Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Norway. Home of the Vikings, Christmas, and the 2012 European Championships

March 25th 2010

No Surprises in European Championship Qualifying draw

The draw for the qualifying tournament for Euro 2012, to be held in Norway, was staged earlier this morning in Geneva, with few surprises. There is no traditional 'Group of Death' - with the closest fitting that description being Group Seven, which pits Portugal, Russia and Turkey in one five team group. Holders England face a relatively simple task of progressing through Group Five, alongside Romania, Macedonia, Austria and Armenia. Euro 2008 runners-up Iceland have a tricky test to return to the major stage, as they were drawn in Group Nine with Poland and the Czech Republic seeming the major threats. Twice winners France also have what can be considered a simple task in making their way through Group Two, although Bulgaria and Hungary could conceivably pose a challenge. Germany, three times winners, may find Belgium, Slovenia and Bosnia more irritating than hard, and should make it through. UEFA President Per Ravn Omdal said in a statement made after the draw that he was looking forward to an exciting qualifying campaign culminating in an unforgettable Euro 2012.

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OK, this is a CM3 story, so shoot me! It is also a sidetrack from my Varese game and story, and this presents a perfect opportunity to fulfill an idea of mine to write an International story, in journalistic mode. I'd also like it if this could become kind of interactive, in as much as the reader can will along the country they support. Maybe.

Tech details:

CM01/02, v.3.9.68 inc. data; Spain, England, Italy in foreground, Germany and France in background.

March 25th 2010

No Surprises in European Championship Qualifying draw

The draw for the qualifying tournament for Euro 2012, to be held in Norway, was staged earlier this morning in Geneva, with few surprises. There is no traditional 'Group of Death' - with the closest fitting that description being Group Seven, which pits Portugal, Russia and Turkey in one five team group. Holders England face a relatively simple task of progressing through Group Five, alongside Romania, Macedonia, Austria and Armenia. Euro 2008 runners-up Iceland have a tricky test to return to the major stage, as they were drawn in Group Nine with Poland and the Czech Republic seeming the major threats. Twice winners France also have what can be considered a simple task in making their way through Group Two, although Bulgaria and Hungary could conceivably pose a challenge. Germany, three times winners, may find Belgium, Slovenia and Bosnia more irritating than hard, and should make it through. UEFA President Per Ravn Omdal said in a statement made after the draw that he was looking forward to an exciting qualifying campaign culminating in an unforgettable Euro 2012.

-----------------------------------

OK, this is a CM3 story, so shoot me! It is also a sidetrack from my Varese game and story, and this presents a perfect opportunity to fulfill an idea of mine to write an International story, in journalistic mode. I'd also like it if this could become kind of interactive, in as much as the reader can will along the country they support. Maybe.

Tech details:

CM01/02, v.3.9.68 inc. data; Spain, England, Italy in foreground, Germany and France in background.

March 25th 2010

No Surprises in European Championship Qualifying draw

The draw for the qualifying tournament for Euro 2012, to be held in Norway, was staged earlier this morning in Geneva, with few surprises. There is no traditional 'Group of Death' - with the closest fitting that description being Group Seven, which pits Portugal, Russia and Turkey in one five team group. Holders England face a relatively simple task of progressing through Group Five, alongside Romania, Macedonia, Austria and Armenia. Euro 2008 runners-up Iceland have a tricky test to return to the major stage, as they were drawn in Group Nine with Poland and the Czech Republic seeming the major threats. Twice winners France also have what can be considered a simple task in making their way through Group Two, although Bulgaria and Hungary could conceivably pose a challenge. Germany, three times winners, may find Belgium, Slovenia and Bosnia more irritating than hard, and should make it through. UEFA President Per Ravn Omdal said in a statement made after the draw that he was looking forward to an exciting qualifying campaign culminating in an unforgettable Euro 2012.

-----------------------------------

OK, this is a CM3 story, so shoot me! It is also a sidetrack from my Varese game and story, and this presents a perfect opportunity to fulfill an idea of mine to write an International story, in journalistic mode. I'd also like it if this could become kind of interactive, in as much as the reader can will along the country they support. Maybe.

Tech details:

CM01/02, v.3.9.68 inc. data; Spain, England, Italy in foreground, Germany and France in background.

March 25th 2010

No Surprises in European Championship Qualifying draw

The draw for the qualifying tournament for Euro 2012, to be held in Norway, was staged earlier this morning in Geneva, with few surprises. There is no traditional 'Group of Death' - with the closest fitting that description being Group Seven, which pits Portugal, Russia and Turkey in one five team group. Holders England face a relatively simple task of progressing through Group Five, alongside Romania, Macedonia, Austria and Armenia. Euro 2008 runners-up Iceland have a tricky test to return to the major stage, as they were drawn in Group Nine with Poland and the Czech Republic seeming the major threats. Twice winners France also have what can be considered a simple task in making their way through Group Two, although Bulgaria and Hungary could conceivably pose a challenge. Germany, three times winners, may find Belgium, Slovenia and Bosnia more irritating than hard, and should make it through. UEFA President Per Ravn Omdal said in a statement made after the draw that he was looking forward to an exciting qualifying campaign culminating in an unforgettable Euro 2012.

-----------------------------------

OK, this is a CM3 story, so shoot me! It is also a sidetrack from my Varese game and story, and this presents a perfect opportunity to fulfill an idea of mine to write an International story, in journalistic mode. I'd also like it if this could become kind of interactive, in as much as the reader can will along the country they support. Maybe.

Tech details:

CM01/02, v.3.9.68 inc. data; Spain, England, Italy in foreground, Germany and France in background.

A look at the draw...In Depth:

Group One

Group One could throw up any number of surprises. Torsten Dürr's Denmark should start the campaign as favourites to take the top spot, and with quality in the form of Dennis Rommedahl and Morten Skoubo they have a potent attack. Their defence is also relatively strong, with Martin Laursen marshalling a back line backed up by Udinese's Dan Thomassen and Lazio's Per Kroldrup. However, it may not be as easy as the Danes will like it to be.

Former World Champions (of 2006) Croatia have a blend of youthful exuberance and wily experience which will serve them well in the forthcoming qualifying year. River's Ivan Bosnjak should lead the line, where he should find support from veteran Tomislav Sokota. Where the Croats will have their strength is in central defence. In Igor Tudor and Josip Simunic they have a core to the side which, on its day, can be impregnable.

Mark Hughes has led Wales on a renaissance into what has been described as their best footballing period in the Principality's history. In Craig Bellamy and Robert Earnshaw they have two tenacious talents who will not only cause havoc in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil, but in the immediately following Euro 2012 qualifiers. Experienced defender David Vaughan will captain the Dragons wisely from the back, as he has placed himself amongst the elite defenders in Europe.

Lithuania may find it a struggle to compete with the more powerful sides in the Group, as will Slovakia, although the latter have prolific pairing Robert Vittek and Tomas Oravec. Ladislav Jurcimek's side may cause a few upsets, but not enough to progress the side to the Finals.

Betting Odds (qualification only): Denmark 3/1, Wales 5/1, Croatia 6/1, Slovakia 100/30, Lithuania 100/1

Group Two

France are overwhelming favourites for Group Two. They shouldn''t face any problems in what must be the easiest qualifying group of the nine. Paul Le Guen has a multi-talented squad at his disposal, at the forefront of which is the attacking triumvirate of Sidney Govou, Thierry Henry, and David Trezeguet. Should the thirty-something triad not pull their weight (which is unlikely) then Le Guen can call upon Manchester United's Anthony Le Tallec, or his cousin, Lyon's Florent Sinama-Pongolle. Patrick Vieira skippers the side whilst comprising a midfield of Bruno Cheyrou's creative flair, Camel Meriem's passing, and Didier Soler's balance and poise. Inter's Christian Rivière is perhaps the brightest French talent at this time, as the Basque left back continues to make huge strides in the National side. In Sebastien Frey they have a talented keeper, who if called upon is as reliable as any. In a tougher group France would still find qualification easy. Group Two should present little in the way of problem.

Bulgaria are the most likely to take second place. Dimitar Berbatov averages almost a goal every other international cap, as does partner Martin Petrov. Newcastle's Stilian Petrov is the third player Bulgaria will look for in the quest to return to the big time competitions, in what seems a favourable draw. Hungary will also feel that they deserve to return to the big time, as the days of Puskas, Kocsis and company are long gone. Krisztián Lisztes is their talismanic workhorse in midfield who is expected to drive the side forwards in hope Imre Szabics will succeed in what is usually a lone foray up front. Their defence is highly suspect however, and a playoff place seems too much to ask.

Georgia should have the quality to avoid bottom spot, but that is about all they have. Despite prolific club form, Alexander Iashvili cannot translate into internationals, only averaging one goal in six caps (which in over sixty caps is less impressive). Zurab Khizanishvili is another too talented for his nation, but like many others before him, he will probably never make the big tournaments. Latvia have the potential to make perhaps one or two teams sweat, but nothing too serious is expected. Vladimir Kokhan and Pavel Korchagine are a competent strikeforce, but Latvia will certainly not be heading to Norway. San Marino have some cracking quality - Raffaele Moroni, Alessandro Della Valle, and Cristian Gasperoni would not look out of place in a better nation, but their lack of depth means they will likely scrap for a point at best.

Betting Odds: France 1/6, Bulgaria 4/1, Hungary 7/1, Georgia 10/1, Latvia 10/1, San Marino 100/1

Group Three

As ever, Spain are expected to dominate qualification for another major tournament they'll look to improve in. Miguel Ãngel Lotina's side seem to qualify easily but struggle on the big stage. Something suggests that this time will be no different, although there is a hint that the tide could be turning. Dortmund's Raul is consistently brilliant, as he has been over his 112 caps. His partner will invariably be the multi-talented José Antonio Reyes, who has become one of the world's best. The midfield, despite being a little on the older side, is still a strong part of the side, and Real Madrid's Xavier Moron will hope to terrorise the defences of Group Three. Carles Puyol inspires the team from the centre of defence. Spain may find qualification a little harder than usual, but their true test will be in Norway in two years time - should they make it there.

Under highly rated young coach David Körner, Scotland have the talents to make an impact upon the group, and possibly worry the Spaniards. Sunderland's Keigan Parker and Venezia's Gary Twigg continue to impress critics in the attack, and one cannot ignore the talented Stephen McPhee, who is currently shooting Varese towards a UEFA Cup place. Barry Ferguson and Mark Kerr can hold claim to be one of the best central midfield partnerships in Europe, with Darren Fletcher, although inconsistent, as a dangerously quick player. Despite Lee Wilkie's presence, the defence is still shaky, but Körner has time to build upon that before qualification begins in September. A playoff place is not out of the question.

When mentioning Ukraine, Andrii Shevchenko immediately comes to mind. And so he should, as he ploughs through Serie A as Milan are all but Champions. FC Bayern's Olexiy Belik has emerged as a threat to Sheva's place in this side, especially with such an impressive record at this level. They have a wealth of experience, but ultimately have a poor record in qualifying groups. To stand a chance of making Norway in 2012, Ukraine need to become consistent.

Israel attempt to threaten at breaking through, but never achieve. Eli Shítrit, Nir Berkovic, and Yossi Benayoun will lead their campaign, which is almost certainly not going to be too successful. Which leaves us with Estonia who, for a minnow nation, have some exciting players. Raio Piiroja of Strasbourg could play in a 'big league', but other than him Estonia lack the talent to take them on a successful path. Wooden spoon candidates.

Betting Odds: Spain 1/2, Scotland 3/1, Ukraine 4/1, Israel 40/1, Estonia 50/1

Group Four

Franco Colomba has lead Italy on a resurgence with a policy of using bright and talented youngsters with talented older players. Without a defeat in over two years, Italy haven't even conceded a goal since November 2008 through Spain's Capi. It's hardly surprising, as Italy have always prided themselves on a sound defence. Gianluigi Buffon could be the best in the world, and still only 32, he's got a long way ahead yet. Claudio Cioffi and Fabio Rustico marshall a back four which has become impregnable, in front of which a holding midfielder - usually Ambrosini or Cassetti - strengthens the spine of the side. Maro Marchionni's pace would be an asset to anyone, and Inacio Pia isn't far off him in the speed stakes. Francesco Totti, now 33, will still prove the main supply line to a lone striker, either Milan's Luca Toni or Marco Di Vaio. Colomba should steamroller this group with the Azzurri.

Sweden will be looking to take at least a playoff place, as they are the second strongest in the group. Zlatan Ibrahimovic is their talisman, as most of Uno Andersson's tactics revolve around the PSV hitman. Kim Kallstrom has emerged from a precocious talent into a world beater, but needs to improve on the bigger stage. Despite not having an all-star side, Sweden have a team ethic and work rate second to none, and for this they will benefit.

Greece, on the other hand, will pose a huge threat to Sweden's chances. A plethora of attacking talent at the disposal of Kirakos Karataidis means the South Europeans will not be stuck for goals. Manolis Ligkos is perhaps the finest in Europe, despite an average season with Bologna. Alexandros Papadopoulos is even more awe-inspiring, as he starts to flourish in the Premiership with Leeds United. Even Varese's prolific Christos Alexiou cannot find a regular way in. Anestis Anestasiadis, Giannis Kalogeras and Nikos Andrielos make a strong defensive line for the Greeks, who must fancy their chances of at least a playoff spot.

Belarus have a half decent side, but against the other nations in Group Four they look positively ordinary. Yury Shumanisky is a more than competent defender, and Alexandr Hleb can strike fear into the opposition with his fiery wing play. Expect a tough, battling side, just a little short on quality. Luxembourg must fancy themselves over at least the Faroe Islands for the battle to avoid finishing bottom, although the two have mustered just five wins between them in two years.

