A Roman Renaissance: Italy’s Resurgence at Euro 2020

The atmosphere at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome evoked memories of Italia ’90—a time when football in the Eternal City was as much about passion as it was about performance. On this warm yet comfortable evening, a gentle breeze carried the hopes and emotions of the Azzurri faithful, who had waited nearly a decade to witness their beloved team in such scintillating form. No stage could have been more fitting than Rome, where the echoes of triumphs past merged with the promise of a resurgent Italy under Roberto Mancini.

The Mancini Revolution: A Departure from Tradition

Italy’s journey in Euro 2020 has been nothing short of a renaissance, a transformation marked by a departure from the storied but conservative *Catenaccio*. Mancini’s modern-day 4-3-3 system represents a bold new era for Italian football—one defined by high-flying full-backs, relentless pressing wingers, and a controlled possession game that prioritizes efficiency overindulgence.

In just six days, the Azzurri have secured their place in the knockout stages, dispatching opponents with an ease that belies the intensity of their preparation. Against Switzerland, they delivered a masterclass in modern football, combining tactical discipline with moments of individual brilliance.

A First Half of Precision and Power

The first hour of play was a whirlwind, with Italy asserting dominance through their characteristic blend of rapid attacks and synchronized pressing. Their opening salvo came early, as Giorgio Chiellini thought he had given Italy the lead, only for VAR to intervene and disallow the goal due to a handball. The temporary reprieve for Switzerland was short-lived.

On 26 minutes, Manuel Locatelli orchestrated a moment of sublime beauty. With a deft left-footed pass, he released Domenico Berardi down the right wing. Berardi, displaying his characteristic flair, twisted and turned before delivering a precise cross. Locatelli, having sprinted nearly 50 yards to join the attack, arrived at the perfect moment to tap the ball into the net—a goal that epitomized Italy’s newfound dynamism.

Locatelli’s Brilliance and Swiss Struggles

If Locatelli’s first goal showcased his tactical awareness and work rate, his second was a testament to his vision and technique. Six minutes into the second half, he surged into space, collected a pass from Nicolò Barella, and unleashed a thunderous strike from 22 yards. The ball swerved past a hapless Swiss goalkeeper, leaving no doubt about Italy’s superiority.

Switzerland, for all their effort, found themselves outclassed. Their defensive frailties were exposed time and again, and their inability to cope with Italy’s relentless pressing left them vulnerable. While they managed sporadic moments of resistance, they rarely threatened Gianluigi Donnarumma’s goal.

The Inevitable Immobile

As the match drew to a close, Ciro Immobile added the final flourish. Rafael Toloi’s high pressing forced a turnover, and Immobile seized the opportunity, firing a powerful shot from distance to seal the 3-0 victory. It was a goal that symbolized Italy’s commitment to capitalizing on every opportunity, no matter how late in the game.

Switzerland’s Dilemma

For Switzerland, the defeat leaves them in a precarious position. With just one point from two games, they sit third in Group A and face an uphill battle to secure qualification. Their lack of cutting edge in attack and vulnerability in defence has been starkly exposed, and significant improvement will be required if they are to progress.

A Resurgent Italy: The Road Ahead

Italy’s performance against Switzerland was not just a statement of intent but a celebration of their transformation under Mancini. The Azzurri have emerged as one of the most exciting teams of the tournament, blending traditional Italian resilience with a modern attacking flair.

The Stadio Olimpico bore witness to a team reborn, a team that plays with purpose, precision, and panache. As Italy advances to the next round, they do so not merely as contenders but as a side capable of rewriting their footballing narrative. For the Azzurri faithful, the wait has been long, but the reward promises to be glorious.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

France vs. Germany: A Final Before the Final at the Allianz Arena

In the world of football, certain matches transcend the ordinary, and this clash between France and Germany at the Allianz Arena was undoubtedly one of those occasions. Dubbed a "Final before the Final," it lived up to its billing, showcasing high-octane intensity and tactical brilliance that reminded us why these two nations are titans of the game. Though France emerged victorious, the contest was a masterclass in competitive football, with Germany leaving no doubt about their prowess.

A Rivalry Rekindled

The storied history between France and Germany has often been fraught with drama, both on and off the pitch. This shared past lent an extra edge to a game already brimming with anticipation. From the opening whistle, the contest radiated urgency; neither side seemed content to merely defend or play conservatively. Instead, they pursued goals with relentless determination, crafting a spectacle worthy of its grand stage.

