Euro 2008: Portugal 0-2 Switzerland (Full Match Report and Video)
Tournament hosts Switzerland went in to this game knowing nothing they could do would qualify for the quarter final stages, so were playing for pride, while Portugal were also playing for pride, knowing that they were definitely through to the knock out stages, and unless there was a massive shock, they were going to win the group.
Portugal took control in the first half, playing good football as we expect from them, but, surprisingly, Switzerland are still going for it and creating some good opportunities, and the fans are loving their night out.
Nani and Quaresma were causing havoc, playing lots of balls in to the box and generally running riot, putting the Swiss goal keeper under immense pressure. Pepe had shot saved, while Manchester United winger Nani so nearly scored twice, with a long distance free kick being flicked over the cross bar and a different shot hitting the post.
It was in the second half when the game came alive, especially the Swiss. But Nani yet again hit the wood work, when he really should have scored after a Swiss error. Postiga had a good shot saved, as well.
Then, with twenty minutes to go, Switzerland started pressurizing immensely, and it wasn’t long before Hakan Yakin smashed a volley in to the goal between Portuguese goal keeper Ricardo’s legs.
And then a late strike from the first goal scorer, Yakin, scored his second of the game from the penalty spot, smashing the ball in to the top corner, giving penalty specialist Ricardo no chance of saving it.
Tonight’s results mean that Portugal top the group with six points, along side Turkey who finish below them on goal difference. Czech Republic and Switzerland fail to qualify, but the Swiss fans will be happy they went out on a high.
Final Score:
Portugal 0 – 2 Switzerland
Watch both GOALS:
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Comments June 16th, 2008
This game was expected to be a thrilling one, with both teams winning their first matches. Confusingly, the Czech Republic players were wearing all red, where as the Portuguese played in all white.