Betting Odds: Italy 1/6, Sweden 5/2, Greece 100/30, Belarus 20/1, Luxembourg 100/1, Faroe Islands 100/1

Group Five

Holders England look to have a simple route ahead of them to make Euro 2012, and have the quality to retain their crown. Jamie Peake has assembled a squad of players coming into their prime, and can afford to experiment in the forthcoming campaign. John Terry and Rio Ferdinand have a commanding presence in defence, whilst Alan Smith up front is the most consistently prolific striker in the world. 186 goals in 235 games for Hertha Berlin is an unrivalled record, but he still finds it hard to start for England. Michael Owen still has the quality to play at this level, whilst Cherno Samba is ready to prove his worth to Peake. Jason Paterson is the creative link, whilst Roma's Matt Piper controls the wings. England must be one of the favourites for Euro 2012, even at this early stage.

Despite having a squad full of thirty-something players, Romania will expect to be the runners up to England. Adrian Mutu is the most recognisable player, and his record demands that. The Parma forward is one of Europe's least heralded players due to his nationality, but he'll be hoping to shoot Romania to success in the FIFA World Cup in Brazil and then in the qualification campaign. Christian Chivu has never really made the most of his career, but still has some quality to upset attackers. Bremen's Florin Cernat will look to add to the attack from midfield.

Despite making the World Cup finals, Austria have little to suggest they'll be pushing for more glory. Best players Alex Manninger, Roland Linz, and Wolfgang Wimmer are average at best, and there is little in the way of support for the three. Few of their players are in the major leagues, and as such they lack direction and competence. Macedonia are similar. Some above-average players, namely Igor Mitreski and Aico Stojkov, are not enough to put the former Montenegrinic state on the footballing map. Armenia are even worse. Without a goal in the whole of 2009, this year has started with two wins - but the likes of Estonia and Azerbaijan aren't going to have anyone shaking in their boots.

Betting Odds: England 1/5, Romania 3/1, Austria 10/1, Macedonia 40/1, Armenia 80/1

Group Six

Six years ago in Portugal Holland ran out winners. The Oranje have the talent to win the next tournament in Norway, but only if they can overcome their jinx against England. Ex-Groningen winger Arjen Robben is firmly entrenched in the starting side, usually accompanied by Youssef Hersi - although neither are exactly free-scoring. Their creative talents combined would serve Ruud Van Nistelrooy perfectly, as the Man Utd hitman continues to score goal after goal. Versatility in Wilfried Bouma and David Mendes Da Silva offer the Dutch strong flanks, or, in the latter's case, a strong centre of defence alongside Civard Sprockel. Few were happy at Ruud Gullit being named the national manager in July 2008, but slowly he's building a side capable of winning the major glory Holland fail to achieve.

The Republic of Ireland side continue to work under a typical Mick McCarthy style of hard work and a team ethic. That is not to say they are low on talent. Robbie Keane is the record goal scorer for Eire, whilst Clinton Morrison is not too far behind. In Millwall's John O'Shea they have a defender capable of playing anywhere along the back line, whilst Richie Partridge gives them a burst from midfield. Traditionally good against Holland, Ireland may fancy their chances of direct qualification, with a playoff place at worst. The outside challenge will come from

Serbia & Montenegro are managed by former striking legend Dusan Bajevic. His attacking ethos doesn't truly come across in his side, although with Mateja Kezman and Mirko Vucinic amongst the best on the continent, he has an enviable attack. Other than those two, Serbia & Montenegro look distinctly average, but they can still turn the style on, as they showed when recently beating Brazil. Finland may offer a stronger challenge with some fine attackers and a half decent defence. Mikael Forssell and Juho Mäkelä are equally prolific for the less successful of the Scandinavian nations, whilst Petri Pasanen is a rock in defence. With Sami Hyypia set to become the first Finnish player past 100 caps, Antti Muurinen's side are fully capable of challenging for the second spot. Albania have done well enough to pull themselves away from the tag of 'minnows' with some credible performances, and their striker Eduard Meka averages over a goal every two games. They will not, though, pose a qualification threat.

Betting Odds: Holland 1/2, Ireland 4/1, Finland 6/1, Serbia & Montenegro 10/1, Albania 80/1

Group Seven

Germany flatter to deceive at the major tournaments, but should find qualification something of a breeze. However, Rudi Völler does not have a Jurgen Klinsmann, Lothar Matthaus, Gerd Muller or Paul Breitner to call upon in the squad of 2010. Roma's Christoph Metzelder is one of the best defenders in the world, but other than Markus Feulner, there is a lack of world class talent. For that, though, Germany do what they do best - frustrate opposition and use the talent at their disposal efficiently and purposefully. Young midfielder Dennis Becker may break through just in time for Norway in two years, and Völler certainly needs a spark to liven them up. Qualification should arrive easily.

Having a say in this will be Belgium, although talented club players fail to make it at the international scene. Emile Mpenza cannot continue to carry the side on his shoulders, and whilst the likes of Malbranque, Sonck and Soetaers are good, they haven't progressed to the next level. 26 year old Jelle Van Damme has 58 caps already, which will serve him in good stead for the main portion of his career. Despite this perceived lack of quality, Belgium have the players to make at least second place.

Bosnia have always had one or two class players in a side of less talented players, but 61-year-old coach Miso Smajlovic doesn't even have this at his disposal. Zlatan Bajramovic and Hasan Salihamidzic are the best Bosnia can muster, and they are pretty tasty, but the rest of the party has little to offer. Slovenia have a fine centre back in Bekim Kapic, and a competent partner in Dejan Komljenovic. Miha Golob can offer talent on the wing, and Schalke's Dejan Robnik can score when he's on form. The Slovenians could, with a bit of luck, make a playoff spot. Malta haven't beaten anyone since Namibia in 2007, and show little to change that. Michael Mifsud is not the player expected of him, and when he's the best they have, you can see why their record is so poor. Azerbaijan are almost as poor.

Betting Odds: Germany 1/3, Belgium 4/1, Slovenia 8/1, Bosnia 20/1, Azerbaijan 100/1, Malta 100/1

Group Eight

Possibly the toughest of the nine groups, as three well matched sides vy for two spots. French legend Alain Giresse takes charge of Portugal after four moderately successful years with the Iberian side. The side tends to lean towards the talented Besiktas scorer Felipe Oliviera, who at 25 already has over 70 caps. A more natural goalscorer is found in Mokas, who continues to impress for the yo-yo club that is Bari. Ricardo Quaresma is another huge talent, who hasn't made the move to a big club - although Leeds have helped his career tremendously. Helder Postiga only adds to their impressive front line. Giresse must fancy his chances of taking the Portuguese through to the final rounds.

Turkey also rate their chances highly. Yildiray Basturk is in the form of his life, scoring near twenty goals for a mid table German club, whilst Fatih Sonkaya has emerged as possibly the best Turkish centre back since Alpay. Emre is about to hit the peak of his footballing career, and with Berkant, Ufuk and Serhat in the frame, Turkey have the set up for a challenge. However, coach Mehmet Ozturk has come in for criticism as many think he is not capable of being a top quality national coach. Russia finished fourth in Scotland/Wales in 2008, and would be delighted to repeat the feat. Apart from Valencia's Deniis Popov, the Russians don't have the quality that took them far in Britain two years ago. Alexandr Kerzhakov is a decent playmaker, but without sufficient support, he and Popov become isolated. If Russia can find a catalyst in the side, they may well surprise a few.

Northern Ireland have been waiting for a 'Golden Generation' to come through for the first time since the early 1980's. It has yet to materialise, meaning the Irish are still living on memories of Whiteside, O'Neill, Armstrong and the like. Newcastle's Kevin Braniff is a player who could lead the line, but has struggled to play regularly for Harry Redknapp at St.James' Park. Stephen Munn is a very good young defender who is strong in the air and in the tackle. Unfortunately, Sammy McIlroy doesn't have enough of these players, and as such the Northern Irish are consigned to another unsuccessful qualifying campaign. Moldova may even fancy their chances of beating McIlroy's men. Denis Calincov is the first high profile Moldovan to make it at a big European club (Anderlecht), and as their game revolves around him his form is crucial. It won't be enough for them though.

Betting Odds: Portugal 2/1, Turkey 4/1, Russia 8/1, N.Ireland 36/1, Moldova 66/1

Group Nine

The Czech Republic have a group of players capable to qualify easily and storm Euro 2012, with a great chance of success. Tomas Rosicky has played to his potential for the last two to three years, and with Inter he is able to play his natural game. The Czechs allow him to play this role as well, which benefits the strikeforce of Milan Baros and Marek Heinz. Experienced Bundesliga duo Jan Simak and Tomas Ujfalusi add steel to the side, as does the younger Zdenek Grygera. The squad may be a little on the older side, but that may be rectified over the course of the next two years, as the draw allows them to experiment to some degree. They shouldn't be complacent. Poland have some cracking emerging players. Emanuel Olisadebe is still the main striker, and his partner, Mateusz Dobek, is starting to flourish into a quality player. Comparisons have been made to the legendary Zibi Boniek. Jakub Wierzchowski is an accomplished keeper, whilst Michal Stasiak is a born leader. Their defensive style sometimes is detrimental to their game, so a more attacking outlook may see Polish success.

Iceland shocked the footballing world by finishing runners-up to England in Euro 2008. It wasn't mere fluke that Adli Eðvaldsson's side made it that far. Eidur Gudjohnsen is one of the top fifteen strikers in the world, as Dortmund will testify. Sævar Sigurdsson is a rock at the heart of the defence, and Kristján Sigurdsson alongside him makes the Icelandic defence very strong. Kristján Ólafsson is a capable third contender should a back three be required. Emil Halfredsson is the creative enforcer used by Iceland, who will certainly challenge for top spot. Switzerland are simply not what they were. Euro 1996 was their last major tournament appearance, and it doesn't look like changing now. Too many old and untalented players are blocking the young talent from coming through. Players such as Raphael Wicky, Cristian Ayala and Adrian Zwyssig are stopping the likes of Vural Oenen and Philippe Friedli from coming through and shining. Johann Vogel will do his utmost for the Swiss to success, but it looks a lost cause.

The imminent retirement of Mihalis Konstantinou will see Cyprus fall even further into the abyss. Other than centre back Petros Konnafis, Konstantinou has been the only quality Cypriot international, and their slim chances just became even paler.

Betting Odds: Czech Republic 2/7, Poland 3/1, Iceland 4/1, Switzerland 16/1, Cyprus 40/1

How Qualification Works:

The winner of each of the nine groups qualifies for the European Championships. The three best runners up of the nine sides finishing second will also qualify directly. This leaves six sides, who will be drawn into three playoff games, to be played over two legs. The respective winners will also head to Norway. This leaves one spot, which is taken by the host, Norway.

Dates:

Qualifying Day One: 4th September 2010

Qualifying Day Two: 8th September 2010

Qualifying Day Three: 9th October 2010

Qualifying Day Four: 12th October 2010

Qualifying Day Five: 26th March 2011

Qualifying Day Six: 30th March 2011

Qualifying Day Seven: 8th June 2011

Qualifying Day Eight: 3rd September 2011

Qualifying Day Nine: 7th September 2011

Qualifying Day Ten: 8th October 2011

Playoff Leg One: 12th November 2011

Playoff Leg Two: 16th November 2011

14th July 2010

2010 FIFA World Cup - Brazil - review

After 32 days of sublime football in the paradise of Brazil, Ruud Gullit led his Dutch side to their first ever World Cup victory. A 2-0 win over Uruguay in Rio's Maracana was fully deserved for a side who tore through the competition. A late Youssouf Hersi double meant captain David Mendes Da Silva was able to join the list of greats to lift the greatest prize in football. The tournament produced its traditional shocks, perhaps the greatest being England's failure to make it out of a group with Belgium, USA, and Uruguay in. Jamie Peake's side were one of the pre-tournament favourites, and a shock 1-0 defeat to a talented US side saw the English party travel home with their tails well and truly between their legs.

Greece made a huge impact upon world football with a series of amazing results, the most notable being a 4-0 win over Germany in the Quarter Finals, which followed a 3-0 drubbing of hosts and favourites Brazil. Kiriakos Karataidis selected a squad of attacking brilliance, and it showed as Alexandros Papadopoulos and Manolis Ligkos wreaked havoc on the tournament, as they scored twelve goals between them. A 3-1 defeat to eventual winners Holland in the Semis saw an end to a fairytale tournament for the Greeks, but a fourth place finish is not to be scoffed at, as it gives Greece a fabulous position to work from for success in Euro 2012.

After going over a year without conceding an international goal, Italy capitulated in the Second Round with a 4-0 collapse to Holland. Franco Colomba's side were looking good for a semi final spot at worst, but captain Buffon had a nightmare against the Oranje Machine, who ultimately proved unstoppable. Germany can also take positives from the tournament, including a find that will serve their future. 24-year-old striker Kai Brand hit a hat-trick in the Second Round against Croatia to send them through, and the Union Berlin hitman has firmly established himself as the main striker for Voller's side.

Winners of the XIX FIFA World Cup - Holland

Runners Up - Uruguay

Third Place - Argentina

Fourth - Greece

Golden Boot Winner - Manolis Ligkos - Greece, 8 goals

All Star Squad - Mohamed Benmahou (Algeria, GK), Nelson Cuevas (Paraguay, RB), Dédé (Brazil, LB), Junior Izaguirre (Honduras, CB), Michael Walke (Austria, CB), Wael Reyad (Egypt, RM), Ciarán Keane (Ireland, CM), Kevin Gall (Wales, CM), Youssouf Hersi (Holland, LM), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden, FC), Manolis Ligkos (Greece, FC). SUBS: Greg Etafia (Nigeria, GK), Dirk Kuijt (Holland, FC), Lúcio (Brazil, CB), Matei Mirel Radoi (Romania, MC), James Glenn Mitchell Brown (Honduras, FC), Trianos Dellas (Greece, CB), Andrea Pirlo (Italy, MC)

15th July 2010

Time Up for England coach Peake

England manager Jamie Peake has today been sacked by the English Football Association after a dismal showing at the recent World Cup in Brazil. A disappointing tournament culminated in elimination at the Group Stage, when many respected football pundits expected at least a quarter final spot from the reigning European Champions. FA Chief Executive Mike Palios said "after extensive discussion we have taken the unfortunate decision to terminate the contract of Jamie Peake with immediate effect. Jamie has been very successful with the national side in the past, but the below-par performances in Brazil were totally unacceptable for the quality of player Peake had at his disposal. We believe it to be in the best interests of English football to start with a new manager who can guide England to success."

