A-Z of the Austrian EURO

A-Z of the Austrian EURO




Whether you wish to know the capacity of the Stadion Tivoli Neu, how much cable is laid at the Wörthersee Stadion, or how many turnstiles the Ernst-Happel-Stadion has, a fact sheet on the four Austrian venues has been produced to answer all your questions.
Detailed guide
The fact sheets offer information on the Alpine country's UEFA EURO 2008™ host cities of Vienna, Innsbruck, Klagenfurt and Salzburg, detailing the history of the stadiums, any adaptations that have been made for June's finals, opening times for media, and handy local maps. Nearly everything is included – from simple capacity figures to the fact the roof at the Stadion Salzburg Wals-Siezenheim weighs the equivalent of 270 elephants.

Bilić counting down to Vienna opener

Bilić counting down to Vienna opener





Slaven Bilić says he is "99 per cent focused" on Croatia's UEFA EURO 2008™ opener against Austria as his side prepares to face Hungary in their final warm-up friendly this evening.

Preparations
Croatia left their training camp in the Slovenian resort of Čatež on Friday to travel to Budapest, where they will encounter a Hungary side buoyed by their 3-2 defeat of European champions Greece last Saturday. After that, Croatia will have Sunday off and train in Zagreb on Tuesday before decamping to their Austrian base in Bad Tatzmannsdorf on Tuesday.

'Good job'
"We did a good job with the preparations, the boys are great," said Bilić. "We didn't have many problems, all players are ready and the list of 23 players remained the same as in the beginning. We are 99 per cent focused on our first [Group B] match against Austria. We are also looking at Germany and Poland, but Austria is definitely our priority."

'No secrets'
The match against Erwin Koeman's Hungary will be Croatia's final friendly, having already overcome Moldova 1-0. Bilić has revealed he will field a near full-strength lineup and wants his players to treat the match like a competitive fixture given its proximity to the finals. "It's our last test; we have to be in top form, like we are already playing at EURO," he added. "The team who run out on the pitch against Hungary will probably also play against Austria [on 8 June]. There are no secrets, everyone knows what our team looks like."

Kovač goal
Captain Niko Kovač headed the only goal against Moldova and is in confident mood ahead of the tournament. The FC Salzburg midfielder is, though, urging his team-mates not to lose focus on an Austria squad that has endured a series of indifferent friendly results since their last competitive international in October 2005.

Warning
"I have a good feeling about this EURO," said the 36-year-old. "The preparations were excellent and against Hungary in the friendly match, we will show what we can do. We also must not underestimate Austria and we have to respect them, although I believe we can only defeat ourselves in that match. If we don't take them seriously we can lose."

Attacking riches fuel German belief

Attacking riches fuel German belief





German national team coach Joachim Löw is undoubtedly a lucky man. With all five of his strike candidates boasting proven track records, the Mannschaft enjoy a plethora of attacking options for UEFA EURO 2008™.
Klose class
Top scorer at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, Miroslav Klose experienced something of an under-par Bundesliga campaign by his own high standards, although his tally of ten strikes in 27 appearances was still respectable. He also weighed in with eight assists as he forged a successful partnership with in-form Italian marksman Luca Toni and registered five goals in the UEFA Cup, also hitting the target during Germany's recent warm-up encounter with Belarus.

Gómez impact
Even more impressive last term was VfB Stuttgart's Mario Gómez, who scored 19 goals in 25 Bundesliga fixtures and has likewise found the net in his last two international outings against Austria and Switzerland, scoring twice in the 4-0 win against the latter. "It was always a goal of mine to be at a big tournament," said the 22-year-old. "Of course I hope to play, but we have a lot of great strikers."

Podolski pedigree
Lukas Podolski also played in 25 Bundesliga games last season but only completed 90 minutes on four occasions. Despite that drawback, the Bayern forward scored five league goals and another five from 12 appearances in the UEFA Cup. Podolski turns 23 four days before Germany begin their Group B bid against Poland on 8 June, but of Löw's quintet he is second only to Klose in terms of goals scored for his country having struck an impressive 25 in 47 games.

Eager to shine
Kevin Kuranyi's international record stands up to scrutiny as well, with the FC Schalke 04 striker boasting 19 strikes from 46 matches. He also reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League in 2007/08, scoring three during Schalke's run including the winner in their 1-0 first knockout round first-leg success against FC Porto. Now 26 and eager to shine after failing to make the cut for the 2006 World Cup, Kuranyi made waves in the Bundesliga too, with 15 goals from 32 appearances. "I am really looking forward to my second European Championship and hope I get the chance to show what I can do," he said.

Neuville experience
Löw has also called up Oliver Neuville, a very experienced attacker who spent last season in the 2. Bundesliga with VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach. The 35-year-old has amassed 67 caps over the years and proved he can still make a difference by powering his club to promotion with 15 goals. Group B rivals Austria, Poland and Croatia would do well to tighten up their defences between now and the start of the tournament

Villa hopeful for maturing Spain

Villa hopeful for maturing Spain





He may be known as The Kid, but David Villa and Spain seem to be displaying a new maturity as UEFA EURO 2008™ approaches, sacrificing personal ambition for team success.
'Mission'
Villa was on target on Thursday as a likely first-choice XI were held to a 1-1 draw by a second string in a training ground match. The Valencia CF man partnered Fernando Torres in attack, something of a surprise as for much of the UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying campaign the ploy of having a lone striker seemed to bring much greater reward. The idea of playing his two star strikers together is perhaps irresistible for coach Luis Aragonés, yet Villa insists he is simply happy to be there. "My mission here is to work for the good of the squad," said the 26-year-old. "I'm going to work as hard as possible and whether I'm in the team or not, I will accept whatever decision is made and to keep working."

Güiza option
It is a welcome attitude for any coach and Aragonés certainly has attacking options, with Daniel Güiza, scorer of the second XI's equaliser on Thursday, also knocking on the door. Much may be revealed on Saturday when Spain take on Peru in Huelva, with players vying for a place in the starting lineup against Russia on 10 June, even if Villa insists on a team-orientated approach. "Right now I'm only thinking of having a great European Championship," he said. "There are three attackers in this squad; me, Torres and Güiza and of course all of us have ambitions of being top-scorer in the tournament. I just hope that Spain will be talked about as a team with great attacking potential."

Xavi belief
They have certainly shown some strike power in recent months, as well as a defensive cohesion that goes from strength to strength. Spain have recorded 1-0 friendly wins against France and Italy – Villa scoring a stunning volley in the latter game – and Xavi Hernández believes it bodes well for Austria and Switzerland. "Our strengths and biggest qualities are our first touch and the technical ability of our players," said the FC Barcelona midfielder. "That's what we're going to rely on and we'll see if it works well for us. We've beaten France and Italy so let's see if we're now capable of doing the business in official matches." Like Villa, perhaps Spain are maturing at just the right time.

Sionko strikes twice to cheer Czechs

Sionko strikes twice to cheer Czechs




Czech Republic 3-1 Scotland
The Czech Republic were given a tough work-out by Scotland before two Libor Sionko goals helped them to victory in their last pre-UEFA EURO 2008™ friendly in Prague.
Sionko intervention
Having beaten Lithuania three days ago for their first victory since qualifying, the Czech Republic were hoping for another win as they contemplate opening the finals against co-hosts and Group A rivals Switzerland in Basel on Saturday week. But they had to wait an hour before Sionko burst through to break the deadlock. Michal Kadlec produced a late spectacular finish and although David Clarkson pulled one back Sionko scored again in the last minute.

Early chance
Karel Brückner's side had a chance within four minutes as Rudolf Skácel broke into the box but Gary Naysmith cut out his pass to Sionko and although the clearance went to Jan Polák, his cross was headed wide by Jan Koller. The tall striker also came close after a Sinoko centre, but the Czech Republic were being restricted by their visitors, though their was even fewer chances for Scotland's debutant striker James Morrison, a former English youth international.

Opening goal
Brückner sent on five substitutes at the break including attacking trio David Jarolím, Vaclav Svěrkoš and Kadlec and they increased the pressure on Scotland, which told when former Rangers FC player Sionko produced a sudden burst of pace in the box to run on to Zdeněk Pospěch's pass and confidently shoot past Craig Gordon.

Win sealed
Scotland's goalkeeper did do well to deny Svěrkoš in a one-on-one but was powerless on 84 minutes when Kadlec shot in from the corner of the box to open his international account. Scotland debutant Clarkson, who had only been brought on in the 72nd minute, immediately reduced arrears as he turned in fellow substitute Shaun Maloney's cross, but Sionko had the last word as he again ran through the visiting defence and gave Gordon no chance with his finish.

Czech Republic: Čech, Pospěch (Sivok 74), Ujfaluši (Kadlec 46), Kováč, Jankulovski (Rozehnal 46), Sionko, Polák, Galásek, Matějovský (Jarolím 46), Skácel (Plašil 46), Koller (Svěrkoš 46).

Scotland: Gordon, McNaughton (Berra 90), McManus (Dailly 58), Caldwell, Naysmith, Hartley, Fletcher, Rae (Clarkson 72), Robson (McCormack 83), Miller, Morrison (Maloney, 68).

