Sunday, June 22, 2008

Russia 3 - 1 Netherlands

In an unexpected turn of events, a shocked Netherlands crashed out of the European Championships after stalemating Russia in regular time.
The Oranje, coached by Marco van Basten, were left with smashed hearts after a tactical Russian side attacked in extra time. Russian coach Guus Hiddink, who happens to be a Dutchman himself, made sure that they played not as challengers, but as future champions.
The Dutch defense was exploited when Russia sent an offensive team, and opening the scoring at the 56th minute. Roman Pavlyuchenko sent a sweet volley on target, beating Edwin van der Sar. Russian celebrations were crushed, however, when Ruud van Nistelrooy crashed a header from Wesley Sneijder's curling free kick.
Russia didn't give up early, though. They dominated extra time, and on the 22nd minute, Andrei Arshavin set up Dmitri Torbinski to volley in a goal. 4 minutes later, the playmaker himself got himself into the books. Arshavin's shot deflected off John Heitinga, setting the scoreline away from the Dutch reach.
Russia advance, Netherlands eliminated.

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