Tactical Brilliance on Display

The tactical depth of both sides was evident from the outset. Germany’s deployment of wing-backs in advanced positions, coupled with their back three, aimed to stretch France horizontally. Conversely, the French adapted by narrowing their shape, forcing Germany to work through the crowded central channels. Paul Pogba’s tracking of Toni Kroos was a critical factor, disrupting Germany's rhythm and enabling France to seize control during key moments.

This chess-like dynamic dictated much of the first half. Pogba’s pressing left spaces in midfield, but France compensated by ensuring defensive coverage in critical zones. The calculated risk paid dividends when Benjamin Pavard surged forward, creating opportunities that tested Germany’s defensive resolve.

The Breakthrough: A Stroke of Misfortune

It was fitting that the opening goal was the result of a moment of brilliance laced with irony. Pogba, orchestrating from midfield, delivered a sublime travel pass to Lucas Hernandez. His subsequent cross deflected off Mats Hummels and into the German net—a cruel twist for the veteran defender, who had little time to react. For Germany, it was their first-ever own goal in European Championship history, a moment that underscored the fine margins of elite football.

Germany’s Response: Resilience Personified

Rather than wilt under pressure, Germany responded with vigour. Thomas Müller narrowly missed the target, Ilkay Gündoğan squandered a golden opportunity, and Raphael Varane’s timely block denied Kai Havertz. The second half saw Germany unleash a relentless assault, switching to a 3-2-5 formation that emphasized aggressive positioning and quick interchanges.

Serge Gnabry came agonizingly close with a volley, while Joshua Kimmich’s pinpoint delivery to Robin Gosens nearly produced the equalizer. However, a combination of resolute French defending and occasional lapses in German execution kept the scoreline intact.

France’s Adaptation: Fortitude Under Fire

As Germany increased their tempo, France adjusted by shifting to a 4-1-4-1 formation. This provided greater defensive width and allowed the full-backs to remain compact. Presnel Kimpembe played a pivotal role in tracking Havertz’s movements, disrupting the connection between him and Müller. The introduction of additional defensive cover in midfield further stifled Germany’s fluidity.

Even as Germany pushed numbers forward, adopting a 2-2-6 shape in the closing stages, France’s composure and depth prevailed. N'Golo Kanté and Adrien Rabiot dropped deeper to support the backline, creating a nearly impenetrable defensive block.

A Clash of Equals

Ultimately, France’s ability to adapt and execute their game plan proved decisive. Yet, Germany’s performance offered glimpses of a team capable of reaching even greater heights. Their tactical flexibility and depth of talent remain formidable assets as the tournament progresses.

This was not merely a football match but a spectacle that encapsulated the beauty of the sport: passion, strategy, and the unyielding pursuit of excellence. While France claimed the spoils, Germany’s resilience and adaptability hinted at a resurgence that could yet shape the narrative of this championship.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Heartbreak in Budapest: Hungary's Tenacious Stand Against Portugal

 

Football, in all its splendour, can be a cruel mistress. On a warm night in Budapest, under the watchful gaze of 60,000 fans, Hungary tasted the bitter pill of undeserved defeat. The 3-0 scoreline flattered the reigning European champions, Portugal, and masked the grit and resilience displayed by the Hungarians. For 80 minutes, they held their ground, defying expectations and frustrating the star-studded visitors. Yet, in the final stretch, the tide turned, and Cristiano Ronaldo once again etched his name into the annals of football history.

The Puskas Arena was a sight to behold, teeming with life in a pandemic-stricken world. Despite the controversies surrounding such a large gathering, the vibrant atmosphere reminded the world of football’s unparalleled power to unite and inspire. Every spectator, including the 4,500 Portuguese fans, adhered to strict Covid protocols, creating a sense of cautious optimism. The Hungarian supporters, clad in black, were a wall of defiance themselves, their chants echoing the spirit of their team on the pitch.

Disciplined Hungary and VAR 

For much of the match, Hungary’s disciplined defence and compact organization suffocated Portugal’s creative forces. Diogo Jota, Bernardo Silva, and Bruno Fernandes found themselves ensnared in a web of Hungarian resilience. Ronaldo, ever the talisman, squandered a golden chance before halftime, a rare misstep from the man destined to dominate headlines.

As the second half unfolded, Hungary dared to dream. Substitute Szabolcs Schön ignited pandemonium with a thunderous strike, only for VAR to extinguish their jubilation. The referee’s decision to disallow the goal for offside was a harsh reminder of football’s fine margins. In the chaos, flares illuminated the stands, and a lone pitch invader encapsulated the raw emotion of the moment.

The CR7 Impact

The dam finally broke in the 84th minute. Raphael Guerreiro’s deflected strike found the back of the net, and with it, Hungary’s resistance crumbled. Moments later, Rafa Silva’s darting run drew a foul from Willi Orban, setting the stage for Ronaldo’s moment of glory. The penalty was dispatched with his usual precision, and in stoppage time, he danced past Peter Gulacsi to secure his second goal of the night.

