First of all, I have serious issues with the fact that two big games were broadcast at the same time. WTF. I was like a crazy person with the remote control. That being said…
The Italy versus Ireland game was excellent, the fighting Irish started off with a winning attitude, which they maintained for the entire game. The Azzurri also came onto the pitch ready to win, and they needed to defeat Ireland to qualify to the next round, provided that Spain beat Croatia. Thankfully, that’s exactly what happened. Antonio Cassano put the Italians ahead in the first half with an extremely lucky header, the Irish contested it at first but the ball clearly crossed the goal line, after being kicked out. Ireland continued fighting though, and when the second half began, they kept up the pressure on Italy and they spent a couple of minutes in front of Buffon, in the danger zone. Cesare Prandelli’s squad was quick and efficient this evening, even after Chiellini came off due to injury, and Cassano and Di Natale’s substitution. The Irish knew they were going home regardless of the score, but they truthfully played the game to the very last minute….in which, (SUPER)Mario Balotelli pulled of a pseudo bicycle kick that rocketed the ball passed Shay Given, sending the Italians through to the knockout phase and sending the Irish home. (Its worth noting that Ireland hasn’t played in a major European tournament in 24 years, and though they are exiting at the group stage, the squad (whipped into shape by legendary Italian coach Giovanni Trapatoni) played well down to the last match.
Reigning World and EURO champions Spain played Croatia tonight as well, though the Italy match was far more exciting. I assumed Spain would win, but I also hoped there would be a little more action. Spain was going through to the knockout phase regardless of the evening’s results, but they did give the people watching a goal for good measure (although many argued that Iniesta was offside before passing to Navas). Croatia needed a win tonight, but Jelavic’s absence was felt as the Croatians struggled to find the net. As news filtered through of Italy’s first goal, both squads turned up the heat, and Pranjic had a shot on goal but Casillas denied him. Navas’ goal in the 88th minute assured the inevitable, as Spain made its way to the next round.
Tomorrow we’ll find out who Spain and Italy will face in the knockout phase after the GROUP D matches between France and Sweden and England versus Ukraine.
