29 GD-29 Pts 0

Group F
1 Greece P5 W3 D2 L0 GS5 GA2 GD+3 Pts 11
2 Croatia P5 W3 D1 L1 GS8 GA2 GD+6 Pts 10
3 Israel P6 W3 D1 L2 GS8 GA6 GD+2 Pts 10
4 Georgia P6 W2 D3 L1 GS4 GA3 GD+1 Pts 9
5 Latvia P5 W1 D1 L3 GS4 GA7 GD-3 Pts 4
6 Malta P5 W0 D0 L5 GS1 GA10 GD-9 Pts 0

Group G
1 England P4 W3 D1 L0 GS9 GA1 GD+8 Pts 10
2 Montenegro P4 W3 D1 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 10
3 Switzerland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 4
4 Bulgaria P4 W1 D1 L2 GS1 GA5 GD-4 Pts 4
5 Wales P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0

Group H
1 Norway P4 W3 D1 L0 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 10
2 Portugal P4 W2 D1 L1 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 7
3 Denmark P4 W2 D1 L1 GS5 GA4 GD+1 Pts 7
4 Cyprus P4 W0 D2 L2 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 2
5 Iceland P4 W0 D1 L3 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 1

Group I
1 Spain P5 W5 D0 L0 GS15 GA5 GD+10 Pts 15
2 Czech Republic P5 W3 D0 L2 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 9
3 Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
3 Lithuania P4 W1 D1 L2 GS3 GA6 GD-3 Pts 4
5 Liechtenstein P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA10 GD-9 Pts 0

[joew2005]

Remaining Qualification Group Matches.

Group A
3 June 2011 - Belgium vs Turkey / Kazakhstan vs Azerbaijan / Austria vs Germany
7 June 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Germany
2 September 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Belgium / Turkey vs Kazakhstan / Germany vs Austria
6 September 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Kazakhstan / Austria vs Turkey
7 October 2011 - Belgium vs Kazakhstan / Turkey vs Germany / Azerbaijan vs Austria
11 October 2011 - Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan

Group B
4 June 2011 - FYROM vs Republic of Ireland / Slovakia vs Andorra / Russia vs Armenia
2 September 2011 - Russia vs FYROM / Republic of Ireland vs Slovakia / Andorra vs Armenia
6 September 2011 - FYROM vs Andorra / Slovakia vs Armenia / Russia vs Republic of Ireland
7 October 2011 - Slovakia vs Russia / Armenia vs FYROM / Andorra vs Republic of Ireland
11 October 2011 - Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia

Group C
3 June 2011 - Faroe Islands vs Slovenia / Italy vs Estonia
7 June 2011 - Faroe Islands vs Estonia
10 August 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Faroe Islands
2 September 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Serbia / Slovenia vs Estonia / Faroe Islands vs Italy
6 September 2011 - Estonia vs Northern Ireland / Italy vs Slovenia / Serbia vs Faroe Islands
7 October 2011 - Serbia vs Italy / Northern Ireland vs Estonia
11 October 2011 - Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland

Group D
3 June 2011 - Romania vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Belarus vs France
7 June 2011 - Belarus vs Luxembourg / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Albania
2 September 2011 - Belarus vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs France / Luxembourg vs Romania
6 September 2011 - Luxembourg vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Belarus
/ Romania vs France
7 October 2011 - Romania vs Belarus / France vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Luxembourg
11 October 2011 - France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania

Group E
3 June 2011 - San Marino vs Finland / Moldova vs Sweden
7 June 2011 - San Marino vs Hungary / Sweden vs Finland
2 September 2011 - Netherlands vs San Marino / Hungary vs Sweden / Finland vs Moldova
6 September 2011 - Finland vs Netherlands / San Marino vs Sweden / Moldova vs Hungary
7 October 2011 - Finland vs Sweden / Netherlands vs Moldova
11 October 2011 - Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino

Group F
4 June 2011 - Latvia vs Israel / Croatia vs Georgia / Greece vs Malta
2 September 2011 - Israel vs Greece / Malta vs Croatia / Georgia vs Latvia
6 September 2011 - Malta vs Georgia / Latvia vs Greece / Croatia vs Israel
7 October 2011 - Greece vs Croatia / Latvia vs Malta
11 October 2011 - Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

Group G
4 June 2011 - Montenegro vs Bulgaria / England vs Switzerland
2 September 2011 - Wales vs Montenegro / Bulgaria vs England
6 September 2011 - England vs Wales / Switzerland vs Bulgaria
7 October 2011 - Montenegro vs England / Wales vs Switzerland
11 October 2011 - Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro

Group H
4 June 2011 - Portugal vs Norway / Iceland vs Denmark
2 September 2011 - Norway vs Iceland / Cyprus vs Portugal
6 September 2011 - Iceland vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Norway
7 October 2011 - Cyprus vs Denmark / Portugal vs Iceland
11 October 2011 - Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

Group I
3 June 2011 - Liechtenstein - Lithuania
2 September 2011 - Lithuania vs Liechtenstein
3 September 2011 - Scotland vs Czech Republic
6 September 2011 - Scotland vs Lithuania / Spain vs Liechtenstein
7 October 2011 - Czech Republic vs Spain
8 October 2011 - Liechtenstein vs Scotland
11 October 2011 - Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/900878/fifa-hit-bosnia-herzegovina-with-suspension?cc=4716

Bosnia-Herzegovina hit by suspension

FIFA & UEFA hv suspended the Football Federation of Bosnia & Herzegovina (NSBiH) until further notice as the row over the organisation's presidency continues.

FIFA & UEFA previously ordered the NSBiH 2 cut their 3-member presidency 2 1 or face sanctions.

But a general assembly meeting in Sarajevo earlier tis week failed 2 find a resolution with the NSBiH opting 2 continue with their current structure of 3 leaders 2 satisfy the country's political make-up.

The federation currently consists of 2 associations: 1 a Bosnian Serb & another shared by Bosniaks & Bosnian Croats, headed by a Bosniak, a Croat & a Serb 2 reflect the country's ethnic division aft the 1992-1995 war.

The ruling by FIFA & UEFA means NSBiH representative & club teams r no longer entitled 2 take part in international competitions as of 2day & until the matter is resolved.

A joint statement by FIFA & UEFA added: "FIFA & UEFA deeply regret tat tis decision had 2 be taken & will meet shortly 2 discuss the next steps required 2 try 2 bring the NSBiH back in2 the football family asap.''

Bosnia & Herzegovina r currently 4th in Group D of Euro 2012 qualifying but, as it stands, will not be able 2 fulfil their next fixture against Romania on June 3.

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 13 March 2011.
Next update on 18 May 2011.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=203

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 4)
4. England (Fifa 6)
5. Portugal (Fifa 8)
6. Italy (Fifa 9)
7. Croatia (Fifa 10)
8. Norway (Fifa 11)
9. Greece (Fifa 12)
10. Serbia (Fifa 16)
11. Slovenia (Fifa 17)
12. Russia (Fifa 18)
13. France (Fifa 19)
14. Montenegro (Fifa 24)
15. Switzerland (Fifa 25)
16. Slovakia (Fifa 27)
17. Denmark (Fifa 28)
18. Sweden (Fifa 29)
19. Turkey (Fifa 30)
20. Czech Republic (Fifa 32)
21. Israel (Fifa 33)
22. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 34)
23. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 35)
24. Belgium (Fifa 37)
25. Romania (Fifa 41)
26. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 44)
27. Bulgaria (Fifa 45)
28. Lithuania (Fifa 46)
29. Albania (Fifa 50)
30. Hungary (Fifa 52)
31. Belarus (Fifa 53)
32. Georgia (Fifa 56)
33. Armenia (Fifa 62)
34. Northern Ireland (Fifa 65)
35. Scotland (Fifa 66)
36. Co-host Poland (Fifa 71)
37. Austria (Fifa 73)
38. Estonia (Fifa 74)
39. Latvia (Fifa 76)
40. Finland (Fifa 81)
41. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 85)
42. Moldova (Fifa 86)
43. Cyprus (Fifa 89)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 107)
45. Wales (Fifa 115)
46. Iceland (Fifa 116)
47. Luxembourg (Fifa 126)
48. Faroe Islands (Fifa 136)
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 140)
50. Liechtenstein (Fifa 153)
51. Malta (Fifa 163)
52. Andorra (Fifa 202)
53. San Marino (Fifa 202)

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 18 May 2011.
Next update on 29 June 2011.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=204

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 4)
4. England (Fifa 6)
5. Portugal (Fifa 8)
6. Italy (Fifa 9)
7. Croatia (Fifa 10)
8. Norway (Fifa 11)
9. Greece (Fifa 12)
10. Serbia (Fifa 16)
11. Slovenia (Fifa 17)
12. Russia (Fifa 18)
13. France (Fifa 19)
14. Montenegro (Fifa 24)
15. Switzerland (Fifa 25)
16. Slovakia (Fifa 26)
17. Denmark (Fifa 27)
18. Sweden (Fifa 28)
19. Turkey (Fifa 30)
20. Czech Republic (Fifa 32)
21. Israel (Fifa 33)
22. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 34)
23. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 35)
24. Belgium (Fifa 37)
25. Romania (Fifa 42)
26. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 45)
27. Bulgaria (Fifa 46)
28. Lithuania (Fifa 47)
29. Albania (Fifa 50)
30. Hungary (Fifa 52)
31. Belarus (Fifa 53)
32. Georgia (Fifa 57)
33. Armenia (Fifa 62)
34. Northern Ireland (Fifa 65)
35. Scotland (Fifa 66)
36. Co-host Poland (Fifa 71)
37. Austria (Fifa 74)
38. Estonia (Fifa 75)
39. Latvia (Fifa 77)
40. Finland (Fifa 81)
41. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 85)
42. Moldova (Fifa 86)
43. Cyprus (Fifa 89)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 108)
45. Wales (Fifa 114)
46. Iceland (Fifa 116)
47. Luxembourg (Fifa 125)
48. Faroe Islands (Fifa 136)
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 139)
50. Liechtenstein (Fifa 153)
51. Malta (Fifa 161)
52. Andorra (Fifa 202)
53. San Marino (Fifa 202)

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/923212/robert-green-in-england-squad-after-david-stockdale-gaffe?cc=4716

Green back in England squad

West Ham United goalkeeper Robert Green has returned 2 the England fold aft original squad member David Stockdale had 2 be withdrawn - becos he is getting married.

Stockdale is due @ the altar on June 3, just 24 hours b4 England host Switzerland in a crucial Euro 2012 qualifier @ Wembley. Even though Stockdale, along with West Bromwich Albion's Scott Carson, would only act as back-up 2 No. 1 Joe Hart, Green has been called in aft originally asking 2 be left out 4 tis match.

Stockdale, who made 10 appearances 4 Fulham tis season, had been prepared 2 join up with the squad immediately aft the ceremony but staff decided tat would be unfair, paving the way 4 Green 2 return 2 the international squad.

"West Ham United goalkeeper Rob Green has been called in2 the England squad in place of David Stockdale," an FA statement read. "The Fulham 'keeper has a personal commitment in the build up 2 England's Euro 2012 qualifier with Switzerland @ Wembley on Saturday 4 June."

Green had been believed 2 hv previously informed Capello tat he wished not 2 be selected 4 the game, as he was due 2 become a father @ the end of tis month. The Italian was also reported 2 be wary of the 30-year-old's state of mind aft suffering relegation fr the Premier League with his club.

"Robert is a true gentleman as always, & while he would not let his country down, he has asked the FA 2 consider not selecting him tis summer if he is not needed, as he 1s 2 be there 4 the birth of his baby," a friend previously told ESPNsoccernet.

"As 4 quitting England, he has not mentioned tat nor thought abt it as far as I know. He has certainly not suggested tis 2 the FA."

Nevertheless, aft Stockdale's news England reached out 2 Green - who agreed 2 return 4 the game following consultation with his family, aft seeing the birth of his child last week.

[joew2005]

Qualification Group Matches in June 2011.

3 June 2011
Group A - Belgium vs Turkey / Kazakhstan vs Azerbaijan / Austria vs Germany
Group C - Faroe Islands vs Slovenia / Italy vs Estonia
Group D - Romania vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Belarus vs France
Group E - San Marino vs Finland / Moldova vs Sweden
Group F - Croatia vs Georgia
Group I - Liechtenstein vs Lithuania

4 June 2011
Group B - FYROM vs Republic of Ireland / Slovakia vs Andorra / Russia vs Armenia
Group F - Latvia vs Israel / Greece vs Malta
Group G - Montenegro vs Bulgaria / England vs Switzerland
Group H - Portugal vs Norway / Iceland vs Denmark

7 June 2011
Group A - Azerbaijan vs Germany
Group C - Faroe Islands vs Estonia
Group D - Belarus vs Luxembourg / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Albania
Group E - San Marino vs Hungary / Sweden vs Finland

[joew2005]

Results of qualification matches played tis morning:
Group A - Belgium 1-1 Turkey / Kazakhstan 2-1 Azerbaijan / Austria 1-2 Germany
Group C - Faroe Islands 0-2 Slovenia / Italy 3-0 Estonia
Group D - Romania 3-0 Bosnia & Herzegovina / Belarus 1-1 France
Group E - San Marino 0-1 Finland / Moldova 1-4 Sweden
Group F - Croatia 2-1 Georgia
Group I - Liechtenstein 2-0 Lithuania


Current Table Standing

Group A
1 Germany P6 W6 D0 L0 GS19 GA2 GD+17 Pts 18
2 Belgium P7 W3 D2 L2 GS15 GA10 GD+5 Pts 11
3 Turkey P6 W3 D1 L2 GS9 GA7 GD+2 Pts 10
4 Austria P6 W2 D1 L3 GS10 GA10 GD0 Pts 7
5 Azerbaijan P5 W1 D0 L4 GS4 GA15 GD-11 Pts 3
6 Kazakhstan P6 W1 D0 L5 GS2 GA15 GD-13 Pts 3

Group B
1 Russia P5 W3 D1 L1 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 10
2 Ireland P5 W3 D1 L1 GS9 GA6 GD+3 Pts 10
3 Slovakia P5 W3 D1 L1 GS5 GA4 GD+1 Pts 10
4 Armenia P5 W2 D2 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 8
5 Macedonia P5 W1 D1 L3 GS5 GA6 GD-1 Pts 4
6 Andorra P5 W0 D0 L5 GS1 GA12 GD-11 Pts 0

Group C
1 Italy P6 W5 D1 L0 GS14 GA1 GD+13 Pts 16
2 Slovenia P7 W3 D2 L2 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 11
3 Serbia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA9 GD-1 Pts 8
4 Estonia P5 W2 D1 L2 GS7 GA6 GD+1 Pts 7
5 Northern Ireland P5 W1 D3 L1 GS3 GA3 GD0 Pts 6
6 Faroe Islands P6 W0 D1 L5 GS3 GA18 GD-15 Pts 1

Group D
1 France P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA2 GD+7 Pts 13
2 Belarus P6 W2 D3 L1 GS4 GA2 GD+2 Pts 9
3 Romania P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA6 GD+2 Pts 8
4 Albania P5 W2 D2 L1 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 8
5 Bosnia-Herzegovina P5 W2 D1 L2 GS6 GA7 GD-1 Pts 7
6 Luxembourg P6 W0 D1 L5 GS1 GA11 GD-10 Pts 1

Group E
1 Netherlands P6 W6 D0 L0 GS21 GA5 GD+16 Pts 18
2 Sweden P5 W4 D0 L1 GS15 GA6 GD+9 Pts 12
3 Hungary P6 W3 D0 L3 GS15 GA13 GD+2 Pts 9
4 Finland P5 W2 D0 L3 GS11 GA6 GD+5 Pts 6
5 Moldova P6 W2 D0 L4 GS7 GA9 GD-2 Pts 6
6 San Marino P6 W0 D0 L6 GS0 GA30 GD-30 Pts 0

Group F
1 Greece P5 W3 D2 L0 GS5 GA2 GD+3 Pts 11
2 Croatia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS10 GA3 GD+7 Pts 13
3 Israel P6 W3 D1 L2 GS8 GA6 GD+2 Pts 10
4 Georgia P7 W2 D3 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 9
5 Latvia P5 W1 D1 L3 GS4 GA7 GD-3 Pts 4
6 Malta P5 W0 D0 L5 GS1 GA10 GD-9 Pts 0

Group G
1 England P4 W3 D1 L0 GS9 GA1 GD+8 Pts 10
2 Montenegro P4 W3 D1 L0 GS3 GA0 GD+3 Pts 10
3 Switzerland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 4
4 Bulgaria P4 W1 D1 L2 GS1 GA5 GD-4 Pts 4
5 Wales P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0

Group H
1 Norway P4 W3 D1 L0 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 10
2 Portugal P4 W2 D1 L1 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 7
3 Denmark P4 W2 D1 L1 GS5 GA4 GD+1 Pts 7
4 Cyprus P4 W0 D2 L2 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 2
5 Iceland P4 W0 D1 L3 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 1

Group I
1 Spain P5 W5 D0 L0 GS15 GA5 GD+10 Pts 15
2 Czech Republic P5 W3 D0 L2 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 9
3 Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
3 Lithuania P4 W1 D1 L2 GS3 GA6 GD-3 Pts 4
5 Liechtenstein P5 W1 D0 L4 GS3 GA10 GD-7 Pts 3

[joew2005]

Results of qualification matches played tis morning:
Group B - FYROM 0-2 Republic of Ireland / Slovakia 1-0 Andorra / Russia 3-1 Armenia
Group F - Latvia 1-2 Israel / Greece 3-1 Malta
Group G - Montenegro 1-1 Bulgaria / England 2-2 Switzerland
Group H - Portugal 1-0 Norway / Iceland 0-2 Denmark


Current Table Standing
Group A
1 Germany P6 W6 D0 L0 GS19 GA2 GD+17 Pts 18
2 Belgium P7 W3 D2 L2 GS15 GA10 GD+5 Pts 11
3 Turkey P6 W3 D1 L2 GS9 GA7 GD+2 Pts 10
4 Austria P6 W2 D1 L3 GS10 GA10 GD0 Pts 7
5 Azerbaijan P5 W1 D0 L4 GS4 GA15 GD-11 Pts 3
6 Kazakhstan P6 W1 D0 L5 GS2 GA15 GD-13 Pts 3

Group B
1 Russia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 13
2 Ireland P6 W4 D1 L1 GS11 GA6 GD+5 Pts 13
3 Slovakia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 13
4 Armenia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 8
5 Macedonia P6 W1 D1 L4 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 4
6 Andorra P6 W0 D0 L6 GS1 GA13 GD-12 Pts 0

Group C
1 Italy P6 W5 D1 L0 GS14 GA1 GD+13 Pts 16
2 Slovenia P7 W3 D2 L2 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 11
3 Serbia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA9 GD-1 Pts 8
4 Estonia P5 W2 D1 L2 GS7 GA6 GD+1 Pts 7
5 Northern Ireland P5 W1 D3 L1 GS3 GA3 GD0 Pts 6
6 Faroe Islands P6 W0 D1 L5 GS3 GA18 GD-15 Pts 1

Group D
1 France P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA2 GD+7 Pts 13
2 Belarus P6 W2 D3 L1 GS4 GA2 GD+2 Pts 9
3 Romania P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA6 GD+2 Pts 8
4 Albania P5 W2 D2 L1 GS4 GA4 GD0 Pts 8
5 Bosnia-Herzegovina P5 W2 D1 L2 GS6 GA7 GD-1 Pts 7
6 Luxembourg P6 W0 D1 L5 GS1 GA11 GD-10 Pts 1

Group E
1 Netherlands P6 W6 D0 L0 GS21 GA5 GD+16 Pts 18
2 Sweden P5 W4 D0 L1 GS15 GA6 GD+9 Pts 12
3 Hungary P6 W3 D0 L3 GS15 GA13 GD+2 Pts 9
4 Finland P5 W2 D0 L3 GS11 GA6 GD+5 Pts 6
5 Moldova P6 W2 D0 L4 GS7 GA9 GD-2 Pts 6
6 San Marino P6 W0 D0 L6 GS0 GA30 GD-30 Pts 0

Group F
1 Greece P6 W4 D2 L0 GS8 GA3 GD+5 Pts 14
2 Croatia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS10 GA3 GD+7 Pts 13
3 Israel P7 W4 D1 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 13
4 Georgia P7 W2 D3 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 9
5 Latvia P6 W1 D1 L4 GS5 GA9 GD-4 Pts 4
6 Malta P6 W0 D0 L6 GS2 GA13 GD-11 Pts 0

Group G
1 England P5 W3 D2 L0 GS11 GA3 GD+8 Pts 11
2 Montenegro P5 W3 D2 L0 GS4 GA1 GD+3 Pts 11
3 Switzerland P5 W1 D2 L2 GS7 GA7 GD0 Pts 5
4 Bulgaria P5 W1 D2 L2 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 5
5 Wales P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0

Group H
1 Portugal P5 W3 D1 L1 GS11 GA7 GD+4 Pts 10
2 Denmark P5 W3 D1 L1 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 10
3 Norway P5 W3 D1 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 10
4 Cyprus P4 W0 D2 L2 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 2
5 Iceland P5 W0 D1 L4 GS2 GA8 GD-6 Pts 1

Group I
1 Spain P5 W5 D0 L0 GS15 GA5 GD+10 Pts 15
2 Czech Republic P5 W3 D0 L2 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 9
3 Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
3 Lithuania P4 W1 D1 L2 GS3 GA6 GD-3 Pts 4
5 Liechtenstein P5 W1 D0 L4 GS3 GA10 GD-7 Pts 3


Matches schedule next Tuesday 7 June 2011
Group A - Azerbaijan vs Germany
Group C - Faroe Islands vs Estonia
Group D - Belarus vs Luxembourg / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Albania
Group E - San Marino vs Hungary / Sweden vs Finland

[joew2005]

Results of qualification matches played tis morning:
Group A : Azerbaijan 1-3 Germany
Group C : Faroe Islands 2-0 Estonia
Group D : Belarus 2-0 Luxembourg / Bosnia & Herzegovina 2-0 Albania
Group E : San Marino 0-3 Hungary / Sweden 5-0 Finland

Current Table Standing
Group A
1 Germany P7 W7 D0 L0 GS22 GA3 GD+19 Pts 21
2 Belgium P7 W3 D2 L2 GS15 GA10 GD+5 Pts 11
3 Turkey P6 W3 D1 L2 GS9 GA7 GD+2 Pts 10
4 Austria P6 W2 D1 L3 GS10 GA10 GD0 Pts 7
5 Azerbaijan P6 W1 D0 L5 GS5 GA18 GD-13 Pts 3
6 Kazakhstan P6 W1 D0 L5 GS2 GA15 GD-13 Pts 3

Group B
1 Russia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 13
2 Ireland P6 W4 D1 L1 GS11 GA6 GD+5 Pts 13
3 Slovakia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 13
4 Armenia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 8
5 Macedonia P6 W1 D1 L4 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 4
6 Andorra P6 W0 D0 L6 GS1 GA13 GD-12 Pts 0

Group C
1 Italy P6 W5 D1 L0 GS14 GA1 GD+13 Pts 16
2 Slovenia P7 W3 D2 L2 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 11
3 Serbia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA9 GD-1 Pts 8
4 Estonia P6 W2 D1 L3 GS7 GA8 GD-1 Pts 7
5 Northern Ireland P5 W1 D3 L1 GS3 GA3 GD0 Pts 6
6 Faroe Islands P7 W1 D1 L5 GS5 GA18 GD-13 Pts 4

Group D
1 France P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA2 GD+7 Pts 13
2 Belarus P7 W3 D3 L1 GS6 GA2 GD+4 Pts 12
3 Bosnia-Herzegovina P6 W3 D1 L2 GS8 GA7 GD+1 Pts 10
4 Romania P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA6 GD+2 Pts 8
5 Albania P6 W2 D2 L2 GS4 GA6 GD-2 Pts 8
6 Luxembourg P7 W0 D1 L6 GS1 GA13 GD-12 Pts 1

Group E
1 Netherlands P6 W6 D0 L0 GS21 GA5 GD+16 Pts 18
2 Sweden P6 W5 D0 L1 GS20 GA6 GD+14 Pts 15
3 Hungary P7 W4 D0 L3 GS18 GA13 GD+5 Pts 12
4 Finland P6 W2 D0 L4 GS11 GA11 GD0 Pts 6
5 Moldova P6 W2 D0 L4 GS7 GA9 GD-2 Pts 6
6 San Marino P7 W0 D0 L7 GS0 GA33 GD-33 Pts 0

Group F
1 Greece P6 W4 D2 L0 GS8 GA3 GD+5 Pts 14
2 Croatia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS10 GA3 GD+7 Pts 13
3 Israel P7 W4 D1 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 13
4 Georgia P7 W2 D3 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 9
5 Latvia P6 W1 D1 L4 GS5 GA9 GD-4 Pts 4
6 Malta P6 W0 D0 L6 GS2 GA13 GD-11 Pts 0

Group G
1 England P5 W3 D2 L0 GS11 GA3 GD+8 Pts 11
2 Montenegro P5 W3 D2 L0 GS4 GA1 GD+3 Pts 11
3 Switzerland P5 W1 D2 L2 GS7 GA7 GD0 Pts 5
4 Bulgaria P5 W1 D2 L2 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 5
5 Wales P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0

Group H
1 Portugal P5 W3 D1 L1 GS11 GA7 GD+4 Pts 10
2 Denmark P5 W3 D1 L1 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 10
3 Norway P5 W3 D1 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 10
4 Cyprus P4 W0 D2 L2 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 2
5 Iceland P5 W0 D1 L4 GS2 GA8 GD-6 Pts 1

Group I
1 Spain P5 W5 D0 L0 GS15 GA5 GD+10 Pts 15
2 Czech Republic P5 W3 D0 L2 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 9
3 Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
3 Lithuania P4 W1 D1 L2 GS3 GA6 GD-3 Pts 4
5 Liechtenstein P5 W1 D0 L4 GS3 GA10 GD-7 Pts 3

[joew2005]

Remaining Qualification Group Matches.

Group A
2 September 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Belgium / Turkey vs Kazakhstan / Germany vs Austria
6 September 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Kazakhstan / Austria vs Turkey
7 October 2011 - Belgium vs Kazakhstan / Turkey vs Germany / Azerbaijan vs Austria
11 October 2011 - Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan

Group B
2 September 2011 - Russia vs FYROM / Republic of Ireland vs Slovakia / Andorra vs Armenia
6 September 2011 - FYROM vs Andorra / Slovakia vs Armenia / Russia vs Republic of Ireland
7 October 2011 - Slovakia vs Russia / Armenia vs FYROM / Andorra vs Republic of Ireland
11 October 2011 - Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia

Group C
10 August 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Faroe Islands
2 September 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Serbia / Slovenia vs Estonia / Faroe Islands vs Italy
6 September 2011 - Estonia vs Northern Ireland / Italy vs Slovenia / Serbia vs Faroe Islands
7 October 2011 - Serbia vs Italy / Northern Ireland vs Estonia
11 October 2011 - Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland

Group D
2 September 2011 - Belarus vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs France / Luxembourg vs Romania
6 September 2011 - Luxembourg vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Belarus
/ Romania vs France
7 October 2011 - Romania vs Belarus / France vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Luxembourg
11 October 2011 - France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania

Group E
2 September 2011 - Netherlands vs San Marino / Hungary vs Sweden / Finland vs Moldova
6 September 2011 - Finland vs Netherlands / San Marino vs Sweden / Moldova vs Hungary
7 October 2011 - Finland vs Sweden / Netherlands vs Moldova
11 October 2011 - Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino

Group F
2 September 2011 - Israel vs Greece / Malta vs Croatia / Georgia vs Latvia
6 September 2011 - Malta vs Georgia / Latvia vs Greece / Croatia vs Israel
7 October 2011 - Greece vs Croatia / Latvia vs Malta
11 October 2011 - Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

Group G
2 September 2011 - Wales vs Montenegro / Bulgaria vs England
6 September 2011 - England vs Wales / Switzerland vs Bulgaria
7 October 2011 - Montenegro vs England / Wales vs Switzerland
11 October 2011 - Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro

Group H
2 September 2011 - Norway vs Iceland / Cyprus vs Portugal
6 September 2011 - Iceland vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Norway
7 October 2011 - Cyprus vs Denmark / Portugal vs Iceland
11 October 2011 - Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

Group I
2 September 2011 - Lithuania vs Liechtenstein
3 September 2011 - Scotland vs Czech Republic
6 September 2011 - Scotland vs Lithuania / Spain vs Liechtenstein
7 October 2011 - Czech Republic vs Spain
8 October 2011 - Liechtenstein vs Scotland
11 October 2011 - Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland

[joew2005]

Countries Tat Hv Already Qualified 4 The Finals

1) Co-host - Poland
2) Co-host - Ukraine
3) Group A Winner - Germany
4) Group B Winner -
5) Group C Winner -
6) Group D Winner -
7) Group E Winner -
8) Group F Winner -
9) Group G Winner -
10) Group H Winner -
11) Group I Winner -
12) Best Runner Up -
13) Playoff Winner -
14) Playoff Winner -
15) Playoff Winner -
16) Playoff Winner -

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/928973/macedonia-sack-mirsad-jonuz-after-poor-run?cc=4716

Macedonia sack Mirsad Jonuz

Mirsad Jonuz has been sacked as the coach of Macedonia, the country's football federation has announced.

A statement on the FFM's website confirmed Jonuz was removed fr his post as a result of their poor Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.

''Following extensive discussions regarding results achieved in qualifying 4 the 2012 European Championship, a unanimous decision has been reached 2 remove Mirsad Jonuz from his position as the coach of the national team,'' said the statement.

The FFM added they will hold another meeting soon 2 find Jonuz's successor. Macedonia lie 5th in qualifying Group B with jz 4 points following successive defeats 2 Republic of Ireland.

With 6 games played so far, Macedonia only managed a win,a draw & 4 defeats. They scored 5 goals & concede 8 goals.
With 4 games remaining 2 be play,mathematically they still hv a chance 2 progress.

Their remaining fixtures r:
2 September 2011 - Russia vs FYROM
6 September 2011 - FYROM vs Andorra
7 October 2011 - Armenia vs FYROM
11 October 2011 - FYROM vs Slovakia

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 29 June 2011.
Next update on 27 July 2011.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=205

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 4)
4. England (Fifa 4)
5. Italy (Fifa 6)
6. Portugal (Fifa 7)
7. Croatia (Fifa 8)
8. Norway (Fifa 11)
9. Greece (Fifa 12)
10. France (Fifa 15)
11. Montenegro (Fifa 16)
12. Russia (Fifa 17)
13. Sweden (Fifa 19)
14. Denmark (Fifa 20)
15. Slovenia (Fifa 21)
16. Turkey (Fifa 23)
17. Serbia (Fifa 25)
18. Slovakia (Fifa 28)
19. Switzerland (Fifa 29)
20. Israel (Fifa 30)
21. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 31)
22. Belgium (Fifa 35)
23. Czech Republic (Fifa 36)
24. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 39)
25. Belarus (Fifa 40)
26. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 42)
27. Hungary (Fifa 45)
28. Bulgaria (Fifa 46)
29. Romania (Fifa 53)
30. Georgia (Fifa 56)
31. Lithuania (Fifa 58)
32. Albania (Fifa 59)
33. Scotland (Fifa 61)
34. Northern Ireland (Fifa 62)
35. Austria (Fifa 65)
36. Co-host Poland (Fifa 67)
37. Armenia (Fifa 70)
38. Finland (Fifa 76)
39. Estonia (Fifa 79)
40. Cyprus (Fifa 80)
41. Latvia (Fifa 82)
42. Moldova (Fifa 85)
43. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 98)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 112)
45. Wales (Fifa 114)
46. Faroe Islands (Fifa 114)
47. Liechtenstein (Fifa 120)
48. Iceland (Fifa 122)
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 126)
50. Luxembourg (Fifa 128)
51. Malta (Fifa 161)
52. Andorra (Fifa 203)
53. San Marino (Fifa 203)

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 27 July 2011.
Next update on 24 Aug 2011.

