Euro 2012: Days 2 and 3 - Highs and Lows

After the pulsating start of Euro 2012, Day two carried on the drama and excitement. The first game of the evening was hot favourites Netherlands against Denmark, who many dismissed and thought they weren’t good enough to compete in the group.

I was incredibly impressed by Denmark, as I thought they took their chances and defended strongly, and restricted Holland well. However, the Netherlands still managed 29 shots, 12 of these from outside the box, which flew well wide. They thoroughly deserved their 1-0 winning margin.

I was bitterly disappointed with Robin van Persie, as his touch seemed very lacklustre and maybe he is feeling too much pressure being the ‘main man’. He looked just too anxious.

Former Netherlands midfielder, Clarence Seedorf said on Match of the Day, “It happened to Robin van Persie at the 2010 World Cup. He maybe takes on too much responsibility. He should be flying after a season like he has had [with Arsenal].”

“He’s not relaxed enough. When he plays for Arsenal, it’s a different Van Persie.”

I completely agree with this, and I hope for his sake, he finds some form in this tournament.

The second match saw high fliers Germany defeat Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal. It was a rather non event, with some superb skill from Ronaldo now and again. But the game exploded into life in the 72nd minute, after Bayern Munich front man Gomez scored.

This allowed Portugal to go for it, and the last 10 minutes was some of the best football I have watched, so it had to be a high for me. I think Portugal struggle because they do not have a true centre forward, and this needs to be changed if they have to stand a chance in their future matches and tournaments.

Day three saw an enticing game between holders Spain and a reasonably fresh Italy team. It was a great game, and a low for me was Spain playing very defensive and going out with no forwards in the starting eleven, which I found very disappointing.

However, it was a good game, and Balotelli entertained us once again for Italy, but his performance let him down. He was then subbed, and that substitute put Italy ahead. Cesc Fabregas then equalised after a cool, calm finish.

Then, Fernando Torres came on, and could have, and should have, bagged himself a hat-trick. His form hasn’t improved after a pretty dismal season for Chelsea, but I feel for the lad, and hope he turns it around.

Ireland’s expectations were high going into the game against Croatia, but the expectation was dented after they fell behind after three minutes. I felt that Giovanni Trapattoni didn’t react well, and he should have slightly altered the formation as the Irish front men were getting limited service. However, ‘keeper Shay Given was incredibly unlucky.