40-year-old Peake shocked the footballing world when becoming England manager back in 2004, having come from his role as coach at non-league Wealdstone. He changed the national side, preferring to play younger players over the more untalented older generation. It worked. England clinched their first trophy at Euro 2008, 42 years after their last international success. Peake became a national hero, and it was widely expected that he was to lead the side to glory in Brazil, but it was not to be. In 56 games, Peake won 41, lost ten, with just five draws.

Many people are unhappy with the rapid dismissal of Peake for just one failure - albeit a high-profile one. It remains to be seen whether the FA have made the correct decision. Meanwhile, the Football Association hope to have a new manager installed by the start of the Euro 2012 qualifying campaign which starts in September. Early favourites include Aston Villa manager Steve McLaren and Chelsea's Gary Megson. More extravangant bets will go on Glenn Hoddle and Kevin Keegan, both quoted at 500/1.

Shock dismissal of Colomba leaves Italy reeling

Despite crashing out of the FIFA World Cup at the hands of winners Holland, many people felt Italy had held up well in Brazil, with one off day causing their downfall. So it has come as a huge shock that the Italian footballing authorities have found it correct to sack manager Franco Colomba. The much liked 55 year old took Italy to the World Cup, a job he was hired to do back in 2008.

Just one goal was conceded in his seventeen match tenure in charge of the Azzurri, and the defeat to Holland was his first loss in charge of the national side. He made Italy a tough side to beat, as his defensive record shows, and put together a squad capable of challenging for future glory, as youngsters such as Eder Bau, Claudio Cioffi, and Giovanni Castellini were allowed to flourish amongst more prestigious names. Italian FA chief Adriano Galliani said at a news conference: "We have decided to cancel the contract of Signor Colomba. Despite a good record with the nazionale, we feel he could have progressed further, and the failure to do so means he is not the correct man for the job. The players he has to use are of superior quality that their performance shows, and now is the time for change."

The move has been met with widespread criticism. People are outraged at the treatment of Colomba, who has declined to comment at this time. The search for a new chief is on, with the favourite being under-pressure Juventus manager Claudio Ranieri, who may well see the Azzurri job as a haven away from club management. If he can be tempted from Roma, Giovanni Vavassori will be a great steal for the FIGC.

Elsewhere...

Croatia part company with manager Mauro Ravnic after elimination at the second round in Brazil.....host nation sack manager Marco Aurélio.....Nigeria release Carsten Unger.....Portugal chief Giresse under pressure.

16th July 2010

Speculation continues to mount as to whether Steve McLaren will become the new England manager. The 49 year old, currently in charge of Aston Villa, is widely expected to hold talks with the Football Association before the new season starts. Aston Villa chairman Gary Atkinson has issued a 'hands-off' statement saying that McLaren is under contract to Villa until 2012 and will not be going anywhere. However, this is not expected to stop the FA getting their man, should McLaren be the one of their choice.

21st July 2010

Guidolin named as new Italy boss

The Italian FA today unveiled former Bologna manager Francesco Guidolin as the new Azzurri manager. The likeable 54 year old manager has reportedly signed a deal to expire after Euro 2012. Guidolin leaves his job at Bologna, where he has been for over twelve years. In his time at the Emilia club he won the UEFA Cup in 2009, and finished runners-up in the European Cup Final of the previous season. He is a manager who tends to like a blend of experience and youth, and has a great track record with young talents. Guidolin is the man accredited with the emergence of Manolis Ligkos - recently winner of the Golden Boot at the World Cup. Guidolin is said to be "extremely excited" at the prospect of managing Italy, whilst also "deeply saddened" at ending his long association with Bologna.

In associated news, 49 year old former Serbia & Montenegro manager Zoran Maric was appointed as the new Croatia manager, charged with getting the side to Norway in two years time.

22nd July 2010

England appoint McLaren as expected

The worst kept secret in English football was today admitted as England announced Steve McLaren as the successor to Jamie Peake. The 49 year old leaves his post at Aston Villa to take full charge of the national side of which he was previously a coach before managerial spells at Middlesbrough, Crystal Palace, and Villa Park. McLaren is known as a manager who prefers to work with young and talented individuals, as his style is very technique based.

At a press conference FA Chief Mike Palios said "we are delighted to have Steve on board. We, and the League Manager's Association, have been paying close attention to his progress over the last decade and now presents the perfect opportunity for Steve to take his experiences onto another level. We firmly believe the right name is in place in order for England to be successful initially at Euro 2012, and then even further at the 2014 World Cup."

McLaren himself described it as "an honour" to take charge of a national side with such a prestigious but inconsistent past, and has promised to take England onto the next level however he sees fit. Reports former club Aston Villa have been fully compensated are as yet unconfirmed, but Chairman Gary Atkinson has given his best wishes to McLaren in his new role. His first match in charge will be on September 4th against Austria at Wembley.

Um, I made a slight mistake about the version - it's 3.9.67, not 68.

cheers guys for the early encouragement

22nd August 2010

McClaren names first squad

As the first rounds of Euro 2012 qualifiers approach, there have been no suprises in the squads named for the upcoming games in the majority of squads. Steve McLaren's first England squad for the games at home to Austria and away to Romania throws up no shocks whatsoever, as it bears a resemblance to Jamie Peake's World Cup selection. John Terry expectedly returns after missing the World Cup through injury, and Portsmouth right back Jamie McCoombe gets a recall. Cherno Samba is restored after making way for numbers in Brazil. McLaren said he is "looking forward" to an exciting career with England.

Squad

Gk: Tony Fuller (Ipswich), Chris Kirkland (Liverpool), Paul Robinson (Leeds)

Def: Jonathan Woodgate (Millwall), Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd, capt), John Curtis (Chelsea), Jamie McCoombe (Portsmouth), John Terry (Bayern Munich), Neil Clement (Chelsea), Darren Purse (Sunderland), Ashley Cole (Arsenal), Chris Riggott (Arsenal)

Mid: Owen Hargreaves (Barcelona), Kieron Dyer (Milan), Matt Hamshaw (Bolton), Paul Ifill (Ipswich), Joe Cole (Milan), Jason Paterson (Chelsea), Matthew Etherington (Sunderland), David Dunn (Sunderland), Matthew Piper (Roma)

Fwd: Cherno Samba (Chelsea), Michael Bridges (Liverpool), Alan Smith (Hertha BSC), Marcus Bent (Leverkusen), Michael Owen (Liverpool)

Guidolin names five uncapped players in first squad

As he prepares for his first two matches in charge of the Azzurri (against Belarus and Luxembourg respectively), Francesco Guidolin has found room to experiment with his 26 man squad. Uncapped players Roberto Guana, Nicola Ventola, Salvatore Bruno, Nicola Orru, and Nicola Pagliarin are all selected in the party. Alberto Gilardino earns a recall after the World Cup, whilst quite surprisingly Guidolin finds no room for Luca Toni, Gianpaolo Bellini, or Inacio Pia. Of the newcomers, Roberto Guana and Nicola Orru are perhaps the ones to watch. Guana, a right winger, has had a great time with Inter in the last year, and fully warrants the call. Young Nicola Orru, a similar player to Guana, has impressed sufficiently at Napoli to earn his calling. The selection of Gilardino and Ventola over Toni suggests Guidolin will stray somewhat from his predecessor's 4-5-1 outlet leaving Luca Toni alone up front. In any event, the opposition should pose few threats to the Azzurri side, and Guidolin may just have found something Colomba didn't.

Squad

Gk: Gianluigi Buffon (Barcelona, capt), Christian Abbiati (Milan), Gian Luca Pegolo (Juventus)

Def: Alessandro Nesta (Barcelona), Manuel Amantini (Roma), Giovanni Castellini (Juventus), Claudio Cioffi (Atalanta), Marco Zanchi (Bologna), Marco Cassetti (Lecce), Gianluca Comotto (Dortmund), Marco Zamboni (Milan), Massimo Oddo (Milan), Nicola Pagliarin (Juventus)

Mid: Luciano Zauri (Milan), Andrea Pirlo (Milan), Matteo Brighi (Parma), Marco Marchionni (Parma), Roberto Guana (Inter), Damiano Zenoni (Milan), Nicola Orru (Napoli), Giuseppe Colucci (Bologna)

Fwd: Salvatore Bruno (Lecce), Alessandro Pellicori (Lazio), Eder Bau (Roma), Alberto Gilardino (Parma), Nicola Ventola (Inter)

One surprise in French party as experience leads the way

As expected, Paul Le Guen has made few shocks in his squad for the matches against Latvia and Georgia. The exception is the fact Sidney Govou has strangely not been selected. Instead, uncapped but prolific youngsters Fodé Mansaré and Baptiste-Mehdi Ibrahim-Ouali have been named for the matches. Even if the duo do not make the action, the experience will certainly benefit them, as training with the likes of Trezeguet, Le Tallec, and Sinama Pongolle will be extremely helpful. Elsewhere, Patrick Vieira looks set to reach cap number 134, whilst David Trezeguet, recently acquired by Barcelona, is only five behind. Le Guen said of his squad "We have to look to the future. Patrick (Vieira), David (Trezeguet), Didier (Agathe) and Willy (Gallas) won't be around forever, so some of the younger players may get a chance to prove themselves." Players such as Rivière, Le Tallec, Mansaré and Soler are the future of Les Bleus, and they'll get the chance to show it.

Squad

Gk: Sebastien Frey (Inter), Benoit Benvegnu (Birmingham), Mikael Landreau (Bordeaux)

Def: Philippe Mexes (Celtic), William Gallas (Inter), Mickael Silvestre (Man Utd), Didier Agathe (Liverpool), Willy Sagnol (Liverpool), Jérémie Brechet (Lyon), Christian Rivière (Inter), Jean-Alain Boumsong (Anderlecht), Djimi Traoré (Birmingham), Julien Escudé (Barcelona)

Mid: Patrick Vieira (Liverpool), Geoffrey Doumeng (Montpellier), Didier Soler (Nantes), Stéphane Dalmat (Liverpool), Ludovic Giuly (Nantes), Camel Meriem (Liverpool), Bruno Cheyrou (Liverpool), Jérome Rothen (Lyon)

Fwd: Anthony Le Tallec (Man Utd), Florent Sinama-Pongolle (Lyon), Fodé Mansaré (Metz), Baptiste-Mehdi Ibrahim-Ouali (Bayern Munich), David Trezeguet (Barcelona)

New era for Spain?

After falling at the last eight of the Brazilian World Cup, Spain look to the future with an adventurous squad for the Euro 2012 qualifiers against Scotland and Ukraine. The most notable omission is that of 126 cap/64 goal captain Raul. The legenday forward, newly signed by Celtic, has been rested by manager Miguel Ãngel Lotina, who has decided to bring in seven previously untried names as Spain are seemingly set on a new path. Valencia keeper Jonathan is called in as Spain look for a quality challenge for Iker Casillas. The defence is strengthened by 31 year old David Rivas of Betis, and 21 year old Alejandro Pardo. After many a prolific season at Racing Santander Rodolfo Bodipo's talents are acknowledged with a first call-up, whilst team-mate Francisco Gallardo is a right winger of considerable ability. Despite the younger players in the squad, there are a number of 32+ players in the squad. However, the move has been met positively by Spanish press and public alike, as they firmly believe Lotina is the man to take them further. However, should he fail to impress over the coming year, Lotina will be out of a job.

Squad

Gk: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Francesc Arnau (Celta), Jonathan (Valencia)

Def: Alejandro Pardo (Valladolid), David Rivas (Betis), Carles Puyol (Barcelona), Juanfran (Celta), Marcelo (Racing Santander), Gálder Zubizaretta (Mallorca), Espín (Atlético Madrid), Fernando Varela (Real Madrid), Francisco Pavón (Real Madrid)

Mid: Gerard (Barcelona), Francisco Gallardo (Racing Santander), Joseba Etxeberría (Athletic Bilbao), Xavi (Barcelona), Fernando Sales (Bayern Munich), Raúl Ivars (Real Madrid), Roberto Trashorras (Barcelona)

Fwd: Roberto Losada (Valencia), José Antonio Reyes (Atlético Madrid), Rodolfo Bodipo (Racing Santander), Guayre (Betis), Güiza (Celta)

In brief....

....talented Man Utd striker Diogo Bessa called into Portuguese squad.....Norwich's Richard Spong receives call from Swedes....Van Nistelrooy restored to World Champions after injury....Becker promoted to German seniors.....

Spotlight on......

Dennis Becker

For years Germany have searched for the perfect left sided player. They never truly found someone who was able to terrify defenders with speed, agility, and raw talent. Many tried without much success. Of the current side, Marcel Ketelaer and Daniel Bierofka never lived up to expectations, whilst in previous years Jorg Böhme and Christian Ziege were not the players required. Never, since the days of the legendary Wolfgang Overath and Gunter Netzer have the Germans had a midfield talent the likes of which would control the left side as necessary.

Now, the generation of 2010 has yielded Dennis Becker. Bayern Munich have a nineteen year old midfielder who has the admiration and support of the whole country - quite an honour for a Bayern player to have. His talents seem endless. The immediate noticeable trait is his pace. At his best there are few who can go stride for stride with Becker. Of course, this pace would be rendered useless without some ability.

Becker has this in abundance. His creativity is reminiscent of Michael Ballack, and when in full flight comparisons can seriously be made to Ryan Giggs. What Becker has been praised for above all else is his work rate - he never seems to stop buzzing around the field. He really came to prominence last season in what was his first full season at the top level. Three goals and twelve assists from 27 games is perfectly acceptable, and the praise from club manager Ottmar Hitzfeld could not be higher. "Becker has everything. It's quite scary to think he is at such a tender age that he can actually improve."

One man certainly excited at the prospect is national coach Rudi Völler. "Dennis is certainly in my plans. How often he starts is another question, but to have someone of his talents in the squad is certainly a positive."

