I finally got a chance to catch a Euro 2008 game live today as I watched the second half of the Holland vs. France match.  I was very pleased to see the excellent counter-attacking approach adopted by the Dutch.  They have a fine group of players and it was a real shame to see them disappoint in World Cup 2006.  Their mindset was very defensive and they looked more interested in grinding out 1-0 victories.  But after watching them play today, I see how much they have changed in the last two years.  The team is more or less the same but the way they play is much different.

They are playing as a team and even though Nistelrooy and Robben were particularly impressive, this was a team win.  Everyone did their bit and what took down France was the scintillating speed of the Dutch counter-attacks.  It seemed that every time they got the ball near the French box, they would score.  They missed a few good chances but also converted four of them into outstanding goals.  Now both Italy and France have their tournament futures in their own hands.  Winner takes all!  An interesting twist in the tale would be Holland losing to Romania - it would eliminate both Italy and France at once.  But the way they have been playing, I don’t see Holland losing to Romania.

Enough of my gushing.  It’s adequately clear that I loved the Dutch performance today.  In other Euro 2008 news, Portugal are looking good and Ronaldo opened his account against the Czechs.  Germany looked quite weak against Croatia and I’m wondering if they are serious title contenders this time around.  Spain looked menacing in their sole game so far and will probably make it to the next round.  Whether they can finally win a major tournament remains to be seen.

It’s time for another Euro championship.  I clearly remember Euro 2004 and how Greece came out on top, rather unexpectedly.  I was studying for the SAT and TOEFL exams back then and as we all know, history repeats itself.  So for Euro 2008, I’m preparing for the GRE.  Different standardized test, different championship, different outcome.  Greece will not win again.  For reals.

I haven’t decided whom to support yet.  Traditionally, I go with The Netherlands, Spain, and Italy.  The first two tend to disappoint in spite of having good teams while the third blows hot and cold.  There’s also Portugal under Luiz Felipe Scholari with Cristiano Ronaldo.  Germany, as always, are a great side.  So, there are plenty of good teams in the competition.

I guess I should take a look at all the teams and also the first few games before I decide whom to support.  But right now, I’m just looking forward to some great football action over the next few weeks.  I’m going to try and set up my TV Tuner again to see if my room gets ESPN.  They are broadcasting most (all?) of the games from Euro 2008.  May the best team win!