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=206

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 4)
4. England (Fifa 6)
5. Portugal (Fifa 7)
6. Italy (Fifa 8)
7. Croatia (Fifa 9)
8. Norway (Fifa 12)
9. Greece (Fifa 13)
10. France (Fifa 15)
11. Montenegro (Fifa 17)
12. Russia (Fifa 18)
13. Sweden (Fifa 19)
14. Denmark (Fifa 21)
15. Slovenia (Fifa 22)
16. Turkey (Fifa 24)
17. Serbia (Fifa 27)
18. Slovakia (Fifa 29)
19. Switzerland (Fifa 30)
20. Israel (Fifa 32)
21. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 33)
22. Belgium (Fifa 37)
23. Czech Republic (Fifa 38)
24. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 41)
25. Belarus (Fifa 42)
26. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 45)
27. Hungary (Fifa 47)
28. Bulgaria (Fifa 48)
29. Romania (Fifa 53)
30. Georgia (Fifa 57)
31. Lithuania (Fifa 58)
32. Albania (Fifa 59)
33. Scotland (Fifa 61)
34. Northern Ireland (Fifa 62)
35. Austria (Fifa 66)
36. Co-host Poland (Fifa 69)
37. Armenia (Fifa 70)
38. Finland (Fifa 75)
39. Estonia (Fifa 79)
40. Cyprus (Fifa 80)
41. Latvia (Fifa 83)
42. Moldova (Fifa 85)
43. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 96)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 111)
45. Faroe Islands (Fifa 112)
45. Wales (Fifa 112)
47. Liechtenstein (Fifa 118)
48. Iceland (Fifa 121)
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 126)
50. Luxembourg (Fifa 128)
51. Malta (Fifa 173)
52. Andorra (Fifa 203)
52. San Marino (Fifa 203)

[joew2005]

Group A
2 Sept 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Belgium / Turkey vs Kazakhstan / Germany vs Austria
6 Sept 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Kazakhstan / Austria vs Turkey
7 Oct 2011 - Belgium vs Kazakhstan / Turkey vs Germany / Azerbaijan vs Austria
11 Oct 2011 - Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan

Group A
Germany P7 W7 D0 L0 GS22 GA3 GD+19 Pts 21 (has already qualify)
Belgium P7 W3 D2 L2 GS15 GA10 GD+5 Pts 11
Turkey P6 W3 D1 L2 GS9 GA7 GD+2 Pts 10
Austria P6 W2 D1 L3 GS10 GA10 GD0 Pts 7
Azerbaijan P6 W1 D0 L5 GS5 GA18 GD-13 Pts 3
Kazakhstan P6 W1 D0 L5 GS2 GA15 GD-13 Pts 3



Group B
2 Sept 2011 - Russia vs FYROM / Republic of Ireland vs Slovakia / Andorra vs Armenia
6 Sept 2011 - FYROM vs Andorra / Slovakia vs Armenia / Russia vs Republic of Ireland
7 Oct 2011 - Slovakia vs Russia / Armenia vs FYROM / Andorra vs Republic of Ireland
11 Oct 2011 - Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia

Group B
Russia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 13
Ireland P6 W4 D1 L1 GS11 GA6 GD+5 Pts 13
Slovakia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 13
Armenia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 8
Macedonia P6 W1 D1 L4 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 4
Andorra P6 W0 D0 L6 GS1 GA13 GD-12 Pts 0



Group C
10 Aug 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Faroe Islands
2 Sept 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Serbia / Slovenia vs Estonia / Faroe Islands vs Italy
6 Sept 2011 - Estonia vs Northern Ireland / Italy vs Slovenia / Serbia vs Faroe Islands
7 Oct 2011 - Serbia vs Italy / Northern Ireland vs Estonia
11 Oct 2011 - Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland

Group C
Italy P6 W5 D1 L0 GS14 GA1 GD+13 Pts 16
Slovenia P7 W3 D2 L2 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 11
Serbia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA9 GD-1 Pts 8
Estonia P6 W2 D1 L3 GS7 GA8 GD-1 Pts 7
Northern Ireland P5 W1 D3 L1 GS3 GA3 GD0 Pts 6
Faroe Islands P7 W1 D1 L5 GS5 GA18 GD-13 Pts 4



Group D
2 Sept 2011 - Belarus vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs France / Luxembourg vs Romania
6 Sept 2011 - Luxembourg vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Belarus
/ Romania vs France
7 Oct 2011 - Romania vs Belarus / France vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Luxembourg
11 Oct 2011 - France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania

Group D
France P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA2 GD+7 Pts 13
Belarus P7 W3 D3 L1 GS6 GA2 GD+4 Pts 12
Bosnia-Herzegovina P6 W3 D1 L2 GS8 GA7 GD+1 Pts 10
Romania P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA6 GD+2 Pts 8
Albania P6 W2 D2 L2 GS4 GA6 GD-2 Pts 8
Luxembourg P7 W0 D1 L6 GS1 GA13 GD-12 Pts 1



Group E
2 Sept 2011 - Netherlands vs San Marino / Hungary vs Sweden / Finland vs Moldova
6 Sept 2011 - Finland vs Netherlands / San Marino vs Sweden / Moldova vs Hungary
7 Oct 2011 - Finland vs Sweden / Netherlands vs Moldova
11 Oct 2011 - Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino

Group E
Netherlands P6 W6 D0 L0 GS21 GA5 GD+16 Pts 18
Sweden P6 W5 D0 L1 GS20 GA6 GD+14 Pts 15
Hungary P7 W4 D0 L3 GS18 GA13 GD+5 Pts 12
Finland P6 W2 D0 L4 GS11 GA11 GD0 Pts 6
Moldova P6 W2 D0 L4 GS7 GA9 GD-2 Pts 6
San Marino P7 W0 D0 L7 GS0 GA33 GD-33 Pts 0



Group F
2 Sept 2011 - Israel vs Greece / Malta vs Croatia / Georgia vs Latvia
6 Sept 2011 - Malta vs Georgia / Latvia vs Greece / Croatia vs Israel
7 Oct 2011 - Greece vs Croatia / Latvia vs Malta
11 Oct 2011 - Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

Group F
Greece P6 W4 D2 L0 GS8 GA3 GD+5 Pts 14
Croatia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS10 GA3 GD+7 Pts 13
Israel P7 W4 D1 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 13
Georgia P7 W2 D3 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 9
Latvia P6 W1 D1 L4 GS5 GA9 GD-4 Pts 4
Malta P6 W0 D0 L6 GS2 GA13 GD-11 Pts 0



Group G
2 Sept 2011 - Wales vs Montenegro / Bulgaria vs England
6 Sept 2011 - England vs Wales / Switzerland vs Bulgaria
7 Oct 2011 - Montenegro vs England / Wales vs Switzerland
11 Oct 2011 - Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro

Group G
England P5 W3 D2 L0 GS11 GA3 GD+8 Pts 11
Montenegro P5 W3 D2 L0 GS4 GA1 GD+3 Pts 11
Switzerland P5 W1 D2 L2 GS7 GA7 GD0 Pts 5
Bulgaria P5 W1 D2 L2 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 5
Wales P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0



Group H
2 Sept 2011 - Norway vs Iceland / Cyprus vs Portugal
6 Sept 2011 - Iceland vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Norway
7 Oct 2011 - Cyprus vs Denmark / Portugal vs Iceland
11 Oct 2011 - Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

Group H
Portugal P5 W3 D1 L1 GS11 GA7 GD+4 Pts 10
Denmark P5 W3 D1 L1 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 10
Norway P5 W3 D1 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 10
Cyprus P4 W0 D2 L2 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 2
Iceland P5 W0 D1 L4 GS2 GA8 GD-6 Pts 1



Group I
2 Sept 2011 - Lithuania vs Liechtenstein
3 Sept 2011 - Scotland vs Czech Republic
6 Sept 2011 - Scotland vs Lithuania / Spain vs Liechtenstein
7 Oct 2011 - Czech Republic vs Spain
8 Oct 2011 - Liechtenstein vs Scotland
11 Oct 2011 - Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland

Group I
Spain P5 W5 D0 L0 GS15 GA5 GD+10 Pts 15
Czech Republic P5 W3 D0 L2 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 9
Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
Lithuania P4 W1 D1 L2 GS3 GA6 GD-3 Pts 4
Liechtenstein P5 W1 D0 L4 GS3 GA10 GD-7 Pts 3

[joew2005]

The final 9 group winners + the best final runner-up among the 9 runner-ups shall clinch 10 auto berth 2 EURO2012. (10 teams)
Another 2 tickets already taken up by hosts Ukraine & Poland. (2 teams)
The other 8 final runner-ups will face a 2-legged play-off 2 complete the 16-team line-up. (4 teams)
Groups 1 to Group 6 will hv results involving the nation which finishes bottom of their group removed 2 determine the best runner-ups.

The 1st leg of the play-offs shall be on 11/12 Nov 2011 & the 2nd legs on 15 Nov 2011


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012_qualifying


Group A
Germany P7 W7 D0 L0 GS22 GA3 GD+19 Pts 21
Belgium P7 W3 D2 L2 GS15 GA10 GD+5 Pts 11
Turkey P6 W3 D1 L2 GS9 GA7 GD+2 Pts 10
Austria P6 W2 D1 L3 GS10 GA10 GD0 Pts 7
Azerbaijan P6 W1 D0 L5 GS5 GA18 GD-13 Pts 3
Kazakhstan P6 W1 D0 L5 GS2 GA15 GD-13 Pts 3

2 Sept 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Belgium / Turkey vs Kazakhstan / Germany vs Austria
6 Sept 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Kazakhstan / Austria vs Turkey
7 Oct 2011 - Belgium vs Kazakhstan / Turkey vs Germany / Azerbaijan vs Austria
11 Oct 2011 - Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan

Germany has already qualified 4 Euro2012.They only need a point fr their last 3 games 2 finish as Group A Winner.
think tat the runner-up spot shall be a fight betw Belgium & Turkey.
Will go with Turkey finishing as Final Group A Runner-Up.


Group B
Russia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 13
Ireland P6 W4 D1 L1 GS11 GA6 GD+5 Pts 13
Slovakia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 13
Armenia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 8
Macedonia P6 W1 D1 L4 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 4
Andorra P6 W0 D0 L6 GS1 GA13 GD-12 Pts 0

2 Sept 2011 - Russia vs FYROM / Republic of Ireland vs Slovakia / Andorra vs Armenia
6 Sept 2011 - FYROM vs Andorra / Slovakia vs Armenia / Russia vs Republic of Ireland
7 Oct 2011 - Slovakia vs Russia / Armenia vs FYROM / Andorra vs Republic of Ireland
11 Oct 2011 - Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia

Mathematically,Russia,Ireland,Slovakia,Armenia & even Macedonia r still in the running 4 the final Group Winner spot.
But the Group Winner & Group Runner-Up perhaps should be among Russia,Ireland & Slovakia.
Will go with Russia finishing as Group Winner, & Ireland as Group Runner-Up.


Group C
Italy P6 W5 D1 L0 GS14 GA1 GD+13 Pts 16
Slovenia P7 W3 D2 L2 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 11
Serbia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA9 GD-1 Pts 8
Estonia P7 W2 D1 L4 GS7 GA11 GD-4 Pts 7
Northern Ireland P5 W1 D3 L1 GS3 GA3 GD0 Pts 6
Faroe Islands P7 W1 D1 L5 GS5 GA18 GD-13 Pts 4

10 Aug 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Faroe Islands
2 Sept 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Serbia / Slovenia vs Estonia / Faroe Islands vs Italy
6 Sept 2011 - Estonia vs Northern Ireland / Italy vs Slovenia / Serbia vs Faroe Islands
7 Oct 2011 - Serbia vs Italy / Northern Ireland vs Estonia
11 Oct 2011 - Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland

Although the Group Winner has yet 2 be determine, but will go with Italy finishing as Group Winner, & Slovenia as final Group Runner-Up.


Group D
France P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA2 GD+7 Pts 13
Belarus P7 W3 D3 L1 GS6 GA2 GD+4 Pts 12
Bosnia-Herzegovina P6 W3 D1 L2 GS8 GA7 GD+1 Pts 10
Romania P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA6 GD+2 Pts 8
Albania P6 W2 D2 L2 GS4 GA6 GD-2 Pts 8
Luxembourg P7 W0 D1 L6 GS1 GA13 GD-12 Pts 1

2 Sept 2011 - Belarus vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs France / Luxembourg vs Romania
6 Sept 2011 - Luxembourg vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Belarus
/ Romania vs France
7 Oct 2011 - Romania vs Belarus / France vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Luxembourg
11 Oct 2011 - France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania

Will go with France finishing as Group D winner, & Bosnia-Herzegovina as final Group Runner-Up.


Group E
Netherlands P6 W6 D0 L0 GS21 GA5 GD+16 Pts 18
Sweden P6 W5 D0 L1 GS20 GA6 GD+14 Pts 15
Hungary P7 W4 D0 L3 GS18 GA13 GD+5 Pts 12
Finland P6 W2 D0 L4 GS11 GA11 GD0 Pts 6
Moldova P6 W2 D0 L4 GS7 GA9 GD-2 Pts 6
San Marino P7 W0 D0 L7 GS0 GA33 GD-33 Pts 0

2 Sept 2011 - Netherlands vs San Marino / Hungary vs Sweden / Finland vs Moldova
6 Sept 2011 - Finland vs Netherlands / San Marino vs Sweden / Moldova vs Hungary
7 Oct 2011 - Finland vs Sweden / Netherlands vs Moldova
11 Oct 2011 - Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino

Netherlands should finish as Group Winner, while Sweden should be the final Group Runner-Up.

[joew2005]

The final 9 group winners + the best final runner-up among the 9 runner-ups shall clinch 10 auto berth 2 EURO2012. (10 teams)
Another 2 tickets already taken up by hosts Ukraine & Poland. (2 teams)
The other 8 final runner-ups will face a 2-legged play-off 2 complete the 16-team line-up. (4 teams)
Groups 1 to Group 6 will hv results involving the nation which finishes bottom of their group removed 2 determine the best runner-ups.

The 1st leg of the play-offs shall be on 11/12 Nov 2011 & the 2nd legs on 15 Nov 2011


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012_qualifying


Group F
Greece P6 W4 D2 L0 GS8 GA3 GD+5 Pts 14
Croatia P6 W4 D1 L1 GS10 GA3 GD+7 Pts 13
Israel P7 W4 D1 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 13
Georgia P7 W2 D3 L2 GS5 GA5 GD0 Pts 9
Latvia P6 W1 D1 L4 GS5 GA9 GD-4 Pts 4
Malta P6 W0 D0 L6 GS2 GA13 GD-11 Pts 0

2 Sept 2011 - Israel vs Greece / Malta vs Croatia / Georgia vs Latvia
6 Sept 2011 - Malta vs Georgia / Latvia vs Greece / Croatia vs Israel
7 Oct 2011 - Greece vs Croatia / Latvia vs Malta
11 Oct 2011 - Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

Greece & Croatia looks 2 be the better teams 2 top this group.
I will go with Greece winning this group, & Croatia 2 finish as Runner-Up.


Group G
England P5 W3 D2 L0 GS11 GA3 GD+8 Pts 11
Montenegro P5 W3 D2 L0 GS4 GA1 GD+3 Pts 11
Switzerland P5 W1 D2 L2 GS7 GA7 GD0 Pts 5
Bulgaria P5 W1 D2 L2 GS2 GA6 GD-4 Pts 5
Wales P4 W0 D0 L4 GS1 GA8 GD-7 Pts 0

2 Sept 2011 - Wales vs Montenegro / Bulgaria vs England
6 Sept 2011 - England vs Wales / Switzerland vs Bulgaria
7 Oct 2011 - Montenegro vs England / Wales vs Switzerland
11 Oct 2011 - Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro

Either England or Montenegro should win this group.
My heart will go with England,but ...


Group H
Portugal P5 W3 D1 L1 GS11 GA7 GD+4 Pts 10
Denmark P5 W3 D1 L1 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 10
Norway P5 W3 D1 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 10
Cyprus P4 W0 D2 L2 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 2
Iceland P5 W0 D1 L4 GS2 GA8 GD-6 Pts 1

2 Sept 2011 - Norway vs Iceland / Cyprus vs Portugal
6 Sept 2011 - Iceland vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Norway
7 Oct 2011 - Cyprus vs Denmark / Portugal vs Iceland
11 Oct 2011 - Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

The top is veri tight in this group.
Will go with Portugal winning this group, & Denmark finishing as Runner-Up.


Group I
Spain P5 W5 D0 L0 GS15 GA5 GD+10 Pts 15
Czech Republic P5 W3 D0 L2 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 9
Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
Lithuania P4 W1 D1 L2 GS3 GA6 GD-3 Pts 4
Liechtenstein P5 W1 D0 L4 GS3 GA10 GD-7 Pts 3

2 Sept 2011 - Lithuania vs Liechtenstein
3 Sept 2011 - Scotland vs Czech Republic
6 Sept 2011 - Scotland vs Lithuania / Spain vs Liechtenstein
7 Oct 2011 - Czech Republic vs Spain
8 Oct 2011 - Liechtenstein vs Scotland
11 Oct 2011 - Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland

Spain is good enough 2 win this group, while Czech should finish as Runner-Up.

[joew2005]

Group C
Italy P6 W5 D1 L0 GS14 GA1 GD+13 Pts 16
Slovenia P7 W3 D2 L2 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 11
Northern Ireland P6 W2 D3 L1 GS7 GA3 GD+4 Pts 9
Serbia P6 W2 D2 L2 GS8 GA9 GD-1 Pts 8
Estonia P7 W2 D1 L4 GS7 GA11 GD-4 Pts 7
Faroe Islands P8 W1 D1 L6 GS5 GA22 GD-17 Pts 4

10 Aug 2011 : Northern Ireland 4 - 0 Faroe Islands

With this win over Faroe Islands last Wednesday,Northern Ireland moved up fr 5th position in the group to 3rd position.

[joew2005]

Upcoimg qualification games in Sept 2011

Group A
2 Sept 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Belgium / Turkey vs Kazakhstan / Germany vs Austria
6 Sept 2011 - Azerbaijan vs Kazakhstan / Austria vs Turkey

Group B
2 Sept 2011 - Russia vs FYROM / Republic of Ireland vs Slovakia / Andorra vs Armenia
6 Sept 2011 - FYROM vs Andorra / Slovakia vs Armenia / Russia vs Republic of Ireland

Group C
2 Sept 2011 - Northern Ireland vs Serbia / Slovenia vs Estonia / Faroe Islands vs Italy
6 Sept 2011 - Estonia vs Northern Ireland / Italy vs Slovenia / Serbia vs Faroe Islands

Group D
2 Sept 2011 - Belarus vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs France / Luxembourg vs Romania
6 Sept 2011 - Luxembourg vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Belarus / Romania vs France

Group E
2 Sept 2011 - Netherlands vs San Marino / Hungary vs Sweden / Finland vs Moldova
6 Sept 2011 - Finland vs Netherlands / San Marino vs Sweden / Moldova vs Hungary

Group F
2 Sept 2011 - Israel vs Greece / Malta vs Croatia / Georgia vs Latvia
6 Sept 2011 - Malta vs Georgia / Latvia vs Greece / Croatia vs Israel

Group G
2 Sept 2011 - Wales vs Montenegro / Bulgaria vs England
6 Sept 2011 - England vs Wales / Switzerland vs Bulgaria

Group H
2 Sept 2011 - Norway vs Iceland / Cyprus vs Portugal
6 Sept 2011 - Iceland vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Norway

Group I
2 Sept 2011 - Lithuania vs Liechtenstein
3 Sept 2011 - Scotland vs Czech Republic
6 Sept 2011 - Scotland vs Lithuania / Spain vs Liechtenstein

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 24 Aug 2011.
Next update on 21 Sept 2011.

1. Netherlands (Fifa 1)
2. Spain (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 3)
4. England (Fifa 4)
5. Italy (Fifa 7)
6. Portugal (Fifa 8)
7. Croatia (Fifa 10)
8. Norway (Fifa 12)
9. Russia (Fifa 13)
10. Greece (Fifa 14)
11. France (Fifa 15)
12. Sweden (Fifa 18)
13. Montenegro (Fifa 19)
14. Denmark (Fifa 21)
15. Slovenia (Fifa 23)
16. Turkey (Fifa 24)
17. Slovakia (Fifa 26)
18. Serbia (Fifa 29)
19. Switzerland (Fifa 30)
20. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 31)
21. Israel (Fifa 32)
22. Belgium (Fifa 37)
23. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 39)
24. Belarus (Fifa 41)
25. Czech Republic (Fifa 42)
26. Hungary (Fifa 45)
27. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 48)
28. Bulgaria (Fifa 51)
29. Romania (Fifa 54)
30. Scotland (Fifa 55)
31. Lithuania (Fifa 56)
32. Albania (Fifa 57)
33. Northern Ireland (Fifa 59)
34. Georgia (Fifa 63)
35. Co-host Poland (Fifa 65)
36. Austria (Fifa 68)
37. Armenia (Fifa 71)
38. Cyprus (Fifa 76)
39. Finland (Fifa 79)
40. Latvia (Fifa 84)
41. Estonia (Fifa 86)
42. Moldova (Fifa 88)
43. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 90)
44. Faroe Islands (Fifa 111)
45. Azerbaijan (Fifa 112)
46. Wales (Fifa 117)
47. Liechtenstein (Fifa 119)
48. Iceland (Fifa 124)
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 126)
50. Luxembourg (Fifa 128)
51. Malta (Fifa 167)
52. Andorra (Fifa 203)
52. San Marino (Fifa 203)

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=207

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/951908/ireland-striker-robbie-keane-targets-qualifying-top-spot?cc=4716

Keane targets top spot with Ireland
September 2, 2011

Republic of Ireland skipper Robbie Keane is determined 2 avoid another bout of play-off misery by securing an automatic passage 2 next summer's Euro 2012 finals.

LA Galaxy striker Keane will lead his country in2 battle against Slovakia @ the Aviva Stadium on Friday knowing tat victory would send them in2 Tuesday's crunch clash with Russia in Moscow with top spot in Group B very much up 4 grabs.

Ireland hv not made the finals of a major tournament since the 2002 WC in the Far East, & aft a heartbreaking & controversial play-off defeat by France which cost them a trip 2 South Africa last summer, Giovanni Trapattoni's men r determined 2 leave nothing 2 chance tis time around.

Keane said: "Our main aim is 2 win the group. You don't go in2 any group & think tat u 1 2 finish 2nd.

"Circumstances change tat, but we r here 2 win the group. We don't 1 2 be in those play-offs again - we hv been in the play-offs way 2 many times & it hasn't gone our way on a few occasions."

Ireland, Slovakia & Russia head in2 the latest round of fixtures locked 2gether on 13 points, & the Republic know they may hv to avenge their 3-2 home defeat by the Russians in October if they r 2 claim top spot 4 good.

However, they cannot afford 2 slip up 2night if they r 2 run out @ the Luzhniki Stadium with their fate still in their own hands.

Keane said: "Every game is a must-win game, especially @ tis stage, becos where we r now, it's important we don't lose any games now.

"These 2 games r the 2 toughest tat we could face. We go in2 every game wanting 2 win, so it will be no different 2morrow, & we will certainly not go in2 the game thinking abt Russia or the games aft.

"We r concentrated on 2morrow & focussed on getting 3 points, tat's our main aim."

Ireland drew 1-1 in Slovakia 4 days aft their disappointment against Russia, although Keane had a penalty saved in Zilina as 2 precious points slipped away.

But while they know the face a tough test 1s again, they r confident tat they can emerge victorious aft a run of 4 wins & a draw in their last 5 games.

Keane, who will be partnered up front by Shane Long rather than Kevin Doyle, said: "The performance was really good over there. We dominated most of the game, so we will be looking 2 do the same 2morrow.

"We will put pressure on ourselves 2 do the same as we did over there & obviously get the 3 points, which is wat we r looking 4."

[joew2005]

Group A
Germany P8 W8 D0 L0 GS28 GA5 GD+23 Pts 24
Turkey P7 W4 D1 L2 GS11 GA8 GD+3 Pts 13
Belgium P8 W3 D3 L2 GS16 GA11 GD+5 Pts 12
Austria P7 W2 D1 L4 GS12 GA16 GD-4 Pts 7
Azerbaijan P7 W1 D1 L5 GS6 GA19 GD-13 Pts 4
Kazakhstan P7 W1 D0 L6 GS3 GA17 GD-14 Pts 3

2 Sept 2011 : Azerbaijan 1-1 Belgium / Turkey 2-1 Kazakhstan / Germany 6-2 Austria
6 Sept 2011 : Azerbaijan vs Kazakhstan / Austria vs Turkey
7 Oct 2011 : Belgium vs Kazakhstan / Turkey vs Germany / Azerbaijan vs Austria
11 Oct 2011 : Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan

Germany has won Group A.
Turkey has consolidated their Group Runner-Up position.


Group B
Russia P7 W5 D1 L1 GS10 GA4 GD+6 Pts 16
Ireland P7 W4 D2 L1 GS11 GA6 GD+5 Pts 14
Slovakia P7 W4 D2 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 14
Armenia P7 W3 D2 L2 GS13 GA7 GD+6 Pts 11
Macedonia P7 W1 D1 L5 GS5 GA9 GD-4 Pts 4
Andorra P7 W0 D0 L7 GS1 GA16 GD-15 Pts 0

2 Sept 2011 : Russia 1-0 FYROM / Republic of Ireland 0-0 Slovakia / Andorra 0-3 Armenia
6 Sept 2011 : FYROM vs Andorra / Slovakia vs Armenia / Russia vs Republic of Ireland
7 Oct 2011 : Slovakia vs Russia / Armenia vs FYROM / Andorra vs Republic of Ireland
11 Oct 2011 : Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia

Russia has taken the lead 2 win this Group, whereas the Runner-Up spot is still tight betw Ireland & Slovakia.


Group C
Italy P7 W6 D1 L0 GS15 GA1 GD+14 Pts 19
Slovenia P8 W3 D2 L3 GS10 GA6 GD+4 Pts 11
Serbia P7 W3 D2 L2 GS9 GA9 GD0 Pts 11
Estonia P8 W3 D1 L4 GS9 GA12 GD-3 Pts 10
Northern Ireland P7 W2 D3 L2 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 9
Faroe Islands P9 W1 D1 L7 GS5 GA23 GD-18 Pts 4

2 Sept 2011 : Northern Ireland 0-1 Serbia / Slovenia 1-2 Estonia / Faroe Islands 0-1 Italy
6 Sept 2011 : Estonia vs Northern Ireland / Italy vs Slovenia / Serbia vs Faroe Islands
7 Oct 2011 : Serbia vs Italy / Northern Ireland vs Estonia
11 Oct 2011 : Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland

Italy has consolidated their Group Winner spot, & only require a point fr their last 3 games 2 win this group.
The Runner-Up spot is still very much 4 grab.Slovenia leads the pack now, but Serbia is charging up.


Group D
France P7 W5 D1 L1 GS11 GA3 GD+8 Pts 16
Bosnia-Herzegovina P7 W4 D1 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 13
Belarus P8 W3 D3 L2 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 12
Romania P7 W3 D2 L2 GS10 GA6 GD+4 Pts 11
Albania P7 W2 D2 L3 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 8
Luxembourg P8 W0 D1 L7 GS1 GA15 GD-14 Pts 1

2 Sept 2011 : Belarus 0-2 Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania 1-2 France / Luxembourg 0-2 Romania
6 Sept 2011 : Luxembourg vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Belarus
/ Romania vs France
7 Oct 2011 : Romania vs Belarus / France vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Luxembourg
11 Oct 2011 : France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania

France & Bosnia-Herzegovina has consolidated their spots as Group Winner & Group Runner-Up respectively.


Group E
Netherlands P7 W7 D0 L0 GS32 GA5 GD+27 Pts 21
Sweden P7 W5 D0 L2 GS21 GA8 GD+13 Pts 15
Hungary P8 W5 D0 L3 GS20 GA14 GD+6 Pts 15
Finland P7 W3 D0 L4 GS15 GA12 GD+3 Pts 9
Moldova P7 W2 D0 L5 GS8 GA13 GD-5 Pts 6
San Marino P8 W0 D0 L8 GS0 GA44 GD-44 Pts 0

2 Sept 2011 : Netherlands 11-0 San Marino / Hungary 2-1 Sweden / Finland 4-1 Moldova
6 Sept 2011 : Finland vs Netherlands / San Marino vs Sweden / Moldova vs Hungary
7 Oct 2011 : Finland vs Sweden / Netherlands vs Moldova
11 Oct 2011 : Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino

Netherlands has won Group E.
Sweden is leading the race 2 finish as Group Runner-Up,with a better GD only.


Group F
Greece P7 W5 D2 L0 GS9 GA3 GD+6 Pts 17
Croatia P7 W5 D1 L1 GS13 GA4 GD+9 Pts 16
Israel P8 W4 D1 L3 GS10 GA8 GD+2 Pts 13
Georgia P8 W2 D3 L3 GS5 GA6 GD-1 Pts 9
Latvia P7 W2 D1 L4 GS5 GA10 GD-5 Pts 7
Malta P7 W0 D0 L7 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 0

2 Sept 2011 : Israel 0-1 Greece / Malta 1-3 Croatia / Georgia 0-1 Latvia
6 Sept 2011 : Malta vs Georgia / Latvia vs Greece / Croatia vs Israel
7 Oct 2011 : Greece vs Croatia / Latvia vs Malta
11 Oct 2011 : Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

Greece & Croatia r leading the group.


Group G
England P6 W4 D2 L0 GS14 GA3 GD+11 Pts 14
Montenegro P6 W3 D2 L1 GS5 GA3 GD+2 Pts 11
Switzerland P5 W1 D2 L2 GS7 GA7 GD0 Pts 5
Bulgaria P6 W1 D2 L3 GS2 GA9 GD-7 Pts 5
Wales P5 W1 D0 L4 GS3 GA9 GD-6 Pts 3

2 Sept 2011 : Wales 2-1 Montenegro / Bulgaria 0-3 England
6 Sept 2011 : England vs Wales / Switzerland vs Bulgaria
7 Oct 2011 : Montenegro vs England / Wales vs Switzerland
11 Oct 2011 : Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro

England & Montenegro leads the group.


Group H
Portugal P6 W4 D1 L1 GS15 GA7 GD+8 Pts 13
Norway P6 W4 D1 L1 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 13
Denmark P5 W3 D1 L1 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 10
Cyprus P5 W0 D2 L3 GS5 GA12 GD-7 Pts 2
Iceland P6 W0 D1 L5 GS2 GA9 GD-7 Pts 1

2 Sept 2011 : Norway 1-0 Iceland / Cyprus 0-4 Portugal
6 Sept 2011 : Iceland vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Norway
7 Oct 2011 : Cyprus vs Denmark / Portugal vs Iceland
11 Oct 2011 : Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

Portugal & Norway lead the group,but Denmark has a game in hand.


Group I
Spain P5 W5 D0 L0 GS15 GA5 GD+10 Pts 15
Czech Republic P5 W3 D0 L2 GS6 GA3 GD+3 Pts 9
Lithuania P5 W1 D2 L2 GS3 GA6 GD-3 Pts 5
Scotland P4 W1 D1 L2 GS4 GA5 GD-1 Pts 4
Liechtenstein P6 W1 D1 L4 GS3 GA10 GD-7 Pts 4

2 Sept 2011 : Lithuania 0-0 Liechtenstein
3 Sept 2011 : Scotland vs Czech Republic
6 Sept 2011 : Scotland vs Lithuania / Spain vs Liechtenstein
7 Oct 2011 : Czech Republic vs Spain
8 Oct 2011 : Liechtenstein vs Scotland
11 Oct 2011 : Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland

Spain is good enough 2 win this group, while Czech should finish as Runner-Up.

[joew2005]

Teams Tat Hv Already Qualified 4 The Finals

1) Co-host - Poland
2) Co-host - Ukraine
3) Group A Winner - Germany
4) Group B Winner -
5) Group C Winner -
6) Group D Winner -
7) Group E Winner - Netherlands
8) Group F Winner -
9) Group G Winner -
10) Group H Winner -
11) Group I Winner -
12) Best Runner Up -
13) Playoff Winner -
14) Playoff Winner -
15) Playoff Winner -
16) Playoff Winner -

[Huge Dog]

Scotland draw 2:2 with Czech Rep ... good match :D

[joew2005]

Group A
Germany P8 W8 D0 L0 GS28 GA5 GD+23 Pts 24
Turkey P7 W4 D1 L2 GS11 GA8 GD+3 Pts 13
Belgium P8 W3 D3 L2 GS16 GA11 GD+5 Pts 12
Austria P7 W2 D1 L4 GS12 GA16 GD-4 Pts 7
Azerbaijan P7 W1 D1 L5 GS6 GA19 GD-13 Pts 4
Kazakhstan P7 W1 D0 L6 GS3 GA17 GD-14 Pts 3

6 Sept 2011 : Azerbaijan vs Kazakhstan / Austria vs Turkey
7 Oct 2011 : Belgium vs Kazakhstan / Turkey vs Germany / Azerbaijan vs Austria
11 Oct 2011 : Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan

Group A winner is Germany.
Group A runner-up spot is for Turkey 2 lose.


Group B
Russia P7 W5 D1 L1 GS10 GA4 GD+6 Pts 16
Ireland P7 W4 D2 L1 GS11 GA6 GD+5 Pts 14
Slovakia P7 W4 D2 L1 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 14
Armenia P7 W3 D2 L2 GS13 GA7 GD+6 Pts 11
Macedonia P7 W1 D1 L5 GS5 GA9 GD-4 Pts 4
Andorra P7 W0 D0 L7 GS1 GA16 GD-15 Pts 0

6 Sept 2011 : FYROM vs Andorra / Slovakia vs Armenia / Russia vs Republic of Ireland
7 Oct 2011 : Slovakia vs Russia / Armenia vs FYROM / Andorra vs Republic of Ireland
11 Oct 2011 : Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia

Russia is leading tis Group with 3 games remaining, whereas the runner-up spot shall be determine betw Ireland & Slovakia.


Group C
Italy P7 W6 D1 L0 GS15 GA1 GD+14 Pts 19
Slovenia P8 W3 D2 L3 GS10 GA6 GD+4 Pts 11
Serbia P7 W3 D2 L2 GS9 GA9 GD0 Pts 11
Estonia P8 W3 D1 L4 GS9 GA12 GD-3 Pts 10
Northern Ireland P7 W2 D3 L2 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 9
Faroe Islands P9 W1 D1 L7 GS5 GA23 GD-18 Pts 4

6 Sept 2011 : Estonia vs Northern Ireland / Italy vs Slovenia / Serbia vs Faroe Islands
7 Oct 2011 : Serbia vs Italy / Northern Ireland vs Estonia
11 Oct 2011 : Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland

Italy can win tis group by getting @ least a draw against Slovenia next Tues.
The runner-up spot is betw Slovenia & Serbia.


Group D
France P7 W5 D1 L1 GS11 GA3 GD+8 Pts 16
Bosnia-Herzegovina P7 W4 D1 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 13
Belarus P8 W3 D3 L2 GS6 GA4 GD+2 Pts 12
Romania P7 W3 D2 L2 GS10 GA6 GD+4 Pts 11
Albania P7 W2 D2 L3 GS5 GA8 GD-3 Pts 8
Luxembourg P8 W0 D1 L7 GS1 GA15 GD-14 Pts 1

6 Sept 2011 : Luxembourg vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Belarus
/ Romania vs France
7 Oct 2011 : Romania vs Belarus / France vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Luxembourg
11 Oct 2011 : France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania

France & Bosnia-Herzegovina looks good 2 finish as winner & runner-up of tis group respectively.


Group E
Netherlands P7 W7 D0 L0 GS32 GA5 GD+27 Pts 21
Sweden P7 W5 D0 L2 GS21 GA8 GD+13 Pts 15
Hungary P8 W5 D0 L3 GS20 GA14 GD+6 Pts 15
Finland P7 W3 D0 L4 GS15 GA12 GD+3 Pts 9
Moldova P7 W2 D0 L5 GS8 GA13 GD-5 Pts 6
San Marino P8 W0 D0 L8 GS0 GA44 GD-44 Pts 0

6 Sept 2011 : Finland vs Netherlands / San Marino vs Sweden / Moldova vs Hungary
7 Oct 2011 : Finland vs Sweden / Netherlands vs Moldova
11 Oct 2011 : Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino

Group E winner is Netherlands.
Group E runner-up spot is for Sweden 2 lose.


