Expect the unexpected. Anything can happen in football. This is probably the biggest story of the tournament so far. In their opening game, Russia was whopped 4-1 by Spain. Who would have thought that Russia is actually having a chance to be kings of Europe now. Before this clash, Russian coach Guus Hiddink (a Dutch.) was looking to be labeled a 'traitor' for just this once. And his wish was certainly granted. Hiddink has a reputation of bringing out the best of un-fancied teams. He wrote a beautiful history for Asia in world football by leading South Korea into the semi-finals of the 2002 World Cup. He did it again when he sent Australia into the World Cup for the first time. Now he is looking to do something special with Russia. I think the Dutch have one of the strongest national identity in the tournament. Their fans, dressed in bright orange often dominate majority of the stadium seats. The Russians had a great game against the Dutch, they played good attacking football but just could not find a goal. They caused the Dutch many problems throughout the match. It took 56min before the first goal was scored and not surprising, it was the Russians who struck. Pavluchenko slotted the ball into the back of the net after meeting the cross from Sergie Semak. Russia continued their domination, then with 5min left, Van Nistelrooy headed in the equaliser from a Sneidjer freekick to send the game into extra time. Just before full time, referee Lubos Michel gave Russia a lifeline by withdrawing a yellow card he showed to Russian defender Kolodin. It was goalless in the first half of extra time. In the second half, Torbinsky tapped in goal in the 112th min to hand Russia the lead. The fairytale was completed when Russian favourite Andrei Arshavin scored with 4min left on the clock. Out went the Dutch and Russia certainly did it with style. Greece won the tournament in 2004. Is 2008 going to be the year of the underdogs again?
benj
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