Spain waited until 3 minutes before the end of the game
before they secured their passage through to the quarter
finals.Spain really struggled to break Croatia down, mainly due to
their arrogant passing and lack of cutting edge.
I found myself really wanting Croatia to score and for Spain to crash out. It was a great ball from Fabregas who eventually picked the
lock, to allow Iniesta to feed Navas and that was that. Croatia however, had
some great chances. One in particular stands out, when Modric, who was immense all game, delivered a stunning ball with the outside of his boot to find
Rakitic, who missed from 6 yards out with a header! What a miss!
Modric really would not have looked out of place on the Spanish side. He will be an excellent addition to any team if he leaves Spurs this summer. There is talk of Real Madrid wanting him but where would he play??
They already have so much quality in this area. He is top class and I am sure
there will be many teams vying for his signature this summer.
Spain looked suspect at the back particularly in the full
back area, with Alba and Arbeloa looking vulnerable. To be honest I have never
really rated Arbeloa. He lacks pace and is not the greatest defensively either.
Spain in my view got away with reverting to a system with no striker, but this
could come back to haunt them in the latter rounds if they persist with this
tactic.
In the other game Italy managed to get the win they needed.
Balotelli got his goal and almost vented his fury at not starting before having
his mouth covered to stop him. Great finish, but he needs to calm down and build
on that goal. I was glad to see the officials allow Cassano’s goal which clearly
went over the line. It would have been a travesty had it not been
given.
England vs. Ukraine- I think England will prove too strong
for the hosts but you just never can tell with England.
France vs. Sweden- France to beat the Swedes comfortably in
this one.
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