Ronaldo’s brace not only sealed the victory but also cemented his place in history. With his 10th and 11th goals in European Championship history, he surpassed Michel Platini’s long-standing record, becoming the tournament’s all-time leading scorer. At 36 years and 130 days, he defied Father Time, breaking records once held by the likes of Andriy Shevchenko and Pepe.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s enduring brilliance is a testament to his relentless pursuit of greatness. From his debut at Euro 2004 to his record-breaking exploits in Budapest, he has been the cornerstone of Portugal’s footballing renaissance. Yet, beyond the numbers and accolades, it is his unyielding desire to seize the moment that sets him apart. As he celebrated in front of the raucous crowd, one could not help but marvel at his ability to transcend the game.

Conclusion

The final scoreline may have been harsh on Hungary, but it underscored the unforgiving nature of football. For Portugal, it was a triumph of patience and persistence. For Ronaldo, it was another chapter in an extraordinary legacy. And for the world, it was a poignant reminder of football’s capacity to thrill, inspire, and, at times, break hearts.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Mexico 86: Belgium’s World Cup Adventure

 

The Derby der Lage Landen, or the football rivalry between Holland and Belgium, may not command global attention, but for the fans of both nations, it carries immense significance. Whenever the Dutch face off against the Red Devils, the pitch brims with intensity and historical undertones. This rivalry reached a dramatic crescendo in the winter of 1985, as the two nations clashed to secure a spot in the 1986 FIFA World Cup. For both teams, failure was unthinkable.

For the Dutch, the stakes were particularly high. The era of Johan Cruyff had left an indelible mark on world football, but the 1980s saw Holland floundering on the global stage. Their heartbreak was epitomized by the infamous Euro 1984 qualifiers, where Spain’s miraculous 12-1 victory over Malta shattered Dutch dreams. The need for redemption was palpable, as fans yearned for a revival of their once-mighty Oranje.

Meanwhile, Belgium was enjoying a period of resurgence. Under the astute guidance of Guy Thys, the Red Devils had become a formidable force. Runners-up at the 1980 European Championships and quarterfinalists at the 1982 World Cup, Belgium’s squad boasted star quality in players like Jean-Marie Pfaff, Eric Gerets, Jan Ceulemans, and a young Enzo Scifo. Yet, their journey to Mexico was fraught with challenges, including a shock defeat to Albania and a drawn match against Poland, setting up a high-stakes playoff against their Dutch neighbours.

The Playoff Saga

The first leg in Brussels saw Belgium capitalize on an early red card for Holland’s Wim Kieft, thanks to Franky Vercauteren’s theatrics. With the Dutch reduced to ten men, Vercauteren scored the only goal, giving Belgium a crucial advantage. The second leg in Rotterdam was a tense affair, with the Dutch fans’ hopes reignited by goals from Rob de Wit and Peter Houtman. However, Georges Grun’s late header silenced the De Kuip stadium, securing Belgium’s qualification on away goals.

Belgium’s Mexican Adventure

Belgium’s World Cup campaign in Mexico began unconvincingly. A 2-0 loss to the hosts and a scrappy victory over Iraq left them teetering on the edge. Yet, their resilience shone through in a thrilling 4-3 extra-time victory against the Soviet Union in the Round of 16. Against a Soviet side featuring luminaries like Igor Belanov and Alexandr Zavarov, Belgium displayed tactical ingenuity and unyielding spirit. Goals from Enzo Scifo, Jan Ceulemans, and Stephane De Mol secured one of the tournament’s most memorable upsets.

In the quarterfinals, Belgium faced Spain, another formidable opponent. Ceulemans’ header gave Belgium an early lead, but Spain equalized through a sensational strike from Rafael Sénior. The match went to penalties, where Jean-Marie Pfaff’s heroics propelled Belgium into the semifinals for the first time in their history.

The Maradona Show

Belgium’s fairy tale ended in the semifinals against Argentina, led by the irrepressible Diego Maradona. His two goals, showcasing his unmatched skill and game-changing ability, left the Belgians with no answer. Maradona’s brilliance underscored the gap between greatness and immortality, as Belgium’s valiant run came to a halt.

The Red Devils finished fourth after losing to Michel Platini’s France in the third-place playoff. Despite the disappointment, their journey in Mexico 1986 remains a cornerstone of Belgian football history.