And what of Becker himself? "I just want to play football." Some modesty from a far from modest talent. Keep an eye on this one.

Profile

Date of Birth - 10th July 1990

Club - Bayern Munich

Appearances/Goals - 60/7

Previous Clubs - FC Bayern (A)

Honours - Under 21 German International; Bundesliga Midfielder of the Season 2009/10

1st September 2010

This morning saw the international squads meet up for the weekend's opening Euro 2012 qualifying matches. There are a number of exciting games at an early stage which will make or break some nations chances of making it to Norway.

Group Three - Spain vs Scotland

Madrid's Santiago Bernabéu plays host to a meeting between Miguel Ãngel Lotina's Spanish side and David Körner's emerging Scottish talents. The two sides are expected to dictate the group, and thus the result on Saturday evening will go a long way to shaping the group. The Spanish decision to leave Raul out means Güiza is likely to play and attempt to continue a goal per game record at this level. Rodlofo Bodipo may also have a chance of making a debut, having impressed in the Spanish gathering in Madrid. Scotland are expected to stick with their tried and tested five defenders, although it is possible Körner will play an extra holding midfielder ahead of an attacking one - most likely Gary Teale.

Group Four - Greece vs Sweden

Greece showed at this summers World Cup they are going to be a force to be reckoned with. The South Europeans have as good an attacking line-up as any, but they will be tested by a resolute and efficient Swedish side not without their own capabilities. The World Cup's most prolific partnership of Papadopoulos and Ligkos will start again, meaning no room for Alexiou or Charisteas. Zlatan Ibrahimovic should pass a fitness test to start for the visiting Swedes.

Group Six - Ireland vs Holland

History between the two goes back to 2002 when the Emerald Isle qualified for the Korea/Japan World Cup at the expense of the Oranje. Since then the Netherlands have made their position known, as they finally achieved their dream of winning the World Cup mere months ago in Brazil. Many expect them to steamroller their opposition, but Mick McCarthy's Irish contingent will come prepared, and Ruud Gullit knows his side will be in for a game. Monchengladbach's Martin Sheridan looks set to make his debut in goal after an injury crisis ruled out Liam Synnott and Saul Deeney. The Dutch are set to name their strongest side, as World Cup hero Dirk Kuijt is expected to make way for Ruud Van Nistelrooy.

Group Eight - Russia vs Portugal

Both nations could do so much more, and Saturday is the chance for one to start on the road to glory. Russia hold the advantage in the two most recent meetings, inflicting home and away 3-1 defeats on Giresse's Portugese lot. Saturday in Moscow may be different though. Man Utd's Diogo Bessa may play some role for Portugal after earning his first ever call-up.

4th September 2010

Scotland shock Spain in Madrid

Scotland kicked off their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign in the finest style possible with a comprehensive and fully deserved 3-0 victory in Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabéu stadium. Spanish boss Lotina selected his most experienced side for the clash, whilst Scotland's David Körner chose Stephen McPhee ahead of Gary Twigg. It turned out to be a masterstroke.

Scotland started cautiously, with the main focus on preventing an early Spanish strike. At the first opportunity Scotland had, they took it. Steven Caldwell swung a free kick into the area. As Iker Casillas flapped, McPhee was able to head Scotland into a lead. The remainder of the first half was a drab affair as Spain showed no urgency whatsoever in attempting to reduce the deficit. Only Guayre forced half a save from Young in the visiting goal. It took just three second half minutes for the crowd to witness one of this year's finest goals. Chelsea's Mark Kerr picked the ball up in his own half. He set off past the inane challenge of Joseba Etxeberría, before slipping past Gerard. Carles Puyol's resistance was not enough to stop Kerr continuing into the area before driving in a stunning finish. It shocked Spain into life. Yet whatever they tried, Lee Wilkie was standing firm in defence. Just shy of the hour Guayre dragged a shot wide of Young's right post. It was Scotland who were still making the running. An ambitious long-range volley from Teale worried Casillas, before Guayre went down the other end and wasted another opportunity. With three minutes remaining on the clock Scotland secured the win in fine style. McPhee seized the loose ball on the break. Pavón was beaten easily, which left McPhee alone. Last season's third highest Serie A scorer slotted in the third to leave Spain dejected, whilst the Tartan Army were delirious. Questions will be asked of Lotina's decision to drop Raul, as he may have made a huge difference to what may be a potentially crucal defeat for Spain.

Spain 0

Scotland 3 (McPhee 13, 87, Kerr 48)

Attendance - 74,861

Referee - Reha Biçici (Turkey)

Spain - Casillas, Puyol, Juanfran, Espín, Pavón, Sales, Reyes©, Gerard, Güiza (Trashorras 59), Guayre, Etxeberría

Scotland - Young, Paterson (Naysmith 82), McCunnie, McNaughton, Wilkie, Teale, Kerr, Caldwell, McPhee, Parker©, Fletcher (S.Hughes 76)

McLaren off to comfortable start with England

Steve McLaren's first match in charge of England was as comfortable as he's have expected and hoped. An aggressive midfield line-up forced Austria onto the back foot from the off, and any fears of an upset were alleviated in the seventh minute as Ashley Cole and Kieron Dyer combined down the left to give Michael Owen his 28th international goal. Austria were swamped by the English dominance, as Joe Cole and then Alan Smith proceeded to go agonisingly close to doubling the lead. By half time Smith again, Etherington, and Terry had all been prevented by Alex Manninger. It took Michael Owen again to give England the two goal cushion, as in the 51st minute it was the Liverpool man who stretched to reach Alan Smith's misplaced shot and divert it into the Wembley goal. Matthew Piper desperately searched for a goal, but Manninger was the only Austrian to impress. David Dunn and Matt Hamshaw earned their third and fourth caps respectively as McLaren saw the opportunity to give other players a run out, but there was no room for Cherno Samba to come from the bench. The Chelsea striker had been expected to play some part, but McLaren felt the duo of Owen and Smith were enough. And he was right. A nice easy start to McLaren's England job is precisely what he would have wanted.

England 2 (Owen 7, 51)

Austria 0

Attendance - 89,985

Referee - Cristian Bazán (Spain)

England - Fuller, Hargreaves, A.Cole, Ferdinand©, Terry, J.Cole (Dunn 57), Etherington, Dyer, Owen, Smith, Piper (Hamshaw 73)

Austria - Manninger©, Lederer, Wimmer, Walker, Scharner, Troyanski (Feldhofer 73), Hörtnagl, Weissenberger (Hiden 64), Linz (Aigner 57), Friesenbichler, Wimmer

History repeats itself in Dublin as World Champs humbled

In a repeat of their meeting eight and a half years ago in qualification for the 2002 World Cup, Mick McCarthy's Republic of Ireland side inflicted a potentially fatal 1-0 defeat to their Dutch opponents. Ciarán and Robbie Keane were irrepressible as the Irish drew on a fiercly partisan crowd to drive to victory. The Dutch came out aggressive early, and if they hadn't have overcooked an early move Ruud Van Nistelrooy may have opened the scoring. Robbie Keane then drove typically at the defence before falling to a good save from Varese's Maarten Stekelenburg. Halfway through the first half Damien Duff forced another save from Stekelenburg, but the first half as a whole was an affair where neither side looked comfortable taking an advantage. The Irish started the second half more assertively, and it showed as Richie Partridge glided along the wing and volleyed wide. As far as Gullit's Dutch side goes, their approach play was nice, but they never took it into a dangerous territory. As the match reached three-quarter length the tide turned in the home side's favour. Robbie Keane held off Hofland and Zonneveld before planting a cross onto Gary Doherty's head. The Leeds man beat the unfortunate Stekelenburg, who otherwise had a faultless performance. Holland finally got their act together, but Hersi and Kuijt both hit attempts over. The win for Ireland may turn out to be of extreme importance, as they may now top Group Six, which would be a great achievement for them.

Ireland 1 (Doherty 66)

Holland 0

Attendance - 47,995

Referee - Ilmar Nool (Romania)

Ireland - Sheridan, Geary (Bull 56), Harte, O'Shea, Gavin, Foley Sheridan, Duff (M.Keane 90), C.Keane, Doherty©, R.Keane, Partridge (Reid 69)

Holland - Stekelenburg, Oude Kamphuis, Zonneveld, Hofland, Melchiot, Van Der Vaart, Robben (Zenden 56), Mendes Da Silva ©, Van Nistelrooy (Kuijt 56), Hersi, Van Der Meyde

Völler under immense pressure as Germany crash

Rudi Völler is this evening fearing for his job as coach of Germany after they were shockingly humbled 2-0 by Slovenia in Munich's Olympiastadion. Not even the second half debut of Dennis Becker could turn the German performance around, and their qualification campaign has subsequently taken a setback. Suad Filekovic, ironically of Bundesliga club Bochum, gave Slovenia a lead on eight minutes as a spell of Slovenian pressure paid off as the left winger headed in Acimovic's cross. Yet the setback was only meant to be short-term, as Germany expected to come back and win comprehensively. A combination of poor German finishing (personified in Lars Ricken's 35th mintue slash across goal) and a disciplined Slovenia side. Tomas Murko saved finely from Kai Brand's header and shot double late in the first half, as Slovenia went in ahead. Twenty minutes into the second half Hanno Balitsch's volley was superbly stopped by the under-rated Murko. The much hyped Bayern midfielder Dennis Becker made some difference, as he supplied Brand with a simple header the Union Berlin striker amazingly contrived to miss. The reality of the situation began to kick in as time ran out, but Germany panicked too often. Jermaine Jones could have scored had he taken his time, but his late effort was snatched and dragged wide. In injury time Slovenia set off on a counter attack which Germany struggled to contain. Dejan Robnik found himself free in the area to beat Simon Jentszch and complete a shock win which will do their qualification hopes no harm. If Völler's position is tough now, an inferior performance away to Azerbaijan may see the end to his tenure.

Germany 0

Slovenia 2 (Filekovic 8, Robnik 90)

Attendance - 76,232

Referee - Konrad Plautz (Austria)

Germany - Jentzsch, Feulner, Rau, Metzelder©, Balitsch, Ballack, Bierofka (Becker 57), Walz (Ketelaer 57), Jones, Brand, Ricken (Reich 75)

Slovenia - Murko, Komljenovic (Pus), Lazic, Staric, Kapic©, Acimovic, Fliekovic, Zlogar, Robnik, Mejac (Kostic), Golob

Round Up

In Group One Croatia gave new manager Zoran Maric the perfect start with a 2-0 win over Slovakia. A goal in each half from Tomislav Sokota and Jurica Vranjes, and a good all round performance will give the Croats heart. Winger Silvester Sabolcki will Wednesday's trip to Denmark with a knee injury picked up in the second half. In the other game, a solitary Lee Jones goal was enough to beat Lithuania at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium in a match the Welsh were fortunate to win.

Group Two saw a comfortable win for France in Georgia. As expected, Le Guen's side found it a stroll in the park, with an early David Trezeguet penalty and Anthony Le Tallec's header giving them the points. More worryingly for France are the injuries to Stephane Dalmat and Camel Meriem, who will both be absent for the visit of Latvia. Varese striker Valeri Emilov Bojinov's sixth minute goal for Bulgaria took three crucial points away from Hungary in a tense affair in Budapest. And Latvia beat San Marino 2-1 in Riga with a second half goal from prolific Vladimir Kokhan.

After seeing Spain humbled by Scotland, Group Three's other match was a one sided affair in Tel-Aviv that was settled by one goal from Israel's Asi Tikva. It proved enough to shut off Estonia's challenge (and lack of).

A new look Italy side failed to convince in their opening Group Four match as they drew 1-1 in Belarus. Despite dominating, Francesco Guidolin's new look 3-5-2 formation never looked comfortable with the players, and Italy fell behind twenty minutes from time through Artem Kontsevoy's header - the player who plays for Udinese in Italy. Alessandro Pellicori's first international goal rescued the Azzurri, who have much improvement to do. Greece and Sweden played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in Athens, leaving both sides in much the same state as they started. A 12th minute penalty from Alexandros Papadopoulos was his 32nd goal in 41 games for Greece - a truly incredible total. Sweden turned to their captain Kim Kallstrom drew his side level late on to steal a share of the spoils. Finally, in the battle of the minnows, Faroe Islands inflicted a crushing 6-1 defeat on Luxembourg, with a hat-trick from Runí Olsen stealing the show.

England's 2-0 win over Austria wasn't enough to take them top of Group Five immediately, as Macedonia put three past Armenia without reply. Aico Stojkov scored two in the comfortable win in Skopje.

Ireland's Group Six win over Holland wasn't helped so much by Finland's 3-1 victory in Albania. Ali Aliji gave the home side a shock lead in the nineteenth minute, before a double from Henri Scheweleff and a late goal from Mikael Forssell.

Belgium got off to a poor start in Group Seven as they were held 2-2 at home by a resilient Bosnian side. A win would have seen them take advantage of Germany's shock defeat to Slovenia, but it wasn't to materialise. Stijn Janssens had given them an early lead, but Hasan Salihamidzic' penalty equalled the scores on 68. Tom Peeters' first international goal looked to have won the points for the Belgians, but a last gasp effort drilled in by Nihad Buljugic gave Bosnia an unexpected, and thouroughly undeserved point. Belgium outran their opponents, but their failure to convert cost them dear. Shaun Innui's first half effort gave Azerbaijan a win in Malta in the battle at the bottom.

In Group Eight Portugal broke their Russian curse with a hard-earned 1-0 win in Moscow. A tight match had looked like finishing goalless until ten minutes from time, when Ricardo Quaresma scored a fabulous solo strike. Alain Giresse's side are, despite the early stage of qualifying, even stronger favourites to progress. Moldova and Northern Ireland shared four goals in a draw in Chisinau. Leonardo Kirilov and Victor Comleonoc scored the home side's goals, but McIlroy's troops shared the spoils with goals from Jonathan Black and Joe Dolan.