Group F
Greece P7 W5 D2 L0 GS9 GA3 GD+6 Pts 17
Croatia P7 W5 D1 L1 GS13 GA4 GD+9 Pts 16
Israel P8 W4 D1 L3 GS10 GA8 GD+2 Pts 13
Georgia P8 W2 D3 L3 GS5 GA6 GD-1 Pts 9
Latvia P7 W2 D1 L4 GS5 GA10 GD-5 Pts 7
Malta P7 W0 D0 L7 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 0

6 Sept 2011 : Malta vs Georgia / Latvia vs Greece / Croatia vs Israel
7 Oct 2011 : Greece vs Croatia / Latvia vs Malta
11 Oct 2011 : Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

Greece & Croatia looks good 2 finish top of tis group.


Group G
England P6 W4 D2 L0 GS14 GA3 GD+11 Pts 14
Montenegro P6 W3 D2 L1 GS5 GA3 GD+2 Pts 11
Switzerland P5 W1 D2 L2 GS7 GA7 GD0 Pts 5
Bulgaria P6 W1 D2 L3 GS2 GA9 GD-7 Pts 5
Wales P5 W1 D0 L4 GS3 GA9 GD-6 Pts 3

6 Sept 2011 : England vs Wales / Switzerland vs Bulgaria
7 Oct 2011 : Montenegro vs England / Wales vs Switzerland
11 Oct 2011 : Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro

England will win tis group if they get all 3 points against Wales next tues.
Montenegro looks good enough 4 @ least the runner-up spot.


Group H
Portugal P6 W4 D1 L1 GS15 GA7 GD+8 Pts 13
Norway P6 W4 D1 L1 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 13
Denmark P5 W3 D1 L1 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 10
Cyprus P5 W0 D2 L3 GS5 GA12 GD-7 Pts 2
Iceland P6 W0 D1 L5 GS2 GA9 GD-7 Pts 1

6 Sept 2011 : Iceland vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Norway
7 Oct 2011 : Cyprus vs Denmark / Portugal vs Iceland
11 Oct 2011 : Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

Portugal & Norway lead the group,but Denmark has a game in hand.


Group I
Spain P5 W5 D0 L0 GS15 GA5 GD+10 Pts 15
Czech Republic P6 W3 D1 L2 GS8 GA5 GD+3 Pts 10
Scotland P5 W1 D2 L2 GS6 GA7 GD-1 Pts 5
Lithuania P5 W1 D2 L2 GS3 GA6 GD-3 Pts 5
Liechtenstein P6 W1 D1 L4 GS3 GA10 GD-7 Pts 4

3 Sept 2011 : Scotland 2-2 Czech Republic
6 Sept 2011 : Scotland vs Lithuania / Spain vs Liechtenstein
7 Oct 2011 : Czech Republic vs Spain
8 Oct 2011 : Liechtenstein vs Scotland
11 Oct 2011 : Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland

Spain is good enough 2 win this group.
Czech should finish as runner-up.

[sgbet]

very suprised by Netherland's victory...i think it makes them to be a great champions contender in this EURO...but still i think Spain are still the favourite team in this tournament

[Castrol]

3 Sept 2011 : Scotland 2-2 Czech Republic


if not for the referee the scots should have beaten the czechs.

he awarded the czechs a penalty when there was completely no contact.
shortly after the czechs scored from the spot, he waved play on when a scots player was clearly tripped in the box.

even the commentator was astonished and puzzled after watching the replay. now the scots probably have to watch euro 2012 at home.
what can done to eliminate such blunders?

[joew2005]

Group A
Germany P8 W8 D0 L0 GS28 GA5 GD+23 Pts 24
Turkey P8 W4 D2 L2 GS11 GA8 GD+3 Pts 14
Belgium P8 W3 D3 L2 GS16 GA11 GD+5 Pts 12
Austria P8 W2 D2 L4 GS12 GA16 GD-4 Pts 8
Azerbaijan P8 W2 D1 L5 GS9 GA21 GD-12 Pts 7
Kazakhstan P8 W1 D0 L7 GS5 GA20 GD-15 Pts 3

6 Sept 2011 : Azerbaijan 3-2 Kazakhstan / Austria 0-0 Turkey
7 Oct 2011 : Belgium vs Kazakhstan / Turkey vs Germany / Azerbaijan vs Austria
11 Oct 2011 : Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan

Group A winner is Germany.
Group A runner-up spot is for Turkey 2 lose.


Group B
Russia P8 W5 D2 L1 GS10 GA4 GD+6 Pts 17
Ireland P8 W4 D3 L1 GS11 GA6 GD+5 Pts 15
Armenia P8 W4 D2 L2 GS17 GA7 GD+10 Pts 14
Slovakia P8 W4 D2 L2 GS6 GA8 GD-2 Pts 14
Macedonia P8 W2 D1 L5 GS6 GA9 GD-3 Pts 7
Andorra P8 W0 D0 L8 GS1 GA17 GD-16 Pts 0

6 Sept 2011 : FYROM 1-0 Andorra / Slovakia 0-4 Armenia / Russia 0-0 Republic of Ireland
7 Oct 2011 : Slovakia vs Russia / Armenia vs FYROM / Andorra vs Republic of Ireland
11 Oct 2011 : Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia

Russia is leading tis Group with 3 games remaining, whereas the runner-up spot shall be determine betw Ireland, Armenia Slovakia.


Group C
Italy P8 W7 D1 L0 GS16 GA1 GD+15 Pts 22
Serbia P8 W4 D2 L2 GS12 GA10 GD+2 Pts 14
Estonia P9 W4 D1 L4 GS13 GA13 GD0 Pts 13
Slovenia P9 W3 D2 L4 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 11
Northern Ireland P8 W2 D3 L3 GS8 GA8 GD0 Pts 9
Faroe Islands P10 W1 D1 L8 GS6 GA26 GD-20 Pts 4

6 Sept 2011 : Estonia 4-1 Northern Ireland / Italy 1-0 Slovenia / Serbia 3-1 Faroe Islands
7 Oct 2011 : Serbia vs Italy / Northern Ireland vs Estonia
11 Oct 2011 : Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland

Italy has won tis group.
The runner-up spot is Serbia 2 lose.


Group D
France P8 W5 D2 L1 GS11 GA3 GD+8 Pts 17
Bosnia-Herzegovina P8 W5 D1 L2 GS11 GA7 GD+4 Pts 16
Romania P8 W3 D3 L2 GS10 GA6 GD+4 Pts 12
Belarus P9 W3 D3 L3 GS6 GA5 GD+1 Pts 12
Albania P8 W2 D2 L4 GS6 GA10 GD-4 Pts 8
Luxembourg P9 W1 D1 L7 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 4

6 Sept 2011 : Luxembourg 2-1 Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina 1-0 Belarus
/ Romania 0-0 France
7 Oct 2011 : Romania vs Belarus / France vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Luxembourg
11 Oct 2011 : France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania

France & Bosnia-Herzegovina looks good 2 finish as winner & runner-up of tis group respectively.


Group E
Netherlands P8 W8 D0 L0 GS34 GA5 GD+29 Pts 24
Sweden P8 W6 D0 L2 GS26 GA8 GD+18 Pts 18
Hungary P9 W6 D0 L3 GS22 GA14 GD+8 Pts 18
Finland P8 W3 D0 L5 GS15 GA14 GD+1 Pts 9
Moldova P8 W2 D0 L6 GS8 GA15 GD-7 Pts 6
San Marino P9 W0 D0 L9 GS0 GA49 GD-49 Pts 0

6 Sept 2011 : Finland 0-2 Netherlands / San Marino 0-5 Sweden / Moldova 0-2 Hungary
7 Oct 2011 : Finland vs Sweden / Netherlands vs Moldova
11 Oct 2011 : Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino

Group E winner is Netherlands.
Group E runner-up spot is for Sweden 2 lose.


Group F
Croatia P8 W6 D1 L1 GS16 GA5 GD+11 Pts 19
Greece P8 W5 D3 L0 GS10 GA4 GD+6 Pts 18
Israel P8 W4 D1 L3 GS10 GA8 GD+2 Pts 13
Georgia P9 W2 D4 L3 GS6 GA7 GD-1 Pts 10
Latvia P8 W2 D2 L4 GS6 GA11 GD-5 Pts 8
Malta P8 W0 D1 L7 GS4 GA17 GD-13 Pts 1

6 Sept 2011 : Malta 1-1 Georgia / Latvia 1-1 Greece / Croatia 3-1 Israel
7 Oct 2011 : Greece vs Croatia / Latvia vs Malta
11 Oct 2011 : Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

Greece & Croatia looks good 2 finish top of tis group.


Group G
England P7 W5 D2 L0 GS15 GA3 GD+12 Pts 17
Montenegro P6 W3 D2 L1 GS5 GA3 GD+2 Pts 11
Switzerland P6 W2 D2 L2 GS10 GA8 GD+2 Pts 8
Bulgaria P7 W1 D2 L4 GS3 GA12 GD-9 Pts 5
Wales P6 W1 D0 L5 GS3 GA10 GD-7 Pts 3

6 Sept 2011 : England 1-0 Wales / Switzerland 3-1 Bulgaria
7 Oct 2011 : Montenegro vs England / Wales vs Switzerland
11 Oct 2011 : Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro

England will win tis group.
Montenegro looks good enough 4 @ least the runner-up spot.


Group H
Portugal P6 W4 D1 L1 GS15 GA7 GD+8 Pts 13
Denmark P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 13
Norway P6 W4 D1 L1 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 13
Iceland P7 W1 D1 L5 GS3 GA9 GD-6 Pts 4
Cyprus P6 W0 D2 L4 GS5 GA13 GD-8 Pts 2

6 Sept 2011 : Iceland 1-0 Cyprus / Denmark 2-0 Norway
7 Oct 2011 : Cyprus vs Denmark / Portugal vs Iceland
11 Oct 2011 : Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

Portugal,Norway & Denmark r all still in the race.


Group I
Spain P6 W6 D0 L0 GS21 GA5 GD+16 Pts 18
Czech Republic P6 W3 D1 L2 GS8 GA5 GD+3 Pts 10
Scotland P6 W2 D2 L2 GS7 GA7 GD0 Pts 8
Lithuania P6 W1 D2 L3 GS3 GA7 GD-4 Pts 5
Liechtenstein P7 W1 D1 L5 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 4

6 Sept 2011 : Scotland 1-0 Lithuania / Spain 6-0 Liechtenstein
7 Oct 2011 : Czech Republic vs Spain
8 Oct 2011 : Liechtenstein vs Scotland
11 Oct 2011 : Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland

Spain has won this group.
Czech should finish as runner-up.

[joew2005]

Teams Tat Hv Already Qualified 4 The Finals

1) Co-host - Poland
2) Co-host - Ukraine
3) Group A Winner - Germany
4) Group B Winner -
5) Group C Winner - Italy
6) Group D Winner -
7) Group E Winner - Netherlands
8) Group F Winner -
9) Group G Winner - England
10) Group H Winner -
11) Group I Winner - Spain
12) Best Runner Up -
13) Playoff Winner -
14) Playoff Winner -
15) Playoff Winner -
16) Playoff Winner -

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/954103/montenegro-sack-zlatko-kranjcar-ahead-of-crunch-euro-2012-games?cc=4716

Kranjcar sacked by Montenegro
September 8, 2011

Zlatko Kranjcar has been sacked as Montenegro coach & replaced by his assistant Branko Brnovic ahead of crunch Euro 2012 qualifiers against England & Switzerland in October.

Montenegro r currently in 2nd place in Group G & 6 points behind England, who only need a point 2 reach next summer's finals, while they hv a 3-point lead over 3rd-placed Switzerland

Kranjcar's Montenegro were quick out of the blocks in Euro 2012 qualifying, but they drew 1-1 @ home to Bulgaria in June b4 back-2-back defeats against Albania & Wales.

"Aft the latest round of qualifiers, the position of our team is not as comfortable as it was b4, esp b4 the match against Bulgaria & then Wales,'' FCSG secretary general Momir Durdevac said.

"It had appeared we would either qualify directly or @ least finish 2nd safely, & so become a play-off participant, but aft the last 2 results we r now in a situation where we enter in2 the final round of qualifiers with a great deal of uncertainty.

"Analysing the reasons 4 tis, the board concluded tat the coach Zlatko Kranjcar had not performed 2 his best, esp in the last 2 matches, & unanimously decided 2 dismiss the coach.

"Tis decision is not easy, but we considered a number of reasons & tis is the only possible & correct solution @ tis point.''

Kranjcar, 54, a former Yugoslavia & Croatia international, took charge of the team in February 2010 aft a nomadic career in club football & oversaw the dramatic start 2 Montenegro's campaign. But he appears a victim of his own success as Montenegro got used 2 the idea of competing 4 a place in a major tournament.

Brnovic, a Montenegrin who played 4 Yugoslavia & Serbia-&-Montenegro, received the backing of FCSG president Dejan Savicevic as he looks 2 salvage the qualification bid, with Savicevic saying he would remain in place 4 the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign.

"He knows the players & all of the problems they hv faced in these 2 cycles, & I believe he is right 4 tis position,'' Savicevic said. "Brnovic will hv the full support of the FSCG & will remain secure until the end of the qualifying campaign 4 the World Cup in Brazil.''

[joew2005]

Group A
Germany P8 W8 D0 L0 GS28 GA5 GD+23 Pts 24
Turkey P8 W4 D2 L2 GS11 GA8 GD+3 Pts 14
Belgium P8 W3 D3 L2 GS16 GA11 GD+5 Pts 12
Austria P8 W2 D2 L4 GS12 GA16 GD-4 Pts 8
Azerbaijan P8 W2 D1 L5 GS9 GA21 GD-12 Pts 7
Kazakhstan P8 W1 D0 L7 GS5 GA20 GD-15 Pts 3

7 Oct : Belgium vs Kazakhstan / Turkey vs Germany / Azerbaijan vs Austria
11 Oct : Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan

Winner - Germany.
Runner-up - Turkey or Belgium.


Group B
Russia P8 W5 D2 L1 GS10 GA4 GD+6 Pts 17
Ireland P8 W4 D3 L1 GS11 GA6 GD+5 Pts 15
Armenia P8 W4 D2 L2 GS17 GA7 GD+10 Pts 14
Slovakia P8 W4 D2 L2 GS6 GA8 GD-2 Pts 14
Macedonia P8 W2 D1 L5 GS6 GA9 GD-3 Pts 7
Andorra P8 W0 D0 L8 GS1 GA17 GD-16 Pts 0

7 Oct : Slovakia vs Russia / Armenia vs FYROM / Andorra vs Republic of Ireland
11 Oct : Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia

Winner - Likely Russia.
Ireland, Armenia & Slovakia r mathetically still in the race 2 finish as group winner.


Group C
Italy P8 W7 D1 L0 GS16 GA1 GD+15 Pts 22
Serbia P8 W4 D2 L2 GS12 GA10 GD+2 Pts 14
Estonia P9 W4 D1 L4 GS13 GA13 GD0 Pts 13
Slovenia P9 W3 D2 L4 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 11
Northern Ireland P8 W2 D3 L3 GS8 GA8 GD0 Pts 9
Faroe Islands P10 W1 D1 L8 GS6 GA26 GD-20 Pts 4

7 Oct : Serbia vs Italy / Northern Ireland vs Estonia
11 Oct : Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland

Winner - Italy.
Runner-up - Likely is Serbia.


Group D
France P8 W5 D2 L1 GS11 GA3 GD+8 Pts 17
Bosnia-Herzegovina P8 W5 D1 L2 GS11 GA7 GD+4 Pts 16
Romania P8 W3 D3 L2 GS10 GA6 GD+4 Pts 12
Belarus P9 W3 D3 L3 GS6 GA5 GD+1 Pts 12
Albania P8 W2 D2 L4 GS6 GA10 GD-4 Pts 8
Luxembourg P9 W1 D1 L7 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 4

7 Oct : Romania vs Belarus / France vs Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina vs Luxembourg
11 Oct : France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania

Winner - Betw France & Bosnia-Herzegovina.


Group E
Netherlands P8 W8 D0 L0 GS34 GA5 GD+29 Pts 24
Sweden P8 W6 D0 L2 GS26 GA8 GD+18 Pts 18
Hungary P9 W6 D0 L3 GS22 GA14 GD+8 Pts 18
Finland P8 W3 D0 L5 GS15 GA14 GD+1 Pts 9
Moldova P8 W2 D0 L6 GS8 GA15 GD-7 Pts 6
San Marino P9 W0 D0 L9 GS0 GA49 GD-49 Pts 0

7 Oct : Finland vs Sweden / Netherlands vs Moldova
11 Oct : Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino

Winner - Netherlands.
Runner-up - Likely to be Sweden.


Group F
Croatia P8 W6 D1 L1 GS16 GA5 GD+11 Pts 19
Greece P8 W5 D3 L0 GS10 GA4 GD+6 Pts 18
Israel P8 W4 D1 L3 GS10 GA8 GD+2 Pts 13
Georgia P9 W2 D4 L3 GS6 GA7 GD-1 Pts 10
Latvia P8 W2 D2 L4 GS6 GA11 GD-5 Pts 8
Malta P8 W0 D1 L7 GS4 GA17 GD-13 Pts 1

7 Oct : Greece vs Croatia / Latvia vs Malta
11 Oct : Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

Winner - Likely 2 be betw Greece & Croatia.


Group G
England P7 W5 D2 L0 GS15 GA3 GD+12 Pts 17
Montenegro P6 W3 D2 L1 GS5 GA3 GD+2 Pts 11
Switzerland P6 W2 D2 L2 GS10 GA8 GD+2 Pts 8
Bulgaria P7 W1 D2 L4 GS3 GA12 GD-9 Pts 5
Wales P6 W1 D0 L5 GS3 GA10 GD-7 Pts 3

7 Oct : Montenegro vs England / Wales vs Switzerland
11 Oct : Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro

Winner - England.
Runner-up - Likely to be Montenegro.


Group H
Portugal P6 W4 D1 L1 GS15 GA7 GD+8 Pts 13
Denmark P6 W4 D1 L1 GS9 GA4 GD+5 Pts 13
Norway P6 W4 D1 L1 GS7 GA4 GD+3 Pts 13
Iceland P7 W1 D1 L5 GS3 GA9 GD-6 Pts 4
Cyprus P6 W0 D2 L4 GS5 GA13 GD-8 Pts 2

7 Oct : Cyprus vs Denmark / Portugal vs Iceland
11 Oct : Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

Winner - Betw Portugal,Norway & Denmark.


Group I
Spain P6 W6 D0 L0 GS21 GA5 GD+16 Pts 18
Czech Republic P6 W3 D1 L2 GS8 GA5 GD+3 Pts 10
Scotland P6 W2 D2 L2 GS7 GA7 GD0 Pts 8
Lithuania P6 W1 D2 L3 GS3 GA7 GD-4 Pts 5
Liechtenstein P7 W1 D1 L5 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 4

7 Oct 2011 : Czech Republic vs Spain
8 Oct 2011 : Liechtenstein vs Scotland
11 Oct 2011 : Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland

Winner - Spain.
Runner-up - Likely to be Czech.

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 21 Sept 2011.
Next update on 19 Oct 2011.

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 3)
4. Portugal (Fifa 5)
5. Italy (Fifa 6)
6. England (Fifa 8)
7. Croatia (Fifa 9)
8. Greece (Fifa 11)
9. France (Fifa 12)
10. Russia (Fifa 13)
11. Denmark (Fifa 17)
12. Switzerland (Fifa 18)
13. Serbia (Fifa 21)
14. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 22)
15. Norway (Fifa 23)
16. Sweden (Fifa 25)
17. Montenegro (Fifa 26)
18. Hungary (Fifa 27)
18. Turkey (Fifa 27)
20. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 29)
21. Slovenia (Fifa 33)
22. Belgium (Fifa 34)
23. Israel (Fifa 38)
24. Slovakia (Fifa 39)
25. Czech Republic (Fifa 40)
26. Armenia (Fifa 44)
27. Romania (Fifa 49)
28. Scotland (Fifa 52)
29. Bulgaria (Fifa 55)
30. Belarus (Fifa 56)
31. Estonia (Fifa 58)
32. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 60)
33. Georgia (Fifa 64)
34. Co-host Poland (Fifa 65)
35. Northern Ireland (Fifa 70)
36. Albania (Fifa 71)
37. Finland (Fifa 72)
38. Latvia (Fifa 74)
39. Lithuania (Fifa 75)
40. Austria (Fifa 77)
41. Cyprus (Fifa 86)
42. Wales (Fifa 90)
43. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 94)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 98)
45. Iceland (Fifa 107)
46. Luxembourg (Fifa 114)
47. Liechtenstein (Fifa 118)
48. Moldova (Fifa 122)
49. Faroe Islands (Fifa 125)
50. Kazakhstan (Fifa 131)
51. Malta (Fifa 153)
52. Andorra (Fifa 203)
52. San Marino (Fifa 203)

http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/ranking/lastranking/gender=m/fullranking.html#confederation=27275&rank=208

[joew2005]

Group A
Germany P9 W9 D0 L0 GS31 GA6 GD+25 Pts 27
Belgium P9 W4 D3 L2 GS20 GA12 GD+8 Pts 15
Turkey P9 W4 D2 L3 GS12 GA11 GD+1 Pts 14
Austria P9 W3 D2 L4 GS16 GA17 GD-1 Pts 11
Azerbaijan P9 W2 D1 L6 GS10 GA25 GD-15 Pts 7
Kazakhstan P9 W1 D0 L8 GS6 GA24 GD-18 Pts 3

7 Oct : Belgium 4-1 Kazakhstan / Turkey 1-3 Germany / Azerbaijan 1-4 Austria
11 Oct : Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan

Winner - Germany.
Runner-up - Turkey or Belgium.


Group B
Russia P9 W6 D2 L1 GS11 GA4 GD+7 Pts 20
Ireland P9 W5 D3 L1 GS13 GA6 GD+7 Pts 18
Armenia P9 W5 D2 L2 GS21 GA8 GD+13 Pts 17
Slovakia P9 W4 D2 L3 GS6 GA9 GD-3 Pts 14
Macedonia P9 W2 D1 L6 GS7 GA13 GD-6 Pts 7
Andorra P9 W0 D0 L9 GS1 GA19 GD-18 Pts 0

7 Oct : Slovakia 0-1 Russia / Armenia 4-1 FYROM / Andorra 0-2 Republic of Ireland
11 Oct : Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia

Winner - Russia.
Ireland only need a draw in the last game against Armenia 2 finish as group winner.


Group C
Italy P9 W7 D2 L0 GS17 GA2 GD+15 Pts 23
Estonia P10 W5 D1 L4 GS15 GA14 GD+1 Pts 16
Serbia P9 W4 D3 L2 GS13 GA11 GD+2 Pts 15
Slovenia P9 W3 D2 L4 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 11
Northern Ireland P9 W2 D3 L4 GS9 GA10 GD-1 Pts 9
Faroe Islands P10 W1 D1 L8 GS6 GA26 GD-20 Pts 4

7 Oct : Serbia 1-1 Italy / Northern Ireland 1-2 Estonia
11 Oct : Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland

Winner - Italy.
Runner-up - Serbia nned a draw in their last game against Slovenia 2 clinch runner-up spot.


Group D
France P9 W6 D2 L1 GS14 GA3 GD+11 Pts 20
Bosnia-Herzegovina P9 W6 D1 L2 GS16 GA7 GD+9 Pts 19
Romania P9 W3 D4 L2 GS12 GA8 GD+4 Pts 13
Belarus P10 W3 D4 L3 GS8 GA7 GD+1 Pts 13
Albania P9 W2 D2 L5 GS6 GA13 GD-7 Pts 8
Luxembourg P10 W1 D1 L8 GS3 GA21 GD-18 Pts 4

7 Oct : Romania 2-2 Belarus / France 3-0 Albania / Bosnia & Herzegovina 5-0 Luxembourg
11 Oct : France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania

Winner - Betw France & Bosnia-Herzegovina.


Group E
Netherlands P9 W9 D0 L0 GS35 GA5 GD+30 Pts 27
Sweden P9 W7 D0 L2 GS28 GA9 GD+19 Pts 21
Hungary P9 W6 D0 L3 GS22 GA14 GD+8 Pts 18
Finland P9 W3 D0 L6 GS16 GA16 GD0 Pts 9
Moldova P9 W2 D0 L7 GS8 GA16 GD-8 Pts 6
San Marino P9 W0 D0 L9 GS0 GA49 GD-49 Pts 0

7 Oct : Finland 1-2 Sweden / Netherlands 1-0 Moldova
11 Oct : Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino

Winner - Netherlands.
Runner-up - Likely to be Sweden.


Group F
Greece P9 W6 D3 L0 GS12 GA4 GD+8 Pts 21
Croatia P9 W6 D1 L2 GS16 GA7 GD+9 Pts 19
Israel P9 W4 D1 L4 GS11 GA11 GD0 Pts 13
Latvia P9 W3 D2 L4 GS9 GA10 GD-1 Pts 11
Georgia P9 W2 D4 L3 GS6 GA7 GD-1 Pts 10
Malta P9 W0 D1 L8 GS4 GA19 GD-15 Pts 1

7 Oct : Greece 2-0 Croatia / Latvia 2-0 Malta
11 Oct : Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia

Winner - Likely 2 be betw Greece & Croatia.


Group G
England P8 W5 D3 L0 GS17 GA5 GD+12 Pts 18
Montenegro P7 W3 D3 L1 GS7 GA5 GD+2 Pts 12
Switzerland P7 W2 D2 L3 GS10 GA10 GD0 Pts 8
Wales P7 W2 D0 L5 GS5 GA10 GD-5 Pts 6
Bulgaria P7 W1 D2 L4 GS3 GA12 GD-9 Pts 5

7 Oct : Montenegro 2-2 England / Wales 2-0 Switzerland
11 Oct : Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro

Winner - England.
Runner-up - Montenegro.


Group H
Portugal P7 W5 D1 L1 GS20 GA10 GD+10 Pts 16
Denmark P7 W5 D1 L1 GS13 GA5 GD+8 Pts 16
Norway P7 W4 D1 L2 GS7 GA6 GD+1 Pts 13
Iceland P8 W1 D1 L6 GS6 GA14 GD-8 Pts 4
Cyprus P7 W0 D2 L5 GS6 GA17 GD-11 Pts 2

7 Oct : Cyprus 1-4 Denmark / Portugal 5-3 Iceland
11 Oct : Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal

Winner - Betw Portugal & Denmark.


Group I
Spain P7 W7 D0 L0 GS23 GA5 GD+18 Pts 21
Czech Republic P7 W3 D1 L3 GS8 GA7 GD+1 Pts 10
Scotland P6 W2 D2 L2 GS7 GA7 GD0 Pts 8
Lithuania P7 W1 D2 L4 GS3 GA9 GD-6 Pts 5
Liechtenstein P7 W1 D1 L5 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 4

7 Oct 2011 : Czech Republic 0-2 Spain
8 Oct 2011 : Liechtenstein vs Scotland
11 Oct 2011 : Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland

Winner - Spain.
Runner-up - Likely to be Czech.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/967169/harry-redknapp-fears-wayne-rooney's-red-card-could-cost-england?cc=4716

Redknapp worried by Rooney ban
October 8, 2011

Harry Redknapp fears Wayne Rooney's red card in Montenegro could "cost England dearly" @ Euro 2012.

Rooney, who has had 2 cope with negative headlines relating 2 his family tis week, played a starring role as England ran up a 2-0 lead but, with the score @ 2-1, was sent off 4 a petulant kick @ Miodrag Dzudovic in the 2nd half. Montenegro then scored a late equaliser.

England had required only a point 2 qualify, but Rooney will be suspended 4 at least 1 group-stage match @ Euro 2012. Fabio Capello had received assurances tat Rooney was in the right frame of mind & defended his selection aft the game - "I can't enter in2 the head of Wayne Rooney when he plays," he said - but Redknapp fears it will prove costly next summer.

"It looked like [Capello was right 2 select Rooney] 4 most of the game - but then wat Rooney did was just stupid," Redknapp said in his Sun column. I was thinking how mature he looked & how the situation involving his dad & his uncle had clearly not affected him & he had moved on, but a likely 2-game ban @ the start of the Euro 2012 finals is a massive, massive blow 4 England.

"He just cannot go around doing tat sort of thing. We thought we'd seen the last of it but I guess he had his angry head on aft all. Rooney is a ferocious competitor 4 ManU & 4 England but there has 2 be a line.

"It's hugely disappointing. He could be missing 4 the entire group stage & the rush of blood could end up costing him & England dearly. You can't help but note it was Rooney heavily involved in both goals & we can only hope his ban isn't 2 lengthy."

He added: "Rooney looked back 2 his best &, until his red card, it appeared 2 be a question of who plays up front with him. Does he go up as the striker with Frank Lampard or Steven Gerrard playing off him, or does he support a striker. Now it might need a major re-think 4 the finals."

Despite his fears over Rooney's unavailability, Redknapp believes Capello got his selection & tactics right & tat England can still be considered genuine contenders 4 Euro 2012.

"I firmly believe we can do very well," he said. "Rooney's red card throws new light on our prospects becos of his impending suspension.

"He showed in the 1st half wat a performer he can be 4 us. I said it's a case of who plays up alongside him but now 4 the group stage tat may not be an option, but when I look around Europe, I firmly believe tat only Spain is better than England.

"I hv repeatedly tipped England 2 win something with tis crop of players. Some of the boys r getting on like Ashley Cole but it's not 2 late 4 them 2 win a major trophy."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/966825/euro-2012-qualifying:-france-face-decider,-swede-success?cc=4716

France face decider, Swede success
October 7, 2011

Bosnia set up a winner-takes-all clash with Group D rivals France in Paris aft a 5-0 win over Luxembourg in Zenica, while the French cantered 2 an equally convincing 3-0 triumph against Albania.

Goals fr Florent Malouda, Loic Remy & substitute Anthony Reveillere meant the French go in2 the final group fixture with a 1-point advantage - but also with memories of plenty of previous last-gasp qualifying disappointments.

In the other Group D fixture, Romania saw their slim play-off hopes disappear in a disappointing 2-2 draw with Belarus in Bucharest.

Portugal & Denmark will play off 4 qualification fr Group H in Copenhagen next Tuesday night aft the former beat Iceland 5-3 in Porto.

The home side were coasting @ 3-0 thanks 2 an early double fr Nani & a 3rd fr Helder Postiga, but Aron Gunnarsson & Hallgrimur Jonasson scored in the 2nd half 2 reduce the deficit. Late strikes fr Joao Moutinho & Eliseu finally secured victory, b4 Birkir Bjarnason's injury-time penalty.

Portugal will go 2 the Danish capital knowing a draw will be enough but the Denmark will be brimming with confidence aft a 4-1 win in Cyprus, in which veteran winger Dennis Rommedahl scored twice.

Late goals fr Georgios Samaras & Theofanis Gekas helped Greece regain control of UEFA European Championship Qualifying Group F with a tense 2-0 win over Croatia in Piraeus. The Greeks started the night knowing a win was almost essential in their penultimate match in the group, with the Croatians enjoying a 1-point lead.

Samaras struck in the 71st minute & Gekas added the 2nd 8 mins later 2 leave the Greeks knowing a point in their final group game in Georgia next Tuesday will be enough. Latvia beat Malta 2-0 in the other Group F game.

Belgium wrested control of the race 4 a play-off place in Group A with a 4-1 win over Kazakhstan in Brussels, while rivals Turkey were sent crashing 3-1 by group winners Germany in Istanbul.

Timmy Simons, Eden Hazard, Vincent Kompany & Vitaly Yevstigneev's late own goal gave Belgium a 4-0 lead, but in order 2 guarantee their play-off spot Georges Leekens' men must now win in Germany.

Turkey, who hv a home game against Azerbaijan, went down 2 strikes fr Mario Gomez & Thomas Muller. Hakan Balta pulled 1 back b4 Bastian Schweinsteiger settled matters with an 86th-min penalty.

Belgium's win eliminated Austria, despite their 4-1 win in Azerbaijan.

Netherlands were made 2 work harder than expected 2 extend their 100% record to 9 games in Group E, Klaas Jan Huntelaar scoring the only goal of the game in the 40th min @ home in a 1-0 victory against group minnows Moldova.

Sweden effectively guaranteed the runners-up slot with a 2-1 win over Finland in Helsinki, Sebastian Larsson's early strike setting the Swedes on their way & Martin Olsson adding a 2nd b4 Joona Toivio's late consolation.

Spain maintained their 100% record in Group I with Juan Mata & Xabi Alonso scoring in a 2-0 win over the Czech Republic in Prague, a win tat keeps Scotland's slim play-off hopes alive.

The Scots know wins fr their final 2 matches will guarantee 2nd place - but their last match is against Spain in Alicante. The Czechs' final game is a trip 2 Lithuania next week.

Branislav Ivanovic cancelled out Claudio Marchisio's early strike as Serbia secured a potentially vital point in Group C with a 1-1 draw against Italy in Belgrade.

Estonia went 2nd as they completed their fixtures with 2 Konstantin Vassiljev goals giving them a 2-1 win in Northern Ireland - but a point 4 Serbia in their final match in Slovenia next week will be enough 2 earn a play-off place.

Ashley Young & Darren Bent scored early as England secured qualification fr Group G, but only aft opponents Montenegro had battled back 2 claim a 2-2 draw with Andrija Delibasic's injury-time equaliser.

Delibasic's goal, which came aft Wayne Rooney was needlessly sent off, was enough 4 the Montenegrins 2 make sure of a play-off place aft rivals Switzerland fell 2 goals fr Aaron Ramsey & Gareth Bale in a 2-0 defeat in Wales.

Russia all but wrapped up qualification fr Group B as Alan Dzagoev scored the only goal of the game in a 1-0 win against Slovakia in Zilina. Victory @ home 2 Andorra on Tuesday night will secure the Russians' place in the finals.