Enzo Scifo’s Reflections

Enzo Scifo, awarded the tournament’s Best Young Player, later reflected on the team’s journey. “We’d only just made it out of the group as one of the best third-placed teams,” he recalled. “There was friction within the squad, but we rediscovered a humility that allowed us to knock out the Soviet Union and Spain.”

Scifo’s admiration for Maradona was profound. “He destroyed us. I’ve never tried to measure myself against anyone, but Maradona’s ability to change games single-handedly was unparalleled. He had a game intelligence that made him decisive at any moment.”

Legacy and Lessons

Belgium’s 1986 campaign was a testament to the power of resilience and unity. It showcased the importance of tactical adaptability, individual brilliance, and collective belief. While subsequent generations of Belgian footballers have achieved significant success, the class of ’86 remains a benchmark of overachievement and inspiration.

The Derby der Lage Landen of 1985 and Belgium’s journey to the semifinals of the 1986 World Cup encapsulate the highs and lows of football. They remind us that the sport’s true beauty lies in its unpredictability, its ability to elevate underdogs, and its capacity to create legends.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Patrik Schick’s Masterclass: A Tale of Redemption and Glory at Hampden Park

In the swirling mists of Hampden Park, where echoes of Scotland’s footballing past merged with the fervour of a hopeful present, the Czech Republic played the role of unwelcome guests. For the Scots, this was more than a match—it was a homecoming, their first major tournament since the 1998 FIFA World Cup and their first appearance in the European Championship since 1996. Yet, the jubilation of their return was eclipsed by the brilliance of Patrik Schick, whose two goals—particularly his audacious second—etched his name into Euro folklore.

A Prodigy’s Journey: From Prague to the World Stage 

Patrik Schick’s rise to prominence has been anything but linear. The Prague-born striker often likened to the legendary Jan Koller for his towering frame and technical finesse, first showcased his talent at Sparta Prague. At just 11 years old, he was marked for greatness, making his top-flight debut in May 2014. However, limited opportunities led him to Bohemians on loan, a move that became the crucible of his development.

Schick’s eight goals in 27 appearances caught the attention of Sampdoria, and his Italian adventure began in 2016. A stellar debut season in Serie A, where he netted 11 goals in 32 games, seemed to confirm his trajectory as one of Europe’s brightest prospects. Yet, football’s capricious nature had other plans. A failed move to Juventus due to medical concerns turned his dream into a nightmare, branding him as "damaged goods."

But Schick’s resolve was unyielding. A stint at Roma proved underwhelming, yet it was at RB Leipzig that he began to rediscover his form, scoring 10 goals in 22 Bundesliga games. Bayer Leverkusen offered him stability and a platform to shine, and he entered Euro 2020 as the Czech Republic’s talisman, ready to fulfil his potential.

The Night Hampden Park Stood Still 

The match against Scotland began with a roar of anticipation from the home crowd. Scotland, buoyed by their return to the big stage, pressed forward with energy and intent. Yet, it was the Czech Republic who struck first, Schick’s clinical header in the 42nd minute silencing the Hampden faithful.

Then came the moment that transcended the match itself—a goal so audacious, so exquisite, it defied belief. In the 52nd minute, Scotland’s Jack Hendry unleashed a speculative shot that was blocked, sending the ball spiralling into midfield. Schick, standing just inside his own half, glanced up and saw David Marshall stranded far off his line. With a single swing of his left foot, Schick unleashed a curling masterpiece that soared over Marshall and nestled into the top-left corner of the net.

Hampden Park, once a cauldron of Scottish hope, became a theatre of stunned disbelief. The Czech forward’s strike, measured at over 49 yards, was the longest-distance goal ever scored in the European Championship. It was not just a goal; it was a statement—a reminder of the beauty and unpredictability of football.

Redemption and Legacy 

For Schick, this performance was more than a display of skill; it was a vindication. Years of setbacks and doubts had led to this moment, where his name would be etched alongside the greats of the game. From the streets of Prague to the grandeur of Hampden Park, Schick’s journey is a testament to resilience and self-belief.

The Czech Republic’s victory marked a strong start to their Euro 2020 campaign, and Schick’s brilliance ensured that his name resonated far beyond Glasgow. In a single night, he transformed from a promising striker to a global phenomenon, his second goal destined to be replayed and revered for generations.

Scotland’s Return, Czech Republic’s Triumph 

For Scotland, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow, but their return to the international stage remains a triumph of spirit. The match underscored their passion and determination, even as it highlighted the challenges they must overcome. For the Czech Republic, it was a statement of intent, with Schick leading the charge as a symbol of their ambitions.

As the echoes of Hampden Park fade, one truth remains: football is a game of moments, and Patrik Schick seized his with both hands, delivering a masterpiece that will live on in the annals of the sport.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar