EURO 2016 Day 8 Preview
The second round of group games is in full flow now with all the teams contesting Group D in action as well as Group E’s Italy and Sweden. Here’s your preview of today’s fixtures.
Italy proved their critics wrong when they dominated Belgium in their opening game running out 2-0 winners. The Italian defence was immense on Monday and they didn’t look too shabby going forward. Sweden were placed under pressure by Ireland in their opening game and got a lucky draw thanks to a Ciaran Clark own goal. Zlatan Ibrahimovic was kept quite in that encounter and will have to bring his ‘A’ game today. A win for Italy will see them through to the last 16 giving them an opportunity to rest players in the final group game against Ireland. On the back of the opening games Italy have to be the favourites this afternoon.
The Czech Republic kept Spain at bay for 87 minutes before Gerard Pique headed home a late winner.The Czech chances were few and far between in that game. Meanwhile Croatia were impressive in their 1-0 win over Turkey. A stunning Luka Modric strike secured a win for the Croatians who looked to be a well-drilled unit on Sunday. Captain Darijo Srna left the squad following the win to attend his fathers funeral but has rejoined the squad to fulfill his fathers dying wish. It will be an emotional game for the Croatians who should beat a suspect looking Czech side.A win will see Croatia into the last 16.
Spain left it late to beat the Czechs in their opening game but dominated throughout creating multiple chances that striker Alvaro Morata really should have finished. Andres Iniesta was a creative maestro in midfield on Monday and will be crucial to Spain’s success in this competition. Turkey produced a few chances but never threatened the goal. Captain Arda Turan was on the receiving end of criticism in the press and has vowed to do better. Spain can secure a last 16 place with a win while Turkey are playing for their future in the competition.
There is your preview to today’s games. Enjoy the football and be sure to check back here for full match reports on all the games.
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