If World War II Never Happened: A FIFA World Cup Timeline
- Thread starter NTF aka Seb
- Start date
UEFA Euro 2008 - Knockout Stage
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Part 89 - Atmosfear
UEFA Euro 2008 - Knockout Stage
UEFA Euro 2008 - Knockout Stage
Few European rivalries are greater than that between the Netherlands and Germany. In 1976, the Germans bested the Dutch in a thrilling 3-2 final to become European champions. Twelve years later, the tables turned and it was Oranje's turn at Germany's expense. Now, 20 additional years later, the Netherlands were favorites following an emphatic group stage. But they were left stunned as Germany blitzed into a two-goal lead before an half-hour was played. The Netherlands got on the scoresheet in the 40th minute, still trailing at the break. Things didn't become easier for them when the Germans extended their lead in the 56th minute. The Netherlands fervently chased goals and finally added a second in the 86th minute, but it was too little too late.
Turkey returned to the quarter-finals after failing to qualify in 2004, while Croatia, despite World Cup success, reached this stage for the first time in Euro history. Neither team had ever been in the semi-finals before, but Semih Şentürk ensured the hosts accomplished that historic feat by scoring in the 65th minute, shortly after being subbed in.
After a hesitant but far from boring opening half between Spain and England, La Roja scored early in the second half to edge out The Three Lions.
Just less than two years earlier, the Soviet Union became world champions on home soil at Italy's expense, with the score of 2-1. Here, their paths crossed as soon as in the quarters. The Soviets took the lead through a lethal counter attack in the last second of the opening half, and doubled their advantage in the 56th minute. Italy's 86th minute consolation never became more than just that. History repeated itself and the Soviets won 2-1.
After 20 long years, Germany were back in the semi-finals of the Euros. Turkey were back in Istanbul, and took the lead in the 22nd minute, while Germany equalized after mere minutes passed. Deep into the second half, after 79 minutes, the Germans went in front for the first time. Turkey made it 2-2 a few minutes later in this mouthwatering encounter. However, Germany scored the presumptive winner in the 90th minute. But Turkey defied the odds to make it 3-3 in the very dying moments of added time. Extra time normaly leads to more careful football risk-minimizing. Not this one, though it did take to the 120th minute before Turkey found the winner as if they had plot armor.
Spain had the opportunity to reach their first final in 44 years, but first they'd have to pass two-time World champions (and holders) and Euro winners the Soviet Union, who lead 1-0 after 45 minutes. However, in an inspired second half, Spain scored thrice to win 3-1.
A major final. In Istanbul. Featuring Turkey. It was an atmosphere never before witnessed in international football. Not in a previous Euro final. Not in a World Cup final. Never. Completely unrivaled. There were several complaints of commentators speaking too loudly, but it was either that, or not being heard at all. The hosts opened the scoring in the 16th minute, sending the home fans into utter delirium. However, a correctly awarded and converted Spanish penalty spoiled the party in the 53rd minute. Albert Riera killed Turkey's dream in the 80th minute, but they could be proud of their campaign. As could Spain, who finally won another title.
UEFA Euro 2008 knockout stage.
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Atleast Croatia's exit was more humane than IOTL, @ArupinumMaivista.
Credit to @Mildtryth for predicting every quarter-final, but credit to @Looper too for going the extra mile and predicting the winner.
Stay tuned for the prelude to the 2010 World Cup!
So many bad memories from that game with Turkey. That's as traumatic as football got for me, and probably for a good number of Croatia fans. At least Spain healed the wounds here.