Frei record boosts co-hosts' morale

Frei record boosts co-hosts' morale





Switzerland 3-0 Liechtenstein
UEFA EURO 2008™ co-hosts Switzerland came through their last pre-tournament warm-up against neighbours Liechtenstein in comfortable style on a night when Alexander Frei became his country's all-time leading scorer.
Frei record
Frei was one behind Kubilay Türkyilmaz's record tally of 34 goals at kick-off but within 31 minutes had not only equalled it but overtaken the mark to the delight of the sell-out 18,000 crowd in the new St Gallen stadium. Johan Vonlanthen, who four years ago set a record as the youngest ever UEFA European Championship finals goalscorer, volleyed a third in the 68th minute to set up Switzerland nicely for their 7 June opener against the Czech Republic in Basel.

Unchanged lineup
Perhaps significantly ahead of that Group A game, Switzerland coach Jakob Kuhn started with exactly the same players as in the 2-0 defeat of Slovakia six days ago, though Tranquillo Barnetta is likely to contend for Vonlanthen's position in left midfield as he returns from injury. Frei came close early on and although Diego Benaglio was then tested, the BV Borussia Dortmund striker opened the scoring with a header. Only seven minutes later, the outright record was Frei's with a shot through the legs of Peter Jehle.

Clincher
Although Liechtenstein began the second half brightly, Switzerland extended their lead midway through the half when Frei and substitute Hakan Yakin produced a fine passing move completed by a Vonlanthen volley. Switzerland coach Jakob Kuhn paid tribute to Frei, saying: "He deserved to beat [the record]. He's coming out of a bad time with injuries but he's never stopped fighting."

Switzerland: Benaglio, Lichtsteiner (Degen 59), Müller, Senderos (Grichting 62), Magnin (Spycher 71), Behrami (Gygax 55), Inler, Fernandes (Huggel 86), Vonlanthen, Frei, Streller (Yakin 59).

Liechtenstein: Jehle, Oehri (D Hasler 83), Gerster, Martin Stocklasa, Burgmeier, Ritzberger, Polverino, M Büchel, Rohrer (R Beck 65), Fischer (T Beck 65), Frick (R Büchel 83).

Pieces falling into place for Portugal

Pieces falling into place for Portugal






Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari is almost certain of the lineup he will field against Turkey on 7 June, with just one position causing him doubt ahead of his team's UEFA EURO 2008™ opener in Geneva.
Midfield choice
Scolari's men contest their final warm-up game against Georgia on Saturday and the Brazilian told a pre-match press conference: "I almost have the team in my mind. I have only one doubt in midfield, between João Moutinho, Miguel Veloso and Raul Meireles." One of those players will accompany SL Benfica midfielder Petit and FC Barcelona's Deco in the middle.

Fitness race
The mastermind of Brazil's 2002 FIFA World Cup win also promised that his side will be ready when the tournament gets under way, after conceding that fitness levels are not ideal. "Our team is not in perfect condition," Scolari said. "We will play normally against Georgia but not 100 per cent. We hope we can improve gradually until the EURO starts. For example, if the tournament started today Miguel would likely be out. Many players arrived here in poor condition in terms of physique and technique."

'We can win it'
As for Portugal's chances, Scolari added: "After reaching the final at UEFA EURO 2004™ and the semi-finals of the 2006 World Cup, we leave Portugal bearing in mind we could reach the final and win it. However, there are 15 other teams and eight big candidates. So we will focus on qualifying from the group stage and then we'll think about new goals after that." Aside from Turkey, Portugal must also contend with the Czech Republic and co-hosts Switzerland in Group A.

Di Natale double puts Italy in right mood

Di Natale double puts Italy in right mood





Italy 3-1 Belgium
Antonio Di Natale scored two goals in the first half and Mauro Camoranesi added another in the second as Italy defeated Belgium n Florence in their last friendly game ahead of UEFA EURO 2008™.

Comfortable win
Di Natale opened the scoring before the ten-minute mark and made it two just before the break. He was then replaced but Camoranesi did not take long to make it three. Second-half substitute Wesley Sonck headed in a corner to grab a consolation but the world champions are looking in good shape for their 9 June Group C opener against Belgium's neighbours, the Netherlands.

Di Natale opener
After a minute's silence to mourn former Belgium striker François Sterchele, who died in a car accident earlier this month, Italy started well and carved out the first opening. Christian Panucci headed just wide following a centre from the right by Camoranesi, but a minute later the Azzurri were back for more. This time, Andrea Pirlo dribbled past Sébastien Pocognoli with a series of tricks before crossing to the far post for Di Natale, whose perfect right-footed volley gave Belgium goalkeeper Stijn Stijnen no chance.

Advantage doubled
Italy coach Roberto Donadoni was fielding a 4-3-3 formation with Luca Toni, Di Natale and Camoranesi in attack, while Alberto Aquilani was the surprise inclusion in midfield alongside Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso. Together, they continued to control the game without much fuss and four minutes from the break they made it two, as Belgium lost possession and Aquilani immediately found Di Natale on the box. The Udinese Calcio man drilled in his second with a precise low shot.

Half-time changes
During half-time, Donadoni replaced Di Natale with Serie A top-scorer Alessandro Del Piero, while also sending Giorgio Chiellini and Fabio Grosso on for Panucci and Fabio Cannavaro. That meant the captain's armband went to Gianluigi Buffon, but the Italy goalkeeper remained very much a spectator as his team went three up four minutes after the restart. Del Piero served his Juventus team-mate Camoranesi with a fine pass on the right and the winger sent his effort between Stijnen's legs and into the bottom of the net.

Sonck consolation
Donadoni also gave Antonio Cassano and Marco Borriello some playing time, with the latter missing a glorious opportunity to make it four when presented with an open goal by Gianluca Zambrotta's pass from the right channel. There was still time for another goal, but it came at the other end from Sonck.

Italy: Buffon, Panucci (Grosso 46), Cannavaro (Chiellini 46), Barzagli, Zambrotta, Gattuso, Pirlo, Aquilani (Ambrosini 75), Camoranesi (Cassano 61), Di Natale (Del Piero 46), Toni (Borriello 75).

Belgium: Stijnen, Hoefkens (Swertz 46), Kompany, Vertonghen, Pocognoli (Huysegems 83), Witsen (Gillet 70), Simons, Fellaini, Defour (Sonck 58), Mudingayi, Dembele (Mirallas 58).

Victory at last for five-star Austria

Victory at last for five-star Austria





Austria 5-1 Malta
UEFA EURO 2008™ co-hosts Austria gave their confidence a major boost as they secured their first win since November in their last pre-finals friendly.
Wait over
Austria coach Josef Hickersberger made five changes to the side that faced Nigeria on Tuesday, with Alex Manninger between the goalposts and Ronald Gercaliu, Christoph Leitgeb, Ümit Korkmaz and Erwin Hoffer all given starts further forward. And although it was only 2-1 at half-time, Austria streaked away in the second period to end a six-game wait for a victory and go into the 8 June Group B opener against Croatia in Vienna on a high.

Early goals
It soon became clear the hosts were on a mission to rack up goals and with just eight minutes gone they collected their first, René Aufhauser heading in from a set-piece. Barely three minutes later, Roland Linz doubled the lead after some nice work from Hoffer.

Malta respone
Austria kept up the pressure despite their advantage and squandered numerous good chances to register their third. In fact, it was Malta who scored next when Michael Mifsud latched on to a through-pass with four minutes remaining in the half and gave his team a lifeline against the run of play.

Crucial win
The same player then came close to equalising three minutes after the break, but the game was finally taken behind the visitors when Martin Harnik was fouled in the area during a counterattack. Linz converted from the spot on 67 minutes and ten minutes later Ivica Vastic profited from a lapse in Malta's defence to make it 4-1, before Harnik added a fifth in the final minute.

Austria: Manninger, Garics, Stranzl (Prödl 84), Pogatetz (Hiden 84), Gercaliu (Katzer 76), Ivanschitz, Aufhauser (Säumel 76), Leitgeb, Korkmaz (Harnik 46), Linz, Hoffer (Vastic 58).

Malta: Hogg (Haber 46), Caruana (Frendo 46), Said, Dimech, S.Bajada, Briffa, Pace (Mallia 86), M. Mifsud (Barbara 64), Agius, Nwoko (Fenech 46), Schembri (Azzopardi 72).

Fernandes rise set to continue

Fernandes rise set to continue




He may only be 21, but a €5.9m transfer to Manchester City FC last summer made him the second most expensive Swiss player behind Patrick Müller – Gelson Fernandes is an extraordinary footballer.

New surroundings
Having arrived from Cape Verde at the age of five he quickly adapted to Swiss life and, by 16, was turning out for FC Sion. Four years later, at the start of the 2006/07 season, Fernandes made his first of 34 appearances in the Swiss Super League and instantly became a regular as Sion ended the campaign in third place. Possessing all the attributes needed for the modern day holding midfielder, Fernandes can pass, tackle and is not afraid to put his body on the line for club or country. "That's a healthy toughness," he said. "He who does not work has already lost."