The Republic of Ireland will fight it out with Armenia 4 the play-off place in Dublin aft both won their penultimate matches. A draw will be good enough 4 Ireland, 4 whom Kevin Doyle & Aiden McGeady scored in a 2-0 win in Andorra, but Armenia will travel full of confidence aft a thumping 4-1 home win over Macedonia.

[joew2005]

Group A
Germany P9 W9 D0 L0 GS31 GA6 GD+25 Pts 27
Belgium P9 W4 D3 L2 GS20 GA12 GD+8 Pts 15
Turkey P9 W4 D2 L3 GS12 GA11 GD+1 Pts 14
Austria P9 W3 D2 L4 GS16 GA17 GD-1 Pts 11
Azerbaijan P9 W2 D1 L6 GS10 GA25 GD-15 Pts 7
Kazakhstan P9 W1 D0 L8 GS6 GA24 GD-18 Pts 3

11 Oct : Kazakhstan vs Austria / Germany vs Belgium / Turkey vs Azerbaijan
Winner - Germany.
Runner-up - Turkey or Belgium.


Group B
Russia P9 W6 D2 L1 GS11 GA4 GD+7 Pts 20
Ireland P9 W5 D3 L1 GS13 GA6 GD+7 Pts 18
Armenia P9 W5 D2 L2 GS21 GA8 GD+13 Pts 17
Slovakia P9 W4 D2 L3 GS6 GA9 GD-3 Pts 14
Macedonia P9 W2 D1 L6 GS7 GA13 GD-6 Pts 7
Andorra P9 W0 D0 L9 GS1 GA19 GD-18 Pts 0

11 Oct : Russia vs Andorra / Republic of Ireland vs Armenia / FYROM vs Slovakia
Winner - Russia.
Ireland only need a draw in the last game against Armenia 2 finish as group runner-up.


Group C
Italy P9 W7 D2 L0 GS17 GA2 GD+15 Pts 23
Estonia P10 W5 D1 L4 GS15 GA14 GD+1 Pts 16
Serbia P9 W4 D3 L2 GS13 GA11 GD+2 Pts 15
Slovenia P9 W3 D2 L4 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 11
Northern Ireland P9 W2 D3 L4 GS9 GA10 GD-1 Pts 9
Faroe Islands P10 W1 D1 L8 GS6 GA26 GD-20 Pts 4

11 Oct : Slovenia vs Serbia / Italy vs Northern Ireland
Winner - Italy.
Runner-up - Serbia need a draw in their last game against Slovenia 2 clinch runner-up spot.


Group D
France P9 W6 D2 L1 GS14 GA3 GD+11 Pts 20
Bosnia-Herzegovina P9 W6 D1 L2 GS16 GA7 GD+9 Pts 19
Romania P9 W3 D4 L2 GS12 GA8 GD+4 Pts 13
Belarus P10 W3 D4 L3 GS8 GA7 GD+1 Pts 13
Albania P9 W2 D2 L5 GS6 GA13 GD-7 Pts 8
Luxembourg P10 W1 D1 L8 GS3 GA21 GD-18 Pts 4

11 Oct : France vs Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania vs Romania
Winner - Betw France & Bosnia-Herzegovina.


Group E
Netherlands P9 W9 D0 L0 GS35 GA5 GD+30 Pts 27
Sweden P9 W7 D0 L2 GS28 GA9 GD+19 Pts 21
Hungary P9 W6 D0 L3 GS22 GA14 GD+8 Pts 18
Finland P9 W3 D0 L6 GS16 GA16 GD0 Pts 9
Moldova P9 W2 D0 L7 GS8 GA16 GD-8 Pts 6
San Marino P9 W0 D0 L9 GS0 GA49 GD-49 Pts 0

11 Oct : Sweden vs Netherlands / Hungary vs Finland / Moldova vs San Marino
Winner - Netherlands.
Runner-up - Likely to be Sweden.


Group F
Greece P9 W6 D3 L0 GS12 GA4 GD+8 Pts 21
Croatia P9 W6 D1 L2 GS16 GA7 GD+9 Pts 19
Israel P9 W4 D1 L4 GS11 GA11 GD0 Pts 13
Latvia P9 W3 D2 L4 GS9 GA10 GD-1 Pts 11
Georgia P9 W2 D4 L3 GS6 GA7 GD-1 Pts 10
Malta P9 W0 D1 L8 GS4 GA19 GD-15 Pts 1

11 Oct : Georgia vs Greece / Malta vs Israel / Croatia vs Latvia
Winner - Betw Greece & Croatia.


Group G
England P8 W5 D3 L0 GS17 GA5 GD+12 Pts 18
Montenegro P7 W3 D3 L1 GS7 GA5 GD+2 Pts 12
Switzerland P7 W2 D2 L3 GS10 GA10 GD0 Pts 8
Wales P7 W2 D0 L5 GS5 GA10 GD-5 Pts 6
Bulgaria P7 W1 D2 L4 GS3 GA12 GD-9 Pts 5

11 Oct : Bulgaria vs Wales / Switzerland vs Montenegro
Winner - England.
Runner-up - Montenegro.


Group H
Portugal P7 W5 D1 L1 GS20 GA10 GD+10 Pts 16
Denmark P7 W5 D1 L1 GS13 GA5 GD+8 Pts 16
Norway P7 W4 D1 L2 GS7 GA6 GD+1 Pts 13
Iceland P8 W1 D1 L6 GS6 GA14 GD-8 Pts 4
Cyprus P7 W0 D2 L5 GS6 GA17 GD-11 Pts 2

11 Oct : Norway vs Cyprus / Denmark vs Portugal
Winner - Betw Portugal & Denmark.


Group I
Spain P7 W7 D0 L0 GS23 GA5 GD+18 Pts 21
Scotland P7 W3 D2 L2 GS8 GA7 GD+1 Pts 11
Czech Republic P7 W3 D1 L3 GS8 GA7 GD+1 Pts 10
Lithuania P8 W1 D2 L5 GS3 GA10 GD-7 Pts 5
Liechtenstein P7 W1 D1 L5 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 4

8 Oct 2011 : Liechtenstein 0-1 Scotland
11 Oct 2011 : Lithuania vs Czech Republic / Spain vs Scotland
Winner - Spain.
Runner-up - Likely to be Czech.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/967104/dale-johnson:-the-race-to-euro-2012?cc=4716

The race to the Euros
October 8, 2011

By Wed morning we'll know the 12 of the 16 nations which will participate @ Euro 2012. Poland & Ukraine will be there as hosts of the tournament, while England, Germany, Italy, Netherlands & Spain can already book their flights.

The 8 group winners qualify automatically along with the best runner-up. As 3 groups only hv 5 teams, the groups with 6 teams will hv the record of the team finishing bottom of the group ignored 2 calculate the best runner-up.


Group A - Remaining fixtures
Germany v Belgium, Kazakhstan v Austria, Turkey v Azerbaijan

Qualified: Germany
Able 2 qualify 4 play-offs: Belgium, Turkey

With Turkey @ home 2 Azerbaijan the likelihood is Belgium will hv 2 win against Germany @ the Esprit Arena, Dusseldorf.

And if Belgium lose 2 Germany, Turkey would need just a point having the better head 2 head. 1 twist, Turkey actually lost away in Azerbaijan almost a year 2 the day & a repeat would give Belgium 2nd.

Turkey losing @ home 2 Azerbaijan in a crucial qualifier is unthinkable, & Belgium getting anything in Germany improbable.


Group B - Remaining fixtures
Ireland v Armenia, Macedonia v Slovakia, Russia v Andorra

Able 2 qualify: Russia, Ireland, Armenia

Russia r almost certain 2 qualify 4 the finals with a home game against Andorra, who hv lost every single game & scored just 1 goal, on Tuesday. Russia need only a point 2 secure top spot having a better head 2 head record with Ireland.

Ireland v Armenia: Tis is a shootout 2 the play-offs, with Ireland holding a 1-point advantage going in2 the game @ the Aviva Stadium. Armenia, the top scorers in the group, must win 2 climb abv Ireland otherwise they will be the nearly men. Armenia cannot top the group due 2 their head 2 head with Russia. Ireland can only do so if Russia lose.

Russia will win 2 top the group. Ireland must beware an unknown quantity in outstanding form. Armenia hv scored 11 goals in their last 3 qualifiers, but Ireland should hv it in them 2 get the point they need.


Group C - Remaining fixtures
Italy v Northern Ireland, Slovenia v Serbia

Qualified: Italy
Able 2 qualify 4 play-offs: Serbia, Estonia

Tis could not be more simple. Estonia, who hv finished their campaign, took 4 points fr their games against Serbia. Tat means Serbia must win in Slovenia otherwise Estonia will make the play-offs

Serbia may trip @ the final hurdle, handing Estonia an unlikely play-off spot. Estonia must rue losing in Faroe Islands in June.


Group D - Remaining fixtures
Albania v Romania, France v Bosnia-Herzegovina

Able 2 qualify: France, Bosnia-Herzegovina

The 2 teams r separated by a single point & will meet in Paris on Tuesday. France, missing several key players due 2 injury, must avoid defeat & Bosnia hv 2 win 2 qualify automatically & avoid the play-offs.

Though France hv lost many players ahead of tis key week, they should be capable of taking the point on home soil they need 2 finish top. They won 2-0 in Bosnia-Herzegovina in more troubled times. Bosnia-Herzegovina may face the play-offs again.


Group E - Remaining fixtures
Sweden v Netherlands, Hungary v Finland, Moldova v San Marino

Qualified: Netherlands
Play-offs: Sweden

Though tis group is done & dusted 4 positions - as Sweden better Hungary on head 2 head - the match @ the Rasunda Stadion does hv significance. If Sweden beat the Dutch they will be the best runner-up. Even a point may offer them tat berth.

Netherlands hv been imperious throughout qualifying & despite their injury problems they should still go 2 Sweden & win 4 a perfect record.


Group F - Remaining fixtures
Georgia v Greece, Malta v Israel, Croatia v Latvia

Able 2 qualify: Greece, Croatia

Greece's 2-0 win over Croatia was monumental 4 coach Fernando Santos, as now they need just a point in Georgia 2 make the finals on head 2 head. Croatia must win @ home 2 Latvia & hope Greece lose. Greece drew 1-1 @ home 2 Georgia a year ago.

Georgia hv only lost 1 home game, but Greece should get the point they need.


Group G - Remaining fixtures
Bulgaria v Wales, Switzerland v Montenegro

Qualified: England
Qualified 4 play-offs: Montenegro


Group H - Remaining fixtures
Denmark v Portugal, Norway v Cyprus

Able 2 qualify: Portugal, Denmark
Able 2 qualify for play-offs: Norway

It's Denmark v Portugal in the qualifying showdown, with both sides level on 16 points. Portugal hold the head 2 head lead so Denmark must win 2 top the group. However, the runner-up in the group stands a good chance of qualifying automatically as the best runner-up if Sweden lose 2 Netherlands.

Norway r mathematically in with a chance of the play-offs, but Portugal must lose in Denmark, Norway must win @ home 2 Cyprus & there has 2 be a goal difference swing of 9 goals. Norway trail Denmark on the head 2 head but r level with Portugal.

It looks like being a titanic battle in Copenhagen, & maybe the Danes will just hv enough on home soil 2 beat Portugal & climb top on the last day. Portugal conceding 3 goals 2 Iceland will give the Danes hope.


Group I - Remaining fixtures
Spain v Scotland, Lithuania v Czech Republic

Qualified: Spain
Able 2 qualify for play-offs: Czech Republic, Scotland

Scotland's win over Liechtenstein puts them second by a point going into their trip 2 Spain. The Czechs hv 2 travel 2 Lithuania. The Czechs hv the better head 2 head record over Scotland, which means Scotland cannot afford 2 end up on the same points as them. If Scotland win, or if both teams draw, they will be in the play-offs. However, the Czechs r favs 4 sure.

It is difficult 2 see Scotland taking anything off Spain which means they must hope the Czechs r defeated @ Lithuania.


Best runner-up

Russia play the bottom team in their group, & should finish top anyway, while 1 of Denmark & Portugal will also finish top. If Greece do not finish top they cannot be best runner-up.

So it will most likely be Denmark/Portugal or Sweden. If Sweden beat Netherlands they will definitely be the best runner-up. If they draw it may come down 2 goal difference with the loser of Denmark/Portugal. Denmark cannot lose & then be ahead of Sweden on goal difference. Portugal could lose but only hv a goal difference buffer of 2. Sweden hv +8 1s the San Marino scores r removed fr their record.

Based on the latest coefficients & tables - which of course will change by next week - the draw pots 4 the finals would be as follows. Tis also assumes the seeded nations win the qualifying play-offs.

Pot One: Poland, Ukraine, Spain, Netherlands
Pot Two: Germany, England, Italy, Croatia
Pot Three: Russia, Greece, Portugal, Sweden
Pot Four: France, Denmark, Czech Republic, Turkey

Sweden or Portugal/Denmark r most likely 2 qualify automatically as the best runner-up. Tis would make the pots 4 the play-off draw as follows:

Seeds: Sweden or Portugal/Denmark, Croatia, Czech Republic, Turkey
Unseeded: Ireland, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Estonia

[joew2005]

Group A
Germany P10 W10 D0 L0 GS34 GA7 GD+27 Pts 30
Turkey P10 W5 D2 L3 GS13 GA11 GD+2 Pts 17
Belgium P10 W4 D3 L3 GS21 GA15 GD+6 Pts 15
Austria P10 W3 D3 L4 GS16 GA17 GD-1 Pts 12
Azerbaijan P10 W2 D1 L7 GS10 GA26 GD-16 Pts 7
Kazakhstan P10 W1 D1 L8 GS6 GA24 GD-18 Pts 4

11 Oct : Kazakhstan 0-0 Austria / Germany 3-1 Belgium / Turkey 1-0 Azerbaijan
Winner - Germany.
Runner-up - Turkey.


Group B
Russia P10 W7 D2 L1 GS17 GA4 GD+13 Pts 23
Ireland P10 W6 D3 L1 GS15 GA7 GD+8 Pts 21
Armenia P10 W5 D2 L3 GS22 GA10 GD+12 Pts 17
Slovakia P10 W4 D3 L3 GS7 GA10 GD-3 Pts 15
Macedonia P10 W2 D2 L6 GS8 GA14 GD-6 Pts 8
Andorra P10 W0 D0 L10 GS1 GA25 GD-24 Pts 0

11 Oct : Russia 6-0 Andorra / Republic of Ireland 2-1 Armenia / FYROM 1-1 Slovakia
Winner - Russia.
Runner-up - Ireland.


Group C
Italy P10 W8 D2 L0 GS20 GA2 GD+18 Pts 27
Estonia P10 W5 D1 L4 GS15 GA14 GD+1 Pts 16
Serbia P10 W4 D3 L3 GS13 GA12 GD+1 Pts 15
Slovenia P10 W4 D2 L4 GS11 GA7 GD+4 Pts 14
Northern Ireland P10 W2 D3 L5 GS9 GA13 GD-4 Pts 9
Faroe Islands P10 W1 D1 L8 GS6 GA26 GD-20 Pts 4

11 Oct : Slovenia 1-0 Serbia / Italy 3-0 Northern Ireland
Winner - Italy.
Runner-up - Estonia.


Group D
France P10 W6 D3 L1 GS15 GA4 GD+11 Pts 21
Bosnia-Herzegovina P10 W6 D2 L2 GS17 GA8 GD+9 Pts 20
Romania P10 W3 D5 L2 GS13 GA9 GD+4 Pts 14
Belarus P10 W3 D4 L3 GS8 GA7 GD+1 Pts 13
Albania P10 W2 D3 L5 GS7 GA14 GD-7 Pts 9
Luxembourg P10 W1 D1 L8 GS3 GA21 GD-18 Pts 4

11 Oct : France 1-1 Bosnia & Herzegovina / Albania 1-1 Romania
Winner - France.
Runner-up - Bosnia-Herzegovina.


Group E
Netherlands P10 W9 D0 L1 GS37 GA8 GD+29 Pts 27
Sweden P10 W8 D0 L2 GS31 GA11 GD+20 Pts 24
Hungary P10 W6 D1 L3 GS22 GA14 GD+8 Pts 19
Finland P10 W3 D1 L6 GS16 GA16 GD0 Pts 10
Moldova P10 W3 D0 L7 GS12 GA16 GD-4 Pts 9
San Marino P10 W0 D0 L10 GS0 GA53 GD-53 Pts 0

11 Oct : Sweden 3-2 Netherlands / Hungary 0-0 Finland / Moldova 4-0 San Marino
Winner - Netherlands.
Runner-up - Sweden.


Group F
Greece P10 W7 D3 L0 GS14 GA5 GD+9 Pts 24
Croatia P10 W7 D1 L2 GS18 GA7 GD+11 Pts 22
Israel P10 W5 D1 L4 GS13 GA11 GD+2 Pts 16
Latvia P10 W3 D2 L5 GS9 GA12 GD-3 Pts 11
Georgia P10 W2 D4 L4 GS7 GA9 GD-2 Pts 10
Malta P10 W0 D1 L9 GS4 GA21 GD-17 Pts 1

11 Oct : Georgia 1-2 Greece / Malta 0-2 Israel / Croatia 2-0 Latvia
Winner - Greece.
Runner - Croatia.


Group G
England P8 W5 D3 L0 GS17 GA5 GD+12 Pts 18
Montenegro P7 W3 D3 L1 GS7 GA5 GD+2 Pts 12
Switzerland P8 W3 D2 L3 GS12 GA10 GD+2 Pts 11
Wales P8 W3 D0 L5 GS6 GA10 GD-4 Pts 9
Bulgaria P8 W1 D2 L5 GS3 GA13 GD-10 Pts 5

11 Oct : Bulgaria 0-1 Wales / Switzerland 2-0 Montenegro
Winner - England.
Runner-up - Montenegro.


Group H
Denmark P8 W6 D1 L1 GS15 GA6 GD+9 Pts 19
Portugal P8 W5 D1 L2 GS21 GA12 GD+9 Pts 16
Norway P8 W5 D1 L2 GS10 GA7 GD+3 Pts 16
Iceland P8 W1 D1 L6 GS6 GA14 GD-8 Pts 4
Cyprus P8 W0 D2 L6 GS7 GA20 GD-13 Pts 2

11 Oct : Norway 3-1 Cyprus / Denmark 2-1 Portugal
Winner - Denmark.
Runner Up - Portugal.


Group I
Spain P8 W8 D0 L0 GS26 GA6 GD+20 Pts 24
Czech Republic P8 W4 D1 L3 GS12 GA8 GD+4 Pts 13
Scotland P8 W3 D2 L3 GS9 GA10 GD-1 Pts 11
Lithuania P8 W1 D2 L5 GS4 GA14 GD-10 Pts 5
Liechtenstein P7 W1 D1 L5 GS3 GA16 GD-13 Pts 4

11 Oct 2011 : Lithuania 1-4 Czech Republic / Spain 3-1 Scotland
Winner - Spain.
Runner-up - Czech.


Teams Tat Hv Already Qualified 4 The Finals
1) Co-host - Poland
2) Co-host - Ukraine
3) Group A Winner - Germany
4) Group B Winner - Russia
5) Group C Winner - Italy
6) Group D Winner - France
7) Group E Winner - Netherlands
8) Group F Winner - Greece
9) Group G Winner - England
10) Group H Winner - Denmark
11) Group I Winner - Spain
12) Best Runner Up - Sweden
13) Playoff Winner -
14) Playoff Winner -
15) Playoff Winner -
16) Playoff Winner -

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/968543/ireland-seeded-for-euro-2012-play-off-draw?cc=4716

Ireland seeded for Euro 2012 play-offs
October 12, 2011

UEFA has confirmed Republic of Ireland, Portugal, Croatia & Czech Republic r the seeded nations 4 the Euro 2012 play-off draw.

Ireland secured their place in the play-offs aft clinching 2nd spot in Group B with a 2-1 victory over Armenia on Tuesday night, thanks 2 an own goal fr Valeri Aleksanyan & an effort fr Richard Dunne.

Giovanni Trapattoni's side will discover their play-off opponents on Thursday when the draw is made in Krakow, with Turkey, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Estonia & Montenegro the 4 unseeded teams.

Alongside co-hosts Poland & Ukraine, holders Spain, Germany, Russia, Italy, France, the Netherlands, Greece, England, Denmark & Sweden hv all already booked their spots @ next summer's tournament.

The current co-efficients will also be used 4 the finals, which means the top 2 pots of seeds will be:

Pot 1: Ukraine, Poland, Spain, Netherlands
Pot 2: Germany, Italy, England, Russia

Greece, Sweden & Denmark will be in Pot 3, with the 4th team in the pot depending on the play-off winners. If Croatia win they will be in Pot 3. Which would leave Portugal in Pot 4 with the other play-off winners, which could include Euro 2000 winners & 2006 World Cup finalists France in the bottom pot.

The only way France can be seeded 3rd is if both Croatia & Portugal lose in the play-offs.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/968640/euro-2012-play-off-draw?cc=4716

Euro 2012 play-off draw
October 13, 2011

Republic of Ireland hv landed the ideal Euro 2012 play-off draw as they take on Estonia, while Portugal face Bosnia, Czech Republic play Montenegro & Turkey take on Croatia in a rerun of the Euro 2008 quarter-final.

Having lost 4 of their last 5 play-offs 4 a major tournament, the Irish cannot take the Estonians, who edged out Serbia in Group C 2 2nd place, @ all lightly.

Their last appearance ended in acrimony when they were knocked out by France following a controversial handball by Thierry Henry ahead of the 2010 World Cup.

Former Republic of Ireland striker John Aldridge, though, believes Giovanni Trapattoni's men r well placed 2 progress.

Asked if he thought Ireland would go thru, he told Sky Sports News: "Yes. We've got the greatest travelling fans & it would be great 2 see them on the road again.

"It was probably the easiest of the 4 (seeded teams 2 draw). We travel better than we play @ home - we've had better results away than we hv had @ home."

On his hopes 4 the 1st leg in Estonia, he added: "They will try 2 get a clean sheet, try 2 get a win which would set us up nicely."

The Portuguese face the same opponents they defeated in play-off qualification 4 the 2010 WC but Bosnia goalkeeper Asmir Begovic is hopeful it will be a different story tis time around.

"It will be hard - that's probably clear 2 everyone," he told SuperSport. "However, I saw Denmark get the better of Portugal &, if they can do it, why can't we? We certainly can qualify.

"It is definitely a different situation [2 the 2010 WC play-off]. I think we're now a much better team & we should remember the 1st leg in Portugal, where it was a simple case of bad luck."

Montenegro's delight @ making tis stage may be further lifted by taking on a Czech team who made heavy weather in finishing ahead of Scotland.

Croatia, meanwhile, hv unfinished business aft they were denied @ the last Euro finals by a last-minute Turkish extra-time goal & in a shoot-out.

1st leg on 11 Nov & 2nd leg on 15 Nov.
Turkey vs Croatia
Estonia vs Republic of Ireland
Czech Republic vs Montenegro
Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Portugal

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/968938/england's-wayne-rooney-given-three-match-ban-after-red-card?cc=4716

Rooney given three-match ban
October 13, 2011

England striker Wayne Rooney has been banned for 3 matches 4 his sending off against Montenegro. He will miss the group stage of the European Championships.

UEFA's Disciplinary & Control Body met on Thursday 2 discuss the dismissal aft Rooney petulantly kicked out @ Montenegro's Miodrag Dzudovic.

With no more competitive games 4 England b4 next summer's finals in Ukraine & Poland, Rooney will miss the 1st 3 games of the tournament which means he will not be available until the quarter-finals, should England get tat far.

England hv 3 days 2 appeal the decision, which seems a formailty given the severity of the punishment.

UEFA deemed Rooney's challenge an assault, & the rules state tat carries a "suspension for 3 competition matches or 4 a specified period for assaulting another player or other person present at the match".

A statement from UEFA read: "The UEFA Control & Disciplinary Body has 2day handed down a 3-match suspension 2 England 4ward Wayne Rooney following his dismissal during the UEFA EURO 2012 qualifier in Montenegro last Friday, 7 October.

"Today's decision was taken in relation 2 the red card shown 2 Rooney 4 assault aft 74 mins of England's final Group G game, the 2-2 draw with Montenegro in Podgorica. The striker will now be suspended fr playing in his country's next 3 UEFA national competition matches 4 which he would be eligible.

"An appeal may be lodged against the verdict of the UEFA Control & Disciplinary Body within 3 days of the dispatch of the reasoned decision."

The FA say they will look @ the full reasons behind the UEFA decision b4 deciding whether 2 appeal.

An FA statement said: "Further to UEFA's decision 2 impose a 3-match suspension on Wayne Rooney following his sending off against Montenegro, the FA await the full reasons fr the disciplinary committee, & will give full consideration 2 the decision internally, b4 deciding on any response 2 UEFA or making any further public comment.''

It had been suggested tat Rooney's ban could be increased if England choose 2 appeal, but Article 62.3 of UEFA's Disciplinary Regulations 2011 states: "If the accused is the only party 2 hv lodged an appeal or if the disciplinary inspector appeals in favour of the accused, the punishment cannot be increased."

Russia's Andrei Arshavin was sent off against Andorra in their last qualifier 4 Euro 2008, in a very similar incident 2 tat of Rooney as he lashed out @ an opponent. Arshavin was suspended for 2 matches but still left a lasting imprint on the tournament when available 4 selection in the last group game.

England boss Fabio Capello has stated tat Wayne Rooney will not start any of England friendlies in the run-up 2 Euro 2012 as he tries 2 find a system tat works without the ManU man. But if the 3-match ban stands he may hv 2 consider his place in the squad.

Referee Wolfgang Stark, who sent Rooney off, had words of support 4 the ManU star @ the weekend, believing tat his reaction 2 the dismissal & calm exit fr the pitch may help his cause & limit his ban 2 a single match. But Rooney would hv been exceptionally lucky 2 escape with tat punishment.

The draw 4 the finals is on December 2 at 5pm GMT.

[joew2005]

Teams Going 2 The Finals
1) Co-host - Poland
2) Co-host - Ukraine
3) Group A Winner - Germany
4) Group B Winner - Russia
5) Group C Winner - Italy
6) Group D Winner - France
7) Group E Winner - Netherlands
8) Group F Winner - Greece
9) Group G Winner - England
10) Group H Winner - Denmark
11) Group I Winner - Spain
12) Best Runner Up - Sweden
13) Playoff Winner - Turkey OR Croatia
14) Playoff Winner - Estonia OR Republic of Ireland
15) Playoff Winner - Czech Republic OR Montenegro
16) Playoff Winner - Bosnia & Herzegovina OR Portugal

The Euro 2012 shall be held betw 8 June 2012 & 1 July 2012.
Tis will be the last European Championship finals tournament 2 contain 16 nations. 24 nations will compete fr Euro 2016 onward.

The winner of the tournament will qualify 4 the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup hosted by Brazil.

The draw 4 the final tournament will take place on 2 December 2011 @ the Ukraine Palace of Arts in Kiev, Ukraine.

The 16 finalists will be divided into 4 seeding pots, ranked by their UEFA coefficient, with each of the 4 groups having 1 team fr each pot.

[Heart Break Kid]

I hope Turkey, Ireland, Montenegro & Bosnia & Herzegovina qualify through next month playoff :p

[joew2005]

I hope Turkey, Ireland, Montenegro & Bosnia & Herzegovina qualify through next month playoff :p

Turkey(19/Fifa 27) vs Croatia(7/Fifa 9)
Estonia(31/Fifa 58) vs Ireland(20/Fifa 29)
Czech(25/Fifa 40) vs Montenegro(17/Fifa 26)
Bosnia-Herzegovina(14/Fifa 22) vs Portugal(4/Fifa 5)

ya ..... neutral ppl also hope 2 see the underdog win & progress @ the expense of the top teams, esp 4 Turkey & Bosnia-Herzegovina.

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking update on 19 Oct 2011.

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 3)
4. Italy (Fifa 6)
5. England (Fifa 7)
6. Greece (Fifa 8)
7. Portugal (Fifa 8)
8. Denmark (Fifa 10)
9. Croatia (Fifa 12)
10. Russia (Fifa 13)
11. Sweden (Fifa 14)
12. France (Fifa 15)
13. Switzerland (Fifa 18)
14. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 21)
15. Serbia (Fifa 23)
16. Norway (Fifa 24)
17. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 25)
18. Turkey (Fifa 26)
19. Slovenia (Fifa 27)
20. Hungary (Fifa 36)
21. Belgium (Fifa 37)
22. Israel (Fifa 38)
23. Montenegro (Fifa 39)
24. Slovakia (Fifa 41)
25. Wales (Fifa 45)
26. Armenia (Fifa 46)
27. Czech Republic (Fifa 47)
28. Scotland (Fifa 51)
29. Romania (Fifa 55)
30. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 58)
31. Estonia (Fifa 59)
32. Belarus (Fifa 61)
33. Co-host Poland (Fifa 64)
34. Georgia (Fifa 67)
35. Albania (Fifa 71)
36. Austria (Fifa 72)
37. Bulgaria (Fifa 75)
38. Latvia (Fifa 75)
39. Finland (Fifa 78)
40. Northern Ireland (Fifa 84)
41. Lithuania (Fifa 85)
42. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 93)
43. Iceland (Fifa 108)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 117)
45. Luxembourg (Fifa 118)
46. Cyprus (Fifa 120)
47. Faroe Islands (Fifa 122)
48. Moldova (Fifa 123)
49. Liechtenstein (Fifa 126)
50. Kazakhstan (Fifa 129)
51. Malta (Fifa 158)
52. Andorra (Fifa 203)
53. San Marino (Fifa 203)

http://www.fifa.com/worldranking/rankingtable/index.html

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/976224/montenegro's-miodrag-dzudovic-backs-england's-wanye-rooney?cc=4716

Dzudovic backs Rooney
October 29, 2011

Montenegro defender Miodrag Dzudovic will give his full support 2 Wayne Rooney in his bid 2 hv his 3-game Euro 2012 ban reduced.

Rooney was sent off in England's final qualifier in Montenegro 4 aiming a needless kick @ Dzudovic off the ball. UEFA deemed the challenge 2 be "an assault" & banned him for 3 competitive matches, which rules him out of the group stage in Poland & Ukraine.

England must wait 4 UEFA's official documentation, which details its reasoning 4 the ban, b4 submitting any appeal. The FA then has 3 days 2 lodge an appeal, & a further 6 days 2 submit their case.

UEFA was due 2 deliver the documentation on Thursday, but delayed tis 4 "@ least a week".

Contrary 2 reports elsewhere, UEFA's disciplinary regulations state a player's ban cannot be increased if he is the only party involved in appealing against the punishment. And as Dzudovic is backing Rooney there is no chance tat he could face a longer ban. It means @ FA appeal is inevitable.

The letter was written by the Soviet Sport newspaper & signed by Dzudovic, according 2 the Daily Mail.

The letter said: "Miodrag would like 2 underline tat he didn't notice any signs of aggression in Rooney's actions.

"In his opinion the England national team player was driven by emotions & it was an act of desperation rather than anger.

"The most important detail we ask 2 take notice of is Wayne Rooney's apology. He realised his fault & felt guilty. UEFA pay so much attention 2 'Fair Play' principles but Wayne's behaviour is the brightest example of fairness.

"It is rare when a player leaves the field blaming no 1 but himself aft being sent off. In our opinion, Wayne Rooney shouldn't be banned even 4 a single game. We hope 2 be heard in UEFA.''


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/975120/uefa-delays-reasons-for-rooney-suspension?cc=4716

UEFA delays Rooney ban explanation
October 26, 2011

UEFA is 2 delay giving a written explanation 2 the FA over the reasons 4 Wayne Rooney's 3-match ban by @ least another week.

Rooney, 26, was handed a straight red card in England's 2-2 Euro 2012 qualifying draw with Montenegro 4 kicking out @ Miodrag Dzudovic.

The ManU striker was subsequently hit with a 3-match ban by UEFA, meaning he is set 2 miss the entire group stage of Euro 2012.

UEFA has yet 2 provide the FA with written reasons regarding the suspension, & England's footballing body is waiting 2 receive the explanation b4 deciding 2 appeal the decision.

UEFA said the delay was becos they had prioritised disciplinary cases with players connected 2 countries playing in the Euro 2012 play-offs.

A UEFA spokesman said: ''Due 2 the urgency of disciplinary cases connected 2 the UEFA EURO 2012 play-off matches, we will deal with sending the full reasoned decision on Wayne Rooney 2 the FA in due course.''

An FA statement read: "The FA has 2day been advised by UEFA tat we may not be provided with the written reasons regarding Wayne Rooney's 3 match suspension 4 another week @ a minimum.

"1s the reasons r received, The FA will determine on any appeal aft discussions with Fabio Capello & Wayne Rooney."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/976013/blanc-plays-down-france's-euro-2012-expectations?cc=4716

Blanc plays down expectations
October 28, 2011

Coach Laurent Blanc has warned France fans not 2 expect 2 much fr his side @ Euro 2012.

Blanc ensured his team would be in Ukraine & Poland next summer by guiding them 2 the top of qualifying Group D, though things were rather 2 close 4 comfort as they needed a Samir Nasri goal 12 mins fr the end of their final qualifier against Bosnia & Herzegovina 2 make sure.

Given where the team was coming fr - the debacle of the 2010 WC under the stewardship of Raymond Domenech - Blanc knows merely qualifying is an achievement.

He told L'Equipe: "The ideal is 2 win something with France, but you hv 2 realise where we came fr.

"People may be disappointed & 1 a team of great players aft only 15 months, 2 rival Holland, Germany & Spain. It's impossible! It has been said, & repeated, tat it will take time.''

Fans hv made little secret of their displeasure when things hv gone wrong of late, something Blanc attributes 2 the South African fiasco.

Asked abt the negative image of his team, he added: "But it's normal - wat do u 1 me 2 tell you? No 1 can accept wat happened (in South Africa).

