England advances to Euro Knockout Stage undefeated

Will this England squad fall short of the expectations, just like its predecessors? They still have to prove themselves, as they continuously fail to score, but the team has the potential to make it far in this tournament, should they upset France in the second round of the Euro.

England fans most likely rejoice, knowing that their next match, while a toss-up, shall not feature any particularly threatening team to the England Squad, as the best team may be Hungary, though Portugal may pose a threat should they get in form. Meanwhile, England fans should relax – their play could stand some improvement, but their team is a force to be reckoned with.

Led by Bale, first-time Euro participants Wales rise to top of Group F

Is anyone else as shocked as I am? Despite a close loss to England in the Group Stage, Wales has not only advanced through Group F, but they finished at the top of it. Gareth Bale, A midfielder for world-class club Real Madrid, has led the team with not only back-to-back free kick goals against England and Slovakia, but scoring against Russia as well. He’s also put himself atop the scoring list for the Euro, as he is the only one to have scored every game so far. With Bale on a roll, Wales has the potential to be a Cinderella story, much like Greece’s upset win in 2004.

The hand of God strikes again

Now England has someone to share their pain with. During a crucial match that would decide whether Brazil would advance to the knockout stage in the Copa America, the Hand of God came in the form of a handball by Peru in the 79th minute, enraging Brazil players and fans alike. Brazil’s national team has been on a downward slope ever since the embarrassing 1-7 loss in the semifinals of the World Cup. The goal ended their shot at the Copa America, and caused Dunga (Brazil’s head coach) to be fired soon after. Brazil was missing their star player, Neymar, from FC Barcelona, but the early exit by one of the favorites was stunning, nonetheless.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic set to retire from World football following Euro

World class player and fundamental piece of French champions PSG, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has announced he will retire from captaincy and national duty following the Euro. Zlatan will retire after a national record 62 international goals and 116 caps (national starting appearances). Sweden plays Belgium, ranked 2nd in the world on Wednesday for a chance to advance to the knockout stage of the Euro.

(Photo via Jon Candy)