English move
His performances for Sion soon prompted the interest of foreign clubs and, after just one campaign in the Swiss élite, Fernandes moved to England where, after a spending the first two months among the substitutes, he quickly established himself as a regular in midfield and made 26 appearances. "My record has been more than positive," he declared. "I played many matches and the club and coach have shown themselves to be pleased with my performances."

'Enormous advances'
Moving overseas despite just one top-flight campaign, Fernandes feels he has certainly developed his game. "I have improved in every area," he added. "Physically, technically and tactically I have made enormous advances. You can hardly compare the Premier League to the Swiss League when it comes to rhythm, pace and individual class. This is my kind of football here, lots of challenges and a constantly high pace. Technically, I am still not strong enough for Italy or Spain – my place is here."

'Expectation'
His rise with the Swiss national team has been similar to that at club level. Winning his first cap in August 2007 in a 2-1 win against the Netherlands, he has been a regular for coach Jakob Kuhn ever since and seems a certain starter at UEFA EURO 2008™. "I am looking forward a lot to the tournament, the expectation is rising everyday," he continued. "We are young, but we might be fresher because of that. Most of us play in big European leagues, so this should not be a problem."

Cassano signs on at Sampdoria

Cassano signs on at Sampdoria



UC Sampdoria have made Antonio Cassano's loan move from Real Madrid CF permanent, signing the Italy forward on a five-year deal.

Sell-on fee
The 25-year-old joined the Genoa side on a one-year-loan in summer 2007 after one-and-a-half seasons with the reigning Primera División champions, and has now signed a contract until June 2013 with the Blucerchiati. Sampdoria have not paid Madrid a fee for Cassano, but the Merengues will earn an undisclosed fee should the forward leave the Stadio Luigi Ferraris – reportedly between €5m and €7m.

Fruitful loan
Cassano, who previously spent four-and-a-half years with AS Roma before moving to the Spanish capital, enjoyed an impressive season with Sampdoria, scoring ten goals in 22 Serie A matches, form that earned him a call-up by Italy coach Roberto Donadoni for UEFA EURO 2008™. After the two clubs reached the agreement, Cassano's agent Giuseppe Bozzo travelled to Italy's training camp in Coverciano to sign the contract with the Bari-born player.

Donadoni cashes in on Azzurri options

Donadoni cashes in on Azzurri options




Italy may not be renowned for their adaptability, with slight variations of the 4-4-2 proving a winning formula for a number of years, yet Roberto Donadoni believes a new-found flexibility may give the current incumbents a crucial edge at UEFA EURO 2008™.
Good condition
Donadoni favoured a three-pronged attack for much of the qualifying campaign, the tried and tested system convincing him to name Alessandro Del Piero and Antonio Cassano in his final 23-man squad when many predicted they may not make it. The pair are in line to start tonight when the Azzurri face Belgium in Florence – the world champions' last friendly before travelling to Austria for the finals – and they are keen to impress. "Those two are in good condition and this makes me happy," Donadoni explained. "We will try to let everyone play a little though."

Choices
With Luca Toni a shoo-in for the role at the point of the attacking arrow, that should mean a chance for Donadoni's other wide options, Antonio Di Natale and Mauro Camoranesi. "I have not decided anything yet but with a three-man offence I definitely see Del Piero on the left and Cassano on the right, even if Cassano can play on the opposite side too," said the coach, who added that the occasionally temperamental UC Sampdoria man has been a model of focus as the finals loom ever larger.

Flexibility
It is a compliment Donadoni believes can be extended to all the Italy squad, making them more pliant to change – a valuable commodity as they seek to add the European crown to the world one they claimed two years ago. "We will start with the attacking trident even if we only decide upon the actual lineup in training on Friday morning," the 44-year-old said. "What I like most, though, is the way the players are open to change, their versatility. I think that our ability to use several formations could be one of our strengths. We are testing different possibilities. A three-man defence, for example."

Mental test
A three-man defence would have been considered sacrilege in the days of Catenaccio, but Donadoni has his own way of doing things. Indeed, those hoping the starting XI against Belgium this evening will provide the usual insight as to who turns out in their UEFA EURO 2008™ opener against the Netherlands are set for disappointment. "It is too early to make any evaluations," he said, adding: "The test against Belgium will be important from a mental point of view and not a physical one, since after only five days of work we cannot ask too much." Come 9 June it will be a different story.

Netherlands denied by Denmark

Netherlands denied by Denmark




Netherlands 1-1 Denmark
Marco van Basten may have had a full Oranje squad to call upon for the first time during their UEFA EURO 2008™ preparations but his side could only muster a draw against Denmark in Eindhoven after Ruud van Nistelrooy's first-half effort was cancelled out by Christian Poulsen.
Late arrivals
Edwin van der Sar, Van Nistelrooy, Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben all started for the Dutch having only arrived at their training camp during the course of the previous seven days. Van Basten made a number of changes from the side that comfortably beat Ukraine 3-0 in their previous friendly, with Joris Mathijsen replacing Wilfred Bouma in central defence. In midfield, Demy de Zeeuw and Orlando Engelaar were the holding players while Sneijder, Robben and Rafael van der Vaart were handed creative roles behind striker Van Nistelrooy.

Van Nistelrooy opener
The Dutch played some good passing football in the first half especially down the left wing where Robben roamed. That led to chances for the latter, Mathijsen and Van der Vaart, but the Oranje had to wait until the half-hour mark to break the deadlock. Van Nistelrooy started the move with a pass to Sneijder and then received the ball back after two fine one-touch passes from his Real Madrid CF team-mate and Robben before burying his 31st international goal past goalkeeper Jesper Christiansen.

Poulsen equaliser
After the break, the Dutch were more wasteful in possession and it led to the equaliser eleven minutes in. Mathijsen lost a duel with Nicklas Bendtner and Poulsen was afforded a simple finish. Van Basten reacted with a triple substitution in the 65th minute, bringing on Tim de Cler, Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink and Dirk Kuyt, and they regained the initiative only for Sneijder, Kuyt and Vennegoor of Hesselink to miss the target in their quest for victory.

Training toll
"The fact that we had trouble in the second half is understandable as we got tired after a hard training week," said Van Basten. "In the first half, however, we played very well and created a lot of chances. Unfortunately, we only scored one of those but that was an excellent goal that could have come from a football coaching manual. We still had four or five more chances and when you score those, the match is won," he added. The Netherlands return to action when they face Wales on Sunday.

Netherlands: Van der Sar, Ooijer (De Jong 46), Heitinga, Mathijsen, Van Bronckhorst, Van der Vaart (Kuyt 65), De Zeeuw, Sneijder (Afellay 82), Engelaar (De Cler 65), Robben (Babel 77), Van Nistelrooy (Vennegoor of Hesselink 65).

Denmark: Christiansen, Kvist Jørgensen (Rasmussen 82), Andreasen (Christensen 77), Krøldrup, Lars Jacobsen, Kahlenberg (Tomasson 46), Poulsen, Jørgensen (Retov 63), Rommedahl, Bendtner, Perez (Vingaard 77).

Turkey back in the winning groove

Turkey back in the winning groove



Turkey 2-0 Finland
Fatih Terim's side bounced back from their loss to Uruguay on Sunday by comfortably overcoming Finland in Duisburg.

Tuncay joy
Goals in either half from Tuncay Şanlı and Semih Şentürk were decisive, as coach Terim handed a start to fit-again Galatasaray AS defender Servet Çetin and FC Sochaux-Montbéliard striker Mevlüt Erdinç. Turkey started the game with some enterprising football and were ahead in the 16th minute when Tuncay touched in Sabri Sarıoğlu's right-wing cross.

Finland misses
Finland responded with a spell of possession without ever threatening Volkan Demirel's goal, while after the break the profligacy of Stuart Baxter's side negated any hope of an equaliser. Both coaches then took the opportunity to give several members of the squad a run out, but the newcomers were unable to change the course of the match, as the game looked to be drifting towards a slender Turkish victory.

Super sub
However, a minute from time, Semih – who had only been on the field seven minutes – converted a cross from Fenerbahçe SK team-mate Kazım Kazım. Turkey have no more friendlies scheduled before they play their first match of UEFA EURO 2008™ against Portugal in Geneva on 7 June.

Turkey: Volkan, Servet, Hakan Balta, Gökhan, Emre Belözoğlu (Gökdeniz 89), Mehmet Aurélio (Mehmet Topal 88), Nihat (Semih 82), Tuncay (Arda 67), Hamit (Ayhan 79), Sabri, Mevlüt (Kazım 75).

Finland: Enckleman (Frederikson 46), Nyman, Kallio (Moisander 82), Pasoja (Lampi 53), Kuivasto, Väyrynen, Eremenko Jr (Litmanen 61), Heikkinen (Johansson 61), Forssell (Sadik 79), Eremenko, Kolkka.

Russia sweat on Pogrebnyak fitness

Russia sweat on Pogrebnyak fitness



Russia face a major injury scare ahead of UEFA EURO 2008™ after it was revealed that star striker Pavel Pogrebnyak has a problem with the meniscus in his left knee just nine days before the start of the tournament.