Iceland are top of Group Nine after the first round with a 2-1 win at home to Cyprus. Joey Gudjonsson's 21st International goal - quite an impressive record for a midfielder- had given Iceland the lead midway through the first half. Cyprus never looked like scoring until Christodoulou pounced with ten minutes left. Thankfully for Atli Edvalðsson's men, Eidur Gudjohnsen lived up to his reputation with a corker of a volley to win the spoils. Swiss hearts were broken in Prague as a 90th minute Marek Heinz penalty gave all the points to the home side. The Czechs probably deserved the win, but nevertheless it is harsh on a Swiss side who defended so valiantly.

5th September 2010

Sidney Govou has been called into the French squad as cover for the injured duo of Stephane Dalmat and Camel Meriem. The Real Madrid hitman has seven goals in 25 caps, and could start in a reshuffled French pack at home to Latvia.

6th September 2010

The second round of games sees some sides make their bow in the qualification process, whilst for others it could be a case of win or bust, as results now make a huge impact on the final standings.

Group One - Denmark vs Croatia

Arguably the two best sides in the group are set to slug it out for the automatic qualifying spot. Denmark open their campaign on Wednesday night with Morten Skoubo and Morten Rasmussen set to start up front in their regular 5-3-2 formation. Croatia will miss Sabolcki through injury, and Ivan Bosnjak will look to replace him. Denmark have lost once at home in three years, and are favourites for this one.

Group Three - Ukraine v Spain

After the debacle against Scotland, Spain have a must-win match away in the Ukraine. Their lack of attacking fluidity against Scotland left many wondering why Celtic duo Raul and Fernando Torres were so harshly left out. Güiza may well continue up front, although Bodipo may push for a debut. Andrii Shevchenko and Olexiy Belik have started the season impressively and will no doubt worry the Spanish defence, still as unstable as it ever was. Their last meeting - a 0-0 draw in Portugal 2004 - will suit the home side far better than the Iberians. Only Georgia and Hungary have won in Kyiv in the last ten years, so Spain know the full extent of the task they have in front of them.

Group Five - Romania vs England

Steve McLaren's first real test comes in the form of a trip to Bucharest to get something from an inconsistent Romanian side. Adrian Mutu - the hero of his nation - will start, which could prompt McLaren into deploying Terry as a man marker, as by taking Mutu out of the game, Romania are less of a danger. Cherno Samba looks set to miss out again as Owen and Smith performed well last time out. McLaren knows the size of the task: "If we can get something in Romania, we have a comfortable position in the group. By not losing to our main rivals, the task becomes somewhat easier."

Group Eight - Portugal vs Turkey

A morale boosting win for Portugal in Russia means they face Turkey in high spirits. Two wins against the main contenders for the top spot would put Alain Giresse's side in an enviable position atop Group Eight. The past points to comprehensive wins for Portugal over the Turks in 2004 and 2005, but the Turkey of 2010 are different. Yildiray Basturk runs the show, whilst Akin Serhat has started the new season in fine fettle. Ozdemir Hüseyin may make a defensive debut as Mehmet Oztürk looks for a bright start.

8th September 2010

The rain in Ukraine is pain for Spain

Spanish qualification hopes took a further setback as they suffered a late, Andrii Shevchenko inspired defeat in the rain-sodden Ukraine. José Mari had been given the nod up front in the only change from the side which capitulated at home to Scotland, and it started positively. The Atlético striker came close in the opening minute. Andrii Shevchenko then became more prominent. A free kick shaved the post, and only a last ditch Espín tackle prevented a solo run finishing in a goal. The Spanish took a lead ten minutes before half time, when Joseba Etxeberría's cross was headed past Shovkovskiy by José Mari. If Spain had held out until half time things may have been different. Unfortunately for them, Tymoschuk's cross a minute before the break saw Shevchenko tower way above Pavón and head the equaliser. The AC Milan striker put his country in the lead early in the second half. Spain seemed to still be in the dressing room as Sheva was allowed time and space to line up his effort and plunder his second of the game. Out of nothing, Spain were level shy of the hour. Guayre found a modicom of space, and shot low past Shovkovskiy to equalise. Spain knew a point was better than nothing, but couldn't find a right balance between the two. A minute from time a long throw saw Marcelo battle for possession with that man Shevchenko again. The Greek referee adjudged the contact outside the rules of the game, and Andrii Shevchenko completed a hat-trick to take to 60 International goals. A second defeat for Spain not only leaves them bottom, but Lotina's job is in the highest peril.

Ukraine 3 (Shevchenko 44, 48, 89 pen)

Spain 2 (José Mari 36, Guayre 59)

Attendance - 70,894

Referee - Vasilis Argyropoulos (Greece)

Ukraine - Shovkovskiy, Sviderskiy, Nesmachny, Yaxmanitskiy, Kotov, Baltacha (Shershun 82), Tymoschuk, Rykun (Kalinichenko 52), Shevchenko©, Valyaev (Rincón 52), Lisitskiy

Spain - Casillas, Puyol (Varela 82), Juanfran, Espín, Pavón (Marcelo 82), Sales, Reyes©, Gerard, José Mari, Guayre, Etxeberría

Smith and Owen just the job for England

England's position atop Group Five is tonight cemented after an impressive 2-0 victory over a spirited Romanian side in Bucharest. The home side dominated throughout, but English consistency in front of goal saw them home. Adrian Mutu started positively, but as expected John Terry hassled him effectively. Matt Etherington started to dazzle for an unchanged English side, as in the 9th minute he was crudely hacked down when dribbling towards goal - amazingly Radoi evaded disciplinary action. England were comfortable to let the home side exhaust themselves in an effort to win, and then spring. McLaren's side perfected the idea on 31 minutes. Michael Owen led the charge out, and spread the play to Matt Piper. The Roma winger delivered a cross onto Alan Smith's head, and the Hertha man thumped in his 45th international goal to take him within four of Sir Bobby Charlton's record. Mutu escaped long enough to force a stunning stop from Tony Fuller on the stroke of half time, but as the game went on England's game plan was proving effective. Laurentiu Rosu forced another good stop from Fuller as England sat on their lead, ready to break at the first opportunity. With 25 minutes remaining they did it again. The pace of Kieron Dyer, David Dunn, and Michael Owen gave the latter free reign in the Romanian area to score his 30th goal for his nation. Sânmãrtean hit the crossbar in injury time, but England were always favourites to win, and they are now in a fabulous position atop Group Five.

Romania 0

England 2 (Smith 31, Owen 65)

Attendance - 64,954

Referee - Petteri Kari (Finland)

Romania - Dolha, Bãlan, Chivu, Soavã (Contra 57), Rãdoi, Sânmãrtean (Luca 91), Rosu, Codrea, Mihalcea, Mutu©, Munteanu (Niculae 38)

England - Fuller, Hargreaves, Terry, Ferdinand©, A.Cole (Curtis 63), J.Cole (Dunn 57), Dyer, Etherington, Owen, Smith, Piper

Turkey stuffed in Lisbon

Portugal signalled their renaissance in this qualification process with a 4-1 mauling of Turkey in Lisbon's National Stadium. It was Turkey who made the early running, with Nihat Kahveci using his speed to his advantage before running out of room. Portugal opening the scoring early after some incisive passing left Ricardo Quaresma free on the edge of the six yard box. A rolled pass gave Felipe Oliviera (ironically of Besiktas in Turkey) a chance he couldn't miss. The duo combined again six minutes later to double the home lead. Oliviera's shot was parried, but Quaresma was on hand to stab the rebound home. The red and green sea was relentless, and on the half hour Portugal were 3-0 up. Again Ricardo Quaresma was behind it, as it was his hard cross that gave Oviedo's Alexandre Mário a first international goal. Just three minutes later the same man executed a sumptuous lob that bounced away off the crossbar. Turkey offered nothing in resistance, as Portugal never allowed them a moment to settle. Basturk forced a decent save from Quim early after the restart, but Ricardo Quaresma was in an unstoppable vein. His dribbling was incredible, but wasn't matched by Nuno Gomes' heading ability. With twenty minutes left Basturk scored a consolation afte skipping three players and drilling in low, but the last word went to Giresse's men. Quaresma came forward again, Carvalho headed the cross on, and right back Toni flicked the ball in for his first ever career goal. If Portugal are in this form consistently, they'll be hard to stop.

Portugal 4 (Oliviera 11, Quaresma 17, Mário 31, Toni 89)

Turkey 1 (Basturk 70)

Attendance - 50,993

Referee - David McGarvey (Scotland)

Portugal - Quim, Toni, Carvalho, Armando (Jorge Andrade 82), Nuno Mata, Pinheiro (Brasao 62), Ricardo Quaresma, Mário, Oliviera©, Nuno Gomes, Lucas (Pinto 77)

Turkey - Omer, Serkan, Sonkaya, Güngör (Suat 62), Ufuk, Basturk©, Ibrahim, Inceman, Nihat (Furkan 62), Akin Serhat (Berkant 62), Yilmaz

Round-Up

Croatia took control of Group One with an upset 2-1 win in Denmark. Sunderland's experienced midfielder Thomas Østergaard had given the home side the lead on 21 minutes with a header following some Danish pressure. Veteran keeper Vedran Runje was keeping Croatia in the match, and they were thankful for that later on. Tomislav Sokota's 50th minute free kick brought the visitors level in style, then they stole the win with Ivan Bosnjak's poaching skills after Pedersen had spilled a shot. Wales were humiliated 3-0 in Slovakia, which sets back their campaign a huge amount. Two goals from hitman Robert Vittek and a penalty from Vladimir Kral gave Ladislav Jurkemik's side the three points.

France continued to stroll through Group Two with an easy 5-0 win over Latvia in Paris. Paul Le Guen neglected the opportunity to exhibit some younger talent, and the experienced quality told. A hat-trick for David Trezeguet and two for Sidney Govou were enough to take the win in style. Four goals came in the second half - all headed - as the French showed pure class. Trezeguet in particular was in fine fettle, as he could have easily had ten. Cheyrou and Rivière created four between them on the left, which is a good sign for the balance of the side. An injury time header from Levan Kobiashvili caused an upset in Bulgaria, as Georgia took three vital points to throw the group wide open. Hungary did enough to beat San Marino 1-0 in Serravalle, Zoltán Gera's first half goal winning the day.

Spain's defeat in Ukraine leaves Scotland in a commanding position in Group Three, as they made it two from two with a 3-1 home victory over Israel. Gary Teale's early goal was cancelled out by Oren Shum's header, as Israel threatened to cause an upset. Stephen McPhee continued his fine start to the season (at international level) with a stunning half volley fifteen seconds into the second half. Kevin McNaughton sealed the win, which leaves David Körner's side top by three points.

Greek duo Manolis Ligkos and Alexandros Papadopoulos tore through the Faroes Islands as they found their Group Four feet. Two for the Bologna hitman and one for the Leeds striker take their total to 17 between them in 11 eleven games this year. Italy walked past the hopeless Luxembourg with a 3-0 win in Rome. Alessandro Pellicori scored two on his first start for the Azzurri, whilst Roma striker Eder Bau found the international net for the first time on his home ground. The final game in the group also finished 3-0, as Zlatan Ibrahimovic's hat-trick polished off Belarus.

As England dominate Group Five, Austria lead the way for second place with a simple 3-0 win over Macedonia. Roman Wallner's first half double, and a late Gunter Friessenbichler tap in gave Austria three easy points.

Ireland continue to lead Group Six as they followed up their 1-0 win over Holland with a Robbie Keane-inspired win in Finland. Two goals in the first nine minutes from the Celtic man were enough to take the three points away from Helsinki. Holland continue to struggle as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Serbia & Montenegro in the ArenA. Rafael van der Vaart scored early on his former home ground, but Ardian Djokaj's first Serbia & Montenegron goal shared the spoils, and leaves the World Champions in a position they would not have forseen after winning the World Cup.

Germany restored a little pride in Group Seven with an easy 4-0 win over Azerbaijan in Baku. Michael Ballack gave the Nationalmannschaft a first half lead, which was doubled early in the second by Kai Brand, who continues to astound. Arne Friedrich's first international goal made it three, and Rostock striker Ralf Schuster's rocket shot made it four. However, the performance was very much a laid back affair, and it seems Rudi Völler may have to do a lot more to get the critics off his back. Bosnia went top of the Group with a 4-1 mauling of Malta. Armin Sistek opened the scoring before most had time to find their seats with a long range cracker, and Mirnel Sadovic doubled the lead midway through the half. Mark Caruana halved the lead, but only for a mere two minutes, as Almir Joldic volleyed the Bosnians into a 3-1 lead. Hasan Salihamidzic completed the scoring for Miso Smaljovic's side, who are joint top now with.....Slovenia. A hat-trick inside the first 21 minutes from Slovenia's Dejan Robnik appeared to have humiliated Belgium and pulled off another shock for Bojan Prasnikar. But Belgium are made of strong stuff, and two Tom Peeters goals, sandwiched by a Kevin Vandenbergh effort, gave the low country an unlikely point. After 35 caps without a goal, Peeters has netted three in two, and the second today came very late on - although it was a spectacular finish.

Portugal will be heartened that Russia failed to beat Northern Ireland in their Group Eight meeting in Belfast. The Irish shocked Russia with their engaging play, and took a deserved lead on 53 minutes through Stoke's Andy Kirk. Karen Rylov equalised immediately, but Russia lost their composure as first Bestchastnykh and then goalscorer Rylov were sent off for despicable tackles. Kirk hit the bar late on as Russia held on by the skin of their teeth.

Poland opened their Group Nine campaign with a 2-0 win over rivals Czech Republic, and two goals from unlikely sources. Maciej Zurawski and Sebastien Mila each netted in eight first half minutes to see off the Czech challenge. Iceland continued their impressive form with a 2-0 win in Switzerland. After Eidur Gudjohnsen and Emil Hallfreðsson had made the score 2-0 after 13 minutes, the Swiss never looked like making a comeback, and the defeat leaves them bottom of the group.

