No I always like to watch under 21 games because it gives you a glimpse of the future of football. There are so many players who made an impact when they played youth games. And although it is true that there are some of them who already play for the big teams there are still some players that surprise you. As for the German team almost half of that class now plays on a senior level, the best known players being Podolski and Schweinsteiger. So with so many good players missing one might say that it is no surprise they didn't make it.
Anyway, the semis took place today and England faced the hosts, the Netherlands. Oh boy, what a thriller. Both teams were tied at 1-1 with England leading off in the frist half and the Netherlands equalising just before the final whistle. The extra time produced no score and so the match went into a penalty shoot out. Now, the senoir teams of both sides didn't always do best when it comes to shoot from 11 metres. Germans love to remember England losing to them twice in big games on penalties (1990 World Cup semis, 1996 Euro semis). In fact I don't even know if England ever won a penalty shoot out. I wouldn't be too surprised if the hadn't. The Netherlands weren't too lucky as well. So with that I mind I kept on watching and I saw both teams score and score and score and score. The damn thing ended at 13-12 for the Netherlands with some guys missing the target but most of them scoring. Should give them some hope for the future.
The Netherlands advanced to the final and will face Serbia. Now, I seem to have some sort of prejudice towards teams from southern Europe. They all play the same style of footbnall. They are all wonderful plays with excellent skill and brilliant technique. But when it comes to fair play the totally lose it. And especially the teams from the balcan region are way out of it. There was one scene when a Serbian player went through the Belgium defense with two options: pass the ball or shoot it on the goal. He aimed for the latter and missed. Instead of going after the lost ball he decided to take a dive. The Belgians didn't bother and played on. This is so lame and it's so typical of balcan sides. Another scene was a hand play by a Serbian defender. I just hate the way they play.
And they get way too emotional. When they faced England in the group they were almost starting a brawl on the pitch.
So, for the beauty of the game I surely hope that the Netherlands will win the competition. Although because of the huge rivalry between germany and the Netherlands I know some people will hate me for that wish...
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