Injury fear
Pogrebnyak picked up the injury early in last night's 2-1 victory against Serbia and now faces a race to be fit for his side's opening game against Spain on 10 June. The 24-year-old FC Zenit St. Petersburg striker travelled to Munich with team doctor Andrei Grishanov for precautionary tests this morning from Russia's training base in the German town of Rottah, and the diagnosis is worse than first feared.

'Irritation'
"He has a little irritation of the meniscus and a little rupture of the back part of it," Russia coach Guus Hiddink said. "He won't be training in the next few days but it is possible he will play at EURO. We will have a more precise ruling on him in the next few days. Even if the information about this injury is confirmed, I am not planning to call up another player instead of him."

'Pain'
Pogrebnyak limped off against Serbia on 16 minutes soon after opening the scoring in a 2-1 win with a long-range free-kick. He had not been involved in a collision with another player, but simply signalled to the bench that he was in serious pain and Hiddink took him off immediately. "I didn't understand [what had happened]," Pogrebnyak said. "There was no challenge but suddenly my left knee was in a lot of pain."

Good win
Pogrebnyak's injury overshadowed an otherwise successful night for Russia who went on to win thanks to a Roman Pavlyuchenko strike two minutes into the second half. "Of course I'm happy about the result, just like after any victory," Hiddink said. "It was important to understand the physical condition of the players. We want to be competitive at EURO 2008, that's why we put a lot of effort into being successful in both friendly and competitive matches."

Top scorer
Pogrebnyak, who has scored four times in nine appearances for Russia, is a key member of Hiddink's side and comes into the tournament buoyed by finishing the season as the ten-goal top scorer in the UEFA Cup alongside Luca Toni. The 24-year-old, however, had the misfortune of missing Zenit's final victory against Rangers FC through suspension so will be doubly determined to be sure he is fit for Russia's opener in Innsbruck.

Turkey making up for lost time

Turkey making up for lost time






How did they perform in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying?

• Turkey finished second in Group C behind European champions Greece, but made heavy work of qualifying after a stirring start.
• Fatih Terim's team won their first three games without conceding a single goal, Hakan Şükür celebrating his 50th international goal when he struck four in the third of those wins, 5-0 win against Moldova.
• Things got even better when an under-strength Turkey side came from behind to beat Greece 4-1 in Athens in their first qualifier of 2007.
• They then lost their way, however, with a run of one win in six that included a 3-2 defeat in Bosnia-Herzegovina and then a humiliating 2-2 draw in Malta, where Turkey came from behind twice.
• Crisis talk intensified in October 2007 when a 1-1 draw in Moldova was followed by a 1-0 home defeat against Greece, which saw the European champions celebrate qualification in Istanbul.
• Having slipped to third in the section, Turkey reclaimed the initiative with a 2-1 win in Oslo in their penultimate qualifier. A 1-0 home victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final qualifier kept them a point above Norway in second place.

How did they perform in the 2006 FIFA World Cup qualification round?

• Turkey finished second, two points behind Ukraine, in their 2006 FIFA World Cup qualification round group having won six and drawn five of their twelve matches in the competition. It proved sufficient to provide Turkey with a place in the play-offs, but they lost out on away goals to Switzerland after the sides shared eight goals in their two meetings.
• In a group that featured UEFA EURO 2004™ winners, Greece, as well as Denmark, who also competed in the group stage in Portugal, Turkey's campaign got off to a sluggish start as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Georgia in Trabzon.
• They responded with disciplined away draws in Greece (0-0) and Denmark (1-1) and defeated Kazakhstan (4-0) only to then suffer a 3-0 defeat at home against the Ukrainians with Andriy Shevchenko (17, 88) scoring twice. • It was to be Turkey's only defeat in the qualifying round, and though they would avenge their loss to the Ukrainians with a 1-0 victory in Kiev thanks to Tümer Metin's 55th-minute goal, home draws against both Greece and Denmark ultimately ruined their chance of taking top spot in the group.
• Other victories were recorded against Albania (home and away) and Georgia (away), with their biggest win coming in a 6-0 away defeat of Kazakhstan on 8 June 2005 with Fatih Tekke (13, 85) and Tuncay Şanli (41, 90) helping themselves to two goals apiece.

How did they perform in UEFA EURO 2004™?

• Turkey's UEFA EURO 2004™ adventure fell at the final hurdle as they lost out in the play-offs to Latvia after having finished second in their qualification round group to England. With six wins, a draw and one defeat, Turkey ended one point behind the undefeated English with Slovakia a further nine points in arrears.
• England proved to be Turkey's nemesis in the qualifying round. Having defeated Slovakia, F.Y.R. Macedonia and Liechtenstein home and away, the Turkish lost away against England in their fourth match of the campaign despite holding their hosts goalless for 75 minutes. Darius Vassell finally broke the deadlock at Sunderland's Stadium of Light before David Beckham added a second from the penalty spot two minutes into stoppage time. The two sides met again in the final match of the qualification round in Istanbul, but Turkey could not penetrate the English defence and were forced to settle for second place as the game ended goalless.
• But a further unpleasant surprise lay in wait for Turkey as Latvia won the two-legged play-off. The Latvians took a one-goal lead into their second leg meeting following Maris Verpakovskis' 12th-minute goal in Riga, and though goals from Ilhan Mansiz (20) and Hakan Sükür (64) put Turkey in the driving seat at Istanbul's Inönü stadium, the visitors hit back through Jurijs Laizans (65) and Verpakovskis (76) to book their ticket to Portugal.

What is their best performance in the UEFA European Championship?

• Turkey first participated in a UEFA European Championship final round at EURO '96™, losing all three of their group matches, but they returned four years later and advanced as far as the quarter-finals, their best effort to date in the competition.
• Finishing second in their qualifying group, Turkey defeated the Republic of Ireland on away goals in their subsequent play-off to book their place at UEFA EURO 2000™. Drawn in a group featuring Belgium, Italy and Sweden, Turkey took four points from their three games, defeating the tournament hosts 2-0 in their final game with two goals from Hakan Sükür (45, 70). Their reward was a quarter-final berth, but Turkey were defeated 2-0 by Portugal.

Key facts

• Despite playing in all 13 UEFA European Championship qualifying rounds, Turkey's first participation in a final tournament took place at UEFA EURO '96™.

All-time record

• Turkey have appeared in all 13 UEFA European Championship qualifying competitions. Prior to the finals of UEFA EURO 2008™, they have played 95 matches. In that time, they had won 35, drawn 22 and lost 38 of those fixtures with 110 goals scored and 135 conceded

TURKEY - Tournament fixtures

Tournament fixtures




07/06/2008 Turkey v Portugal 20:45
11/06/2008 Turkey v Switzerland 20:45
15/06/2008 Turkey v Czech Republic 20:45

TURKEY

TURKEY




Coach: TERIM

Squad list

Goalkeepers

»1 Rüştü Reçber
»12 Tolga Zengin
»23 Volkan Demirel

Defenders

»2 Servet Çetin
»4 Gökhan Zan
»13 Emre Güngör
»15 Emre Aşık
»20 Sabri Sarıoğlu
»22 Hamit Altıntop

Midfielders

»3 Hakan Balta
»5 Emre Belözoğlu
»6 Mehmet Topal
»7 Mehmet Aurélio
»10 Karadeniz Gökdeniz
»11 Tümer Metin
»14 Arda Turan
»16 Uğur Boral
»17 Tuncay Şanlı
»19 Ayhan Akman

Forwards

»8 Nihat Kahveci
»9 Semih Şentürk
»18 Kazım Kazım
»21 Mevlüt Erdinç

Swiss eager to show their worth

Swiss eager to show their worth






How are their preparations going for UEFA EURO 2008™?

• Having won their first three friendlies after the FIFA World Cup finals, a 2-1 defeat against Austria served as a wake-up call for Jakob Kuhn's side.
• Two more losses prompted Kuhn to get tough and drop captain Johann Vogel, while injuries to established stars Ricardo Cabanas and Alexander Frei in 2007 caused further disruption to his plans.
• There have been encouraging results, though, notably a 1-1 draw against Argentina in June 2007 and a 2-1 win against the Netherlands – with Tranquillo Barnetta scoring twice – two months later.
• Before the latter match, Kuhn said of Switzerland's finals ambitions: "Success would be to reach the quarter-finals. Of course it won't be easy, but that has to be our goal. Four years ago, when we really hit a low point, I developed an internal strategy with the title 'European champions 2008'. That was being very optimistic but we have to strive towards big goals and go out there with the necessary confidence to deal with these challenges."
• The intensive friendly schedule continued for the remainder of 2007 with mixed results against Japan (3-4), Austria (3-1), USA (0-1) and Nigeria (0-1). And in 2008, it was more of the same with losses to England (1-2) and Germany (0-4) on the main international matchdays. A 2-0 defeat of Slovakia in their final preparations before the start of the final tournament provided a timely boost.
• Kuhn will retire as Switzerland coach after the finals, saying: "I have promised my wife that I'll call it a day after UEFA EURO 2008™."

How did they perform at the 2006 FIFA World Cup?