Tables after two games of qualification:

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

************************************************************************************************

European Championship Qualifying - Wednesday 8th September 2010

************************************************************************************************

================================================================================================

2010 Tables

================================================================================================

Group 1

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Croatia 2 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 2 1 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Slovakia 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 2 3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Wales 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 3 3

4th Denmark 1 0 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0

5th Lithuania 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0

Group 2

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st France 2 1 0 0 5 0 1 0 0 2 0 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Bulgaria 2 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Hungary 2 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 3

4th Georgia 2 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 3

5th Latvia 2 1 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 5 3

6th San Marino 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 2 0

Group 3

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Scotland 2 1 0 0 3 1 1 0 0 3 0 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Ukraine 1 1 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Israel 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 3 3

4th Estonia 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0

5th Spain 2 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 1 2 3 0

Group 4

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Greece 2 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 3 0 4

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Sweden 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 1 1 4

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Italy 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 1 1 4

4th Faroe Islands 2 0 0 1 0 3 1 0 0 6 1 3

5th Belarus 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 3 1

6th Luxembourg 2 0 0 1 1 6 0 0 1 0 3 0

Group 5

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st England 2 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 2 0 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Austria 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 2 3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd FYROM 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 3 3

4th Romania 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0

5th Armenia 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0

Group 6

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Ireland 2 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Finland 2 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 3 1 3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Serbia & Montengro 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1

4th Holland 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 1

5th Albania 1 0 0 1 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0

Group 7

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Bosnia 2 1 0 0 4 1 0 1 0 2 2 4

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Slovenia 2 0 1 0 3 3 1 0 0 2 0 4

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Germany 2 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 4 0 3

4th Azerbaijan 2 0 0 1 0 4 1 0 0 1 0 3

5th Belgium 2 0 1 0 2 2 0 1 0 3 3 2

6th Malta 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 4 0

Group 8

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Portugal 2 1 0 0 4 1 1 0 0 1 0 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd N.Ireland 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 2 2 2

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Moldova 1 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 1

4th Russia 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 1 1

5th Turkey 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 4 0

Group 9

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Iceland 2 1 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 2 0 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Poland 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Czech Republic 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 3

4th Cyprus 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 0

5th Switzerland 2 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 0

Second Placed Teams

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Slovenia 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Poland 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 3

3rd Austria 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 2 3

4th Slovakia 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 2 3

5th Bulgaria 2 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 3

6th N.Ireland 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 2 2 2

7th Sweden 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1

8th Ukraine 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

9th Finland 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0

</pre>

25th September 2010

McLaren rings changes for international double

With October's Euro 2012 qualifier against Macedonia followed by a friendly with Croatia, England chief Steve McLaren has decided to make a number of changes, some of which are likely to feature in the friendly. Portsmouth right back Jamie McCoombe has been replaced with Watford's Ishmail Yakabu, as McLaren looks to discover possible cover for centre backs Terry and Ferdinand. Birmingham's nineteen-year-old left sided player Stuart Richards also earns a first callup ahead of the somewhat older Darren Purse. The former under-21 captain has started the season fantastically, and although his inclusion has come as a surprise to a few, many are excited at the prospect of Richards. Michael Bridges drops out with injury, and Francis Jeffers takes his place. A win over Macedonia on Wednesday week will see England take even firmer a hold of Group Five, and allow McLaren to relax a little in his job. The Croatia friendly is being touted as Cherno Samba's big chance to shine. It's been over two years since his international debut vs France, and the Chelsea hitman has been banging in the goals in recent weeks.

Squad

Gk: Tony Fuller (Ipswich), Chris Kirkland (Liverpool), Paul Robinson (Leeds)

Def: Jonathan Woodgate (Millwall), Rio Ferdinand (Man Utd, capt), John Curtis (Chelsea), Ishmail Yakabu (Watford), John Terry (Bayern Munich), Neil Clement (Chelsea), Ashley Cole (Arsenal), Chris Riggott (Arsenal), Stuart Richards (Birmingham)

Mid: Owen Hargreaves (Barcelona), Kieron Dyer (Milan), Matt Hamshaw (Bolton), Paul Ifill (Ipswich), Joe Cole (Milan), Jason Paterson (Chelsea), Matthew Etherington (Sunderland), David Dunn (Sunderland), Matthew Piper (Roma)

Fwd: Cherno Samba (Chelsea), Francis Jeffers (Celtic), Alan Smith (Hertha BSC), Marcus Bent (Leverkusen), Michael Owen (Liverpool)

Lotina explains decision to leave out Celtic duo

Spanish manager Miguel Ãngel Lotina has explained the rather strange decision to once again leave out Celtic duo Raul and Fernando Torres from the forthcoming internationals against Israel and the Argentina friendly. In a time where the Spanish are struggling for goals and form, common sense would suggest the prolific duo would be selected. Apparently not so, according to Lotina. "Raul and Fernando Torres are great players, but unfortunately they play in a foreign and an inferior league. I tend to look towards players plying their trade in the Primera Division, and this means that the two Celtic players must impress sufficiently to earn call-ups. I do not believe reputations stand for anything, and my selection of strikers are fully capable of achieving the job at hand."

Lotina's words are not too convincing however. Chief Sports reporter of Madrid sports daily 'Marca' - Miguel López - has slated Lotina. "In a time where Spain are struggling for form, Lotina needs to select his best players. This must include Raul, and to a lesser extent Torres. To leave out Raul - a national icon, and the top scorer in the history of Spanish football - defies belief."

Lotina has made a number of other changes to his latest 26 man squad. Carles Puyol has been rested, with uncapped Rayo sweeper Manuel Baños taking his place. Marcelo is replaced by experience and quality in Celta's Luis Prieto, whilst Espín is replaced by Raúl Bravo. Betis' Capi earns a midfield recall ahead of the injured Gerard, whilst in attack Rodolfo Bodipo has been demoted in preferrence of Valencia striker David Aganzo. Despite some praise for the changes made, Lotina still walks a very precarious plank. Defeat to Israel will almost certainly signal the end of his tenure.

Squad

Gk: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Francesc Arnau (Celta), Jonathan (Valencia)

Def: Alejandro Pardo (Valladolid), David Rivas (Betis), Manuel Baños (Rayo), Juanfran (Celta), Luis Prieto (Celta), Gálder Zubizaretta (Mallorca), Raúl Bravo (Málaga), Fernando Varela (Real Madrid), Francisco Pavón (Real Madrid), Gabri (Barcelona)

Mid: Capi (Betis), Francisco Gallardo (Racing Santander), Joseba Etxeberría (Athletic Bilbao), Xavi (Barcelona), Fernando Sales (Bayern Munich), Raúl Ivars (Real Madrid), Roberto Trashorras (Barcelona)

Fwd: Roberto Losada (Valencia), José Antonio Reyes (Atlético Madrid), David Aganzo (Valencia), Guayre (Betis), José Mari (Atlético Madrid), Güiza (Celta)

Guidolin's Italy takes shape

After three months into the job, Italian coach Francesco Guidolin is starting to shape his Azzurri squad to his liking. The most notable absentee is captain Gianluigi Buffon, surprisingly found to be surplus to requirements for the clashes with the Faroes and Sweden. Ivan Pelizzoli - admittedly in good form - is his replacement, a man who Guidolin rates highly. A number of defensive changes sees newcomer Francesco Vianello and old hat Fabio Rustico replace Marco Zamboni and Nicola Pagliarin. Alessandro Nesta has been unable to train for the last ten days and is a notable name missing from the sheet. Experienced Perugia holder Stefano Morrone, and the man who used to have his role in Umbria, Manuele Blasi (now of Milan) are acknowledged by Guidolin as Roberto Guana and Nicola Orru didn't make their marks in their first call up. Betis striker Fausto Rossini replaces former Atalanta teammate Nicola Ventola and Inácio Piá in attack are the only other changes. Seven changes shows how much Guidolin believes his sides below-par performances in the opening games might have cost them. The intent is firmly upon youth in this squad. The other point to note is the new captain. In the absence of Nesta and Buffon, the armband may well go to Fabio Rustico or Gianluca Comotto - although this is as yet unconfirmed.

Squad

Gk: Ivan Pelizzoli (Roma) Christian Abbiati (Milan), Gian Luca Pegolo (Juventus)

Def: Manuel Amantini (Roma), Giovanni Castellini (Juventus), Claudio Cioffi (Atalanta), Marco Zanchi (Bologna), Marco Cassetti (Lecce), Gianluca Comotto (Dortmund), Fabio Rustico (Juventus), Massimo Oddo (Milan), Francesco Vianello (Perugia)

Mid: Luciano Zauri (Milan), Andrea Pirlo (Milan), Matteo Brighi (Parma), Marco Marchionni (Parma), Manuele Blasi (Milan), Damiano Zenoni (Milan), Stefano Morrone (Perugia), Giuseppe Colucci (Juventus)

Fwd: Salvatore Bruno (Lecce), Alessandro Pellicori (Lazio), Eder Bau (Roma), Alberto Gilardino (Parma), Fausto Rossini (Betis), Inácio Piá (Inter)

In brief...

...Kuipers drafted into Dutch squad, Bouma and Lamey also return; captain Silva banned....Henry restored to French squad after injury, joined by Mexes....Völler rings German changes with six in total....Olisadebe back for Poles.....

Spotlight on....

Cherno Samba

Cherno Samba. A name not too unfamiliar to English football fans. He first hit the headlines in 1999 as a fourteen year old with amazing potential. Now Samba has started to turn that potential into reality. Early seasons with Millwall offered glimpses of what might be possible, but 2003/04 was a real breakthrough. Samba struck 18 goals in Millwall's promotion season, and started to attract attention from big clubs. He was in demand from some of Europe's top clubs, but since he was still eighteen he decided to stay in London and join Arsenal. After an initial spell fitting into the lineup (whilst still impressing in the reserves, scoring prolific amounts) Cherno found his niche in the 2006/07 season, scoring nineteen times in little more than thirty appearances. The goals continued to come, and not just any goals. Respect came from all areas for the sheer quality Samba possesses for such a built player. To the naked eye he is reminiscent of Emile Heskey, but study him further and there is so much more. His form attracted the attention of England manager Jamie Peake, and in 2008 he was called into the England squad for the European Championships, making his debut at the unglorified surroundings of Ninian Park against France. Further glory followed as he found himself in ownership of a European Championship Winners Medal. He became hot property, whilst still in great form at Arsenal. But he found it a struggle at Highbury to get a first team place on a regular basis, and clashed with manager Nicky Law. Chelsea stepped in February of this year, and Cherno hasn't looked back. £10.25m means Ken Bates expects some return, and how Samba has paid it back. He simply cannot stop scoring. Which begs the question: why has he not played more for England. Twenty-four minutes two years ago is the total sum of his international experience. To break in ahead of Michael Owen and Alan Smith would be a tough task, but one man who believes he can do it is Chelsea teammate and international colleague Neil Clement. "Cherno's been in and about the England party for such a long time that what he has learnt is invaluable. When he gets his opportunity, I know he'll take it with open arms, and prove his worth." Only time will tell how influential he can be for England.

Profile

Date of Birth - 10th November 1985

Club - Chelsea

Career Appearances/Goals - 257/94

Previous Clubs - Millwall, Arsenal

Honours - European Champions (2008), FA Cup 2005, European Super Cup 2004, English First Division Title 2004

8th October 2010

Preview of the weekend's big international games:

Group One - Wales vs Denmark

After poor starts for both sides in the qualification campaign, a win is a must if either country wants to make an impression. Wales are feeling the heat after a slack performance against Lithuania and an abysmal showing against Slovakia, but Mark Hughes refuses to panic. "We've got plenty of time left, and we've had some injuries, but at full strength we can do this." Denmark's slip in their first game leaves them plenty of room to recover, and manager Tortsen Dürr knows as much. "Our squad is superior to everyone in the group. We slipped against Croatia, but I'm confident of recovery." Robert Earnshaw is set to return to the Welsh fold after injury, whilst Denmark should be at full strength, which includes centre back Martin Laursen.

Group Six - Serbia & Montenegro vs Finland

Perhaps not the most attractive game on paper, but the prize at stake for either side might well depend on the result in Belgrade. In a Group where Ireland are doing well but World Champions Holland are toiling, Serbia & Montenegro and Finland may fancy themselves. The former in particular will take heart from a draw in Amsterdam, a feat which manager Dusan Bajevic rates amongst his highest achievements. "We had struggled for form over a long period, but a draw in the Netherlands is great for Serbia & Montenegro. Hopefully we can use it as a catalyst to drive for qualification." Prolific PSV attacker Mateja Kezman has again been left out in favour of Lecce's Mirko Vucinic, who is expected to lead the line. Finland are fully capable of performing, and on their day are a match for most. Mikael Forssell, despite an average start to the club season, will lead the line alongside a rejuvenated Juho Mäkelä, although Tomi Petrescu will push for a start.

Group Nine - Iceland vs Poland

A clash of the potential qualifiers from the group in Reykjavik. Both sides have a 100% record in qualification so far, although Poland have only played one game. Iceland, after causing a major stir by finishing losing finalists in Scotland/Wales 2008, are starting to perform very consistently. However, they are still prone to defeats to smaller nations, as Slovakia and Bosnia have shown in recent times. A huge blow is the withdrawal of Eidur Gudjohsen to injury. The Dortmund striker is amongst the best today, and without disrespect Garðar Gunnlaugsson is not an ideal replacement. Poland have recalled Polish-born striker Emmanuel Olisadebe after injury, but Poland are quite frustrating for the fan. For all their quality, they often flatter to deceive. Mateusz Dobek could control their play, but only if he is used correctly as a second striker and not the lead man. With the poor Czech start the winner on Saturday may hold claim to winning the qualification from the group.

