Spanish magic ends title drought

Last night Spain became European champions with a display of football that will go down in history. Sadly they could only score one goal, through Fernando Torres, but if they had won 4-0 it would not have been an unfair reflection of the game.

Their passing is simply unbelievable, they moved it around as if they were on the training pitch, with a confidence and ease that Fabio Capello will look upon resentfully.

No matter how little space and time they have, they always want the ball at their feet. And even without Villa playing, they provided a constant goal threat from all over the pitch.

Germany's defensive flaws which I highlighted against Croatia never had a chance of holding up against the Spanish, and it really was a shame they didn't get thumped.

Sergio Ramos, a class player, had probably the best chance to put the game beyond Joachim Low's side, with a free header at the back post.

Domination

Iniesta, who was my player of the tournament closely followed by Senna, dominated the game, with an unrelenting desire to create space and opportunities for those around him.

There is no doubt now, that this relatively young Spanish side will go to South Africa in two years time as one of the favourites. And if Holland, Russia and Croatia can all continue to improve their squads then they will also provide a strong challenge to the South American teams at the 2010 World Cup.

England on the other hand will continue to struggle, and just reaching the finals will be a result for Capello's men. They play a boring, slow football, which entirely contradicts the style of the Premiership, but they still fail to win.
Even if Italy, France and Germany play dull football at least they can do it successfully, all of who have reached major finals in the last two years.

Anyway a thoroughly deserved win for Spain, and as both Alans said last night, rather embarrassingly, 'A win for football'.

Germany leaky at the back

Without any home nation representation I feared this European Championships might disappoint, but I have been proved wrong.

I was somewhat surprised to hear that Germany were favourites coming into the tournament. Fair enough, their record in major tournaments is impressive but with a defence about as watertight as Derby's, and a goalkeeper kept out of his club side by Manuel Almunia, Spain's fourth choice, do they really have a chance?
I have seen most of the games so far, and although they have not been gripping, one thing has stood out, there aren't many bad teams.

Romania, Poland, Greece, Turkey, and the host nations are going to find it hard, but of the other 10 teams it is impossible to pick a winner. I have however, rather predictably, plumped for Spain.

Their midfield is pure class, Iniesta, Xavi and Fabregas could grace any international team while Torres and Villa up front are irresistible.

Goalfest

Germany's weakness at the back was almost undone by Poland in their first game, and most definitely unlocked in defeat to the impressive Croatians. How Jansen has made it into their first team is unfathomable.

Croatia are one team who it could be worth putting a few quid on, with the inspirational Bilic at the helm, and Modric and Kranjcar bossing the midfield they could go all the way. And I hope they do.