• Kuhn led Switzerland to their second successive major international tournament, as they finished unbeaten - and second behind France - in Group 4 before progressing on away goals against Turkey in an incident-packed play-off.
• They topped Group G at the finals in Germany, drawing their opening game 0-0 against France, and then beating both Togo and Korea Republic 2-0 - with Alexander Frei scoring in both games.
• They drew 0-0 with Ukraine in the Round of 16 but lost 3-0 on penalties. Ricardo Cabanas and Marco Streller had their efforts saved while Barnetta's spot-kick hit the crossbar.
• They thus bowed out of the competition without conceding a goal in open play.

How did they perform at UEFA EURO 2004™?

• Switzerland defied the odds to qualify for their second UEFA European Championship finals, coming top of a five-team Group 10 which also featured Russia and the Republic of Ireland.
• Qualification went down to the wire, with a 2-0 win against the Irish on the final day ensuring that second-placed Russia could not catch them.
• Switzerland drew 0-0 with Croatia in their opening game of the finals in Portugal but then lost 3-0 to England and 3-1 to France to finish bottom of Group B
• Johan Vonlanthen scored their only goal of the finals, cancelling out Zinédine Zidane's goal for France before Thierry Henry struck twice late on to win the game. Vonlanethen's goal made him the tournament's youngest ever scorer.

What is their best performance in the UEFA European Championship?

• Switzerland have twice qualified for the finals of the UEFA European Championship, doing so for the first time at the ninth attempt at EURO '96™. They then qualified again for UEFA EURO 2004™. Both of their finals campaigns have started with draws - 1-1 against hosts England in 1996 and 0-0 with Croatia in Portugal - but ended with two subsequent defeats.

Key facts
• This is the first time the UEFA EURO 2008™ co-hosts will have played in consecutive UEFA European Championship finals and the 2008 tournament will be their third finals overall.

All-time record
• Their record prior to the finals of UEFA EURO 2008™ was 80 matches played with 29 wins, 22 draws and 29 losses, with 119 goals scored and 108 conceded.

SWITZERLAND -Tournament fixtures

Tournament fixtures




07/06/2008 Switzerland v Czech Republic 18:00
11/06/2008 Switzerland v Turkey 20:45
15/06/2008 Switzerland v Portugal 20:45

SWITZERLAND

SWITZERLAND




Coach: KUHN

Squad list

Goalkeepers

»1 Diego Benaglio
»18 Pascal Zuberbühler
»21 Eldin Jakupovic

Defenders

»2 Johan Djourou
»3 Ludovic Magnin
»4 Philippe Senderos
»5 Stephan Lichtsteiner
»13 Stéphane Grichting
»17 Christoph Spycher
»20 Patrick Müller
»23 Philipp Degen

Midfielders

»6 Benjamin Huggel
»7 Ricardo Cabanas
»8 Gökhan Inler
10 Hakan Yakin
»14 Daniel Gygax
»15 Gelson Fernandes
»16 Tranquillo Barnetta
»19 Valon Behrami
»22 Johan Vonlanthen

Forwards

»9 Alexander Frei
»11 Marco Streller
»12 Eren Derdiyok

Domenech springs Gomis surprise

Domenech springs Gomis surprise




France coach Raymond Domenech has given his UEFA EURO 2008™ squad an injection of youth after including striker Bafétimbi Gomis and goalkeeper Steve Mandanda in his 23-man list.
Superb goals
Gomis was a surprise inclusion in Domenech's provisional 30-man squad for this week's training camp in Tignes, yet the exciting AS Saint-Etienne striker outlined his potential by scoring two superb goals on his international debut against Ecuador in Grenoble on Tuesday. That performance convinced Domenech to take the 22-year-old to Austria and Switzerland this summer in a strikeforce that includes Thierry Henry, Karim Benzema and Nicolas Anelka, but not Djibril Cissé, one of the seven casualties.

Landreau left out
Olympique de Marseille custodian Mandanda also made his senior international bow this week, replacing Sébastien Frey at half-time against the South American side. Aged 23, Mandanda has been rewarded for his fine first season at Stade Vélodrome, and takes his place alongside first-choice goalkeeper Grégory Coupet and Frey of ACF Fiorentina, with Paris Saint-Germain FC's Mickaël Landreau missing out.

Nasri included
Meanwhile, another Marseille player Samir Nasri was preferred to Olymique Lyonnais winger Hatem Ben Arfa, there was no room for FC Girondins de Bordeaux midfielder Alou Diarra or new AC Milan recruit Mathieu Flamini, while defenders Julien Escudé and Philippe Mexes were also excluded.

'Shattered dreams'
Domenech described the experience of telling the seven players they would not be part of the group for the finals as "the toughest moment of my career". He added: "When you have to tell someone that they must leave and that their dreams have been shattered, it isn't easy. I think they all understood. I had a horrible feeling in the pit of my stomach and I had tears in my eyes; it's very, very hard. Making the decision is easy, but announcing it and seeing the reactions is very hard."


France squad
Goalkeepers: Grégory Coupet (Olympique Lyonnais), Sébastien Frey (ACF Fiorentina), Steve Mandanda (Olympique de Marseille).

Defenders: Willy Sagnol (FC Bayern München), Lilian Thuram (FC Barcelona), William Gallas (Arsenal FC), Eric Abidal (FC Barcelona), Patrice Evra (FC Manchester United), Jean-Alain Boumsong (Olympique Lyonnais), François Clerc (Olympique Lyonnais), Sébastien Squillaci (Olympique Lyonnais).

Midfielders: Patrick Vieira (FC Internazionale Milano), Claude Makelele (Chelsea FC), Jérémy Toulalan (Olympique Lyonnais), Lassana Diarra (Portsmouth FC), Franck Ribéry (FC Bayern München), Florent Malouda (Chelsea FC), Samir Nasri (Olympique de Marseille).

Forwards: Sidney Govou (Olympique Lyonnais), Nicolas Anelka (Chelsea FC), Thierry Henry (FC Barcelona), Karim Benzema (Olympique Lyonnais), Bafétimbi Gomis (AS Saint-Etienne).

Croatia packing a mean punch

Croatia packing a mean punch




How did they perform in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying?

• The most consistent performers in a competitive Group E, Croatia qualified with a game to spare thanks to Russia's defeat in Israel – news of which filtered through to the team halfway through their 2-0 defeat in F.Y.R. Macedonia.
• It was the only defeat suffered by Croatia during an impressive first campaign under former international defender Slaven Bilić.
• They began with a useful 0-0 draw in Russia and took off the next month with a 7-0 win against Andorra, Mladen Petrić's four goals helping Croatia equal their previous record win,7-0 against Australia in 1998.
• Four days later, on 11 October 2006, Croatia got an even better result, 2-0 at home against England.
• Having scored against England, Brazilian-born striker Eduardo da Silva netted a hat-trick as Croatia won 4-3 in Israel in their next game.
• With ten goals overall, Eduardo finished as the second top scorer in qualifying behind Northern Ireland’s David Healy.
• Croatia saved the best for last, their 3-2 win against England at Wembley on 21 November 2007 confirming first place in the section and ending their hosts' hopes of qualifying. "We are good – very good," said Bilić.

How did they perform in the 2006 FIFA World Cup?

• Croatia topped their group with seven wins and three draws from their ten 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Although Sweden also finished with the same points total, the Croatians held the stronger record in direct matches involving the two group principals. In total, Croatia scored 21 times with five goals conceded.
• Their key victory came in their second match in the qualifying competition. Having dismissed Hungary's challenge with a 3-0 win in Zagreb in their opener after opposing defender Szabolcs Huszti was dismissed after eleven minutes, Croatia won in Sweden thanks to Darijo Srna's 64th-minute free-kick.
• Although Croatia would be held to draws at home against Bulgaria (2-2) and away against Malta (1-1), they won the return matches against those opponents as well as defeating Iceland home and away.
• This set up their crucial second meeting with Sweden in Zagreb in their penultimate fixture, a match the Croatians won thanks to Srna's 56th-minute penalty. Their final fixture ended in a scoreless draw away against Hungary, enough to confirm their first-place finish.
• Croatia lost 1-0 to Brazil before 0-0 and 2-2 draws against Japan and Australia respectively in the group stage of the finals.
• Josip Šimunić and Dario Šimić were both sent-off in Croatia's final game against Australia as they went out of the tournament at the first hurdle.

How did they perform in UEFA EURO 2004™?

• Croatia advanced to the UEFA EURO 2004™ final tournament via the play-offs after finishing second to Bulgaria in the qualification phase. With five victories and a draw from their eight matches, the Croatians trailed the group winners by a point, but finished ahead of Belgium due to their superior goal difference in the direct matches between the two teams.
• It was in their first match against Belgium, their third in the qualifying campaign, that the Croatians finally found their feet. Having opened the competition with a scoreless home draw against Estonia, the Croatians were then on the receiving end of a 2-0 defeat away against Bulgaria. Belgium then bore the full brunt of Croatian wrath in Zagreb as the home side ran out 4-0 winners thanks to goals from Srna (9), Dado Pršo (55), Tomislav Marić (70) and Jerko Leko (76).
• They would not concede a goal for 448 consecutive minutes before a brace from Wesley Sonck (35, 43) in Brussels helped Belgium to avenge their earlier defeat with Marco Rapaic (37) scoring Croatia's goal.
• The Croatians then held their nerve in their final game, defeating the already-qualified Bulgaria thanks to Ivica Olić's 48th-minute goal at Zagreb's Maksimir stadium.
• Their reward was a two-legged play-off against Slovenia, the Croatians winning 2-1 on aggregate, despite being held to a 1-1 draw at home in the opening leg. They took the lead through Pršo after five minutes only for Ermin Siljak to equalise midway through the half. But Croatia would go on to stun Slovenia in Ljubljana, Pršo scoring the only goal of the game shortly after the hour mark.
• Croatia failed to advance beyond the group stage in Portugal, recording two draws and a defeat from their three outings. Those draws came in their opening two engagements against Switzerland (0-0) and France (2-2) before they were outgunned by England (4-2) in their last match.

