Italia Euro 2008

It’s been tragic so far.  Italy getting absolutely schooled by The Netherlands in their first match 3-0.  The first goal the official missed an obvious offside by the Dutch, but the goal was awarded.  It went downhill for the Italians from there.  It was Italy’s worst defeat ever in the European Championships and the first time they ever allowed 3 goals in same.  I mean, they only gave up 2 goals in the entire World Cup in 2006!  Which, in case you hadn’t heard (or don’t care!), Italy WON!

Then in their second match against Romania they were robbed!  It ended in a 1-1 tie, but Italy scored two goals.  One was disallowed for offsides, but he WASN’T!  No respect for the world champs.

Now Italy and France are tied at the bottom of Group C, also known as the “group of death” because of the impossible competition.  Italy and France have a history.  Italy lost to France in the final of the Euro Championship in 2000.  Italy revenged that loss by beating France in the final of the last World Cup!  Both teams are powerhouses of soccer.  Did I mention that Italy is the defending World Cup Champions?  If the official hadn’t messed up in their second game, Italy would be sitting pretty in second place in the group with 4 points.

That brings me to now.  The game has already been played, but I’ve been out of town.  I would have missed it anyway because of work.  ESPN 2 is replaying it at 7pm tonight.  That’s in one minute!  I have successfully avoided the score and now I get to enjoy the reply.  Italy MUST WIN if it hopes to ove to the quarterfinal round.  Same for France.  Should be a great match!  Don’t read this and then call me with the result, or at least wait until the replay is over :-)

Update:  College World Series Game still on.  I had to turn away for fear they would show the score of the match on the “bottom line.”  Now I must wait more.  I’m ready.  The popcorn is already popped!