9th October 2010

Irish stunned by Albanian smash and grab

After a fantastic start to their campaign, Mick McCarthy's side threw away their good work with a quite shocking 1-0 defeat at home to Albania. It was all innocent for a lot of the match. As expected, Ireland started positively. Clinton Morrison drove past the post on eleven minutes, and hit the crossbar with a header ten minutes later. The pressure continued, but Ciarán Keane, Reid, Morrison and company were wasteful in the face of goal, and Astrit Shala was playing very well in goal. Damien Duff was the next player to find the woodwork non-too friendly, as his run and shot cannoned off the bar and over. The pressure was all with the Green, but a setback arrived twenty minutes from time when Steve Finnan - who had only arrived on the pitch seconds before - was sent off for shoving Alban Lika in the chest. Finnan had reacted to a confrontation near the touchline minutes before, and his act of petulance did not go down well with McCarthy. Albania dared to venture forward for the first time, and struck gold. Captain Altin Lala layed a ball into Eduard Meka's path, and the Borussia MGB striker slammed the ball high past Sheridan. Their defence (notably weakened by the injury to Varese prodigy Domenico Asara) held out for a famous away win.

Republic of Ireland 0

Albania 1 (Meka 77)

Attendance - 47,952

Referee - Hovane Assadourian (Armenia)

Ireland - Sheridan, Geary, Harte, O'Shea, O'Brien (Gavin 64), Foley Sheridan (O'Connor 76), Duff, C.Keane, Morrison (Finnan 70), R.Keane, Reid

Albania - Shala, Di Palma, Aliaj, Muca, Dupré, Morina, Zeneli (Aliji 51), A.Lika, Lala©, Meka, Skela (K.Lika 57)

Iceland soar onwards in Reykjavic

A late goal from Gunnar Heidar þorvaldsson gave Iceland three more precious points to make the trip across Scandinavia to Norway in 2012 a little more easier. Heidar Helguson signalled the Icelandic aims at an early stage, as his third minute run and shot went agonisingly close to giving them a great start. Yet Poland had similar ideas, as Emmauel Olisadebe volleyed over the crossbar in an almost immediate response. The Nigerian born striker should have done better midway through the half with a shot that he dragged embarrasingly wide from a position he really should have scored from. Two minutes after the hour mark passing Poland came closest to troubling the scorers. Piotr Pawlowski broke free in the area to meet Dobek's cross, but the header only rebounded away off of the crossbar. As time went on it looked as if Poland would be the likeliest winners, but with just five minutes remaining þorvaldsson collected possession and rifled a low shot into the back of the net. Poland will feel harshly done, but the match was well balanced and such a late goal would always be the winner. Iceland have a comfortable six point lead at the top after three games. whilst Poland still have work to do.

Iceland 1 (þorvaldsson 85)

Poland 0

Attendance - 13,991

Referee - Robert Hoyzer (Holland)

Iceland - Hauksson, Ólafsson, I.Sigurðsson, S.Sigurdsson, Gudmundsson, B.Gudjonsson, þorvaldsson, J.Gudjonsson©, Helguson, Jónsson, Guðlaugsson

Poland - Wierzchowski, Zurawski (Wichniarek 9), Kosowski, Prasnal, Klimek, Szymanski, Stasiak©, Klimowicz (P.Pawlowski 21, K.Pawlowski 85), Dobek, Olisadebe, Sokolowski

Scottish cement stronghold in Group Three

David Körner's Scotland side made their position atop Group Four even stronger after an emphatic win in Estonia meant they maintain a 100% record. Gary Twigg, chosen ahead of in-form Stephen McPhee, showed he has the calibre to lead after just three minutes. A lovely flowing team move was too hot for Estonia to handle, and Twigg swept the ball into the back of Mart Poom's net. Estonia had lined up ambitiously, but the goal took all the steam out of them, and Keigan Parker's eleventh international goal made it two halfway through the first period. As with the first goal, right back Jamie McCunnie supplied the cross, and Parker nodded in for 2-0. Ten minutes into the second half a third goal came all too easily for captain Barry Ferguson. A smart one-two with Keigan Parker gave the Rangers man some breathing space, and after holding off Stepanov he slipped past Poom and made it 3-0. Minutes later Twigg headed in his second, after yet another delicious cross from Ipswich's Jamie McCunnie, enjoying a fruitful 50th cap. Darren Fletcher might have added another late on, but four was enough for Scotland, who know that a win in their next qualifier against Ukraine (in March) will almost seal their path to Norway. Estonia meanwhile share bottom place with Spain after two losses in two games.

Estonia 0

Scotland 4 (Twigg 3, 66, Parker 23, Ferguson 56)

Attendance - 14,968

Referee - Martin Ingvarsson (Iceland)

Estonia - Poom©, Palatu, V.Stepanov, Metsmaa, Piiroja, O.Stepanov (Gross 77), Antonov (Karlsson 57), Paivil (Post 57), Losanov, Tðelnokov, Lindpere

Scotland - Young, McCunnie, McNaughton, Wilkie (Naysmith 83), Caldwell, McGuire, Fletcher (Miller 77), McFadden (Paterson 83), Parker, Twigg, Ferguson

Round Up

Denmark took a positive step towards qualification from Group One whilst almost certainly ending Welsh hopes of Euro 2012. Morten Skoubo's 4th minute goal was of the highest order. Wales almost levelled through Rob Earnshaw's post-bound shot, but in all truth Mark Hughes' side were never in the contest, and although they have three points from three games, their chances of progression are slim. Slovakia move into second spot with a 1-0 win in Lithuania, courtesy of Robert Vittek's second half goal. However, Ladislav Jurkemik's side have played a game more than Croatia and Denmark.

France continue to saunter through Group Two as they brushed aside San Marino 3-0 at the Stade de France. Despite the San Marinese fielding their strongest side ever, France still found it too easy. Captain Patrick Vieira scored his 21st international goal on 35 minutes to open the scoring, and Stephane Dalmat doubled the advantage shortly before half time. Liverpool's Willy Sagnol converted a late penalty to seal the win for Les Bleus, who are in a commanding position. Georgia upset Hungary with a 2-1 win in Tblisi. All was going to plan as the visitors lead through Gábor Szerekes on 32 minutes. Georgi Adamia levelled instantly before star man Kobiashvili struck a header to give the Georgians a second straight win. Bulgaria ran out 3-1 winners easily in Latvia to stay second in the group. By the quarter hour mark Dimitar Berbatov and Valeri Bojinov had given the Bulgarians a 2-0 lead, which proved unassailable. Romanov pulled a late consolation back, but Martin Petrov restored the two goal lead with four minutes to go.

With Scotland dominating and Spain toiling, Ukraine took a further step towards qualification from Group Three, even at such an early stage, with a 2-1 win in Israel. Sergiy Valyaev headed in an opener to reward a spell of Ukrainian pressure. A dire match was levelled when Yossi Benayoun capped a flowing move, but with twenty minutes left Vitaliy Lisitskiy headed home a first international goal to preserve their 100% record after two games.

The Greek goal machine continues to work as well as ever in Group Four. Alexandros Papadopoulos and Manolis Ligkos each struck once again in Belarus to keep the table wide open with a 2-1 win. Belarus were no pushovers, but Papadopoulos showed his predatory instinct just after half time by stealing in for an open goal rebound. Veteran 34-year-old defender Vitaliy Volodenkov slammed in a goal with his weaker left foot to equalise, but a Greek counter attack was consumnately headed in by Ligkos to take the points. Italy went past the Faroe Islands without much effort, and with it showed signs that a competent strikeforce has been found again. First half goals from Eder Bau, Andrea Pirlo, and Alessandro Pellicori were enough to take an easy win, as Italy looked to preserve their energy for the visit to Sweden on Wednesday. The Swedes also won 3-0 in Luxembourg, with strikes from Yksel Osmanovski (twice) and Alex Farnerud doing the business.

With England taking a rest, Romania and Austria looked towards gaining ground in Group Five. Wolfgang Wimmer's 61st minute header was enough to see off Armenia and put Austria into second, ahead of Romania, who went to Macedonia and came away with a 2-1 win. An injury time blockbuster from Daniel Florea got them off the hook after Adrian Mihalcea's opener was cancelled out by Aico Stojkov's penalty.

With Ireland's shock Group Six defeat to Albania, Finland took a giant stride with an impressive victory in Serbia & Montenegro. Mikael Forssell's goal was just reward for the Finns, who always looked like winning against a Montenegrin side who had Dragoljub Jeremic dismissed.

A second consecutive 4-0 victory away from home for Germany against a minnow put the Nationalmannschaft top of Group Seven. Three goalscorers enjoyed their first ever goals at international level, with the other enhancing his growing reputation. Marcel Ketelaer struck a scorching right foot drive after 28 minutes to score his first goal for Germany to give Völler's side a 1-0 lead at the break. A few seconds into the second half Kai Brand continued his growing reputation with his eleventh international goal in sixteen caps. The prolific Union Berlin striker must be attracting attention from bigger clubs after consistently brilliant performances. Dennis Becker found his first international goal midway through the second half after Brand had made it for him, and veteran defender Thomas Cichon headed in the fourth to make his mark in the international record books. Bosnia and Slovenia shared a 1-1 draw in Sarajevo. Ermin Poturak's first international strike had given the home side a lead, but it was cancelled out by Gregor Spasojevic's tap in. Finally, Belgium took little interest in beating Azerbaijan 2-0. Early goals from Nico Waseige and Steed Malbranque allowed Alain Giresse to preserve his best for the match in Germany on Wednesday.

Russia beat Moldova 2-0 on Group Eight to put a mark in the wins column after a poor start. Simak and Kerzhakov struck early goals to put the game out of Moldova's reach, and with it any feint hopes of qualifying. Northern Ireland find themselves in a similar situation after also going down to a 2-0 away defeat, in Turkey. Galatasaray forward Akin Serhat struck at the start and end of the first half to keep the Turkish interest in qualification well and truly alive.

Cyprus and Switzerland shared a dull and drab 0-0 draw in Nicosia to do nothing for either countrys Group Nine hopes. Switzerland dominated but couldn't find a way through. It leaves qualification well and truly between Iceland, Poland, and the Czech Republic.

11th October 2010

Match Previews:

Group Four - Sweden vs Italy

The meeting of the two group favourites in Stockholm will go a long way to determining the fate of either side as they hunt a place in the sixteen who will play in Norwat in 2012. Italy made a shaky start against Belarus but looked comfortable against the minnow nations. Wednesday night in Sweden will be manager Francesco Guidolin's first real task in charge of the Azzurri, and one that he's relishing. "International football is made for important games, and our players are starting to respond to my ideas. Any group of players will take time to gel, and ours are looking better every day." Eder Bau and Alessandro Pellicori are expected to resume their potent tandem up front, which has yielded five goals in qualfying to date. Sweden are in a similar position, and are expected to be at full strength. Kennedy Bakircioglu and Kim Kallstrom will need to be at their best to overpower the Italian midield.

Group Seven - Germany vs Belgium

After an unexpected defeat to Slovenia on day one, Germany have recovered with easy 4-0 wins. Against Belgium in Munich it will be far harder. Giresse's troops are unbeaten as yet, and without looking brilliant they have the typical Belgium combination of hard work and finesse. Germany, however, have two of Europe's hottest talents. In Dennis Becker and Kai Brand they have a formidable combination which could hurt anyone at any time. Keeping Brand under wraps may prove to be the hardest task for the Belgian rearguard. Giresse may employ PSV's Jan Wuytens as a specific man-marker on Brand, sacrificing one player for the good of the side. For Völler's Germany, Daniel Bierofka will take a late fitness test, but is only rated a 30% chance to be fit.

Group Nine - Czech Republic vs Iceland

After a perfect start Iceland face their toughest task against a talented but inconsistent Czech side. Atli Eðvaldsson's Icelandic side have a 100% win record after their first three games, and avoiding defeat in Prague will be a boost to their hopes of qualifying. Without Eidur Gudjohnsen they looked less dangerous against Poland but came away with the win nonetheless, and Sævar Jónsson should start once again alongside Heidar Helguson. For the Czechs a defeat in Poland was a huge blow to their chances, but they can redeem themselves with a win on Wednesday night. Vit Valenta has been called in to the senior squad for the first time, and at the age of 27 is at his peak. But there is no doubt of the true star. Should Tomas Rosicky have his game head on, he can be unstoppable, which makes the Czechs far more threatening. Ludek Straceny and Milan Baros will contest a starting spot alongside Marek Heinz.

13th October 2010

France crash in Sofia

Paul Le Guen's French side came crashing back to earth with a bump in Sofia after suffering their first defeat in nearly a year to a fully deserving Bulgarian side. Stilian Petrov signalled early the intentions of the home side with a crashing free kick way over Frey's goal. France came out of their shells and almost scored the lead via Trezeguet's shot. It wasn't to be, and it was Bulgaria who scored the opener on 28 minutes. Christian Rivière gave the ball away to Martin Petrov, who found namesake Stilian. The Arsenal man fed captain Dimitar Berbatov, and he clipped the ball past Frey's outstretched palm. France never looked in the match after that, and despite Trezeguet's header and some enterprise from Giuly, Bulgaria were in cruise control. The home side looked for a second, but their finishing was distinctly average. Fifteen minutes from time the final nail was put into the French coffin. Again it was the two Petrov's combining, as Stilian claimed the assist for Martin's header. With five minutes on the clock Sidney Govou's header hit the base of the post, which summed up the French day, and leaves them travelling home with some serious thinking to do.

Bulgaria 2 (Berbatov 28, M.Petrov 76)

France 0

Attendance - 42,349

Referee - Reha Biçici (Turkey)

Bulgaria - Shterev, Andonov (Manolov 69), Peev, Dimitrov, Tunchev, M.Petrov, S.Petrov, Zhelev, Bojinov (A.Todorov 69), Berbatov©, Gargorov (Mladenov 60)

France - Frey, Sagnol, Rivière, Escudé, Gallas, Dalmat, Cheyrou, Vieira©, Govou, Trezeguet, Giuly

Italy battle through in Sweden

In the much hyped clash between the two sides expected to be at the business end of qualification, Francesco Guidolin's Italian side battled through to a 1-0 win in Stockholm's Rasunda Stadium. Lazio striker Alessandro Pellicori struck gold with just seconds left on the clock after Inácio Pia's build up play had given him ample time and space to crack an effort past Rami Shaaban. Italy had dominated the match, but they found the Swedish defence on a good day. By the fifth minute the Azzurri had already had four attempts at goal, all without much conviction. Andrea Pirlo was at the heart of everything from his trequartista role, but his handywork was wasted by various players, namely Roma's Eder Bau. When he tried to go himself, he found Shaaban in fantastic form. The second half was much the same, as the approach play was fine, but the final answer was poor. Kennedy Bakircioglu came closest for the home side midway into the second half with an unmarked header that swayed wide of Pelizzoli's goal. The match looked to have peetered out into an exciting but rather disappointing goalless draw until the 89th minute when Pellicori shattered Sweden with a late, late decider. Eder Bau might have doubled the advantage in injury time, but Pellicori's goal proved enough to put Italy top of the group and in a strong position. Other results mean Sweden's qualification hopes have taken quite a setback tonight.