What is their best performance in the UEFA European Championship?

• Croatia's best performance to date came in their first involvement in the competition. Having topped their qualification round group for EURO '96™ with 23 points from ten games, the Croatians were pitched against Denmark, Portugal and Turkey in the final tournament group phase. Opening with two victories against Turkey (1-0) and Denmark (3-0), the Croatians qualification for the knockout phase was guaranteed prior to their 3-0 defeat against Portugal in their last match. Facing eventual winners, Germany, in the quarter-final phase, the Croatians exited following a 2-1 defeat.

Key facts
• Croatia have missed only one UEFA European Championship final tournament since independence, missing out on a trip to UEFA EURO 2000™.

All-time record
• Up until the end of qualifying for UEFA EURO 2008™, Croatia had appeared in the UEFA European Championship on four occasions, and had played 47 matches. In that time, they had won 28, drawn eleven and lost eight with 86 goals scored and 38 conceded.

CROATIA -Tournament fixtures

Tournament fixtures



08/06/2008 Croatia v Austria 18:00
12/06/2008 Croatia v Germany 18:00
16/06/2008 Croatiav Poland 20:45

CROATIA

CROATIA



Coach: BILIĆ

Squad list


Goalkeepers

»1 Stipe Pletikosa
»12 Mario Galinović
»23 Vedran Runje

Defenders

»2 Dario Šimić
»3 Josip Šimunić
»4 Robert Kovač
»5 Vedran Ćorluka
»6 Hrvoje Vejić
»13 Nikola Pokrivač
»15 Dario Knežević

Midfielders

»7 Ivan Rakitić
»8 Ognjen Vukojević
»10 Niko Kovač
»11 Darijo Srna
»14 Luka Modrić
»16 Jerko Leko
»19 Niko Kranjčar
»22 Danijel Pranjić

Forwards
»9 Nikola Kalinić
»17 Ivan Klasnić
»18 Ivica Olić
»20 Igor Budan
»21 Mladen Petrić

Hiddink plays down Pogrebnyak fears

Hiddink plays down Pogrebnyak fears




Russia coach Guus Hiddink is confident star striker Pavel Pogrebnyak will be fit for his side's UEFA EURO 2008™ opener against Spain on 10 June, despite suffering an injury scare against Serbia last night.

'Pain'
Pogrebnyak limped off with a knee problem on 16 minutes soon after opening the scoring in a 2-1 win with a long-range free-kick. He had not been involved in a collision with another player, but simply signalled to the bench that he was in serious pain and Hiddink took him off immediately. "I didn't understand [what had happened]," Pogrebnyak said. "There was no challenge but suddenly my left knee was in a lot of pain."

Munich tests
The FC Zenit St. Petersburg striker and Russia's team doctor Andrei Grishanov have driven to Munich from their training base in the German town of Rottah for precautionary tests. No details of the injury have yet been divulged, but Hiddink is confident he will soon have his striker available again. "We think everything will be all right with him," Hiddink said.

Good win
Pogrebnyak's injury scare was the only concern on a positive night for Russia who went on to win thanks to a Roman Pavlyuchenko strike two minutes into the second half. "Of course I'm happy about the result, just like after any victory," Hiddink said. "It was important to understand the physical condition of the players. We want to be competitive at EURO 2008, that's why we put a lot of effort into being successful in both friendly and competitive matches."

Top scorer
Pogrebnyak, who has scored four times in nine appearances for Russia, is a key member of Hiddink's side and comes into the tournament buoyed by finishing the season as the ten-goal top scorer in the UEFA Cup alongside Luca Toni. The 24-year-old, however, had the misfortune of missing Zenit's final victory against Rangers FC through suspension so will be doubly determined to be sure he is fit for Russia's opener in Innsbruck.

Austria face a steep learning curve

Austria face a steep learning curve






How are their preparations going for UEFA EURO 2008™?

• With only friendly games to prepare themselves for co-hosting the finals, Austria have endured some tough times.
• Charged with the task of building a new Austria side for 2008, coach Josef Hickersberger knew the process was likely to be a painful one, saying: "It goes without saying that this process means facing and overcoming obstacles and setbacks."
• Hickersberger lost his first three games in charge before a 2-2 draw against Costa Rica in September 2006 helped ease the pressure. He finally earned a first win at the fifth attempt, 2-1 against Liechtenstein thanks to a late Thomas Prager goal, and followed that up with a 2-1 victory against fellow hosts Switzerland.
• René Aufhauser struck a hat-trick in a 4-1 success against Trinidad & Tobago in October 2006, but it was to be another year – and another ten games – before Austria won again, beating Ivory Coast 3-2 in Innsbruck.
• Further defeats to group rivals, Germany (0-3), and also the Netherlands (3-4) followed during the main international friendly dates in 2008 prior to the finals proper.
• Hickersberger continues to blood young talent, and said: "I'm convinced we will see a very different national team at the European Championship. Both Austria and Switzerland will be excellent hosts. They will put on a sensational tournament and I am convinced that both teams will reach the quarter-finals."


How did they perform in 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifying?

• A third-placed finish in Group 6 meant Austria missed out on their second successive FIFA World Cup finals, having last appeared at the 1998 event in France.
• Hans Krankl's Austria made a bright start, holding section favourites England to a 2-2 draw in Vienna, after two goals in four minutes from Roland Kollman and Andreas Ivanschitz cancelled out efforts from Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard.
• However, a 3-1 home defeat by Poland in their fourth game was a disappointment from which they never quite recovered.
• A second defeat against Poland ended any realistic hopes of qualification, and Krankl resigned with two qualifiers still to play, angry at the news that he was to be replaced by Hickersberger - then coach of SK Rapid Wien.
• Austria subsequently lost 1-0 in England and beat Northern Ireland 2-0 at home.

How did they perform in UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifying?

• The Czech Republic and the Netherlands proved too strong for Austria as they finished third in Group 3, well out of the qualifying picture.
• Successive 2-0 wins in their opening qualifiers against Moldova and Belarus augured well, but a 3-0 home defeat against the Dutch followed by a 4-0 mauling in the Czech Republic represented the writing on the wall.
• Both the section's big names would inflict further defeats on Krankl's side before the end of the campaign, and to add insult to injury, Austria also lost 1-0 in Moldova.

What is their best performance in the UEFA European Championship?

• Austria have never qualified for a UEFA European Championship final tournament, and so will be playing in the finals for the first time when they co-host UEFA EURO 2008™. They came within one round of the four-team final tournament of the inaugural 1960 competition, but lost 9-4 on aggregate to France in the quarter-finals.

Key facts

• Austria will be one of two first-time contenders at the UEFA European Championship finals along with Poland. However, they have played at seven FIFA World Cup final tournaments.

All-time record

• Going into the finals of UEFA EURO 2008™, their record in the tournament was 80 matches played, with 33 wins, 13 draws and 34 defeats, and 146 goals scored and 125 conceded.

AUSTRIA -Tournament fixtures

Tournament fixtures




08/06/2008 Austria v Croatia 18:00
12/06/2008 Austria v Poland 20:45
16/06/2008 Austria v Germany 20:45

AUSTRIA

AUSTRIA


Coach: HICKERSBERGER

Squad list

Goalkeepers

»1 Alex Manninger
»21 Jürgen Macho
»23 Ramazan Özcan

Defenders

»2 Joachim Standfest
»3 Martin Stranzl
»4 Emanuel Pogatetz
»12 Ronald Gercaliu
»13 Markus Katzer
»15 Sebastian Prödl
»16 Jürgen Patocka
»17 Martin Hiden

Midfielders

»5 Christian Fuchs
»6 René Aufhauser
»8 Christoph Leitgeb
»10 Andreas Ivanschitz
»11 Ümit Korkmaz
»14 György Garics
»19 Jürgen Säumel
»20 Martin Harnik

Forwards

»7 Ivica Vastic
»9 Roland Linz
»18 Roman Kienast
»22 Erwin Hoffer

Greece seek to retain top prize

Greece seek to retain top prize





How did they perform in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying?