"The scar will always be there. But we must live with it. Results will improve things & so will individuals' behaviour. But they r not suddenly going 2 become yes men. Tat's not possible.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/967881/ernst-bouwes:-netherlands'-outsiders?cc=4716

Netherlands' outsiders
October 11, 2011

In tis international week, the Dutch squad sports 2 special cases in Jeffrey Bruma & Tim Krul. As both left 4 England @ a young age, they hv never played a professional league game in their native country. They r among the many talents who travelled but among the few who made it. Tis is the story of 7 other outsiders, who wore the orange jersey without ever playing in the Dutch league.

Apart fr Law Adam - who played 4 Grasshoppers when at University in Zurich but remained a member of HVV Den Haag in the early 1930s - no 1 fr a foreign league was called up 4 the Dutch squad until Faas Wilkes, of Valencia, in 1955. 10 years later, Pierre Kerkhoffs, of Lausanne Sports, & Co Prins, of 1. FC Kaiserslautern, were the next & the 1st exponents of the exodus we know 2day.

Over the last decade, we hv sometimes seen a scenario where only 1 or 2 representatives of the national squad represent Eredivisie clubs. Dutch players root quickly & r usually good value 4 money. Just a few, though, played abroad their whole career.

The 1st was Willy Lippens, born & bred in Germany with a Dutch father. He had 13 years in the Bundesliga with Rot Weiss Essen & Borussia Dortmund, scoring 92 goals. Lippens carried a Dutch passport, 2 the dismay of German national coach Helmut Schon, who would hv loved 2 hv seen him play 4 Die Mannschaft. Near the end of the '60s, many Dutch households would watch German television with its highlights of the Bundesliga - & the tricky winger caught the eye.

Lippens, therefore, received a chance in the Dutch team in a qualifier against Luxemburg in 1971. He scored the 1st goal, but was ignored 4 the rest of the game. Some team-mates still had issues with the war & let it out on peacetime-born Willy Lippens, who was nicknamed 'Donald Duck' as soon as he walked in2 the team hotel. Tis annoying experience was enough 4 Lippens 2 stay rooted in the Bundesliga, where they rated him very highly.

12 years later, the golden generation had gone & national coach Kees Rijvers was looking 4 experience in midfield 2 complement Erwin Koeman & Frank Rijkaard. He turned 2 Wim Hofkens - who played 4 Willem II in the 1st Division b4 leaving 4 SK Beveren & Anderlecht in Belgium - in a decision met by critical acclaim. His debut, though, was unfortunate: the team sunk to a 3-0 home defeat against Sweden. In 1989, he returned 2 help the team qualify 4 the 1990 World Cup, but then lost out 2 Richard Witschge's lobby 4 a place in the squad.

At the same time, coach Thijs Libregts was anxiously searching 4 a central defender 2 partner with Ronald Koeman, as Frank Rijkaard only wished 2 play in midfield. Along with Addick Koot, Henk Fraser & Graham Rutjes, Rob Reekers of VfL Bochum was tried. Reekers went thru the youth academy of FC Twente, then left 4 the German Regionalliga. Bochum picked him up 2 enjoy 9 Bundesliga years & 4 caps, but he did not make the 1990 World Cup. There, Frank Rijkaard had 2 return 2 his old position, probably 1 of the many frustrations simmering in the squad.

In 1996, a magical name returned in the team. The season b4, Jordi Cruyff had exploded on the Barcelona scene, where his father was still manager. With 2 passports, he was also eligible 2 play 4 Spain, but 2 the nation's joy he opted 4 Netherlands @ a time when the team was in desperate need of a right winger. Having just returned fr a severe injury, Jordi made his debut in a friendly against the Germans in Rotterdam in which he hardly touched the ball, due 2 a lack of match fitness, but the belief in him remained. Once in the squad 4 Euro 96, he adapted rapidly. Meanwhile in Barcelona, his father was dismissed, aft which the club decided 2 let Jordi go as well, afraid they were 2 hv a spy in the club the next season.

At the tournament, Jordi could showcase his talents, but aft a good start & a goal against Switzerland, he faded with the team as they blundered 2 a shameful exit in the quarter-finals. ManU picked him up in the summer, helping him to 2 more caps, but his 4 years @ Old Trafford were marred by injuries.

He went back 2 Spain @ Alaves, where he had the best year of his football life as the team sensationally reached the UEFA Cup final & won every1's heart by holding Liverpool at 4-4 aft 90 mins, Cruyff scoring a late final equaliser. With 9 men aft 2 red cards in extra-time & an own goal as a sudden-death decider, Alaves arguably suffered the most dramatic defeat in a European final ever. When Jordi left the club in 2003, they were relegated fr the Primera Division & faded into oblivion. 2day, he is attracting notice as technical director of AEK Larnaca, the current surprise Europa League participant.

Just when Cruyff made his debut 4 Netherlands, a former 1st Division misfit had become top scorer of Campomaiorense. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink had spent years on the bench @ AZ in the 1st Division, b4 resigning himself 2 life in non-league football. Trials all around the country led 2 nothing. 1 source remembers: "He trained with us 4 a week in which he was woefully inadequate. We were @ the foot of the table of the 1st Division in dire need 4 a striker, but we all saw tis was not going 2 work out." Then his agent helped him secure a contract in the Portuguese league in 1995. Hasselbaink became a world-beater. The following season, @ Boavista, he finished 2nd behind Jardel in the goalscoring charts, which made Leeds United manager George Graham decide 2 fork out £2 million.

Hasselbaink became a legend @ Elland Road, while he also received a call fr national coach Guus Hiddink 2 join the squad 4 the 1998 World Cup. He even started the tournament, paired with Patrick Kluivert against Belgium, but the latter was stupidly sent off & the former subsequently substituted in a goalless draw. When Dennis Bergkamp returned fr injury & Phillip Cocu became an instant success as a striker, Hasselbaink had 2 watch the rise of the team fr the bench.

Over the next few years, he faced fierce competition fr Kluivert, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Pierre van Hooijdonk & Roy Makaay, which limited his playing time. Only during the ill-fated Van Gaal-era, aft Hasselbaink had joined Chelsea, did he feature regularly in the team, even scoring 4 goals in as many consecutive games. Under Dick Advocaat, Hasselbaink dropped rapidly in the pecking order & said farewell 2 the national team when he was not included 4 Euro 2004.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/967648/prandelli-plan-taking-shape?cc=4716

Prandelli plan taking shape
October 10, 2011

It says alot abt the lack of drama during Italy's Euro 2012 qualifying campaign tat the most memorable picture fr the whole set of matches shows some1 wearing a tracksuit & carrying an iPad.

Mario Balotelli listened 2 music while walking around the pitch b4 the away game @ the Faroe Islands, then sat on the bench & left his device locked away somewhere else, only 2 be accused of concentrating more on his apps than the game while his team-mates were unconvincingly making their way past the hosts thanks 2 an early goal fr Antonio Cassano.

The controversy died quickly, though. Balotelli met coach Cesare Prandelli, who'd been unaware of the affair @ 1st, & the air was cleared. In fact, the ManC striker emerged 2 become the star attraction again when the Azzurri visited a prison near Florence & several inmates asked him where his iPad was.

There were laughs all around, which set the tone 4 Italy's win over Slovenia the next day; a result tat secured passage 2 Euro 2012 with 2 games 2 go. It was a very good result fr a competitive perspective, but the formation of a potential problem 4 Prandelli, as Italy would now hv 2 go a full 8 months b4 playing a competitive game - with friendly (or meaningless) matches in the past never proving popular among the Italian media.

Having said tat, it was Italy's convincing 4-1 win over Germany in a friendly in Florence early in 2006 tat probably served as a launch pad 4 their World Cup success. And a similar improvement of the overall attitude could be detected aft Italy beat Spain 2-1 in mid-August tis year, an emphatic win tat erased the bad memory of its last match, a 2-0 defeat 2 Ireland in Liege 2 months earlier.

With a glamorous tie against Uruguay in November set up 2 fan the flames & another possible high-profile game expected next March, Prandelli might just keep his players on their toes long enough 2 bridge the gap fr the game against Slovenia & the pre-Euro 2012 tournament training camp.

He has, aft all, already issued a warning 2 those, like Balotelli, who hv been struggling 2 get a game 4 their clubs. While talent & skills will obviously be taken in2 consideration, only players who hv consistently played @ club level during the 2011-12 season will be called up 4 the European Championship; almost certainly a caveat 4 some1 like Antonio Cassano (who @ 1 point seemed set 2 be the 4th-choice striker 4 Milan) 2.

Somewhat surprisingly though, Cassano has played alot 4 the Rossoneri & has apparently become 1 of the 1st names Prandelli pencils in 4 his starting XI. Tat Italy has now started 5 of the past 6 matches with 2 mobile, diminutive strikers up front has been the most significant tactical development the manager has brought 2 the side.

Having reached the Champions League with Fiorentina by having Alberto Gilardino leading the line & trying 2 get on the end of crosses 4 the Viola, Prandelli experimented with different formations & attacking combinations in his 1st matches in charge of the national side. Amauri started as a centre-4ward in his inaugural 4-3-3 @ Upton Park against the Ivory Coast, followed by Gilardino & Marco Borriello, b4 tactics veered 2ward a 4-3-1-2 which has seen Cassano & Giuseppe Rossi paired up front with decent results.

Prandelli hinted @ this development last November as he reviewed the 1-1 draw with Romania in Klagenfurt: ''The Serie A does not provide me with the kind of wingers tat would allow me 2 look 4 a different formation. I m looking @ a set-up tat does not require me 2 use a central striker. I wanted 2 see how an attacking triangle would work''. @ the time, he was referring 2 Alessandro Diamanti, Balotelli & Rossi, who had started tat match, but it might hv been anybody else with the skills 2 play in those positions.

In later editions, we've seen Cassano & Rossi supported by 1st Alberto Aquilani then Riccardo Montolivo as a trequartista & tis leads us 2 other considerations abt the midfield, which has Andrea Pirlo as the central element, both in position on the pitch & in seniority & leadership. The start of his 2nd career, with Juventus, has been sensational &, while we're only 45 days in2 the competitive season & conclusions abt him should only be drawn next June, Pirlo has looked every bit as creative & functional as he was in his best years.

While Thiago Motta (when healthy), Montolivo, Daniele De Rossi, Antonio Nocerino & Claudio Marchisio hv all seen action as Pirlo's protectors - the way Milan used 2 do with Rino Gattuso & Massimo Ambrosini - the Juventus playmaker seems 2 be the only fixture in midfield & Friday's futile efforts by Serbia's Milos Ninkovic 2 shackle him will only hv encouraged Prandelli 2 go 4ward with his plan 2 hv Italy play patient, possession football, with Pirlo as the starting point.

When he's not involved or opponents play him 2 tight, it will be left 2 any of the other midfielders, especially those with creative feet & vision like Montolivo or Aquilani, 2 set the wheels in motion while the trequartista & the 2 strikers move in2 space pulling away defenders. Tis combination of defenders playing high, midfielders exchanging positions - Prandelli does not like 2 hear the word "trequartista" which he says reminds him of some1 who rarely moves fr his position - & small, mobile forwards trying 2 disrupt the opponents' build-up play, is designed 2 keep the ball as far as possible fr the Azzurri penalty area, which may account 4 the fact Italy has only let in 2 goals so far. It is an approach tat had some mention Barcelona as the side Italy most resembles; a risky comparison which should be put 2 rest asap.

The ultimate compliment paid 2 Italy aft the draw in Serbia tis weekend, however, was tat the team had approached the game & played just like a club side, which means Prandelli has so far been able 2 squeeze as much as he could fr the limited practice time & instil a 'team-1st' attitude tat has managed 2 take shape.

Tis positive outlook does not mean Italy would be ready 2 start Euro 2012 as favourites, of course, not least since the Azzurri, like most teams, thrive on being underdogs. It remains 2 be seen whether these tactics can be unleashed on all opponents. It took Italy a shift in tactics, with Giampaolo Pazzini replacing Cassano on the hour, then Balotelli coming in 4 Montolivo, 2 form a 4-3-3 for Italy 2 break down Slovenia, & 1 of the most glaring weaknesses in the 1-0 win @ the Faroes was the Azzurri's inability 2 stretch the home side's defence.

As Prandelli himself had noted, his own plan called 4 Cassano & Rossi 2 stay closer 2 the midfielders & pull defenders away fr their positions, but that had turned sour as possession had not translated in2 quick passing, & 2 many times it had seemed no 1 had tried 2 exploit space behind the defenders, reducing play 2 a poor man's tiki-taka with no real outlet tat was a source of frustration 4 the fans.

Speaking of fans, Saturday's game in Belgrade counted little 4 Italy as far as the group table was concerned, but had all the makings of a drama becos of wat had happened in the 1st leg last year in Genoa. Readers will remember the odd, ugly sight of a Serbian ultra, climbing along the chain link fence & meticulously cutting it apart with a pair of pliers while Italian Police stood back in order not 2 spark a full-scale riot of the type Italian grounds had sadly seen so much in the past.

The match was then abandoned & Italy were awarded a win, with some of the Serbian hooligans given jail sentences. There did not appear 2 be specific threats b4 the return leg, then 2 days b4 the game the Serbian authorities decreed all tickets bought by Italians fans would be voided & only tickets issued directly 2 the Italian FA (130) would be honoured. A puzzling decision tat perhaps was meant 2 pre-empt trouble, but then there is never going 2 be a huge Italian presence anyway: only 150 tickets had been sold, 50 of them, according 2 Italian Police, 2 members of 'Ultras Italia', the fan group with right-wing leanings tat makes up most of the away fan force in such occasions.

Unlike Prandelli's side, who are yet to lose a match away from home - all defeats incurred in neutral venues - Italian fans do not travel well.

[joew2005]

Euro 2012 Play-Off

1st leg results
Turkey 0-3 Croatia
Estonia 0-4 Republic of Ireland
Czech Republic 2-0 Montenegro
Bosnia and Herzegovina 0-0 Portugal

2nd leg on 15 Nov
Croatia vs Turkey (Croatia lead 3-nil fr 1st leg)
Republic of Ireland vs Estonia (Republic of Ireland lead 4-nil fr 1st leg)
Montenegro vs Czech Republic (Czech Republic lead 2-nil fr 1st leg)
Portugal vs Bosnia & Herzegovina (1st leg ended goalless)

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=333016&cc=4716

Croatia give Turkey a stuffing

Croatia all but guaranteed themselves a place @ Euro 2012 aft hammering hosts Turkey in the 1st leg of their play-off @ the Ataturk Stadium.

Ivica Olic gave Slaven Bilic's side the perfect start when he turned home Vedran Corluka's cross fr close range with just 2 mins on the clock.

Mario Mandzukic doubled the lead half an hour later when he nodded past the flailing Volkan Demirel @ the far post, b4 Corluka completed the scoring in the 51st min with only his 2nd international goal.

Croatia's dominance started early & they were ahead fr the 1st meaningful attack of the match.

Aft winning a free-kick & spreading play 2 the left, Corluka broke away & found space on the flank.

His low cross along the 6-yard line found Demirel indecisive & the ball was merely diverted on its way thru 2 the waiting Olic, who tapped in2 an empty net.

Turkey attempted 2 settle but there was no let-up fr Croatia, with Ivan Rakitic missing from long range as he attempted 2 find a 2nd in the 13th min.

Play settled in2 a scrappier style until Olic popped up again on the half hour, drawing a save fr Demirel with a 12-yard strike.

Demirel was helpless 2 mins later as Mandzukic made it 2-0.

Luka Modric 1st saw his low drive charged down but collected the loose ball & fed it 2 Olic on the right.

He lofted a cross 2 the far post where Mandzukic was perfectly placed 2 head the ball back across goal & over the line.

Olic had a glorious opportunity 4 his 2nd of the night on the stroke of half-time aft Mandzukic drew 3 defenders with a jinking run only 2 lay the ball off 2 his team-mate.

Olic's 1st touch 4 1s let him down, giving Demirel time 2 charge down the shot.

If the hosts regrouped @ half-time it counted 4 little as Croatia's 3rd came 6 mins aft the restart.

Domagoj Vida won a free-kick on the right & Srna was on hand 2 deliver a fine cross in2 the danger area.

Corluka made light work of shaking off the attention of Burak Yilmaz & powered a free header in2 the centre of goal.

An immediate response was now needed & Croatia goalkeeper Stipe Pletikosa almost gave them 1 when he fumbled Arda Turan's cross only 4 Josip Simunic 2 clear the danger.

Modric looked the most likely 2 create a 4th goal as he made plenty of space in the centre of the park, but Turkey had nobody capable of finding a killer ball.

Sabri Sarioglu made a nuisance of himself @ times, and earned a booking 4 an animated reaction 2 a challenge in the closing stages, but Pletikosa had a quiet time in the final mins.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=333019&cc=4716

Portugal frustrated by Bosnia-Herzegovina

Bosnia-Herzegovina failed 2 make the most of home advantage as they played out a dire goalless draw with Portugal in the 1st leg of their Euro 2012 play-off in Zenica.

The hosts consider the Bilino Polje their lucky stadium, but it was anything but lucky 4 the watching spectators who were subjected 2 an abject spectacle on a woefully inadequate pitch.

Possession was dominated by the visitors but Helder Postiga missed the best of wat chances they created, while Cristiano Ronaldo again struggled 2 recreate his club form in a Portugal shirt.

Nonetheless, Paulo Bento's side will be happier with the goalless draw & they will be firm favourites 2 progress when the 2 sides meet again in Lisbon on Tuesday.

In a scrappy start as the players got 2 grips with the challenging playing surface, Portugal were 1st 2 show aft 9 mins when Raul Meireles fired in a shot fr the edge of the box, bringing a smart save out of Asmir Begovic @ his near post.

Aft 18 mins the ball would not come down 4 Postiga, who sent the ball way over the bar fr the edge of the area - & moments later he missed with an over-ambitious overhead kick.

Ronaldo cut a frustrated figure as Portugal dominated the half without creating much, & the Real Madrid man was reduced 2 snap-shots which did not trouble Begovic.

Ronaldo threw a lump of the uneven turf 2 the ground in irritation aft sending an effort wide 6 mins in2 the 2nd period.

In the 58th min, a Joao Moutinho free-kick broke in the box 2 Postiga, but he spurned an excellent opportunity when he sliced his shot wide.

Ronaldo weaved his way thru the home defence aft 64 mins but his scuffed shot was easily saved by Begovic.

Edin Dzeko had a rare chance 4 Bosnia-Herzegovina in the 72nd min, but his shot was always going just wide.

Substitute Vedad Ibisevic had a glorious chance moments later when Adnan Zahirovic's cross reached him @ the back post, but his control was dreadful & he then got in a tangle as he tried 2 shoot.

Begovic scrambled 2 save fr Meireles, b4 Ibisevic missed another excellent opportunity @ the other end, blazing his shot wildly over the bar when thru on goal, though he had the pitch & a bobbling ball 2 cite in mitigation.

As the game ticked over in2 stoppage time a corner fr Miguel Veloso hit Emir Spahic & deflected goalwards, but straight @ Begovic.

In the last act of a game desperately lacking in quality, Dzeko saw a close-range shot well saved by Rui Patricio, but the whistle had already gone 4 offside.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report/_/id/333018?cc=4716

Sivok puts Czechs in control

A late header fr Tomas Sivok saw the Czech Republic put 1 foot in the Euro 2012 finals with victory over Montenegro in the 1st leg of their qualifying play-off.

The Czechs held a narrow lead aft Vaclav Pilar's 63rd min goal but Sivok's goal in injury time gives them a clear advantage going in2 the 2nd leg.

And it was no less than they deserved aft a strong showing on the night.

Jaroslav Plasil's early shot was held by Mladen Bozovic while @ the other end Milan Jovanovic fired over in lively opening exchanges.

The hosts were enjoying the better of the chances though, & Bozovic could only parry a free-kick fr Daniel Pudil b4 doing a better job with another shot fr the same man moments later.

Mirko Vucinic sent a volley over the crossbar b4 the Czechs resumed peppering shots @ Bozovic's goal.

A weak effort fr Tomas Pekhart was off-target b4 Tomas Rosicky's effort was charged down by Miodrag Djudovic & Petr Jiracek blazed over.

Vucinic had another good chance 4 the visitors in the 39th min but missed with his close-range header.

Having been on the back foot 4 much of the 1st half, Montenegro made an excellent start 2 the 2nd half.

Dejan Damjanovic went close just seconds aft the restart, b4 Petr Cech tipped Simon Vukcevic's shot around the post moments later.

The Chelsea goalkeeper then made another fine save 2 deny Damjanovic b4 the hosts could impose themselves on the game again.

But impose themselves they did, Pekhart & Jiracek had both gone close again b4 Pilar made the breakthrough in the 63rd min, latching on 2 Rosicky's pass & firing in2 the top right-hand corner of the net fr 25 yards.

Theodor Gebre Selassie tried 2 extend the lead with an ambitious long-range effort which Bozovic easily held, while a free-kick fr Michal Kadlec in a decent position went straight in2 the wall.

They got wat could be the critical goal just inside injury time, with Rosicky again the provider as his free-kick found the head of Sivok 2 beat the goalkeeper.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/report?id=333017&cc=4716

Ireland on brink of reaching finals

Skipper Robbie Keane claimed a double in Tallinn as the Republic of Ireland routed 9-man Estonia 2 take an iron grip on their Euro 2012 play-off.

Ireland were already leading thru Keith Andrews' 13th-min header when central defender Andrei Stepanov was sent off 4 a 2nd bookable offence, & by the time skipper Raio Piiroja joined him 13 mins fr time aft being cautioned twice in quick succession, they were 3-0 down.

Jonathan Walters' 67th-minute header, his 1st senior international goal, justified manager Giovanni Trapattoni's decision 2 pick him, & Keane's late brace ensured Ireland will take a commanding lead in2 Tuesday night's 2nd leg @ the Aviva Stadium.

The home fans were furious with Hungarian referee Viktor Kassai 4 wat they saw as his part in their side's demise, but Ireland made hay as they banished the bitter memories of 5 play-off defeats in 6 previous attempts 2 take a giant stride 2wards Poland & Ukraine.

Ireland's tale of woe has proved a source of intense frustration, & the injustice of the final chapter which cast Frenchman Thierry Henry in the role of villain 2 years ago left a bitter taste in the mouths of the nation.

There was a belief b4 kick-off, however, tat tis could be their time aft they were seeded 4 the draw which handed them, on paper @ least, the least taxing of the 4 options available, & home advantage in the 2nd leg.

On the pitch, things could not hv gone much better as Estonia initially showed they were not prepared 2 be cannon fodder 4 the Irish, yet ultimately contrived 2 extend their hospitality far 2 readily.

Tarmo Ruutli's men started brightly enough, but found themselves behind with just 13 mins gone when Aiden McGeady, who proved a threat throughout, burst into space on the left b4 floating the perfect cross in2 the middle 4 Andrews 2 head home his 3rd senior international goal.

Walters, preferred 2 Simon Cox as Keane's strike partner 4 the night, might hv doubled his side's lead 5 mins later, but his shot on the turn aft Sean St Ledger had headed down Andrews' free-kick flew high & wide.

Estonia responded as dangerman Konstantin Vassiljev, whose 5 goals proved so valuable during their Group C campaign, looked threatening in the space betw the Republic's midfield & defensive lines.

His viciously-struck 22nd-min shot had goalkeeper Shay Given concerned enough 2 dive full-length across his goal, & the Aston Villa man was mightily relieved 2 see the ball fly just wide.

But as Vassiljev & Middlesbrough winger Tarmo Kink started 2 pin the visitors back, they left space @ the back & Walters shot inches over fr a tight angle aft being played in by Glenn Whelan.

However, Estonia were dealt a major blow seconds later when Stepanov's night came 2 a premature conclusion.

The defender, who had been booked 4 an earlier challenge on McGeady, crudely up-ended Keane aft being caught in possession, leaving Kassai little option but 2 double the dose & send him off.

Ruutli had 2 reorganise @ the break & opted 2 field a back 3 in the 2nd half with Kink & Dmitri Kruglov operating as wing-backs.

They might hv fallen further behind within 4 mins of the restart when Damien Duff fired in a skidding drive fr a narrow angle, but goalkeeper Sergei Pareiko dealt with it comfortably.

Kassai incurred the wrath of the home fans 4 mins later when he awarded a free-kick just outside the box rather than a penalty 4 a foul by Whelan on midfielder Martin Vunk.

Vassiljev's set-piece was deflected wide by Richard Dunne, & it was then tat Ireland made their big push.

They put the game, & perhaps the tie, beyond Estonia inside 4 mins when Walters headed home Keane's cross aft Pareiko could only parry McGeady's 67th-minute shot, & the captain gleefully tapped home aft the goalkeeper had blocked Andrews' 71st-minute free-kick with his feet.

Piiroja picked up a booking which would hv ruled him out of the 2nd leg anyway 4 a foul on Andrews, but he joined Stepanov back in the dressing room with 13 mins remaining aft being cautioned 4 a 2nd time 4 handball.

The depth of the Estonian disaster grew 2 mins fr time when Keane converted a penalty aft Ats Purje had tripped fellow substitute Stephen Hunt 2 leave the former Soviet republic's hopes in tatters.

[joew2005]

The draw 4 the final tournament will take place on 2 December 2011 @ the Ukraine Palace of Arts in Kiev, Ukraine.

Teams Going 2 The Finals
1) Co-host - Poland
2) Co-host - Ukraine
3) Group A Winner - Germany
4) Group B Winner - Russia
5) Group C Winner - Italy
6) Group D Winner - France
7) Group E Winner - Netherlands
8) Group F Winner - Greece
9) Group G Winner - England
10) Group H Winner - Denmark
11) Group I Winner - Spain
12) Best Runner Up - Sweden
13) Playoff Winner - Turkey/Croatia (Croatia lead 3-0 aft 1st leg)
14) Playoff Winner - Estonia/Ireland (Ireland lead 4-0 aft 1st leg)
15) Playoff Winner - Czech Republic/Montenegro (Czech lead 2-0 aft 1st leg)
16) Playoff Winner - Bosnia & Herzegovina/Portugal (1st leg ended 0-0, Advantage Portugal as the 2nd leg is @ Lisbon)

The Euro 2012 shall be held betw 8 June 2012 & 1 July 2012.
Tis will be the last tournament tat contain 16 nations.
Fr Euro 2016 onwards, 24 nations will compete in the Finals.

The 16 finalists will be divided into 4 seeding pots, ranked by their UEFA coefficient, with each of the 4 groups having 1 team fr each pot.

The winner of Euro 2012 tournament will qualify 4 the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup hosted by Brazil.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/982876/guus-hiddink:-blame-me-for-defeat?cc=4716

Hiddink: Blame me for defeat
November 12, 2011

Turkey coach Guus Hiddink has taken full responsibility aft his side were humiliated 3-0 on home soil by Croatia in their Euro 2012 play-off.

Hiddink has previously revealed tat he will walk away fr the job if Turkey do not seal progress 2 the final tournament &, with tat looking unlikely aft a dismal 1st-leg performance, the Dutchman has admitted tat he was @ fault.

"I m responsible 4 the results. The players hv 2 execute things properly, but I take full responsibility," Hiddink told NTV Spor. "I think 2nd place in qualification behind Germany was a realistic expectation, but were confronted with a team with guys in big leagues who r very strong & very fast.

"It's not 4 nothing tat these players play in the Premier League, in the Bundesliga - they hv experience in tough competitions.

"If you come out in the 1st minute & badly organised & outplayed very easily, then it's already a difficult game. We gave them a favour of 2 counter attacks, which was the killer."

Looking ahead 2 Tuesday's return leg, Hiddink called upon his troops 2 restore some pride. "I think it's very important tat the players play 4 their honour, 4 themselves, 4 their country, becos let's face facts, it's difficult, almost impossible 2 qualify,'' he said.

"Some will get opportunities 2 play themselves into the team becos some young, new player will knock on the door 2 play."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/feature/_/id/982862/irish-evolve-to-bury-play-off-ghosts?cc=4716

Irish evolve to bury play-off ghosts
November 12, 2011

In the press room, Giovanni Trapattoni was shedding tears. Out on the pitch, the FA of Ireland's chief executive John Delaney was conducting chants 4 the jubilant fans, punching the air & throwing his tie in2 the crowd. And, all around the Le Coq Arena, Irish eyes weren't just smiling, they were beaming.

If all of tat seems a little unbecoming given tat Ireland's play-off with Estonia isn't actually over yet, then it has 2 be considered tat wat looks 2 be an inevitable victory feels like the end-point of a very emotional journey 4 both the manager & his squad.

It's just 2 years, aft all, since the pain of Paris when Ireland were denied a World Cup place by Thierry Henry's sleight of hand. And tat result represented Ireland's 5th official play-off defeat - the worst record in eliminators in international history. Little wonder there was trepidation abt Friday night.

Indeed, it's 10 years since Ireland's only successful play-off - the 2-1 aggregate defeat of Iran 2 reach the 2002 World Cup. But even the joy of tat was soured by wat eventually transpired in Asia as Roy Keane's strained relationship with Mick McCarthy reached tipping point & saw the side's driving force depart b4 the tournament even began.

Some sociologists argued that the country-splitting incident represented Ireland's "Princess Diana". Most football fans @ least agreed tat it altered the history & future of the national team. And yet, now tat Ireland r on the verge of only their 5th international tournament in the country's history - & in a surprisingly serene manner on the pitch - controversy continues 2 reign off it.

Trapattoni's 4-year tenure has actually given rise 2 the most fractious tactical debate in Ireland since Jack Charlton told a player of Liam Brady's class 2 just 'lump it 4ward'.

To 1 half of the football population, Trapattoni is playing an unnecessarily austere style - such as doggedly trying 2 protect 2-1 lead against Macedonia - during the most open era in international football. 4 the other half he is only doing wat he must with a moderate group of players with no real history of success.

On Tuesday, though, tat history is abt 2 change, And, 2 give Trapattoni credit, he has answered some parts of tat argument along the way 2 doing so. 4 alot of the 1st half, Estonia looked much more elegant on the ball & controlled most of the midfield space.

But, in truth, they struggled 2 handle Ireland's base aggression in the tackle & it was tat energy - allied 2 abit of Aiden McGeady ingenuity, @ last - which brought the key opening goal. Often criticised 4 being wasteful, the winger showed both efficiency & excellence in sending over a perfect cross 4 Keith Andrews 2 head home.

Aft tat, Estonia were always going 2 be chasing the game & tat was encapsulated when Andrei Stepanov was sent off 4 hauling down Robbie Keane; gifting Ireland an extra man as well as all of the initiative. While referee Viktor Kassei did seem 2 get the decision right, Estonian manager Tarmo Ruutli couldn't resist attributing some blame 4 the defeat 2 it, claiming: "Of course, [the decisions] played some role in tat result. But the 1st 2 goals were our problems. Not the referee's problem."

Trapattoni himself, however, did admit tat the incident shifted the dynamic of the game. "We hv been helped by the situation. With 11 against 10, we had more opportunities 2 win,'' he said. ''Aft the 1st goal, I thought the opportunity 2 qualify was very near. "Against 10 men, we could use the ball better."

As important as it was, though, it's still worth considering Ireland's history with such incidents. On a series of previous occasions when Trapattoni's team hv enjoyed such an advantage, rather than press home he has typically sought 2 protect wat he had. And tat has invited an awful lot of unnecessary doubt & danger that supported the arguments against his reign.

Against Estonia, though, Ireland emphatically & clinically went 4 the jugular. The game, & the tie, were put well out of reach. The difference, Trapattoni insisted, was down 2 tat long, emotional evolution.

"I am happy becos the team showed the work done in training. Tat is important. "We showed our personality,'' he said. "At the moment I m confident abt the team. We were ready. 2 years ago, we were not ready. 2night, we were."

Tat growth seemed 2 be personified by a newly mature captain, Robbie Keane. 4 the 2nd goal, the country's record goalscorer untypically showed a selfless ingenuity by inventively scooping the ball over 4 Jon Walters rather than shooting. And his patience was rewarded with a goal 4 himself mins later as well as a late penalty.

In saying all of tat, though, there were a few caveats 2 tis otherwise convincing win. In truth, Ireland were fortunate 2 draw the worst, most vulnerable team in the play-offs. And they were more fortunate still when tat Estonian team self-destructed aft the 1st goal.

Becos of tat, some in Ireland were still bemoaning the nature of victory aft the game & many fear the continued absence of control in the midfield will cause alot of problems in Euro 2012.

But 1 aspect of it all is undeniable: Ireland r abt 2 reach only their 5th international tournament ever. They'll hv done it coming thru a group with a Euro 2008 semi-finalist (Russia) & a 2010 World Cup last-16 side (Slovakia). At the end of tat, they then eviscerated a team tat themselves had come thru a group with three World Cup qualifiers. Broken down, tat's a commendable achievement, regardless of its style.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/982906/giovanni-trapattoni:-the-cat-is-in-the-sack?cc=4716

Trapattoni: The cat is in the sack
November 12, 2011

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni is wary of complacency ahead of the 2nd-leg against Estonia, despite a 4-0 hammering of his opponents on Friday.

Trapattoni's side strolled 2 the win with a brace fr Robbie Keane & goals fr Keith Andrews & Jonathan Walters. But, with Ireland set 2 claim a spot @ a major tournament 4 the 1st time since 2002, the Italian manager is not taking anything 4 granted.

"The cat is in the sack, but the sack is not closed,'' he said. ''The cat is in it, but it's open - & it's a wild cat.

''In my opinion, we deserved 2 win. Maybe we were helped aft the 1st goal by the sending-off - @ 11 v 10, we had more opportunities 2 score goals. But we hv 2 hv respect 4 our opponents 4 wat they hv achieved in tis qualification campaign.

"@ tis moment, we r near qualifying @ 4-0. But I repeat the same sentence: don't jump the gun. I hv been many times @ the edge of a cliff. I know these situations. I hv been 2 many big tournaments & matches like tis r wat I call top level matches.

"But it's not necessarily important 2 achieve 1 objective, we hv 2 focus on wat comes next. Tis is my law. I never look back, I always look 4ward."

And Trapattoni has told his players they must reprise their heroics in Tallinn 2 clinch qualification & reward the fans 4 their support throughout the campaign.

