Russia

Romania sent a message to all those who consider them outsiders at EURO 2008 with a comprehensive 3-0 defeat of Russia in Bucharest, a result that left the visitors in understandably sombre mood after the nations’ first meeting since the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Russia reached Euro2008 on the final day of qualification, an achievement that sent the country into frenzy. Coach Guus Hiddink, in his typical dynamism, has transformed Russia from an ordinary outfit to a very efficient side. They defeated England 2-1 during the qualifiers, and their only lapse in concentration was a potentially calamitous 2-1 defeat to Israel in their penultimate game of the group.

In the end, it did not matter, as England’s loss to Croatia was Russia’s gain.Hiddink, who took South Korea to the semi-finals of the 2002 World Cup, has once again relied on a clear tactical philosophy and his ability to make modest players believe they are world beaters to get Russia to Euro2008. His psychological effect has been immense, as Russia played with such self-belief during qualification.Russia will fancy their chances of finding a way through Group D. Spain, Sweden and reigning European Champions Greece are certainly an imposing trio, but under Hiddink Russia can surpass all expectations. (read full article…)