• The European champions were winners of Group C, qualifying with two games to spare thanks to Ioannis Amanatidis's strike in a 1-0 win against Turkey in Istanbul. They finished the campaign with 31 points – more than any other team in qualifying.
• Otto Rehhagel broke new ground as Greece's longest-serving coach, overseeing his 75th match in the final qualifier in Hungary.
• Greece's great start – three wins without conceding a goal – came to a shocking end as they went down 4-1 to Turkey in Athens, despite taking a fifth-minute lead through Sotirios Kyrgiakos. "Although we got an early goal, we couldn't keep up with Turkey's tempo and they got better by the minute," said Rehhagel.
• Greek heads did not drop, however, and they duly won seven out of their next eight qualifiers, the only dropped points coming in the credit-worthy 2-2 draw in Norway, where Kyrgiakos scored twice.
• Kyrgiakos played in all 1,080 minutes of Greece’s 12-game qualifying campaign.

How did they perform in the 2006 FIFA World Cup qualification round?

• Failed to follow up on their UEFA EURO 2004™ success after missing out on a place at the 2006 FIFA World Cup finals in Germany by finishing fourth in their seven-team group with six wins and three draws from their 12 qualifying matches.
• Recorded four wins and a draw from their six outings at home. Their only home defeat came against eventual group winners, Ukraine, who scored the only goal of the game via Andriy Husin eight minutes from time at the Georgios Karaiskakis stadium.

How did they perform in UEFA EURO 2004™?

• Proved to be the surprise package of the UEFA EURO 2004™ finals in Portugal by ending the competition as winners.
• Qualified for the competition for the second time in their history by winning their group with six wins and two losses from their eight outings to finish ahead of Spain and Ukraine.
• Won their last six matches in the qualifying round by a total margin of eight goals scored and none conceded – the last four games all ending 1-0.
• Finished second behind Portugal in the group stage of the final tournament despite defeating the hosts 2-1 in the opening game.
• Continued to put faith in their defence as 1-0 results proved in the remainder of the competition. Greece overcame France at the quarter-final stage with Angelos Charisteas on target after 65 minutes. Then beat the Czech Republic in the semis thanks to Trianios Dellas's silver goal after 105 minutes.
• Greece then defeated Portugal in the final at the Estádio da Luz with Charisteas's 57th-minute goal separating the sides.
• Ended the competition without conceding a goal in their final 358 minutes of competitive play.

What is their best performance in the UEFA European Football Championship?

• Won UEFA EURO 2004™.

Key facts

• Greece refused to play Albania in their first match in the UEFA European Championship in March 1963 as the countries had officially been at war since 1912.
• Greece have played at two UEFA European Championship finals having featured in 1980 in Italy before triumphing at UEFA EURO 2004™.

All-time record

• Up until the end of UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying, Greece had played 100 games in the UEFA European Championship (including the forfeit 3-0 defeat to Albania in 1963) winning 48, drawing 19 and losing 33 times with 146 goals scored and 115 conceded.
• Their greatest margin of victory came in the qualifying round for the 1980 finals when Finland were on the receiving end of a 8-1 thrashing with Thomas Mavros scoring a hat-trick.
• Their greatest margin of defeat came in their opening tie in the competition in 1958 when the Greeks were on the receiving end of a 7-1 loss against France in Paris with Just Fontaine, Jean Vincent and Thadée Cisowski scoring two goals apiece for the home side.

GREECE -Tournament fixtures

Tournament fixtures



10/06/2008 v Sweden 20:45
14/06/2008 v Russia 20:45
18/06/2008 v Spain 20:45

GREECE

GREECE



Coach: REHHAGEL

Squad list

Goalkeepers

»1 Antonis Nikopolidis
»12 Kostas Chalkias
»13 Alexandros Tzorvas

Defenders

»2 Giourkas Seitaridis
»3 Christos Patsatzoglou
»4 Nikos Spiropoulos
»5 Traianos Dellas
»11 Loukas Vintra
»15 Vassilis Torosidis
»16 Sotiris Kyrgiakos
»18 Giannis Goumas
»19 Paraskevas Antzas

Midfielders

»6 Angelos Basinas
»8 Stelios Giannakopoulos
»10 Giorgos Karagounis
»21 Kostas Katsouranis
»22 Alexandros Tziolis

Forwards

»7 Giorgos Samaras
»9 Angelos Charisteas
»14 Dimitris Salpingidis
»17 Fanis Gekas
»20 Giannis Amanatidis
»23 Nikos Liberopoulos

Russia to complete EURO treble

Russia to complete EURO treble

How did they perform in UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying?

• Guus Hiddink's maiden campaign as coach could hardly have had a more dramatic ending as Russia snatched second place in Group E at the death.
• After opening with home draws against Croatia and Israel, Russia won five of their next six games. Aleksandr Kerzhakov struck a hat-trick in a 4-0 home victory against Andorra and the only game of that sequence they did not win was a goalless draw in Croatia.
• Russia played back-to-back games against England in autumn 2007, losing 3-0 at Wembley but then staging a dramatic recovery in Moscow, where substitute Roman Pavlyuchenko scored twice in five second-half minutes – the first a penalty – to cancel out Wayne Rooney's opener.
• That result left Russia second in the section, needing six points from their final games in Israel and Andorra to be sure of qualifying.
• Hiddink said it was "simply impossible" to lose in Israel, against opponents already out of the running, but lose they did, their 2-1 defeat putting England back in pole position to qualify.
• However, the drama continued on the final day, with England unexpectedly losing 3-2 at home against group winners Croatia, allowing a ten-man Russia to seal their progress with a 1-0 win in Andorra, earned by Dmitri Sychev's goal.

How did they perform in the 2006 FIFA World Cup qualification round?

• Russia finished in third place in their seven-team group behind Portugal and Slovakia following six victories, five draws and a defeat from their 12-match campaign. They ended seven points behind the first-placed Portuguese and an inferior goal difference denied them a second place finish ahead of Slovakia after both teams ended on 23 points.
• They dropped their first points of the competition in their opening match in Moscow against Slovakia after Robert Vittek's 87th-minute equaliser cancelled Dmitri Bulykin's opener on the quarter-hour.
• A subsequent 4-0 away victory against Luxembourg seemed to have steadied the ship thanks to a second-half Dmitri Sychev (56, 68 and 86) hat-trick, but only four days later, the Russians were on the receiving end of a 7-1 defeat away against Portugal with Cristiano Ronaldo and Petit both scoring twice at the José Alvalade stadium.
• It was to be Russia's only defeat of the campaign, but their away form remained inconsistent as they struggled to a 2-1 win in Liechtenstein before drawing away against Estonia (1-1) and Latvia (1-1) with Andrei Arshavin scoring in both games.
• Home victories against Estonia (4-0), Latvia (2-0) and Liechtenstein (2-0) still kept them in contention with three matches remaining, but they could not defeat Portugal (0-0) in Moscow, their plight not helped by Aleksei Smertin's dismissal on the stroke of half-time following a second bookable offence.
• Luxembourg were defeated 5-1 in Moscow in their penultimate match, but needing victory away against Slovakia in their final game, Russia were held to a scoreless stalemate and thus beaten to second spot by their opponents.

How did they perform in UEFA EURO 2004™?

• Russia finished second to Switzerland in their UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifying round campaign to ultimately book their place at the finals via the play-offs, but their involvement in Portugal would be for the minimum three games as they failed to negotiate a route beyond the group stage.
• The Russians recorded four wins and two draws from their eight matches, with all of their victories coming on home soil to the tune of 15 goals scored and five conceded. On the receiving end were group rivals the Republic of Ireland (4-2), Albania (4-1), Switzerland (4-1) and Georgia (3-1).
• Although the Russians endured some poor performances on the road, they managed to secure draws against their main rivals, Switzerland (2-2) and the Republic of Ireland.
• Russia faced Wales in a two-legged play-off for a place in the UEFA EURO 2004™ finals in Portugal, winning 1-0 on aggregate. Although they were held to a scoreless draw in Moscow's Lokomotiv stadium in the opening match, Russia scored the only goal of the return leg at Cardiff's Millennium stadium with Vadim Evseev on target after 21 minutes.
• Having lost against both Spain (1-0) and Portugal (2-0) in their opening two games at the final tournament, Russia were already eliminated from the competition prior to taking the field against Greece in their final match. Pride, however, was restored with a 2-1 victory at the Algarve stadium in Faro-Loulé thanks to goals from Dmitri Kirichenko (3) and Dmitri Bulykin (17).

What is their best performance in the UEFA European Championship?

• Russia's best performance since competing as an independent state came at UEFA EURO 2004™ although their best qualification round came in the run up to EURO '96™. From ten matches, Russia collected 26 points to claim first position from a group featuring Finland, Greece, Scotland, the Faroe Islands and San Marino. Their involvement in EURO '96™ was less memorable with one point from three games, a 3-3 draw against the Czech Republic after earlier losing their opening two games to Italy (2-1) and Germany (3-0).

Key facts

• Prior to UEFA EURO '96™, Russia participated as part of the Commonwealth of Independent States during the 1992 UEFA European Championship having previously played as a member of the Soviet Union from the competition's inception in 1958. The Soviet Union appeared in the first four final rounds of the UEFA European Championship, winning the inaugural competition in 1960. They would end up as losing finalists in 1964, 1972 and 1988.