He said: "We must hv respect 4 these people becos @ tis moment, with the financial crisis, it's a sacrifice 2 come 2 the stadium. We hv 2 hv respect 4 them & show them our commitment.

"We hv a duty 2 repeat tis game, maybe not with the same goals, but 4 the Irish people. I hv said 2 the team 2 be careful. It will not be an easy game.

"It is another 90 mins 4 our opponents. They lost some pride & it is important tat we play tis game with the same seriousness 4 our opponents & 4 the ppl coming 2 the stadium 2 watch the game. They pay 4 their tickets & expect a result - & not only a result, but also 4 us 2 play well.

"@ home, we can also play with more confidence now with tis advantage, but with the same mentality.''

Trapattoni has only 1 fresh injury concern with midfielder Damian Duff having bruised, but not fractured, a rib in a collision with team-mate Glenn Whelan @ the A Le Coq Arena.

Full-back John O'Shea has recovered fr his hamstring injury & is likely 2 return 2 the starting line-up, as will striker Kevin Doyle, who was suspended 4 the 1st leg game.

However, Newcastle's Leon Best has returned 2 his club with the manager's best wishes aft joining up 2 hv his groin injury assessed.

Trapattoni said: "Leon Best was injured & he came in & aft speaking with him & speaking with the doctor, we said 2 him 2 go home.

"We said 'thanks' becos he wished 2 come with us, but he is injured & I told him we didn't need him in tis game & tat it was better 2 go back with his team & finish his treatment.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/feature/_/id/983511/bosnia-&-herzegovina-and-portugal-ready-for-grand-finale?cc=4716

Duo ready for grand finale
November 14, 2011

So 2 Lisbon, where not only Portugal will be relieved 2 be fighting out a Euro 2012 finals berth on Benfica's snooker table of a pitch. A surface @ the Stadium Bilino Polje tat Cristiano Ronaldo tersely dismissed as a "vegetable patch" may hv had a hand in keeping 1 of the world's most prolific 4wards @ bay on Friday, but it did little 4 Bosnia-Herzegovina's own hopes either.

The home side's classy midfield pair of Miralem Pjanic & Zvjezdan Misimovic were also drowning in a sea of divots in Zenica. The latter, as silky smooth a playmaker as u will ever set eyes on, did @ least manage 2 become more influential as the match went on. The Dynamo Moscow man expertly created a brace of highly presentable chances 4 substitute Vedad Ibisevic late on - neither of which the striker could take.

Ibisevic's key miss in the last 10 mins - clubbing over the bar aft Misimovic sent him clean thru - elicited sympathy rather than ire, as the ball cruelly leapt up off the fractured turf as he swung @ it. It might hv appeared a thin excuse had the same thing not happened 2 Ronaldo in the other major moment tat might hv shaped the destiny of the tie, aft Nani's flick put him in. The seething reaction of Portugal's captain aft he sent his effort wide was the only time he let his frustration show during a testing 90 mins.

Fr the moment on Wednesday afternoon when the Portugal delegation touched down @ Sarajevo airport, they felt tat the locals' plan was clear - 2 chip away @ Ronaldo's nerves @ every possible opportunity. As the squad walked thru the arrival hall, a couple of hundred locals chanted 'Messi, Messi' as Real Madrid's talisman allowed himself a good-natured grin.

Ronaldo was somewhat less impressed when a group of local teenagers scaled a fence 2 intrude on the squad's private practice session on Thursday 2 reprise the chants in favour of his Barcelona counterpart & shine a laser pen @ him. The front cover of Friday's O Jogo showed an understandably peeved Ronaldo offering a gloved middle finger 2 the errant youths.

It was clear in his pugnacious post-match words 2 the media in Zenica tat Ronaldo had been thru the mill, & tat he had been holding his breath. While laughing off repeated laser pen sightings as "a poor excuse 4 a disco", he knew tat Bosnia had aimed 2 provoke him in2 earning the yellow card tat would hv seen him miss the return match thru suspension. "I know I couldn't get booked," he said.

The Portuguese camp's assertion of a planned destabilisation campaign betw complicit fans & players was nevertheless a little far-fetched. The locals merely saw their own cat-calling as gentle banter. Certainly, their targeting of Ronaldo was a clear recognition of the respect he commands as the biggest threat 2 their hopes of making it 2 Poland & Ukraine. His displays @ club level hv made him an idol in Bosnia, & there were as many Real Madrid shirts as Barcelona 1s in the crowd tat greeted Portugal @ the airport.

Containment was Bosnia's plan, & will probably continue 2 be in Lisbon. Tis was the 1st time Portugal hv drawn a blank under Paulo Bento, aft scoring 30 times in the 1st 12 games of his spell in command. Statistically speaking, tis shouldn't be 2 much of a surprise. Bosnia r unbeaten in 7 & hv conceded just 1 goal in tat time - Samir Nasri's penalty 4 France in the final qualifier. Yet they were shorn of 3 of their regular back 4, & both Boris Pandza & Rangers' Sasa Papac were banned aft receiving yellow cards in France. They will return @ the Estádio da Luz.

Tat clean sheet may well prove key. As Pjanic said post-match, a goal in Lisbon will put Safet Susic's men in the driving seat. In short, a repeat of the score draw achieved @ the Stade de France last month will see Bosnia thru 2 Euro 2012.

The pragmatic Susic admitted he expected 2 take the tie 2 the wire fr the start. "If I'd hv started with 2 strikers, we may hv scored 1, but we might hv conceded 2 as well," he said. He also confessed tat the Zenica pitch coloured his approach, & tat he initially instructed his players 2 simply punt it long 2 Edin Dzeko. A better pitch may allow a more expansive approach in the return.

Susic's tactics will certainly be under close scrutiny in Bosnia, with many still rueing his predecessor Miroslav Blazovic's approach 2 the corresponding fixture 2 years ago, in the pair's World Cup qualifying play-off. Blazovic chose 2 start with Dzeko & Ibisevic, but without the influential Pjanic, & the folly in such a plan quickly became acutely apparent. Portugal created a raft of chances while Misimovic was largely starved of the ball. In the closing stages, aft Pjanic's entrance & a tactical reshuffle, only the frame of the goal prevented 1st Dzeko & then Ibisevic fr wiping out the hosts' narrow advantage & keeping them fr advancing.

"I'm hoping 4 a full stadium supporting us - & having a bit of patience," said Bento after Friday's game. The Portugal boss could pat himself on the back 4 his own planning, with his team having produced wat he described as an "organised, cohesive & courageous performance" in Zenica, & it is clear tat the returns of Fabio Coentrao & the outstanding Pepe hv made Portugal a completely different proposition 2 the side which endured a series of defensive pratfalls in the closing brace of qualifiers against Iceland & Denmark.

Whether your view is tat Bosnia hv leapt 4ward or Portugal hv regressed, it is clear tat matters r even more finely balanced than they were 2 years ago. Perhaps it would represent a degree of poetic justice if Ronaldo sealed the deal 4 Portugal @ the Luz - where he most famously exercised tat middle finger against baying Benfica fans while @ Manchester United in 2005.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/983571/cristiano-ronaldo:-better-pitch-will-help-portugal-in-play-off?cc=4716

Ronaldo: Better pitch will help Portugal
November 14, 2011

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo is confident tat his side will show their "superiority" over Bosnia in their Euro 2012 play-off clash on Tuesday aft struggling with a difficult pitch in the 1st leg.

The 2 sides drew 0-0 in Zenica last Friday, with many pointing 2 the poor quality of the boggy playing surface as a key reason 4 Portugal's failure 2 grab an away goal.

But Real Madrid superstar Ronaldo believes tat playing on a better pitch in Lisbon will allow Paulo Bento's side 2 cast off the shackles & produce an attacking display tat will help them advance 2 next summer's tournament in Poland & Ukraine.

"Tat wasn't grass, we played on a vegetable patch. It was very difficult & still we did well & created chances," Ronaldo said.

"We now hv a 2nd chance @ home in front of our fans, with a good pitch & hv all the conditions 2 ensure we win. We hv 2 assume we r fav & show our superiority - we r a better team."

But Bosnia's Edin Dzeko believes his side will benefit fr a slicker pitch just as much as their Portuguese hosts, & the ManC striker insists they r full of belief tat they can qualify.

"Maybe the Portuguese think we will be easier opponents on a better surface but we won't," Dzeko said. "The fact is tat we r also looking 4ward 2 play on a quality pitch."

[joew2005]

Euro 2012 Play-Off

2nd leg on 15 Nov
Croatia 0-0 Turkey (Croatia win 3-0 aggra over 2 legs)
Republic of Ireland 1-1 Estonia (Republic of Ireland win 5-1 aggra over 2 legs)
Montenegro 0-1 Czech Republic (Czech Republic win 3-0 aggra over 2 legs)
Portugal vs Bosnia & Herzegovina (1st leg ended goalless, Portugal leading 3-1 in the 2nd leg)

[joew2005]

The draw 4 the final tournament will take place on 2 December 2011 @ the Ukraine Palace of Arts in Kiev, Ukraine.

Teams Going 2 The Finals
1) Co-host - Poland
2) Co-host - Ukraine
3) Group A Winner - Germany
4) Group B Winner - Russia
5) Group C Winner - Italy
6) Group D Winner - France
7) Group E Winner - Netherlands
8) Group F Winner - Greece
9) Group G Winner - England
10) Group H Winner - Denmark
11) Group I Winner - Spain
12) Best Runner Up - Sweden
13) Playoff Winner - Croatia
14) Playoff Winner - Ireland
15) Playoff Winner - Czech Republic
16) Playoff Winner - Portugal

The Euro 2012 shall be held betw 8 June 2012 & 1 July 2012.
Tis will be the last tournament tat contain 16 nations.
Fr Euro 2016 onwards, 24 nations will compete in the Finals.

The 16 finalists will be divided into 4 seeding pots, ranked by their UEFA coefficient, with each of the 4 groups having 1 team fr each pot.

The winner of Euro 2012 tournament will qualify 4 the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup hosted by Brazil.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/984320/second-seeded-england-avoid-germans-in-euro-2012-draw?cc=4716

England avoid Germans in Euro draw
November 16, 2011

England will avoid old rivals Germany in the group stages of Euro 2012 aft UEFA confirmed the seedings 4 next summer's tournament.

England r in the 2nd pot alongside Euro 2008 runners-up Germany, 2006 world champions Italy & Russia, meaning Fabio Capello's men will avoid those teams until the knockout stages.

The 3 Lions could be drawn in the same group as Republic of Ireland, who booked their place in their 1st major championship in a decade on Tuesday.

However, perhaps the most daunting outcome of the draw, which will take place on December 2, would be 4 England 2 be drawn alongside reigning world & European champions Spain, Portugal & France.

The Spanish r in the top group of seeds, alongside 2010 World Cup finalists Holland plus co-hosts Poland & Ukraine, who hv already been allocated 2 groups A & D respectively.

A more palatable group 4 Capello's team might be 2 be drawn against Poland - with England having already confirmed they will be based in Krakow - Greece & the Czechs.

Ireland r in the 4th group of seeds alongside Denmark, the Czech Republic & France. Tat means they cannot face the French, who knocked them out in a controversial World Cup qualification play-off 2 years ago.

The pots hv been decided on the countries' UEFA coefficient rankings, except 4 the co-hosts.

Seedings 4 Euro 2012

• Pot 1: Spain, Holland, Poland*, Ukraine*.

• Pot 2: Germany, Italy, England, Russia.

• Pot 3: Croatia, Greece, Portugal, Sweden.

• Pot 4: Denmark, France, Czech Republic, Republic of Ireland

* Poland already allocated to Group A, Ukraine already allocated to Group D.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/987301/england-climb-to-fifth-in-fifa-world-rankings?cc=4716

England climb to 5th in FIFA rankings
November 23, 2011

England hv moved up to 5th in the FIFA world rankings following their friendly wins over Spain & Sweden.

Fabio Capello's side won both games @ Wembley 1-0 to move up fr 7th in the standings, which r still led by world & European champions Spain.

Netherlands remain 2nd in the rankings but 3rd-placed Germany hv closed the gap following their 3-0 win in a friendly betw the 2 sides.

Uruguay remain 4th aft extending their unbeaten run to 13 matches, while Brazil drop to 6th.

Portugal climb 1 place to 7th & Croatia move up 4 places to 8th thanks 2 sealing their place in Euro 2012 thru the play-offs.

The Republic of Ireland's play-off success against Estonia lifts them 4 places to 21st, while Scotland r up 2 places to 49th.

Wales hv dropped 5 places to 50th despite winning 4 of their last 5 games, while Northern Ireland r also down 5 to 89th.

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking, updated on 22 Nov 2011.

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 3)
4. England (Fifa 5)
5. Portugal (Fifa 7)
6. Croatia (Fifa 8)
7. Italy (Fifa 9)
8. Denmark (Fifa 11)
9. Russia (Fifa 12)
10. Greece (Fifa 14)
11. France (Fifa 15)
12. Switzerland (Fifa 17)
13. Sweden (Fifa 18)
14. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 21)
15. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 23)
16. Norway (Fifa 25)
17. Slovenia (Fifa 26)
18. Serbia (Fifa 27)
19. Turkey (Fifa 28)
20. Czech Republic (Fifa 33)
21. Hungary (Fifa 37)
22. Israel (Fifa 37)
23. Slovakia (Fifa 40)
24. Belgium (Fifa 41)
25. Armenia (Fifa 46)
26. Scotland (Fifa 49)
27. Wales (Fifa 50)
28. Montenegro (Fifa 51)
29. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 55)
30. Romania (Fifa 56)
31. Estonia (Fifa 58)
32. Belarus (Fifa 65)
33. Co-host Poland (Fifa 66)
34. Latvia (Fifa 68)
35. Austria (Fifa 71)
36. Georgia (Fifa 74)
37. Albania (Fifa 75)
38. Bulgaria (Fifa 85)
39. Finland (Fifa 88)
40. Northern Ireland (Fifa 89)
41. Lithuania (Fifa 94)
42. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 103)
43. Iceland (Fifa 104)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 113)
45. Faroe Islands (Fifa 116)
46. Cyprus (Fifa 126)
47. Luxembourg (Fifa 127)
48. Liechtenstein (Fifa 130)
49. Moldova (Fifa 135)
50. Kazakhstan (Fifa 138)
51. Malta (Fifa 155)
52. Andorra (Fifa 204)
53. San Marino (Fifa 204)

http://www.fifa.com/worldranking/rankingtable/index.html

[joew2005]

The draw 4 the final tournament will take place on 2nite @ the Ukraine Palace of Arts in Kiev, Ukraine.

As was the case 4 the 2004 & 2008 finals, the 16 finalists hv been divided into 4 seeding pots, using UEFA's national team coefficient ranking.As co-hosts, Poland & Ukraine were automatically placed in Pot 1, along with Spain, as the defending champions.

In the draw procedure, each of the 4 groups will hv 1 team fr each pot. It will also determine which place in the group teams drawn fr Pots 2–4 will take (i.e. A2, A3 or A4) 2 create the match schedule. 4 logistical reasons, Poland hv already been assigned to A1, & Ukraine to D1, meaning the Netherlands & Spain can only fill either position B1 or C1.


Group A
Poland
A2
A3
A4

8 June 2012 - Poland vs A2 / A3 vs A4
12 June 2012 - A2 vs A4 / Poland vs A3
16 June 2012 - A4 vs Poland / A2 vs A3


Group B
B1
B2
B3
B4

9 June 2012 - B1 vs B2 / B3 vs B4
13 June 2012 - B2 vs B4 / B1 vs B3
17 June 2012 - B4 vs B1 / B2 vs B3


Group C
C1
C2
C3
C4

10 June 2012 - C1 vs C2 / C3 vs C4
14 June 2012 - C2 vs C4 / C1 vs C3
18 June 2012 - C4 vs C1 / C2 vs C3


Group D
D1
D2
D3
D4

11 June 2012 - D3 vs D4 / Ukraine vs D2
15 June 2012 - D2 vs D4 / Ukraine vs D3
19 June 2012 - D4 vs Ukraine / D2 vs D3


Quarter-finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

Group A - Poland, Greece, Russia & Czech Republic.

8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic
12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia
16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia


Group B - Netherlands, Denmarkm Germany & Portugal.

9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany


Group C - Spain, Italy, Republic of Ireland & Croatia.

10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland


Group D - Ukraine, Sweden, France & England.

11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France


Quarter-finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/991300/euro-2012-draw:-irish-handed-horror-draw?cc=4716

Irish handed horror draw
December 2, 2011

The Euro 2012 draw handed Ireland a tough draw against the defending champions Spain, 2006 World Cup winners Italy & Croatia.

Ireland, appearing in the championships 4 the 1st time since 1988, will open against Croatia in Poznan on June 10. Yet it is the games against Spain, winners in 2008 & World Cup victors in South Africa last year, & 1968 champions Italy which will most excite their fans.

Giovanni Trapattoni's men will travel 2 Gdansk 2 face Spain on June 14 & return 2 Poznan 2 play Italy 4 days later.

Group A will be viewed as the easiest of the tournament as hosts Poland find themselves up against Russia, the Czech Republic & Euro 2004 champions Greece.

Surely the toughest group will be B, which sees old rivals Germany & World Cup finalists Netherlands meet. While Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal & Denmark make up the other 2 teams.

England, meanwhile, face France & Sweden while also being drawn in the final Group D with co-hosts Ukraine. Fabio Capello's side will begin their campaign against rivals France, whom they hv not beaten in 5 meetings, in Donetsk on June 11. England hv chosen 2 base their training camp in the Polish city of Krakow but all their group games will now be played in Ukraine.


http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/991410/ireland's-trapattoni-upbeat-over-progress?cc=4716

Trapattoni upbeat over progress
December 2, 2011

The Republic of Ireland, currently ranked 21 in the world, will be 1 of Euro 2012's outsiders, but manager Giovanni Trapattoni was upbeat aft the draw & pleased 2 be facing his native Italy, alongside Spain & Croatia in Group C.

He told BBC Sport: ''I m happy. It is impossible 2 say which group was better becos we know our position, the ranking. We hv 2 think in football tat all is possible.

''We hv 2 play with the same mentality - obviously all the teams r very difficult. But I m confident.''

Spain boss Vincente Del Bosque saw his side lose 2-1 in August's friendly meeting against Italy & said he was wary of the 2006 World Cup winners.

"Italy hv only just beaten us & they r strong opponents," he told Cuatro Television.

"It will be tough, in the European Championships there r 16 tough teams & every 1 poses their own threat. But the outcome tat I wanted has come 2 fruition [avoiding Germany & playing in Poland]. We hv 2 play a more renowned team like Italy, & 2 teams tat made it thru the play-offs. We will prepare carefully, we hv 2 focus on our own game & get ready."

Croatia boss Slaven Bilic was not so pleased abt the draw in Group C, but still harbours hope of progress.

"It is the cruellest sports championship," he said. "You can't get easy opponents. Of course we hv tough group. We r privileged we r playing against the world champions [Spain], 4mer world champions [Italy] & against the Republic of Ireland. I m big time looking 4ward 2 it. We r not the favs but we hv a chance."

GROUP A REACTION
Greece midfielder Nikos Liberopoulo was pleased with a draw tat saw the Euro 2004 champions up against Poland, Russia & Czech Republic, but warned against complacency. "It is definitely a positive draw but we know how tis can turn in2 a difficult 1," he said. "If we don't prepare well it won't matter if it is an easy draw or a difficult 1."

Poland coach Franciszek Smuda stressed the importance of his team's opening fixture in the group. ""Tis is a good draw, it's not a group of death," he said. "Greece hv a good team. Everything will depend on the 1st game in the group against them & whether we win it."

GROUP B REACTION
Portugal coach Paulo Bento reacted 2 being drawn in a group with Germany, Netherlands & Denmark, by stating his team's intention 2 go out & win every game.

"We said even b4 the draw tat we would be going 2 the finals 2 be competitive, tat we would dispute every game with the objective of winning," Bento said. "We r well aware though tat, very possibly, we hv been put in the toughest group."

Germany coach Joachim Loew admitted were in 4 a serious test. "It is the toughest group. Netherlands & Portugal hv world-class players. We can look 4ward 2 very interesting match-ups. Denmark r always difficult 2 play, a typical 'tournament team'. They hv no fear of big names. Tat is wat makes them dangerous."

Netherlands midfielder Wesley Sneijder stressed the importance of the 2010 World Cup runners-up getting off 2 a winning start. "It is a tough draw, but we know our opponents well," Sneijder said. "It is always important 2 win your 1st match, but with Germany & Portugal as our next opponents, the opener against Denmark will be crucial."

Denmark's 19-year-old star Christian Eriksen reacted 2 the draw on Twitter. "Revenge against Holland is coming. Go Denmark!" he wrote, in reference 2 the Danes' World Cup loss @ the hands of the Dutch in South Africa.

GROUP D REACTION
Fabio Capello believes getting off 2 good start will be key 2 England's progress fr a group including France, Ukraine & Sweden. ''Most difficult will be the 1st game against France. The 1st game is always difficult 2 play becos of the pressure. A result will be very important," Capello said.

France coach Laurent Blanc urged caution, drawing on the lessons learned by the nation's dismal failure in South Africa last summer. "It's a much more complicated group tat it seems. You must remember wat happened in South Africa," he said.

Ukraine coach Oleg Blohkin believes partisan support 4 the co-hosts can help them spring a surprise in the group. "England & France can consider themselves 2 be our group's favourites, it's their right. But we &, I believe, Sweden hv our own view of things," he told AFP.

"We hv experience of successfully playing against France & England. And we will do our best 2 play with dignity in front of our fans. And I believe their support will give us strength in the matches."

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/991594/marshall:-the-reaction-on-france-to-the-euro-2012-draw?cc=4716

French fancy their chances
December 3, 2011

It goes without saying French football owes a big debt of gratitude 2 Zinédine Zidane, fr his headers 2 help win the World Cup 2 his silken contribution 2 the Euro 2000 success & even 2 his retribution-filled coup de boule - his 'head-butt' - on Marco Materazzi. Zizou added another reason 4 Les Bleus 2 be thankful 2 him when he produced another coup de boule - which could also mean 'ball trick', honestly, it works in French! - by drawing a clement Euro 2012 group 4 his old mate Laurent Blanc. Friday's L'Equipe featured a cartoon of a quivering France begging Father Christmas - with a sack stocked with goodies such as Germany, Spain & Netherlands - not 2 "give me presents tat r 2 beautiful." Zidane must hv only shaved off the long white beard mins b4 going on stage in Kiev.

The scare-mongering of Friday morning - with France in Pot 4 potentially facing Spain or the Dutch, Germany & Portugal - gave way 2 barely-concealed post-draw relief with a Rooney-less England the most formidable opponent in Group D. 'Les Bleus aren't unhappy' was the view on L'Equipe's website, while the headline on Saturday's hard copy read - roughly translated: 'Thank God 4 Luck'.

Blanc was measured in his response. "We could hv found ourselves in Group B instead of Denmark, & tat would hv been very difficult," he said, referring 2 the Danes' misfortune @ being the Pot 4 side making up the numbers in the inevitable groupe de la mort. "All the coaches hv the same objective: finishing in the top 2. B4 we look @ the respective strengths & weaknesses of tis 1 & tat 1, we hv 2 bear in mind tat the French team has 2 improve. Tat's wat I'm going 2 work on 1st."

Aft a far-fr-convincing qualifying campaign, Blanc is undoubtedly right, though he does seem 2 hv more or less settled on his best starting XI & also must hv in mind the vast majority of his squad 4 the tournament already. A number of them will emerge fr the Premier League season b4 quickly renewing hostilities with on-pitch rivals fr the English top-flight as well as club team-mates in the group's opening encounter on 11 June.

England fans, no doubt, will cringe @ the very thought of a Euro reunion with the French aft seeing Zidane score twice in added time 2 switch out the lights @ an English-dominated Estadio da Luz in Lisbon in 2004. Their faith tat Fabio Capello's under-performing men can wreak some sort of revenge will hv been further undermined by a 2-1 friendly defeat 2 the French @ Wembley in November 2010. Of course, you should 'never read 2 much in2 friendlies', but tat hasn't stopped Bacary Sagna doing just tat. "Since our win in the friendly, I've been taking the mickey out of my English team-mates quite a lot, & I count on continuing 2 do tat aft 11 June," the Arsenal full-back said b4 easing effortlessly in2 full anti-Agincourt mode. "Taking on England is always something special when you're French. It's certain tat they'll hv alot of fans there, but we beat them @ home so it's not a problem."

England will certainly enjoy boisterous backing in Donetsk where France's notoriously fickle & not-particularly-numerous group of supporters will again be led by the legendary über-fan Clément d'Antibes & his cockerel. His 1st international game as a fan was England's 1982 World Cup win over France in Spain & - if Blanc is 2 be believed, though he probably shouldn't be - Capello's men will hv the edge when they meet 30 years on. "4 me, England r favourites," Blanc said, though he then gave more insight in2 his real thinking on his team's chances: "We're not facing the current 3 best nations in the 1st round: Spain, the Netherlands & Germany. We've got work 2 do, but we're going 2 see whether we can impose our style."

L'Equipe - equally tellingly - picked out Wayne Rooney, John Terry & Joe Hart as England's key men 4 the tournament. Perhaps Hart will eventually warrant tat accolade, but clearly the French media haven't been paying 2 much attention 2 Chelsea's displays of late while Rooney may well not even get 2 kick a ball - or an opponent - in anger b4 England r on the plane back home. "Tat a player of such class is missing could well be good news," Blanc said, rather under-stating the impact of Rooney's absence, while Blanc's former international team-mate, Bixente Lizarazu, said he believed it was best 2 meet England 1st so tat "we can quickly get in2 the competition".

The encounter with la perfide Albion will undoubtedly hog much if not all the build-up 2 the tournament, but Arsène Wenger sounded a note of caution. "France-England could very well finish as a draw, & it's the 2 other games which will prove decisive," the Arsenal boss told a French radio station. "So we mustn't focus 2 much on tis game but abv all concentrate on winning the 2 others, especially as the opening game is always a cagey 1."

However, Blanc will surely be less concerned abt going on 2 face a Ukraine side tat promises 2 be little different 2 the 1 a 2nd-string Les Bleus XI swept aside 4-1 in a friendly - albeit with some late goals - in Donetsk only last June. Also, L'Equipe's take on Sweden - "The Vikings can beat any1" - looks somewhat less credible following back-2-back defeats in friendlies with Denmark & England than it might hv done had it been formed in the immediate aftermath of the 3-2 win over the Dutch in October tat clinched their spot in the finals as best runner-up.

Still, the French garden is not all roses. The French public seem disenchanted with the side, & a Saturday morning poll in the Paris-based regional paper Le Parisien had 56% of people saying 'non' 2 France's chances of progressing 2 the knockout stages. Tat though could quickly change, but while Blanc & his staff frantically try 2 find a new training camp 4 the team 2 strike in - sorry, train in - aft basing their initial plans in Poland, there is a larger elephant in la chambre: tat of Blanc's contract.

The ex-Bordeaux coach's current deal with the FFF runs out aft the tournament, but FFF president Noël Le Graët has resisted Blanc's calls 4 him 2 make up his mind early, risking a repeat of the situation b4 Euro 2004 when Jacques Santini announced he would be moving 2 Spurs aft the tournament, sucking any motivation fr his already-jaded squad. "If I'm staying, my contract has 2 be extended b4 the Euro," Blanc declared publicly in October, but his boss responded: "Love affairs tat just happen r always the most beautiful."

While Le Graët is likely 2 be nominated 4 an Emmy & a BAFTA 4 tat declaration, he also opened the door 2 a Blanc departure: "Laurent has shown he has all the qualities 2 lead a national team or a big club. I can't stand in his way." On top of his own contract situation, Blanc is unhappy his extended background staff of some 17 people, such as the team chef, hv not been given a share of the €4 million bonus dished out 2 the squad & Blanc's coaching staff 4 qualifying. Blanc is apparently trying 2 convince his players 2 take a lesser share of the pot 2 give 2 those who missed out. If they do, it will show Blanc has rooted out a good part of the self-centred ésprit tat ruined France's World Cup. If not, surely he could always just go 2 Santa Zizou 4 a hand out.

[joew2005]

Finals Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/993883/england's-wayne-rooney's-euro-2012-ban-is-reduced-on-appeal"?cc=4716

Rooney wins appeal against ban
December 8, 2011

Wayne Rooney's ban has been reduced to 2 games on appeal, with the 3rd game suspended for 4 years.

UEFA's Disciplinary & Control Body handed Rooney a 3-match ban aft his petulant kick @ Montenegro's Miodrag Dzudovic in England's final Euro 2012 qualifier in October. England had appealed against the severity of the ban.

With no more competitive games 4 England b4 next summer's finals in Ukraine & Poland, Rooney would hv missed the group stage of the tournament. Now he will miss the opening games against France & Sweden & will be available 4 the final group game against Ukraine in Donetsk.

The 3rd game of the suspension will still kick in if Rooney is guilty of violent conduct in the next 4 years. He will also undertake football in the community work as part of the ban reduction.

UEFA said in a statement: "The UEFA Appeals Body has reduced a suspension imposed on England striker Wayne Rooney @ a hearing in Nyon.

"The Appeals Body today decided tat the player's red card during the UEFA EURO 2012 qualifier in Montenegro on Friday 7 October should incur a 2-match suspension, with a further 1-game ban 4 UEFA European Championship football only suspended for 4 years, instead of the 3-match ban handed down by UEFA's Control & Disciplinary Body on 13 October.

"Rooney, who will also spend a day supporting a UEFA project as part of the sentence, was sent off in the 74th min of the 2-2 Group G draw in Podgorica. He will be banned 4 England's opening 2 UEFA EURO 2012 matches against France & Sweden but will be eligible 4 the final Group D fixture against Ukraine."

The 3rd game of the suspension will only be activated if Rooney is sent off 4 violent conduct in a European Championships match over the next 4 years. Tat will only encompass next summer's finals & qualifying for Euro 2016.

Club England managing director Adrian Bevington told reporters in Nyon: "It is a positive outcome, Wayne & Fabio r both very pleased. Wayne will now head back 2 Manchester, they r both very satisfied tat they hv had a fair hearing.

"Wayne always made it clear he accepted it was a red card offence & we r very pleased with the outcome. We arrived with the possibility of Wayne Rooney missing the entire group phase so 2 hv him available 4 the final group game against Ukraine is a positive result 4 us & Wayne Rooney as well.''

UEFA originally deemed Rooney's challenge an assault, & the rules state tat carries a "suspension for 3 competition matches or 4 a specified period 4 assaulting another player or other person present at the match".

The FA is thought 2 hv used Andrei Arshavin's 2-match ban 4 an almost identical offence in Russia's last qualifier 4 Euro 2008 as part of its evidence. It also also argued tat Rooney's offence was not comparable 2 tat of Maccabi Tel-Aviv's Yoav Ziv, who was given a 3-match ban 4 kicking his boot @ a linesman against Stoke City in the Europa League.

The FA is also thought 2 hv pointed out tat a 3-match ban tat affects games in the finals of a major tournament is a harsher sanction than a suspension of a similar length which would just affect matches in a qualifying tournament.

The ManU striker was joined by England coach Fabio Capello & 4 lawyers as part of an attempt 2 reduce his punishment.

The team included Adam Lewis QC, who has previous experience of chairing Rugby Football Union appeal hearings, a Swiss sports lawyer, plus the FA's own internal solicitor James Bonnington & a representative fr their external lawyers Charles Russell.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/997666/euro-2012-players-ruled-out-of-olympics?cc=4716

Euro stars ruled out of Olympics
December 17, 2011

England players who take part in tis summer's Euro 2012 tournament in Poland & Ukraine will not be selected 2 play 4 Great Britain @ the London 2012 Olympics.

Team GB manager & England Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce, who had not initially ruled any1 out, described it as "a sensible football decision".

The self-imposed embargo means the likes of Wayne Rooney, Jack Wilshere & Phil Jones can abandon any hopes of featuring in front of a home crowd @ the Olympics.

Pearce said: "We hv had discussions as we come now 2 notifying the long list of the players who could potentially be selected & it is important 2 make clear wat we hv agreed regarding England players who will be @ Euro 2012.

"We hv agreed tat any player who boards the plane 2 the European Championship in Ukraine & Poland will not be considered 4 selection 2 Team GB.

"It's a sensible football decision when u consider the demands on players, & it now leaves no room 4 doubt 4 players & their clubs abt next summer & the 2 major tournaments.''

The FA tis week began notifying home associations & players of those on a long list 4 potential selection. Players r asked 2 confirm whether they would be available.

Pearce's announcement will please club managers such as Arsenal's Arsene Wenger & ManU's Sir Alex Ferguson who hv said it would be 2 much 4 players 2 play in both tournaments.

It has also been revealed the Olympic Stadium could hv retractable seating installed over the running track aft the London Games 2 make it more attractive 2 football fans.

West Ham, who r favourites 2 be chosen as the tenants, r looking @ having the retractable seating as part of their new bid 4 the stadium.

[joew2005]

173 DAYS TO KICK OFF OF EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking, updated on Dec 2011.

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 3)
4. England (Fifa 5)
5. Portugal (Fifa 7)
6. Croatia (Fifa 8)
7. Italy (Fifa 9)
8. Denmark (Fifa 11)
9. Russia (Fifa 12)
10. Greece (Fifa 14)
11. France (Fifa 15)
12. Switzerland (Fifa 17)
13. Sweden (Fifa 18)
14. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 20)
15. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 22)
16. Norway (Fifa 25)
17. Slovenia (Fifa 26)
18. Serbia (Fifa 27)
19. Turkey (Fifa 28)
20. Czech Republic (Fifa 33)
21. Hungary (Fifa 37)
22. Israel (Fifa 37)
23. Slovakia (Fifa 40)
24. Belgium (Fifa 41)
25. Armenia (Fifa 46)
26. Scotland (Fifa 47)
27. Wales (Fifa 48)
28. Montenegro (Fifa 51)
29. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 55)
30. Romania (Fifa 56)
31. Estonia (Fifa 57)
32. Belarus (Fifa 64)
33. Co-host Poland (Fifa 66)
34. Latvia (Fifa 68)
35. Austria (Fifa 70)
36. Georgia (Fifa 73)
37. Albania (Fifa 74)
38. Bulgaria (Fifa 84)
39. Finland (Fifa 86)
40. Northern Ireland (Fifa 88)
41. Lithuania (Fifa 92)
42. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 103)
43. Iceland (Fifa 104)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 112)
45. Faroe Islands (Fifa 116)
46. Cyprus (Fifa 127)
47. Luxembourg (Fifa 128)
48. Liechtenstein (Fifa 132)
49. Moldova (Fifa 136)
50. Kazakhstan (Fifa 138)
51. Malta (Fifa 156)
52. Andorra (Fifa 206)
53. San Marino (Fifa 206)

http://www.fifa.com/worldranking/rankingtable/index.html

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking, updated on JAN 2012.

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Netherlands (Fifa 2)
3. Germany (Fifa 3)
4. England (Fifa 5)
5. Portugal (Fifa 7)
6. Croatia (Fifa 8)
7. Italy (Fifa 9)
8. Denmark (Fifa 11)
9. Russia (Fifa 13)
10. Greece (Fifa 14)
11. France (Fifa 15)
12. Switzerland (Fifa 16)
13. Sweden (Fifa 17)
14. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 19)
15. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 23)
16. Norway (Fifa 24)
17. Slovenia (Fifa 25)
18. Serbia (Fifa 27)
19. Turkey (Fifa 29)
20. Czech Republic (Fifa 31)
21. Hungary (Fifa 37)
22. Israel (Fifa 37)
23. Slovakia (Fifa 39)
24. Belgium (Fifa 40)
25. Armenia (Fifa 45)
26. Scotland (Fifa 48)
27. Wales (Fifa 49)
28. Montenegro (Fifa 50)
29. Estonia (Fifa 52)
30. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 54)
31. Romania (Fifa 55)
32. Belarus (Fifa 65)
33. Co-host Poland (Fifa 68)
34. Latvia (Fifa 70)
35. Austria (Fifa 71)
36. Georgia (Fifa 76)
37. Albania (Fifa 77)
38. Bulgaria (Fifa 83)
39. Finland (Fifa 85)
40. Northern Ireland (Fifa 87)
41. Lithuania (Fifa 93)
42. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 103)
43. Iceland (Fifa 104)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 111)
45. Faroe Islands (Fifa 114)
46. Cyprus (Fifa 126)
47. Luxembourg (Fifa 127)
48. Liechtenstein (Fifa 130)
49. Moldova (Fifa 135)
50. Kazakhstan (Fifa 139)
51. Malta (Fifa 156)
52. Andorra (Fifa 206)
53. San Marino (Fifa 206)

http://www.fifa.com/worldranking/rankingtable/index.html

[joew2005]

138 DAYS TO KICK OFF OF EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

116 DAYS TO KICK OFF OF EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking, updated on FEB 2012.

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Germany (Fifa 2)
3. Netherlands (Fifa 3)
4. England (Fifa 5)
5. Portugal (Fifa 6)
6. Italy (Fifa 8)
7. Croatia (Fifa 9)
8. Denmark (Fifa 10)
9. Russia (Fifa 13)
10. Greece (Fifa 14)
11. Switzerland (Fifa 16)
12. France (Fifa 17)
13. Sweden (Fifa 18)
14. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 19)
15. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 20)
16. Norway (Fifa 24)
17. Serbia (Fifa 25)
18. Turkey (Fifa 25)
19. Slovenia (Fifa 27)
20. Czech Republic (Fifa 29)
21. Israel (Fifa 35)
22. Hungary (Fifa 37)
23. Slovakia (Fifa 38)
24. Belgium (Fifa 39)
25. Armenia (Fifa 41)
26. Wales (Fifa 42)
27. Scotland (Fifa 48)
28. Montenegro (Fifa 51)
29. Romania (Fifa 52)
30. Estonia (Fifa 54)
31. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 59)
32. Belarus (Fifa 67)
33. Co-host Poland (Fifa 70)
34. Austria (Fifa 71)
35. Latvia (Fifa 74)
36. Albania (Fifa 78)
37. Finland (Fifa 79)
38. Georgia (Fifa 81)
39. Northern Ireland (Fifa 86)
40. Bulgaria (Fifa 88)
41. Lithuania (Fifa 93)
42. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 101)
43. Iceland (Fifa 103)
44. Azerbaijan (Fifa 109)
45. Faroe Islands (Fifa 118)
46. Liechtenstein (Fifa 124)
47. Cyprus (Fifa 127)
48. Luxembourg (Fifa 133)
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 138)
50. Moldova (Fifa 142)
51. Malta (Fifa 159)
52. Andorra (Fifa 205)
53. San Marino (Fifa 205)

http://www.fifa.com/worldranking/rankingtable/index.html

[joew2005]

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/blogs/world-of-sport/crowd-control-ukraine-style-165025063.html

This is crowd control, Ukraine-style

Football hooligans looking 2 cause trouble @ tis year's Euro 2012 tournament better tread carefully if they r in Ukraine: the hosts hv called in a quartet of fighter jets 2 help quell any disorder.

The Russian-built MiG 29s - each packing 30mm cannons & air-2-air missiles - will be deployed 2 the football tournament 4 the duration 2 counter any extreme troublemaking.

And just in case the 1,5000mph jets aren't enough, there will also be a pair of helicopter gunships on hand 2 help keep the peace.

"Up 2 4 fighters & 2 helicopters will be constantly keeping watch," Major-General Viktor Hamora of Ukrainian Air Force Command told the Austrian Times.

Hooligans of Europe: u hv been warned.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1029229/scott-parker-wants-to-retain-england-captaincy-for-euro-2012?cc=4716

Parker wants to stay skipper for Euros
March 1, 2012

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Scott Parker hopes he did enough during England's 3-2 defeat against Netherlands @ Wembley on Wednesday night 2 retain the captaincy 4 Euro 2012.

Interim England boss Stuart Pearce handed Parker the armband ahead of the likes of Liverpool's Steven Gerrard, who was fav 2 succeed John Terry as skipper of the national team.

Parker made some excellent blocks & tackles in his defensive midfield role against the Dutch & aft the match revealed tat Gerrard was the 1st 2 congratulate him aft his surprise selection as captain.

"Steve was fine. He was the ultra-professional he is," Parker said. "He was the 1st person 2 come up 2 me & congratulate me & said he'd support me. Tat was pleasing. You wouldn't expect anything else fr such a great player.''

Should the FA appoint a permanent successor 2 Fabio Capello b4 tis summer's European Championship, the new man must decide who he 1s 2 be England captain in Poland & Ukraine.

Asked if he would like 2 keep the armband, Parker said: "Of course I would.

"I also understand there's a many a player - no-1 more than Steven Gerrard & a couple of others - who've obviously been there b4 & done it.

"It's going 2 be difficult 4 me but I would obviously relish the chance 2 lead the country out again & take it in2 the Euros.

"Whether that's me or it's not me, I know I'll be fully behind whoever it may be, determined 2 make England succeed.''

Parker said the feeling of captaining England was 2nd only 2 tat he experienced when his children were born.

The 31-year-old added: "It was pretty special, really, a very proud moment 4 me & something as a kid I dreamed of many a time. I could probably speak 4 every boy & every young lad who has the same ambition.

"I never thought it would happen 2 me, so absolutely delighted 2 lead out my country. It's definitely up there, not only in my career but obviously in my personal life, probably behind the birth of my kids. My family r very proud.''

Parker's 1st game as skipper ultimately ended in a last-gasp 3-2 defeat aft England had looked 2 hv salvaged a 2-2 draw.

He said: "We're not sitting there thinking tat with the way we performed, thru maybe just sheer grit & determination & courage, tat we're going 2 go & win a tournament.

"We understand we need 2 work on things, we need 2 get technically better. But we all need 2 be positive & we all need 2 realise tat tonight gives us great hope.

"Coming back fr 2-0 down is massive. It was edgy there & we proved tat we can do it.''

[joew2005]

94 DAYS TO KICK OFF OF EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

Latest Uefa/Fifa ranking, updated on MARCH 2012.

1. Spain (Fifa 1)
2. Germany (Fifa 2)
3. Netherlands (Fifa 3)
4. England (Fifa 6)
5. Portugal (Fifa 7)
6. Italy (Fifa 9)
7. Croatia (Fifa 10)
8. Denmark (Fifa 11)
9. Russia (Fifa 12)
10. Greece (Fifa 13)
11. France (Fifa 16)
12. Sweden (Fifa 17)
13. Switzerland (Fifa 18)
14. Republic of Ireland (Fifa 19)
15. Bosnia-Herzegovina (Fifa 21)
16. Norway (Fifa 24)
17. Serbia (Fifa 26)
18. Slovenia (Fifa 28)
19. Czech Republic (Fifa 29)
20. Turkey (Fifa 32)
21. Slovakia (Fifa 35)
22. Hungary (Fifa 37)
23. Israel (Fifa 38)
24. Belgium (Fifa 40)
25. Armenia (Fifa 44)
26. Montenegro (Fifa 44)
27. Estonia (Fifa 47)
28. Wales (Fifa 48)
29. Co-host Ukraine (Fifa 49)
30. Scotland (Fifa 51)
31. Romania (Fifa 53)
32. Belarus (Fifa 69)
33. Austria (Fifa 71)
34. Georgia (Fifa 74)
35. Co-host Poland (Fifa 75)
36. Latvia (Fifa 78)
37. Albania (Fifa 80)
38. Finland (Fifa 84)
39. Bulgaria (Fifa 85)
40. Northern Ireland (Fifa 87)
41. Lithuania (Fifa 91)
42. FYR Macedonia (Fifa 102)
43. Azerbaijan (Fifa 116)
44. Faroe Islands (Fifa 116)
45. Iceland (Fifa 121)
46. Luxembourg (Fifa 127)
47. Cyprus (Fifa 129)
48. Liechtenstein (Fifa 137)
49. Kazakhstan (Fifa 142)
50. Moldova (Fifa 143)
51. Malta (Fifa 148)
52. Andorra (Fifa 205)
53. San Marino (Fifa 205)

http://www.fifa.com/worldranking/rankingtable/index.html

[joew2005]

82 DAYS TO KICK OFF OF EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

61 DAYS TO KICK OFF OF EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/feature/_/id/1057486/miguel-delaney:-spanish-stars-at-risk-of-burning-out?cc=4716

Spanish stars at risk of burning out
April 29, 2012

Xavi was exasperated.

"What did people think," the midfielder asked. "That we were going to win every game 3-0? I can't believe what I am hearing sometimes. Do you not realise how hard it is? Teams aren't stupid. We're European champions, they all pressure us like wolves. There isn't a single metre, not a second on the pitch. Always 10 men behind the ball putting pressure on."

It's a quote that could well have come in the last 10 days. But it didn't. It came two years ago before the World Cup final. And it's perhaps a timely reminder of just how long Spain's Barcelona-based players have been chasing history on all fronts... not to mention how far-reaching the effects of fatigue and pressure - both physical and mental - may well be.

Take the somewhat unfair expectations on, and revisionism of, this Barcelona team's legacy because they failed to retain the Champions League. On some levels, of course, it's a pity that a side this game-changing didn't achieve European football's gold-standard feat. It's also arguably a wasted opportunity.

But that overlooks the fact they have dominated all of their competitions to a greater degree than any other team in the last three decades. Indeed, no side since Liverpool of the early '80s has got so far, so often in so many different events. Not even Arrigo Sacchi's Milan.

Over four seasons, that Italian side only (an admittedly relative term) won two European Cups and a solitary Serie A. Either side of those victories, meanwhile, they were eliminated from the 1987-88 UEFA Cup in the second round and the 1990-91 champions' competition in the quarter-finals.

By contrast, across the same number of years, Barca have won two Champions Leagues, three Spanish championships, one Copa Del Rey and reached another two finals in the domestic cup as well as two further continental semi-finals. It's an exceptionally emphatic record. But, on the brink of genuine history, there was only escalating pressure to make it the ultimate record. And it was that which eventually pushed Pep Guardiola out of Camp Nou.

For the manager, at least though, that pressure stopped at club football. That hasn't been the case for the vast majority of his players.

Indeed, for the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Carlos Puyol, Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets and - to a lesser extent - David Villa and Pedro, it is an all too familiar feeling on all fronts. And one that is about to recur.

In 2010, for example, there was a rare opportunity for a wondrous squad to become only the third side to add the World Cup to the European Championship, while also lifting their country's first global title.

This summer, then, there's an even rarer chance to become the first ever team to win three major international trophies in a row.

The only problem is, there just mightn't be the legs. For the Barca players, after all, most of their close-seasons have been as intense as the main seasons.

And that's an important point when it comes to all of the greatest sides. Only one other club team and one other international team have crossed over in such a way: Bayern Munich 1971-76 and West Germany 1972-76.

By contrast, Real Madrid dominated Europe in the late '50s without any true international distractions; Spain didn't even qualify for the 1958 World Cup. The exceptional eras of Liverpool 1975-84 and Benfica 1960-62, meanwhile, coincided with dreadful spells for their nations. Portugal, for example, only saw the benefit of Benfica's success four years later. Similarly, Netherlands' 1974 World Cup came after the great Ajax side had disbanded.

Even with the French team that won the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000, most of their players were scattered around Europe. But the effects of the newly expanded Champions League still exhausted them to the point of a first-round exit in the summer of 2002.

So what, then, of West Germany? Well, of course, they came closer to completing the impossible treble than anyone else as they reached the final of Euro 76 only to be beaten by Czechoslovakia on penalties.

But something had to give somewhere. And, with six Bayern players having started the 1974 World Cup final, that break came in the club's 1974-75 domestic season. Yes, unlike Barcelona, they might have retained the European Cup. But, also unlike Barcelona, they finished in the bottom half of the Bundesliga - 10th.

Brian Glanville described them at the time as a "tired, weary team... too many hard games for club and country."Midfielder Franz Roth, meanwhile, explains that "it was perhaps inevitable we would suffer the following season. It was hard to carry on after such a high."

The question now is whether the opposite will happen for the core of the Spanish side. During midweek, former Liverpool midfielder Graeme Souness argued that nothing energises the body and mind like victory. But Barca lost. Two competitions. And their players now have to go and play under arguably greater pressure. And with many more miles on the clock.

A further factor Bayern complained about in the 70s was that, because they were so successful, they were in demand to play a series of energy-sapping exhibition games. The same has happened to Spain.

Since 2010, the world champions have played a scarcely believable 29 games. And a fair few of them have been money-spinning friendlies in distant destinations like Costa Rica and Mexico.

The total effect of all that can, to a certain degree, be totted up.

Since the start of Euro 2008, the core squad (ie, the five to seven key players) of each of the main Euro 2012 favourites have played, on average, the following number of games per year: Spain 58 England 56 France 49 Portugal 47 Germany 46 Italy 45 Netherlands 44 Over four years, that's a lot more than just a few matches.

And, as expected, Xavi is the most extreme example. Since Spain sliced Russia apart to win 4-1 and begin their current span of success in Innsbruck in June 2008, the philosophy-defining midfielder has played an average of 66 games a year - six more than anyone else likely to be at the championship in Ukraine and Poland.

Little wonder he hasn't looked himself over the last few weeks. Little wonder, either, that Guardiola has been withdrawing him so early in games. Such a run is simply unsustainable.

A further problem is that such prolonged success doesn't just have a mental and physical effect: it conditions how opposing teams approach you. Because, while an aura has been created around Barca and Spain, it has also resulted in an exaggerated - if understandable - response. Teams defend against them in a more extreme manner than against any other opposition: with massed ranks.

It was this that Xavi was referring to when he spoke of "not a single metre on the pitch". Back then, in 2010, Inter's semi-final victory over Barcelona effectively set the template for Spain's games in the World Cup. This summer, Chelsea's might do the same in the Euros. But, while Inter's win was seen as something of a last, desperate measure against a dominant team, Chelsea's might further fortify the belief of opposition teams while eroding that of the Barcelona players. It isn't difficult to imagine both Italy and Giovanni Trapattoni's Ireland withdrawing to extreme degrees when they face Spain in the group stage.

Of course, it remains true that Spain enjoy an infrastructure that makes them more of an effective 'club team' team than any other side except the Germans. But such major trends are still dependent on minor details - like fatigue, complacency, fractiousness.

This summer, Xavi may not just be exasperated. He may well be exhausted.

[joew2005]

40 DAYS TO KICK OFF OF EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1065289/spain's-carles-puyol-set-to-miss-euro-2012-due-to-knee-sugery?cc=4716

Puyol facing fitness fight
May 8, 2012

Spain's Carles Puyol is set 2 miss Euro 2012 as he is 2 undergo knee surgery tat will rule him out 4 up to 6 weeks.

Puyol, 34, suffered the injury 2 his right knee in Barcelona's 4-0 win over Espanyol @ the weekend, & reports on Tuesday suggested he would likely hv 2 go under the knife 2 cure the issue.

Barca hv now confirmed Puyol is poised 4 surgery, & the defender will certainly miss the club's forthcoming Copa del Rey final against Athletic Bilbao on May 25.

The centre-back also faces a race against time 2 be fit 4 Spain's defence of their European crown as they line up against Italy, Ireland & Croatia in Group C @ Euro 2012, with their 1st match versus the Azzurri on June 10.

Puyol has won 99 caps since making his international debut in 2000 & was part of the Spain squad tat won Euro 2008 & the 2010 World Cup.

Coach Vicente Del Bosque has admitted the loss of Puyol is a major blow 4 the defending champions.

Del Bosque told AS: "It's a serious setback, he's a considerable loss not only 4 wat he gives on the pitch, but 4 wat he contributes 2 the team (off it).

"It's also a shame tat tis happened when he was on the verge of playing 100 caps, but hopefully he can get there. He was having a great end 2 the season.''

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1066298/carles-puyol-has-no-plans-for-international-retirement?cc=4716

Puyol has no plans to retire
May 9, 2012

Carles Puyol has no plans 2 retire fr international football despite admitting he is almost certain 2 miss tis summer's European Championships due 2 a knee problem.

Barcelona announced on Tuesday tat Puyol, 34, will be sidelined 4 around 6 weeks as he is set 4 surgery aft injuring his knee in Saturday's 4-0 win over Espanyol.

The defender will therefore miss coach Pep Guardiola's last game in charge - the Copa del Rey final against Athletic Bilbao on May 25.

His participation @ Euro 2012 is also extremely doubtful with Spain opening their campaign against Italy on June 10 b4 going on 2 play the Republic of Ireland & Croatia in Group C.

However, while he admits it is highly unlikely he will be going 2 the Euros, Puyol, who has earned 99 caps 4 Spain & helped his country win Euro 2008 & the 2010 World Cup, is not ready 2 hang up his international boots just yet.

He said: "My plan right now is only 2 undergo the operation & recover asap. I'm sure tat things r going 2 turn out well & very soon I will be back playing again.

"I don't know if it was my last European Championship but I do know tat I 1 2 retire on the pitch & not on the operating table.

"I'm only thinking abt recovering & returning to 100%. If then I can return 2 play with the national team I would love 2 reach tat number (100 caps).''

Asked abt the possibility of him going 2 Ukraine & Poland as part of Vicente Del Bosque's squad tis summer, Puyol added: "I would love 2 but it looks very difficult. I hv 2 wait & see wat the doctors find, but I think that it's impossible.

"There will be players in better condition than me 2 play. Those who r best r the 1s who hv 2 go. It would be unfair on the other players. In Spain there r good centre-backs & we don't hv 2 worry abt anything.''

On the prospect of missing both the Copa del Rey final & Euro 2012, Puyol said: "It's frustrating 2 miss these 2 competitions. The cup final is the nicest game of the year becos of the atmosphere.

"If tis had happened when I was younger it would've been worse but I see things in a different way now I'm 34. I hope 2 help fr off the pitch & enjoy this final.''

Del Bosque will announce his provisional squad 4 Euro 2012 on May 15 which will then be whittled down when the final 23-man party is confirmed on May 27.

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1066330/england's-roy-hodgson-to-name-euro-2012-squad-on-may-16?cc=4716

Hodgson to name squad on May 16
May 9, 2012

England manager Roy Hodgson will declare his provisional squad 4 Euro 2012 next Wednesday.

The finalised, 23-strong list of players bidding 4 glory @ Poland & Ukraine must then be sent 2 UEFA by May 29.

England play away 2 Norway on May 26 in Hodgson's 1st game in charge, then face Belgium @ Wembley on June 2, b4 the opening fixture of the Euros against France on June 11.

Hodgson's announcement will arrive aft the end of the Premier League season - but comes 3 days b4 the Champions League final betw Bayern Munich & Chelsea, which will feature several potential England players.

Reports in Wednesday's newspapers suggest tat Hodgson will opt 2 omit Chelsea captain John Terry fr his squad.

Several nations, including Germany & the Republic of Ireland, hv already laid out their provisional squads.

[joew2005]

30 DAYS TO KICK OFF OF EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1068793/harry-redknapp:-england's-scott-parker-in-fitness-race-for-euros?cc=4716

Parker in fitness race for Euros
May 12, 2012

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has suggested Scott Parker's inclusion in the England squad 4 the upcoming Euro 2012 tournament may be in doubt due 2 an Achilles injury.

Parker has been left out of Spurs' starting XI 4 the past 3 matches & is expected 2 play no part in Sunday's final game of the season against Fulham. Redknapp says Parker will also miss England's pre-tournament training camp, which begins on May 21 in Spain, casting doubt over whether the midfielder will be fit in time 4 the 3 Lions' opener against France on June 11.

"He's had a problem with his Achilles, I hope it's not going 2 get worse," said Redknapp. "It isn't getting any better. It's a long-term concern.

"The way he is @ the moment, he is struggling 4 fitness. It's not a rupture but it is sore. It is bothering him. Aft Sunday he will hv some injection in it & we'll see if tat can clear it up.

"He's been carrying it a few weeks. Maybe the only cure is a bit of rest but maybe the injections might clear it up. The specialist thinks it will clear up but it will need 10 days rest afterwards."

Meanwhile, Redknapp, who was overlooked 4 the England job with the FA instead appointing Roy Hodgson, is considering withdrawing his offer 2 be a BBC pundit @ Euro 2012. 8 days ago the BBC announced tat Redknapp would be part of their team in Poland & Ukraine 4 the European Championship.

"I'm still trying 2 make up my mind [abt the position]," said Redknapp. "I will look @ it in the summer. It could be tricky. I wouldn't be criticising [Hodgson] in any way so I suppose there's not much point having me on!

"I just feel like I need a holiday. I need 2 get a break fr it all. Maybe I'll go 2 Canvey Island or the Isle of Dogs or something."

[joew2005]

20 DAYS TO KICK OFF OF EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[Armoney]

I am putting my money on England to win it. Hope they do well.

[joew2005]

13 DAYS TO KICK OFF OF EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[chochochang2]

Euro 2012 squads in full

The final 23-man squads from all 16 teams

http://espnfc.com/uk/en/news/1081409/league/UEFA.EURO/season/2012

[Blast88]

Can any bros advice which website to log in & print out the euro2012 wall chart

[BET888]

Can any bros advice which website to log in & print out the euro2012 wall chart

bro u can try this one, printscreen and save in paint.
http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2012/tournament-calendar/index.html

[joew2005]

5 DAYS 2 EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

http://espnfc.com/uk/en/news/1083875/realism-govern-englandapproach-euro-2012.html

Realism must govern Roy's England
Richard Jolly explains why expectations should be significantly lower 4 the 3 Lions @ Euro 2012 than @ previous major finals
ESPN staff , June 01, 2012

The English tradition @ times like these is 2 look back to 1966, 2 try & identify common denominators & favourable omens; anything tat offers the promise of a 2nd success on the international stage. Not now. Rather than English football’s favourite brand of nostalgia, a search is on 4 new parallels with the past. Denmark’s past, 2 be precise.

Richard Moller Nielsen’s team of 1992 were the unlikeliest of European champions: the side parachuted in2 the competition @ the last minute, @ Yugoslavia’s expense, & went on 2 win. As England’s build-up, in its own way, has been as chaotic, it can provide proof tat preparation is not necessary 2 prosper.

And yet tat feels like clutching @ straws. For 3 of the 4 months b4 Euro 2012, England did not hv a manager, let alone a squad, a system or a style of play. Belated as the appointment of Roy Hodgson 2 succeed Fabio Capello was, the plans were furthered disrupted when 3 of the new manager’s preferred party, John Ruddy, Gareth Barry & Frank Lampard, withdrew injured. Hodgson is a decent man in a difficult job, the absentees rendering his task harder. 1 of the 3 world-class English attacking talents, Jack Wilshere, misses the tournament; a 2nd, Wayne Rooney, sits out the 1st 2 group games becos of suspension; so the 3rd, Steven Gerrard, assumes pivotal importance.

The consolation is tat there may be a welcome injection of realism. Tis is an England squad with 1 striker who struggled 2 get in the Tottenham team (Jermain Defoe) & another who was an expensive underachiever 4 3-quarters of the campaign (Andy Carroll); with a winger who, while fit, played 1 min 4 his club in the last 6 weeks of the season (James Milner) & another who neither scored nor created a league goal (Stewart Downing) plus a central midfielder who, if every1 else was fit & available, might not rank in the 10 best options in the position (Jordan Henderson); with 1 teenager who has only made 6 Premier League starts (Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain) & another whose only 1st-team club football has been in League 2 (Jack Butland).

England may possess the Champions League winners, in Chelsea, & arguably the world’s most high-profile division, but tis is not a squad 2 petrify Spain, Netherlands & Germany. It is highly possible that none of the 3 favs will need 2 face the 3 Lions.

France, Sweden & Ukraine, who r guaranteed 2 take on England, can expect a workmanlike side. By preference a meticulous planner, Hodgson has been trying 2 drill a defence & instil organisation, no simple task in a short time & his task complicated by the loss of 2 senior central midfielders. The choices of Milner & Downing 2 run the flanks in his debut win over Norway indicated an emphasis on tactical discipline over invention, but a fondness for 4-4-2 invites questions if England will be undermanned in the middle of midfield & if, yet again, they will struggle 2 retain possession.

It has been a familiar theme over a series of tournaments. The novelty factor is supplied by the newer additions 2 the group or those who suddenly find themselves assuming a pivotal role. Ashley Young has been England’s form attacker over the last 12 months &, in Rooney’s absence, might command a place in 2 positions. Carroll, distrusted by Capello, appears 2 hv a fan in Hodgson, as does Milner, whose understated, unselfish approach seems 2 mirror the manager’s. The challenge 4 each, & several others, is 2 perform better 4 country than club.

It is something more heralded talents hv long failed 2 do. It has been said b4, but tis may be a final hurrah 4 the remnants of the 'golden generation' – a tag tat, as far as international football is concerned, qualifies as false advertising. 4 Ashley Cole, John Terry & Gerrard, it is a final European Championship & possibly a last international tournament. 4 Lampard, 34 in June, tat opportunity has gone.

The curtain has already been drawn over the England career of another of their number. Rio Ferdinand’s exclusion was 4 footballing reasons, according 2 Hodgson, an explanation tat did not convince everyone as Terry awaits a court case 4 allegedly racially abusing the ManU defender’s brother. It is a reminder of the endless capacity 4 controversy tat can hamper England.

But shorn of some of their most decorated players, with a squad tat has been thrown 2gether & given little time 2 adjust 2 their manager’s thinking, expectations hv been downgraded. England expects less than b4. While theirs may be the 2nd weakest group, a quarter-final place could feel like progress.

There r fewer predictions tat 46 years of hurt will be brought 2 a dramatic, cathartic end. Thanks 2 the wonders of Photoshop, expect 2 see pictures of Terry lifting the Euro 2012 trophy in a month’s time. It is rather less likely tat the new captain Gerrard will actually do it

[machoman]

http://resources2.news.com.au/images/2011/12/03/1226213/126682-euro-2012-groups.jpg

[joew2005]

5 less than 2.5 hours 2 EURO 2012

Group Phase
8 June 2012 - Poland vs Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

http://www.espnfc.com/en/news/1091071/league/uefa-euro/season/2012/poland-1-1-greece.html

Poland 1-1 GreeceTwo players sent off as Euros begins with a bang
June 8, 2012

Substitute goalkeeper Przemyslaw Tyton was the hero 4 Poland in a dramatic European Championship opener in Warsaw tat ended 1-1 while both sides finished with 10 men.

Tyton came off the bench in the 2nd half 4 the co-hosts aft Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny had been sent off 4 bringing down Greek substitute Dimitris Salpigidis.

The reserve goalkeeper promptly saved the resulting spot-kick fr Greece captain Giorgos Karagounis 2 ensure the points were shared in a wonderfully entertaining match in Group A at the National Stadium.

Poland will be kicking themselves, however, aft throwing it away having gone in at half-time with a 1-goal lead & with Greece down to 10 men aft defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos was sent off harshly for 2 innocuous yellow cards.

The Poles, who began the game with swaggering intent in front their home fans, had dominated the 1st half.

It was no surprise when Robert Lewandowski gave them the perfect start aft 17 mins, although the goal had as much 2 do with the poor positioning of Greek goalkeeper Kostas Chalkias as the sharpness of Lewandowski.

Chalkias found himself flapping his arms in no man's land 2 leave the Borussia Dortmund striker, who scored a hat-trick in the German cup final last month, 2 head home a swinging cross fr Jakub Blaszczykowski. It was no more than the Poles deserved.

They were hungrier, quicker 2 the ball and seemingly desperate 2 prove tat while they r the lowest-ranked team in the tournament they hv a realistic chance of reaching the quarter finals at least.

In that 45 minutes the Greeks looked a shadow of the organised side who had gained a reputation 4 being tough 2 beat, having lost just 1 of 21 games under manager Fernando Santos. In fact, the Poles would hv been kicking themselves tat they were not further ahead at half-time aft Rafal Murawski, Maciej Rybus and Lewandowski all missed clear-cut chances.

Damien Perquis should also have scored when the ball fell to him in the penalty area but the Polish defender, in unfamiliar territory, drilled his shot wildly wide of the post. It looked as if the Greeks' fortune had deserted them completely, however, when Papastathopoulos saw red just before half-time. The Greek defender had become the first player to be booked in the tournament when he received the yellow card from Spanish referee Carlos Velasco Carballo for what appeared an harmless challenge with a Polish attacker.

His second yellow was equally as harsh when he was adjudged to have brought down Murawski. The referee, however, produced red and Greece were down to 10 men and seemingly heading to an opening defeat.

Perhaps fired up by the injustice the Greeks, however, came out in the second half with more determination and resolve and it paid off, even in they did have Szczesny to thank for their equaliser.

Szczesny raced out of his goal attempting to collect Vassilis Torosidis' right-wing cross but misjudged it totally, allowing substitute Salpigidis to score from close-range. The drama, however, was far from finished and the teams were down to 10 players each after 70 minutes when Szczesny endured a moment of madness, sticking out a leg to trip Salpigidis in the penalty area.

The resulting penalty was delayed while PSV Eindhoven goalkeeper Tyton came off the bench and Maciej Rybus went off, but Tyton's first action was the most crucial of the match, saving the tame spot-kick of Karagounis. A point was probably a fair result. But what a dramatic way for Euro 2012 to begin.

[joew2005]

Group Phase
8 June 2012 : Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia vs Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)

12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
1 goal - Robert Lewandowski (Poland) & Dimitris Salpingidis(Greece)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

Group Phase
8 June 2012 : Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic (Group A)
9 June 2012 - Netherlands vs Denmark / Germany vs Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)
12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)
16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)

Group A
Russia P1 W1 D0 L0 GF4 GA1 GD+3 Pts=3
Poland P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Greece P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GD1 GD0 Pts=1
Czech Republic P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA4 GD-3 Pts=0


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
2 goals - Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev)

1 goal - CzecH(Václav Pilař), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis), Poland(Robert Lewandowski, Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko )


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[BuriramUnitedFC]

i'm rooting for sweden! :)

[hardon999]

hey, have anyone of you heard of iAgencyNet (http://iagencynet.com), before?

It seems like a solid place for people to bet, but is it reliable?

[RotiPrata Man]

Anyone know which website can watch Euro online for free? Many thanks :D

[chochochang2]

Anyone know which website can watch Euro online for free? Many thanks :D

bro I just PMed you :)

[IBCBen]

Anyone know which website can watch Euro online for free? Many thanks :D

Enjoy

http://livestreamingfree.com/lsf/live-streaming-audio-and-video-for-free/sopcast-free-p2p-internet-tv-live-football-nba-cricket/

[RotiPrata Man]

bro I just PMed you :)

Enjoy

http://livestreamingfree.com/lsf/live-streaming-audio-and-video-for-free/sopcast-free-p2p-internet-tv-live-football-nba-cricket/

Thanks bros... but how to search for the channel huh? I tried but cannot leh..