Sweden 0

Italy 1 (Pellicori 89)

Attendance - 35,990

Referee - Hovane Assadourian (Armenia)

Sweden - Shaaban, J.Eriksson (Henriksen 62), Dorsin, N-E Johansson, Mellberg, Kallstrom©, Ljungberg (Djordjic 75), Bakircioglu, A.Farnerud, Osmanovski, Ishizaki

Italy - Pelizzoli, Marchionni (Comotto 58), Colucci, Cassetti, Rustico, Cioffi (Vianello 58), Brighi©, Pirlo (Inácio Pia 68), Bau, Pellicori, Zauri

Crisis looms for Gullit's World Champions

World Cup holders Holland are fearing for their qualifying chances after a second consecutive defeat leaves them with just one point from three games, and bottom of Group Six. Finland fully deserved their 3-2 victory, indeed, the scoreline was perhaps kind on the Dutch. Much of the first half was a mixed affair, as both sides looked to open the scoring. Van der Vaart's good play for the Netherlands was constantly stamped out by the ever-impressive Finnish captain Sami Hyypia. Much against the run of play, Finland took the lead five minutes before the break. Mikael Forssell drove past Oude Kamphuis and Bouma before drilling a shot low and hard past Maarten Stekelenburg. The second half saw a Dutch siege on Jaaskelainen's goal, but they were far too inconsistent and rash in their finishing. On 56 minutes Finland doubled their lead to really sink Gullit's side. Henri Scheweleff lobbed a perfect pass to Juho Mäkelä, and the Venezia striker headed past former teammate Stekelenburg to make the scoreline 2-0. Holland appeared to have pressed the self destruct button, because the play started to be all Finland's. Teemu Tainio and Hyypia both drove shots just over. Mäkelä volleyed just wide. A third looked inevitable, and with eight minutes remaining it came. Right back Tommy Wirtanen sent over a cross too nice for Mäkelä to waste. A volley seared into the net to end the Dutch hopes. Or did it. With five minutes remaining Yousseff Hersi gave hope with a spectacular long range effort to score his first goal since the World Cup Final. Minutes later he scored again, climbing highest to head in Mario Melchiot's free kick. But it was too late. Finland held out to take pole position in qualifying, and leaving Gullit with a huge task ahead.

Finland 3 (Forssell 40, Mäkelä 56, 82)

Holland 2 (Hersi 86, 90)

Attendance - 39,713

Referee - Gordon Zammit Tabona (Norway)

Finland - Jaaskelainen, Wirtanen, Bergholm, Tihinen, Hyypia©, Tainio, Okkonen (Kopteff 58), Riihilahti (Heikkinen 88), Mäkelä, Forssell, Ilola (Scheweleff 18)

Holland - Stekelenburg, Oude Kamphuis, Bouma, Melchiot, H.Seedorf, Van der Vaart©, Robben, Hersi, Kuijt (de Jong 53), van Nistelrooy (van Beukering 67), van der Meyde

Round up...

Wales claimed an impressive Group One point as they held Croatia to a 2-2 draw in Split. Ivan Klasnic had given the home side a lead midway through the first half, a lead that was to be cancelled out in first half injury time by Robert Earnshaw. Klasnic restored the lead early in the second half, but once again Wales showed determination to draw level again through Andrew Hughes' penalty. Denmark failed to take advantage after being disappointingly held at home 2-2 by Lithuania. Morten Skoubo struck early to signal a likely massacre, but it never materialised. Dobuis Poskus equalised on 26 minutes, and then Lithuania sat back on their lot. Kim Madsen's 86th minute goal was his first for Denmark and looked to have won the game, but Poskus struck again immediately to give Lithuania a promising point.

Bulgaria's defeat of France in Group Two was made even more impressive as Latvia came away from Hungary with all three points. A first goal for Zhan Deryugine fifteen minutes from time was enough to leave Hungary all but out of qualification, but Latvia are well and truly in the mix. San Marino claimed a rare win as they beat Georgia 1-0 in Serravalle. Cinque Cassese scored his first international goal to take the points.

Spain finally found their winning formula in Group Three with a 2-1 win over Israel in Madrid. Guayre gave them an early lead, which was doubled five minutes later by Barcelona's Xavi. However, Spain looked less than comfortable, and Yossi Benayoun's late goal made the last ten minutes a littler hairier than they would have liked. A win is a win though, and Miguel Ãngel Lotina will look to this as a start of better things. Ukraine went level top with Scotland with a 3-0 win over Estonia thanks to Andriy Shevchenko's second hat-trick in three games. All three came in the first half as the Milan man showed he is still one of the most dangerous strikers around.

Greece share top spot in Group Four with Italy by crushing Luxembourg 5-1 in Athens. They found it a lot tougher than expected, and were only 2-0 ahead at the break with goals from Iordanis Zouboulis and Manolis Ligkos. Romain Schumacher scored with 12 minutes to go to shock Greece, but three goals in the last nine minutes made the emphatic scoreline a little harsh. Manolis Ligkos completed a hat-trick with two goals, sandwiching a Ioannis Amanatidis effort in between. Belarus impressed in the Faroes with a comfortable 3-1 victory. Two goals from Vitaly Kutuzov did the damage, and Maxim Tsigalko added the third.

Deciding to rest Michael Owen was an inspired decision for Steve McLaren's England as they crushed Macedonia 4-0 in Group Five. Owen's replacement, Matt Piper, struck a first international hat-trick on an amazing 71st cap. Alan Smith scored the other goal to take him within three goals of Bobby Charlton's all time record. Only a serious injury (forbid that should happen) will stop him becoming the top scorer ever. Still, no room was found for the talents of Cherno Samba. Romania eased past Armenia in Bucharest with goals from Paul Codrea, Laurentiu Rosu, and Adrian Mihalcea sealing a 3-0 win.

Serbia & Montenegro may see the Dutch failure in Group Six as a chance to exploit. A 2-0 win in Albania, courtesy of two goals from Mirko Vucinic, took them to within two points of Ireland, and in with a real chance of making a playoff place.

Bayern prodigy Dennis Becker proved Germany's Group Seven saviour as he scored to save a point for Germany at home to Belgium. Wesley Sonck had given the visitors the lead against a ten man home side, who had Hanno Balitsch dismissed after five minutes. Yet Becker scored a second straight international goal with a cracking effort just before half time to take a crucial point. Slovenia go top with a 4-1 win over Malta in which all five goals came in the first half. Ales Mejac scored a hat-trick to take the strain off of partner Dejan Robnik, who made the other goal for Gregor Spasojevic. Mark Caruana had temporarily levelled for the Maltese, but they never looked in the game. And Bosnia go second with a 2-0 win over Azerbaijan. Duro and Ferhatovic scored the all important goals.

Portugal stay top of Group Eight with a 2-0 win in Northern Ireland to be one of the few sides to still have a 100% record. Nuno Gomes' header and a late Felipe Oliviera goal sunk McIlroy's men. Turkey stay second by winning 4-1 in Moldova. Akin Serhat claimed two more goals, in between Akin Ibrahim and Yildiray Basturk's goals.

Finally to Group Nine where Iceland tasted a first defeat in the Czech Republic. Milan Baros gave the home side an early lead, which Iceland should have cancelled out on 18. Petr Cech, the home goalkeeper, was dismissed for bringing down Jónsson. But sub keeper Jiri Scasny saved Heidar Helguson with his first international touch. Tomas Rosicky doubled the lead in the first half to really sink Atli Eðvaldsson's troops, who had Stefan Guðmundsson sent off in injury time in what was a bad tempered match. Poland take advantage with a 2-1 victory at home to Cyprus. Mateusz Dobek scored in first half injury time to cancel out Costas Xiourouppa's opener. Debutant Mariusz Fornalik scored the winner for the home side early in the second half.

The tables after four games show much more of a structure to them:

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

************************************************************************************************

European Championship Qualifying - Wednesday 13th October 2010

************************************************************************************************

================================================================================================

2010 Tables

================================================================================================

Group 1

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Croatia 3 1 1 0 4 2 1 0 0 2 1 7

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Slovakia 3 1 0 0 3 0 1 0 1 1 2 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Denmark 3 0 1 1 3 4 1 0 0 1 0 4

4th Wales 4 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 2 5 4

5th Lithuania 3 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 1 2 3 1

Group 2

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st France 4 2 0 0 8 0 1 0 1 2 2 9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Bulgaria 4 1 0 1 2 1 2 0 0 4 1 9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Georgia 4 1 0 1 2 3 1 0 1 1 1 6

4th Latvia 4 1 0 1 3 4 1 0 1 1 5 6

5th Hungary 4 0 0 2 0 2 1 0 1 2 2 3

6th San Marino 4 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 2 1 5 3

Group 3

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Scotland 3 1 0 0 3 1 2 0 0 7 0 9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Ukraine 3 2 0 0 6 2 1 0 0 2 1 9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Spain 3 1 0 1 2 4 0 0 1 2 3 3

4th Israel 4 1 0 1 2 2 0 0 2 2 5 3

5th Estonia 3 0 0 1 0 4 0 0 2 0 4 0

Group 4

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Greece 4 1 1 0 6 2 2 0 0 5 1 10

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Italy 4 2 0 0 6 0 1 1 0 2 1 10

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Sweden 4 1 0 1 3 1 1 1 0 4 1 7

4th Belarus 4 0 1 1 2 3 1 0 1 3 4 4

5th Faroe Islands 4 0 0 2 1 6 1 0 1 6 4 3

6th Luxembourg 4 0 0 2 1 9 0 0 2 1 8 0

Group 5

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st England 3 2 0 0 6 0 1 0 0 2 0 9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Romania 3 1 0 1 3 2 1 0 0 2 1 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Austria 3 1 0 0 3 0 1 0 1 1 2 6

4th FYROM 4 1 0 1 4 2 0 0 2 0 7 3

5th Armenia 3 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 6 0

Group 6

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Finland 4 1 0 1 3 4 2 0 0 4 1 9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Ireland 3 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 2 0 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Serbia & Montengro 3 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 3 1 4

4th Albania 3 0 0 2 1 5 1 0 0 1 0 3

5th Holland 3 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 4 1

Group 7

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Slovenia 4 1 1 0 7 4 1 1 0 3 1 8

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Bosnia 4 1 1 0 5 2 1 1 0 4 2 8

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Germany 4 0 1 1 1 3 2 0 0 8 0 7

4th Belgium 4 1 1 0 4 2 0 2 0 4 4 6

5th Azerbaijan 4 0 0 2 0 6 1 0 1 1 2 3

6th Malta 4 0 0 2 0 5 0 0 2 2 8 0

Group 8

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Portugal 3 1 0 0 4 1 2 0 0 3 0 9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Turkey 3 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 5 5 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Russia 3 1 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 4

4th N.Ireland 4 0 1 1 1 3 0 1 1 2 4 2

5th Moldova 3 0 1 1 3 6 0 0 1 0 2 1

Group 9

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Iceland 4 2 0 0 3 1 1 0 1 2 2 9

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Poland 3 2 0 0 4 1 0 0 1 0 1 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3rd Czech Republic 3 2 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 2 6

4th Cyprus 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 4 1

5th Switzerland 3 0 0 1 0 2 0 1 1 0 1 1

Second Placed Teams

Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag Won Drn Lst For Ag Pts

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1st Bulgaria 3 1 0 1 2 1 1 0 0 3 1 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2nd Ukraine 2 1 0 0 3 2 1 0 0 2 1 6

3rd Poland 3 2 0 0 4 1 0 0 1 0 1 6

4th Italy 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 1 4

5th Slovakia 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 2 3

6th Ireland 2 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 3

7th Turkey 2 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 4 3

8th Romania 2 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 2 1 3

9th Bosnia 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 2 2 2

</pre>

16th October 2010

Kai forming his own Brand of football

If there is a more prolific goalscorer than Kai Brand in world football currently then we are yet to see him. Union Berlin and Germany striker Brand has an infectious desire to score goals. And how he does. His breakthrough season as a tall and burly sixteen year old came as Union were being promoted into Bundesliga 1, and Brand scored his first goal during the run in. He started the following season well in the German Liga-Pokal, but was loaned out to second division Aaachen for experience. He continued in his prolific vein there, notching 19 in an average side. By now his name was becoming known around Germany, and his first season in the top flight yielded seven goals. It was at the end of this season he made his international debut, as he was handed forty minutes against Italy. Big clubs, namely Bayern Munich, were becoming interested in Brand, but Union Berlin were determined to keep hold of their talented hitman. The following season was a revelation. Brand hit 29 goals in 25 games to become the hottest talent in Europe - and he was only 21. Still he stayed in Berlin, and still he progressed. A first international goal arrived too, as he started to make an impression in the German side. Thirty goals followed in the same season, but the 2009/10 season was quite unbelievable. Union Berlin finised a modest fifth, but Brand had hit 38 goals on the way, excluding six for Germany, some of which came at a prolific and yielding World Cup. This season has started in the same way, as Brand has struck gold and goals wherever he has gone. It may only be a matter of time before a big club picks up this simply outstanding young striker. If and when Berlin decide to sell, they will receive a suitably large fee, but the buyer will have a guaranteed goalscorer, as Kai Brand will undoubtedly score goals anywhere. It's just his Brand of football.