Throughout Euro 2012, striker Kevin Kuranyi brings the experience of 52 German caps to bear on all the hot topics in an exclusive blog for R-Sport. Today, he looks at Russia’s surprise exit, Germany’s Zen calmness on the ball and a supposed conspiracy to knock out Italy.
Hello!
I’m sad and kind of shocked that the Russian team didn’t make it. I’m sure you all feel the same way. It’s twice as sad, since the Sbornaja definitely played the best football of all the teams in their group. But, unfortunately, they couldn’t convert their dominance into goals. Russia against Germany would have been my favourite encounter for the final. Also, because I wanted everybody to see how well Russian football has developed. Well, that was that…
As I already said before the Euro started, France is a very strong team – they are on my shortlist for the title. They have brilliant players and play beautifully. But, despite all their problems, the English team should not be written off either. They have a strong team spirit and always keep it tight at the back.
But, I consider Spain and Germany to be even stronger. They have definitely proved to be the two outstanding teams of all the ones participating. Germany reassures you with good tactics; they control matches and are wonderfully calm when they are in possession of the ball. Joachim Low has once again done everything right.
Altogether, I think the football played at the Euro is really good. My only negative impression is that the Russian team didn’t make it to the quarter finals...And one of the most positive impressions, and at the same time my favourite goal of the Euro so far, is Mario Gomez’s first goal against the Netherlands. What a fantastic goal! I’m very happy that my friend is playing so very well!
Finally: Maybe you’ve heard that Italy’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon fears that Spain and Croatia will play out a 2-2 draw in order to qualify for the quarter finals and to kick Italy out of the Euro. Honestly, to put it plain and simple: That’s impossible!
Take care,
Kevin