Sorry abit lousy in this :(

[gabbylee82]

try livefooty.doctor-serv.com/euro-2012 or http://www.sportp2p.com/.
Hope this helps

[joew2005]

Group Phase
Group A:
Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic

9 June 2012 : Netherlands 0-1 Denmark / Germany 1-0 Portugal (Group B)
10 June 2012 - Spain vs Italy / Republic of Ireland vs Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)
12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)
16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)

Group A
Russia P1 W1 D0 L0 GF4 GA1 GD+3 Pts=3
Poland P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Greece P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GD1 GD0 Pts=1
Czech Republic P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA4 GD-3 Pts=0

Group B
Germany P1 W1 D0 L0 GF1 GA0 GD+1 Pts=3
Denmark P1 W1 D0 L0 GF1 GA0 GD+1 Pts=3
Netherlands P1 W0 D0 L1 GF0 GA1 GD−1 Pts=0
Portugal P1 W0 D0 L1 GF0 GA1 GD−1 Pts=0


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
2 goals - Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev)

1 goal - CzecH(Václav Pilař), Denmark(Michael Krohn-Dehli), Germany(Mario Gómez García), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis), Poland(Robert Lewandowski, Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko )


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[luckyboy38sg]

hi bros, is online streaming able to match with the tv displayed shown on live?
pls advise...^^

[joew2005]

Group Phase
Group A:
Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic

Group B:
Netherlands 0-1 Denmark / Germany 1-0 Portugal (Group B)

10 June 2012 : Spain 1-1 Italy / Republic of Ireland 1-3 Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)
12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)
16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)

Group A
Russia P1 W1 D0 L0 GF4 GA1 GD+3 Pts=3
Poland P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Greece P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GD1 GD0 Pts=1
Czech Republic P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA4 GD-3 Pts=0

Group B
Germany P1 W1 D0 L0 GF1 GA0 GD+1 Pts=3
Denmark P1 W1 D0 L0 GF1 GA0 GD+1 Pts=3
Netherlands P1 W0 D0 L1 GF0 GA1 GD−1 Pts=0
Portugal P1 W0 D0 L1 GF0 GA1 GD−1 Pts=0

Group C
Croatia P1 W1 D0 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=3
Spain P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Italy P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Republic of Ireland P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA3 GD−2 Pts=0


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
2 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), CzecH(Václav Pilař), Denmark(Michael Krohn-Dehli), Germany(Mario Gómez García), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis), Italy(Antonio Di Natale), Poland(Robert Lewandowski), Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(Cesc Fàbregas)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[alantlt]

Group Phase
Group A:
Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic

Group B:
Netherlands 0-1 Denmark / Germany 1-0 Portugal (Group B)

10 June 2012 : Spain 1-1 Italy / Republic of Ireland 1-3 Croatia (Group C)
11 June 2012 - France vs England / Ukraine vs Sweden (Group D)
12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)
16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)

Group A
Russia P1 W1 D0 L0 GF4 GA1 GD+3 Pts=3
Poland P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Greece P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GD1 GD0 Pts=1
Czech Republic P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA4 GD-3 Pts=0

Group B
Germany P1 W1 D0 L0 GF1 GA0 GD+1 Pts=3
Denmark P1 W1 D0 L0 GF1 GA0 GD+1 Pts=3
Netherlands P1 W0 D0 L1 GF0 GA1 GD−1 Pts=0
Portugal P1 W0 D0 L1 GF0 GA1 GD−1 Pts=0

Group C
Croatia P1 W1 D0 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=3
Spain P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Italy P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Republic of Ireland P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA3 GD−2 Pts=0


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
2 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), CzecH(Václav Pilař), Denmark(Michael Krohn-Dehli), Germany(Mario Gómez García), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis), Italy(Antonio Di Natale), Poland(Robert Lewandowski), Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(Cesc Fàbregas)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

Who can assist me? I have been losing since the start day of Euro 2012.
Bet on which team, tat team will lose. Draw lose on handicapp, if not take level ball, the team will lose, give handicapp turns Draw game... Sian..

[joew2005]

Group Phase
Group A:
Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic

Group B:
Netherlands 0-1 Denmark / Germany 1-0 Portugal

Group C:
Spain 1-1 Italy / Republic of Ireland 1-3 Croatia

11 June 2012 : France 1-1 England / Ukraine 2-1 Sweden (Group D)
12 June 2012 - Greece vs Czech Republic / Poland vs Russia (Group A)
13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)
16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)

Group A
Russia P1 W1 D0 L0 GF4 GA1 GD+3 Pts=3
Poland P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Greece P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GD1 GD0 Pts=1
Czech Republic P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA4 GD-3 Pts=0

Group B
Germany P1 W1 D0 L0 GF1 GA0 GD+1 Pts=3
Denmark P1 W1 D0 L0 GF1 GA0 GD+1 Pts=3
Netherlands P1 W0 D0 L1 GF0 GA1 GD−1 Pts=0
Portugal P1 W0 D0 L1 GF0 GA1 GD−1 Pts=0

Group C
Croatia P1 W1 D0 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=3
Spain P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Italy P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Republic of Ireland P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA3 GD−2 Pts=0

Group D
Ukraine P1 W1 D0 L0 GF2 GA1 GD+1 Pts=3
England P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
France P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Sweden P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA2 GD−1 Pts=0


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
2 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev), Ukraine(Andriy Mykolayovych Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), CzecH(Václav Pilař), Denmark(Michael Krohn-Dehli), England(Joleon Patrick Lescott), France(Samir Nasri), Germany(Mario Gómez García), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis), Italy(Antonio Di Natale), Poland(Robert Lewandowski), Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(Cesc Fàbregas), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

Group Phase
Group A:
Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic
Greece 1-2 Czech Republic / Poland 1-1 Russia

Group B:
Netherlands 0-1 Denmark / Germany 1-0 Portugal

Group C:
Spain 1-1 Italy / Republic of Ireland 1-3 Croatia

Group D:
France 1-1 England / Ukraine 2-1 Sweden

13 June 2012 - Denmark vs Portugal / Netherlands vs Germany (Group B)
14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)
16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)

Group A
Russia P2 W1 D1 L0 GF5 GA2 GD+3 Pts=4
Czech Republic P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA5 GD-2 Pts=3
Poland P2 W0 D2 L0 GF2 GA2 GD0 Pts=2
Greece P2 W0 D1 L1 GF2 GD3 GD-1 Pts=1

Group B
Germany P1 W1 D0 L0 GF1 GA0 GD+1 Pts=3
Denmark P1 W1 D0 L0 GF1 GA0 GD+1 Pts=3
Netherlands P1 W0 D0 L1 GF0 GA1 GD−1 Pts=0
Portugal P1 W0 D0 L1 GF0 GA1 GD−1 Pts=0

Group C
Croatia P1 W1 D0 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=3
Spain P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Italy P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Republic of Ireland P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA3 GD−2 Pts=0

Group D
Ukraine P1 W1 D0 L0 GF2 GA1 GD+1 Pts=3
England P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
France P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Sweden P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA2 GD−1 Pts=0


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
3 goals - Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev)

2 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Czech(Václav Pilař), Ukraine(Andriy Mykolayovych Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), CzecH(Petr Jiráček), Denmark(Michael Krohn-Dehli), England(Joleon Patrick Lescott), France(Samir Nasri), Germany(Mario Gómez García), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis & Theofanis Gekas), Italy(Antonio Di Natale), Poland(Robert Lewandowski & Jakub Błaszczykowski), Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(Cesc Fàbregas), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

Group Phase
Group A:
Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic
Greece 1-2 Czech Republic / Poland 1-1 Russia

Group B:
Netherlands 0-1 Denmark / Germany 1-0 Portugal
Denmark 2-3 Portugal / Netherlands 1-2 Germany

Group C:
Spain 1-1 Italy / Republic of Ireland 1-3 Croatia

Group D:
France 1-1 England / Ukraine 2-1 Sweden

14 June 2012 - Italy vs Croatia / Spain vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)
16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)

Group A
Russia P2 W1 D1 L0 GF5 GA2 GD+3 Pts=4
Czech Republic P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA5 GD-2 Pts=3
Poland P2 W0 D2 L0 GF2 GA2 GD0 Pts=2
Greece P2 W0 D1 L1 GF2 GD3 GD-1 Pts=1

Group B
Germany P2 W2 D0 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=6
Portugal P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA3 GD0 Pts=3
Denmark P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA3 GD0 Pts=3
Netherlands P2 W0 D0 L2 GF1 GA3 GD−2 Pts=0

Group C
Croatia P1 W1 D0 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=3
Spain P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Italy P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Republic of Ireland P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA3 GD−2 Pts=0

Group D
Ukraine P1 W1 D0 L0 GF2 GA1 GD+1 Pts=3
England P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
France P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Sweden P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA2 GD−1 Pts=0


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
3 goals - Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev), Germany(Mario Gómez García)

2 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Czech(Václav Pilař), Denmark(Nicklas Bendtner), Ukraine(Andriy Mykolayovych Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), CzecH(Petr Jiráček), Denmark(Michael Krohn-Dehli), England(Joleon Patrick Lescott), France(Samir Nasri), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis & Theofanis Gekas), Italy(Antonio Di Natale), Netherlands(Robin van Persie), Poland(Robert Lewandowski & Jakub Błaszczykowski), Portugal(Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, Hélder Manuel Marques Postiga, Silvestre Manuel Gonçalves Varela),Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(Cesc Fàbregas), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[kiko]

What impress me most in this Euro cup is 2012 , is Russia , great work , who knows they may win Euro cup 2012:D

[alyo07]

What impress me most in this Euro cup is 2012 , is Russia , great work , who knows they may win Euro cup 2012:D

Still draw with Poland.

What really impress me is Denmark. Although lost to Portugal they give a good fight. Hope they make it to quarter.

[RotiPrata Man]

Anyone got a working website to watch Euro? Alot of websites not working now :(

[joew2005]

Group Phase
Group A:
Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic
Greece 1-2 Czech Republic / Poland 1-1 Russia

Group B:
Netherlands 0-1 Denmark / Germany 1-0 Portugal
Denmark 2-3 Portugal / Netherlands 1-2 Germany

Group C:
Spain 1-1 Italy / Republic of Ireland 1-3 Croatia
Italy 1-1 Croatia / Spain 4-0 Republic of Ireland

Group D:
France 1-1 England / Ukraine 2-1 Sweden

15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England / Ukraine vs France (Group D)
16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)

Group A
Russia P2 W1 D1 L0 GF5 GA2 GD+3 Pts=4
Czech Republic P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA5 GD-2 Pts=3
Poland P2 W0 D2 L0 GF2 GA2 GD0 Pts=2
Greece P2 W0 D1 L1 GF2 GD3 GD-1 Pts=1

Group B
Germany P2 W2 D0 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=6
Portugal P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA3 GD0 Pts=3
Denmark P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA3 GD0 Pts=3
Netherlands P2 W0 D0 L2 GF1 GA3 GD−2 Pts=0

Group C
Spain P2 W1 D1 L0 GF5 GA1 GD+4 Pts=4
Croatia P2 W1 D1 L0 GF4 GA2 GD+2 Pts=4
Italy P2 W0 D2 L0 GF2 GA2 GD0 Pts=2
Republic of Ireland P2 W0 D0 L2 GF1 GA7 GD−6 Pts=0

Group D
Ukraine P1 W1 D0 L0 GF2 GA1 GD+1 Pts=3
England P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
France P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Sweden P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA2 GD−1 Pts=0


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
3 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev), Germany(Mario Gómez García)

2 goals - Czech(Václav Pilař), Denmark(Nicklas Bendtner), Spain(Fernando José Torres Sanz, Cesc Fàbregas), Ukraine(Andriy Mykolayovych Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), CzecH(Petr Jiráček), Denmark(Michael Krohn-Dehli), England(Joleon Patrick Lescott), France(Samir Nasri), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis & Theofanis Gekas), Italy(Antonio Di Natale, Andrea Pirlo), Netherlands(Robin van Persie), Poland(Robert Lewandowski & Jakub Błaszczykowski), Portugal(Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, Hélder Manuel Marques Postiga, Silvestre Manuel Gonçalves Varela),Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(David Josué Jiménez Silva), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

Group Phase
Group A:
Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic
Greece 1-2 Czech Republic / Poland 1-1 Russia

Group B:
Netherlands 0-1 Denmark / Germany 1-0 Portugal
Denmark 2-3 Portugal / Netherlands 1-2 Germany

Group C:
Spain 1-1 Italy / Republic of Ireland 1-3 Croatia
Italy 1-1 Croatia / Spain 4-0 Republic of Ireland

Group D:
France 1-1 England / Ukraine 2-1 Sweden
Ukraine 0-2 France

15 June 2012 - Sweden vs England (Group D)
16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)

Group A
Russia P2 W1 D1 L0 GF5 GA2 GD+3 Pts=4
Czech Republic P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA5 GD-2 Pts=3
Poland P2 W0 D2 L0 GF2 GA2 GD0 Pts=2
Greece P2 W0 D1 L1 GF2 GD3 GD-1 Pts=1

Group B
Germany P2 W2 D0 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=6
Portugal P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA3 GD0 Pts=3
Denmark P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA3 GD0 Pts=3
Netherlands P2 W0 D0 L2 GF1 GA3 GD−2 Pts=0

Group C
Spain P2 W1 D1 L0 GF5 GA1 GD+4 Pts=4
Croatia P2 W1 D1 L0 GF4 GA2 GD+2 Pts=4
Italy P2 W0 D2 L0 GF2 GA2 GD0 Pts=2
Republic of Ireland P2 W0 D0 L2 GF1 GA7 GD−6 Pts=0

Group D
France P2 W1 D1 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=4
Ukraine P2 W1 D0 L1 GF2 GA3 GD-1 Pts=3
England P1 W0 D1 L0 GF1 GA1 GD0 Pts=1
Sweden P1 W0 D0 L1 GF1 GA2 GD−1 Pts=0


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
3 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev), Germany(Mario Gómez García)

2 goals - Czech(Václav Pilař), Denmark(Nicklas Bendtner), Spain(Fernando José Torres Sanz, Cesc Fàbregas), Ukraine(Andriy Mykolayovych Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), CzecH(Petr Jiráček), Denmark(Michael Krohn-Dehli), England(Joleon Patrick Lescott), France(Samir Nasri, Jérémy Ménez, Yohan Cabaye), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis & Theofanis Gekas), Italy(Antonio Di Natale, Andrea Pirlo), Netherlands(Robin van Persie), Poland(Robert Lewandowski & Jakub Błaszczykowski), Portugal(Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, Hélder Manuel Marques Postiga, Silvestre Manuel Gonçalves Varela),Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(David Josué Jiménez Silva), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

Group Phase
Group A:
Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic
Greece 1-2 Czech Republic / Poland 1-1 Russia

Group B:
Netherlands 0-1 Denmark / Germany 1-0 Portugal
Denmark 2-3 Portugal / Netherlands 1-2 Germany

Group C:
Spain 1-1 Italy / Republic of Ireland 1-3 Croatia
Italy 1-1 Croatia / Spain 4-0 Republic of Ireland

Group D:
France 1-1 England / Ukraine 2-1 Sweden
Ukraine 0-2 France / Sweden 2-3 England

16 June 2012 - Czech Republic vs Poland / Greece vs Russia (Group A)
17 June 2012 - Portugal vs Netherlands / Denmark vs Germany (Group B)
18 June 2012 - Croatia vs Spain / Italy vs Republic of Ireland (Group C)
19 June 2012 - England vs Ukraine / Sweden vs France (Group D)

Group A
Russia P2 W1 D1 L0 GF5 GA2 GD+3 Pts=4
Czech Republic P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA5 GD-2 Pts=3
Poland P2 W0 D2 L0 GF2 GA2 GD0 Pts=2
Greece P2 W0 D1 L1 GF2 GD3 GD-1 Pts=1

Group B
Germany P2 W2 D0 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=6
Portugal P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA3 GD0 Pts=3
Denmark P2 W1 D0 L1 GF3 GA3 GD0 Pts=3
Netherlands P2 W0 D0 L2 GF1 GA3 GD−2 Pts=0

Group C
Spain P2 W1 D1 L0 GF5 GA1 GD+4 Pts=4
Croatia P2 W1 D1 L0 GF4 GA2 GD+2 Pts=4
Italy P2 W0 D2 L0 GF2 GA2 GD0 Pts=2
Republic of Ireland P2 W0 D0 L2 GF1 GA7 GD−6 Pts=0

Group D
France P2 W1 D1 L0 GF3 GA1 GD+2 Pts=4
England P2 W1 D1 L0 GF4 GA3 GD+1 Pts=4
Ukraine P2 W1 D0 L1 GF2 GA3 GD-1 Pts=3
Sweden P2 W0 D0 L2 GF3 GA5 GD−2 Pts=0


Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 - Winner Group A vs Runner-up Group B
22 June 2012 - Winner Group B vs Runner-up Group A
23 June 2012 - Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 - Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Winner Group A/Runner-up Group B vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Winner Group B/Runner-up Group A vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
3 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev), Germany(Mario Gómez García)

2 goals - Czech(Václav Pilař), Denmark(Nicklas Bendtner), Spain(Fernando José Torres Sanz, Cesc Fàbregas), Ukraine(Andriy Mykolayovych Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), CzecH(Petr Jiráček), Denmark(Michael Krohn-Dehli), England(Joleon Patrick Lescott, Andrew Thomas "Andy" Carroll, Theo James Walcott, Danny Welbeck), France(Samir Nasri, Jérémy Ménez, Yohan Cabaye), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis & Theofanis Gekas), Italy(Antonio Di Natale, Andrea Pirlo), Netherlands(Robin van Persie), Poland(Robert Lewandowski & Jakub Błaszczykowski), Portugal(Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, Hélder Manuel Marques Postiga, Silvestre Manuel Gonçalves Varela),Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(David Josué Jiménez Silva), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović, Erik Olof Mellberg)

Own goal - England(Glen Johnson, against Sweden)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[chochochang2]

Quarter-finals:

1. Czech Republic vs Portugal

2. Germany vs Greece

[chochochang2]

Quarter-finals:

3. Spain v Group D runner-up

4. Group D winner v Italy

[chochochang2]

Quarter-finals:

1. Czech Republic v Portugal

2. Germany v Greece

3. Spain v France

4. England v Italy


Semi-finals:

1. Czech Republic or Portugal v Spain or France

2. Germany or Greece v England or Italy

[kiko]

I will predict the score line


1) Czech Republic 0 v Portugal 1

2. Germany 2 v Greece 1

3. Spain 1 v France 0

4. England 0 v Italy 1

[chochochang2]

My predictions:

1. Czech Republic 1 Portugal 2

2. Germany 2 Greece 0

3. Spain 1 France 0

4. England 1 Italy 0

;) :cool:

[chochochang2]

Semi-finals:

1. Portugal v Spain/France

2. Germany v England/Italy

[Abang Steve]

Dudes..Finals..Spain Vs Germany and Spain to carry the cup in penalty shoot :cool:out

[DylanC]

My prediction is:

Spain 2 : 0 France

England 2 : 1 Italy

[joew2005]

Group Phase

Group A
Czech Republic P3 W2 D0 L1 GF4 GA5 GD-1 Pts=6
Greece P3 W1 D1 L1 GF3 GD3 GD0 Pts=4
Russia P3 W1 D1 L1 GF5 GA3 GD+2 Pts=4
Poland P3 W0 D2 L1 GF2 GA3 GD-1 Pts=2

Poland 1-1 Greece / Russia 4-1 Czech Republic
Greece 1-2 Czech Republic / Poland 1-1 Russia
Czech Republic 1-0 Poland / Greece 1-0 Russia


Group B
Germany P3 W3 D0 L0 GF5 GA2 GD+3 Pts=9
Portugal P3 W2 D0 L1 GF5 GA4 GD+1 Pts=6
Denmark P3 W1 D0 L2 GF4 GA5 GD-1 Pts=3
Netherlands P3 W0 D0 L3 GF2 GA5 GD−3 Pts=0

Netherlands 0-1 Denmark / Germany 1-0 Portugal
Denmark 2-3 Portugal / Netherlands 1-2 Germany
Portugal 2-1 Netherlands / Denmark 1-2 Germany


Group C
Spain P3 W2 D1 L0 GF6 GA1 GD+5 Pts=7
Italy P3 W1 D2 L0 GF4 GA2 GD+2 Pts=5
Croatia P3 W1 D1 L1 GF4 GA3 GD+1 Pts=4
Republic of Ireland P3 W0 D0 L3 GF1 GA9 GD−8 Pts=0

Spain 1-1 Italy / Republic of Ireland 1-3 Croatia
Italy 1-1 Croatia / Spain 4-0 Republic of Ireland
Croatia 0-1 Spain / Italy 2-0 Republic of Ireland


Group D
England P3 W2 D1 L0 GF5 GA3 GD+2 Pts=7
France P3 W1 D1 L1 GF3 GA3 GD0 Pts=4
Ukraine P3 W1 D0 L2 GF2 GA4 GD-2 Pts=3
Sweden P3 W1 D0 L2 GF6 GA5 GD+1 Pts=3

France 1-1 England / Ukraine 2-1 Sweden
Ukraine 0-2 France / Sweden 2-3 England
England 1-0 Ukraine / Sweden 2-0 France



Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 : Czech Republic 0-1 Portugal
22 June 2012 : Germany 4-2 Greece
23 June 2012 : Winner Group C vs Runner-up Group D
24 June 2012 : Winner Group D vs Runner-up Group C


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Portugal vs Winner Group C/Runner-up Group D
28 June 2012 - Germany vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
3 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Portugal(Cristiano Ronaldo), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev), Germany(Mario Gómez García)

2 goals - Czech(Václav Pilař & Petr Jiráček), Denmark(Nicklas Bendtner & Michael Krohn-Dehli), Spain(Fernando José Torres Sanz, Cesc Fàbregas), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović), Ukraine(Andriy Mykolayovych Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), England(Joleon Lescott, Andy Carroll, Theo Walcott, Danny Welbeck & Wayne Rooney), France(Samir Nasri, Jérémy Ménez, Yohan Cabaye), Germany(Lukas Josef Podolski,Philipp Lahm,Sami Khedira,Miroslav Klose,Marco Reus, Lars Bender), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis, Giorgos Karagounis & Theofanis Gekas), Italy(Antonio Di Natale, Andrea Pirlo, Antonio Cassano & Mario Balotelli), Netherlands(Robin van Persie & Rafael Ferdinand van der Vaart), Poland(Robert Lewandowski & Jakub Błaszczykowski), Portugal(Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, Hélder Manuel Marques Postiga, Silvestre Manuel Gonçalves Varela),Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(David Josué Jiménez Silva & Jesús Navas González), Sweden(Erik Olof Mellberg & Sebastian Larsson)

Own goal - England(Glen Johnson, against Sweden)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[joew2005]

Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 : Czech Republic 0-1 Portugal
22 June 2012 : Germany 4-2 Greece
23 June 2012 : Spain 2-0 France
24 June 2012 : England vs Italy


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Portugal vs Spain
28 June 2012 - Germany vs Winner Group D/Runner-up Group C


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
3 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Portugal(Cristiano Ronaldo), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev), Germany(Mario Gómez García)

2 goals - Czech(Václav Pilař & Petr Jiráček), Denmark(Nicklas Bendtner & Michael Krohn-Dehli), Spain(Fernando José Torres Sanz, Cesc Fàbregas, Xabi Alonso), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović), Ukraine(Andriy Mykolayovych Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), England(Joleon Lescott, Andy Carroll, Theo Walcott, Danny Welbeck & Wayne Rooney), France(Samir Nasri, Jérémy Ménez, Yohan Cabaye), Germany(Lukas Josef Podolski,Philipp Lahm,Sami Khedira,Miroslav Klose,Marco Reus, Lars Bender), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis, Giorgos Karagounis & Theofanis Gekas), Italy(Antonio Di Natale, Andrea Pirlo, Antonio Cassano & Mario Balotelli), Netherlands(Robin van Persie & Rafael Ferdinand van der Vaart), Poland(Robert Lewandowski & Jakub Błaszczykowski), Portugal(Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, Hélder Manuel Marques Postiga, Silvestre Manuel Gonçalves Varela),Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(David Josué Jiménez Silva & Jesús Navas González), Sweden(Erik Olof Mellberg & Sebastian Larsson)

Own goal - England(Glen Johnson, against Sweden)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[DylanC]

My prediction is:

Spain 2 : 0 France

England 2 : 1 Italy

Hope I get the second part right as well.

[chochochang2]

Semi-finals:

1. Portugal v Spain

2. Germany v Italy

[joew2005]

Quarter-Finals
21 June 2012 : Czech Republic 0-1 Portugal
22 June 2012 : Germany 4-2 Greece
23 June 2012 : Spain 2-0 France
24 June 2012 : England 0-0 Italy (Italy won on penalties)


Semi-Finals
27 June 2012 - Portugal vs Spain
28 June 2012 - Germany vs Italy


Final
1 July 2012


Goal Scorer:
3 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Portugal(Cristiano Ronaldo), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev), Germany(Mario Gómez García)

2 goals - Czech(Václav Pilař & Petr Jiráček), Denmark(Nicklas Bendtner & Michael Krohn-Dehli), Spain(Fernando José Torres Sanz, Cesc Fàbregas, Xabi Alonso), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović), Ukraine(Andriy Mykolayovych Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić ), England(Joleon Lescott, Andy Carroll, Theo Walcott, Danny Welbeck & Wayne Rooney), France(Samir Nasri, Jérémy Ménez, Yohan Cabaye), Germany(Lukas Josef Podolski,Philipp Lahm,Sami Khedira,Miroslav Klose,Marco Reus, Lars Bender), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis, Giorgos Karagounis & Theofanis Gekas), Italy(Antonio Di Natale, Andrea Pirlo, Antonio Cassano & Mario Balotelli), Netherlands(Robin van Persie & Rafael Ferdinand van der Vaart), Poland(Robert Lewandowski & Jakub Błaszczykowski), Portugal(Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, Hélder Manuel Marques Postiga, Silvestre Manuel Gonçalves Varela),Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(David Josué Jiménez Silva & Jesús Navas González), Sweden(Erik Olof Mellberg & Sebastian Larsson)

Own goal - England(Glen Johnson, against Sweden)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[chochochang2]

Euro 2012 Final:

Spain v Italy


Mario Balotelli is the only player with 3 goals and still remain in the competition..

[joew2005]

Semi-Finals
Portugal 0-0 Spain (spain won on penalties)
Germany 1-2 Italy


Final
1 July 2012 - Spain vs Italy


Goal Scorer:
3 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Italy(Mario Balotelli), Portugal(Cristiano Ronaldo), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev) & Germany(Mario Gómez García)

2 goals - Czech(Václav Pilař & Petr Jiráček), Denmark(Nicklas Bendtner & Michael Krohn-Dehli), Spain(Fernando Torres, Cesc Fàbregas & Xabi Alonso), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović), Ukraine(Andriy Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić), England(Joleon Lescott, Andy Carroll, Theo Walcott, Danny Welbeck & Wayne Rooney), France(Samir Nasri, Jérémy Ménez & Yohan Cabaye), Germany(Lukas Josef Podolski,Philipp Lahm,Sami Khedira,Miroslav Klose,Marco Reus, Lars Bender & Mesut Özil), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis, Giorgos Karagounis & Theofanis Gekas), Italy(Antonio Di Natale, Andrea Pirlo & Antonio Cassano), Netherlands(Robin van Persie & Rafael Ferdinand van der Vaart), Poland(Robert Lewandowski & Jakub Błaszczykowski), Portugal(Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, Hélder Manuel Marques Postiga & Silvestre Manuel Gonçalves Varela),Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(David Josué Jiménez Silva & Jesús Navas González), Sweden(Erik Olof Mellberg & Sebastian Larsson)

Own goal - England(Glen Johnson, against Sweden)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[Glen2712]

To Italy fans out there, I just bought this top (Size S) but unfortunately it's too small for me.


This is the Official Training Apparel of the Italian National Football Teams Players. Official FIGC Woven Badge; high-performance fabrics; powerful design; Italian traditional colors. PUMA Cat direct embroidery; Pigment print ITALIA script on center back.



http://findel.scene7.com/is/image/Findel/kb-97504?layer=comp&wid=400&hei=400&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=sharp&op_usm=1.0,1.0,8,0&iccEmbed=0http://findel.scene7.com/is/image/Findel/kb-97504a?layer=comp&wid=400&hei=400&fmt=jpeg&qlt=90,0&op_sharpen=0&resMode=sharp&op_usm=1.0,1.0,8,0&iccEmbed=0


Click here to view the product- Italy 1/2 Zip Training Top - Navy (http://www.kitbag.com/stores/kitbag/products/product_details.aspx?pid=97504)


Length of Training Top - 71cm
Width of Training Top - 55cm (Chest 110cm)


My chest measurements is 115cm, hence this top is a bit tight for my liking but the length is fine.


This top is brand new, just arrived today in good condition. I bought it for S$95 (based on UK exchange rate 2.347). I'm selling it for S$65 (price negotiable). Interested buyers can choose to reply here or via pm.




http://img2.uploadhouse.com/fileuploads/16287/16287078f2e59ba8d31efe34c9130c8b9177db52.jpg








P.S: List Of UPPEES is not in full due to the capacity limitation of the signature function (not be longer than 300 characters excluding BB Code markup). Rest assured I've all ur nicks n u'll be awarded. If I do missed u, kindly PM me. :)


Appreciate the PM, Bro David_Ginola, Bro Rw6828, Bro Myo_Swee, Bro XboxSG, Bro Best123, Bro Ahnook78, Bro bhoven, Bro VOGS, Bro nacho, Bro desk13, Bro BatistaSG, Bro steamystreamsg, Bro Linkus, Bro Regaine, Bro evo7_5 and Bro Thongchai!

[joew2005]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1119800/michel-platini:-euro-2020-may-be-held-across-continent?cc=4716

Platini: Euros could be pan-continental
June 30, 2012

UEFA president Michel Platini has revealed Euro 2020 could be held in "12 or 13 cities" across the continent.

Platini said a decision on the radical idea of a tournament "all over Europe" would be made in December or January, & it is believed UEFA executives back the propsal.

Turkey had been seen as fav 2 host the 2020 tournament, but their bid has hit difficulties becos the Olympics could yet be held in Istanbul in the same year.

Platini said the proposal of scattering the 2020 tournament throughout Europe was "an idea we r considering". "The Euros in 2020 could be held all over Europe," he said. "It could be either 1 country & 12 stadiums or 1 stadium in 12 or 13 cities. Tis idea will be discussed very seriously.

"We will hv a great debate abt 2020 & discuss the pros & cons, then we will make a decision. I think it is a great idea.

"We r not going 2 wait until we know whether Turkey r going 2 get the Olympics. It creates a problem 4 us. We do hv other candidates. Every1 has the possibility 2 host it.

"It is easier 2 go fr London 2 Paris or Berlin than Cardiff 2 Gdansk. It would be 4 games per venue. It is a great debate."

Denmark legend & Euro '92 winner Peter Schmeichel was among those 2 give his early backing 2 the idea on Twitter.

"Needs 2 be organised so fans don't hv 2 travel 2 much, but the general idea is appealing 2 me," Schmeichel said."

4 argument sake, a group could be played in Brussels, Paris & London, traveling would be less than #EUR02012. 4 it 2 work UEFA must make fans needs no 1 priority, if not it will never work."

Platini also reiterated his opposition 2 goal-line technology, saying: "Where do we stop? There was a mistake in the Ukraine-England game [when Ukraine were not awarded a goal despite the ball crossing the line]. But there was an offside b4 tat."

Meanwhile, UEFA general secretary Gianni Infantino backed the system of having additional match officials behind the goals, saying there was "full support" 4 it 2 continue.

"The experiment has been extremely positive. In over a thousand matches, there has been 1 mistake [the Ukraine decision].''

Infantino announced tat the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff would host the UEFA Super Cup in August 2014, with Tblisi, in Georgia, hosting in 2015.

[joew2005]

Final - Spain(Winner)
1 July 2012 : Spain 4-0 Italy

Golden Boot - Fernando Torres (3 goals)
In the event of a tie, the Golden Boot will be awarded 2 the player with the most assists. In a further tie, the winner will be the player spending the least time playing in the tournament. Fernando Torres tied with 5 other players on goals & with Mario Gómez on goals & assists; however he spent 92 mins less on the pitch compared 2 Gómez & tis owned him the title. Torres also became the 1st player 2 score in 2 finals. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar of Netherlands was the over-all topscorer 4 Euro 2012 including qualification by 12 goals.

UEFA Player of the Tournament
Andrés Iniesta(Spain)



Goal Scorer:
3 goals - Croatia(Mario Mandžukić), Italy(Mario Balotelli), Portugal(Cristiano Ronaldo), Russia(Alan Yelizbarovich Dzagoev), Germany(Mario Gómez García) & Spain(Fernando Torres).

2 goals - Czech(Václav Pilař & Petr Jiráček), Denmark(Nicklas Bendtner & Michael Krohn-Dehli), Spain(Cesc Fàbregas & Xabi Alonso), Sweden(Zlatan Ibrahimović) & Ukraine(Andriy Shevchenko)

1 goal - Croatia(Nikica Jelavić), England(Joleon Lescott, Andy Carroll, Theo Walcott, Danny Welbeck & Wayne Rooney), France(Samir Nasri, Jérémy Ménez & Yohan Cabaye), Germany(Lukas Josef Podolski,Philipp Lahm,Sami Khedira,Miroslav Klose,Marco Reus, Lars Bender & Mesut Özil), Greece(Dimitris Salpingidis, Giorgos Karagounis & Theofanis Gekas), Italy(Antonio Di Natale, Andrea Pirlo & Antonio Cassano), Netherlands(Robin van Persie & Rafael Ferdinand van der Vaart), Poland(Robert Lewandowski & Jakub Błaszczykowski), Portugal(Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, Hélder Manuel Marques Postiga & Silvestre Manuel Gonçalves Varela),Republic of Ireland (Sean St Ledger), Russia(Roman Nikolayevich Shirokov & Roman Anatolyevich Pavlyuchenko), Spain(David Josué Jiménez Silva, Jesús Navas González, David Silva, Jordi Alba & Juan Mata) & Sweden(Erik Olof Mellberg & Sebastian Larsson)

Own goal - England(Glen Johnson, against Sweden)


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UEFA_Euro_2012

[chochochang2]

UEFA's squad of Euro 2012:

Goalkeepers: Buffon (Ita), Casillas (Spa), Neuer (Ger)

Defenders: Pique (Spa), Coentrao (Por), Lahm (Ger), Pepe (Por), Ramos (Spa), Alba (Spa)

Midfielders: De Rossi (Ita), Gerrard (Eng), Xavi (Spa), Iniesta (Spa), Khedira (Ger), Busquets (Spa), Ozil (Ger), Pirlo (Ita), Xabi Alonso (Spa)

Forwards: Balotelli (Ita), Fabregas (Spa), Ronaldo (Por), Ibrahimovic (Swe), Silva (Spa)

[Beretta]

Now that the Euro 2012 is over...... awaiting for the start of the various leagues especially Serie A (my favourite).

Any AC Milan supporters out there?

[Azitho]

Now that the Euro 2012 is over...... awaiting for the start of the various leagues especially Serie A (my favourite).

Any AC Milan supporters out there?

I also like Serie A. My team is Juventus.