All-time record

• Up until the end of qualifying for UEFA EURO 2008™, Russia had appeared in the UEFA European Championships on four occasions, and had played 48 matches. In that time, they had won 27, drawn ten and lost eleven of those fixtures with 100 goals scored and 48 conceded.
• Russia's first international since the dissolution of the Soviet Union came on 16 August 1992 when they defeated Mexico 2-0. Previously, Russia had played international matches as an independent state between 1912 and 1914.

RUSSIA - Tournament fixtures

Tournament fixtures




10/06/2008 Russia v Spain 18:00
14/06/2008 Russia v Greece 20:45
18/06/2008 Russia v Sweden 20:45

RUSSIA

RUSSIA



Coach: HIDDINK

Squad list

Goalkeepers

»1 Igor Akinfeev
»12 Vladimir Gabulov
»16 Vyacheslav Malafeev

Defenders

»2 Vasili Berezutski
»4 Sergei Ignashevich
»5 Aleksei Berezutski
»8 Denis Kolodin
»14 Roman Shirokov
»22 Aleksandr Anyukov

Midfielders

»3 Renat Yanbaev
»7 Dmitri Torbinski
»11 Sergei Semak
»15 Diniyar Bilyaletdinov
»17 Konstantin Zyrianov
»18 Yuri Zhirkov
»20 Igor Semshov
»23 Vladimir Bystrov

Forwards

»6 Roman Adamov
»9 Ivan Saenko
»10 Andrei Arshavin
»13 Pavel Pogrebnyak
»19 Roman Pavlyuchenko
»21 Dmitri Sychev

Roger raring to make Poland impact

Roger raring to make Poland impact






When Poland commence their UEFA EURO 2008™ campaign against Germany on 8 June, the creative impetus could well be provided by Brazilian-born winger Roger Guerreiro.
Controversial addition
Following on from Emmanuel Olisadebe, who featured for Poland at the 2002 FIFA World Cup after growing up in Nigeria, the Legia Warszawa midfielder has proved something of a controversial addition to Leo Beenhakker's squad. Despite impressive showings for his club, some have questioned his right to a squad berth, with the national side's most experienced player, Jacek Bąk, voicing a common concern. "If he feels Polish, if his heart beats when he flistens to our national anthem, if he gives his all on the pitch, it could work," said the 35-year-old. "If not, there will be a problem."

Beenhakker backing
Having made his debut and set up the winner for captain Maciej Żurawski in Tuesday's 1-0 victory over Albania, the player himself has no doubts about where his loyalties lie. "Maybe I don't speak fluent Polish, but I understand a lot," he said. "I want to do my best for my new homeland and I promise you'll never regret it. I hope to be important for the team." Dutch coach Beenhakker has sprung to his defence as well, saying: "He has his dream, and we share it with him. It's 2008. It's time to realise the world has changed. I have deep faith in Roger."

Instant hit
A Polish resident for the last two years, the Sao Caetano native was awarded citizenship on 17 April by Polish president Lech Kaczyński, who ended the ceremony by adding: "I hope you will bring success to our team." By that point, the dynamic winger was already making waves in the Ekstraklasa, which he first graced in March 2006 after joining Legia on loan the previous December from EC Juventude. Settling quickly, he helped the capital club to championship honours in his first season, and his three goals in 13 matches earned him a place in the 'Best Foreign XI' as named by weekly magazine Piłka Nożna.

International debut
Last season saw Roger positioned in central midfield as coach Jan Urban attempted to shake things up, but despite adapting well the team finished second. They lifted the Polish Cup, however, with Roger named man of the match in the final, and a Poland call-up duly followed. Now he is focused on graduating his side from Group B in Austria and Switzerland, where he hopes the Poles can celebrate some memorable results. "My mum and all my family are very proud of me," he said. "I would like to see the fans in Poland happy too, which we can make happen by playing well and recording some historic results, such as beating Germany."

Dutch minds focused on main event

Dutch minds focused on main event




As the tournament countdown continues, the Netherlands go into this evening's friendly at home against Denmark with one eye on their UEFA EURO 2008™ opener with Italy on 9 June.
Robben role
Marco van Basten finalised his squad after Saturday's 3-0 victory against Ukraine and this latest test will provide a chance to field Ruud van Nistelrooy, Wesley Sneijder and Edwin van der Sar, all of whom joined up with their colleagues on Monday due to club commitments. Meanwhile, Arjen Robben is due to feature from the start. "He played eight or nine matches in a row for Real Madrid [CF at the end of the season], that's very positive, and now he can show it here," said Van Basten. "In the past, he has proven he is a very good left-winger, but competition is very high for him here also."

Italy deadline
"What's good is good and you don't have to change it," added the former Dutch international striker, ruling out further experimentation ahead of the Oranje's first Group C game against the Azzurri in Berne. "Before the Italy match, it has to become clear which players can play in which positions, and in terms of what suits the team. That's more important than the individual wishes of the players. We will use the coming time to look closely at all that. Besides Van der Sar and Van Nistelrooy, the lineup is not decided yet."

Van Persie recovery
Arsenal FC striker Robin van Persie is not expected to be rushed back into action, meanwhile, as he continues his fight to be fit for the tournament in Austria and Switzerland. "That might have happened with Arsenal a few times this season, and we cannot have that," added Van Basten.

Domenech trusts in tried and tested

Domenech trusts in tried and tested




"You always improve with age," claimed Raymond Domenech, who, four years into his reign as France coach, hopes to take Les Bleus one step further this summer than they managed at the 2006 FIFA World Cup. "Experience is helpful, but one competition is never the same as the next. I won't know if this France team is better [than two years ago] until the competition has finished. At the beginning everyone thinks they're good, but it's how we fare against our opponents that will tell us if we are better or worse."

Battle-hardened
Experience is a quality Domenech has grown to appreciate in recent years and few teams at UEFA EURO 2008™ will be able to match the battle-hardened French in terms of pure know-how. Domenech, who coached France's Under-21s for eleven years before succeeding Jacques Santini, initially placed a heavy accent on youth, bringing in a host of fresh faces to compensate for the international retirements of Zinédine Zidane, Lilian Thuram and, soon after, Claude Makelele. The team struggled, however, and it was only after the veteran trio returned that a faltering World Cup qualifying campaign was salvaged.

Positive influences
Zidane, Thuram, Makelele, Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry all starred at Germany 2006 and, with the exception of the retired former captain, they should all figure prominently again in Austria and Switzerland. Vieira and Henry have struggled for fitness and form this season, while Thuram and Makelele were picked only intermittently by their clubs, yet Domenech has total faith in his old hands, recognising their value both as players and as positive influences on the less experienced members of the squad.

'Get started'
Indeed, the emergence of an exceptional generation featuring Karim Benzema, Samir Nasri, Steve Mandanda and Bafétimbi Gomis offers an exciting blend of old and new, providing Domenech with a legitimate source for optimism and leaving him desperate for the competition to commence. "It's the same for all national team coaches," the 56-year-old told euro2008.com. "When you're at this stage you just want to get there and to start playing. Preparation is good but it's not the most interesting part. We need to get started now."

Familiar faces
Despite the presence of so many familiar faces, Zidane's absence from a major tournament for the first time since 1996 is a source of concern to some. Domenech, though, is drawing encouragement from recent displays and remains confident for the future. "We qualified without Zidane," he pointed out. "When Michel Platini retired everybody wondered how French football would cope, but it coped. That's what happens in international football, players stop. But however good they are, the depth of talent in a country allows the team to continue. Platini and Zidane are part of history, now the page has turned."

New chapter
Domenech's aim is to write a new chapter by guiding France to a third European crown following the home triumph of 1984 and the dramatic defeat of Italy in the UEFA EURO 2000™ final when David Trezeguet scored in extra time after Sylvain Wiltord's last-minute equaliser. "For me, this second victory was the most memorable," Domenech enthused. "I was commentating on the radio. The two other commentators were distraught but for half an hour I kept saying, 'we're going to equalise!' I felt like a player during this game, I felt like I was involved, and in the end [my prediction] was right. It was a fabulous game – and what a turnaround! When you win a game like that, you remember it for a long time."

'Happiness'
Yet four years after the excitement of Rotterdam, France came down to earth in Portugal where they struggled before losing to Greece in the quarter-finals. The subdued performances left fans feeling empty, and Domenech is determined to avoid a similar fate next month. "The way I see it, we may lose because there will only be one winner, but we need to exit with some happiness, knowing we've given our all," explained the former Olympique Lyonnais defender. "We mustn't be frustrated at the end, as we were in 2004 when France didn't play to its full potential."

Confidence
The 1998 world champions will need to hit their straps as early as the group stage after being pooled with Romania, the Netherlands and Italy. But while their meeting with the Azzurri on 17 June is sure to attract the most attention, Domenech warns the threat could come from any of the finalists. "There isn't a major difference between the players," he insisted. "It's a matter of which team gels over a short period. People say Greece's win [in 2004] was a surprise but it wasn't to me because their players all played for top-level clubs. The winner this time won't be a surprise either because there are 16 excellent teams." That may be true, yet with a handful of wily campaigners helping bring through a gifted new generation, Domenech will be confident of France's 2008 vintage emulating those of 1984 and 2000.