UEFA EURO 2012 – JUNE 19th ROUND UP
The last two games in the group stage produced one surprising result and one not-so-surprising result. Lets review how things went down in GROUP D tonight.
I had hopes for Ukraine this evening, but they were dashed by England’s superstar forward (and Shrek doppelganger) Wayne Rooney. His return to the pitch after a two game suspension conveniently coincided with the absence of Ukrainian national treasure Adriy Shevchenko, due to a knee injury. Rooney sent his squad forward in the beginning of the second half, despite a strong performance by the Ukrainians sans Shevchenko for the most part. England’s goal was followed by a smattering of yellow cards and substitutions, despite Ukraine’s best efforts they were held to a 1-0 score, ideal for England, but the end of the line for Ukraine.
Although it was already known that Sweden was going home and that France was through to the next round, this game’s score was definitely surprising. With an arsenal of dangerous players, France was unable to score and Sweden ended their EURO campaign on a high note, sending France into the next round as Group D runners-up. After an uneventful first half, Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored what can only be called an ‘acrobatic goal’, which was later followed Larsson’s last minute strike. Either way, France are through (though their next match will be played without Mexes because of his second booking) and Sweden exit with a win.
Now that the group stage is over, here are the upcoming games in knockout phase:
June 21st – Czech Republic vs Portugal
June 22nd – Germany vs Greece
June 23rd – France vs Spain
June 24th – Italy vs England
