So rather than call up one of the best centrebacks in Serie A this past term in Mexes, Domenech deems it better to play an 35 year old who hardly got off the bench for Barca and Abidal who was out of position not too mention his poor form? Domenech was pathetic and his selection was sad. France could have contended had the best XI been on hte pitch but unfortunately the coach failed. Good luck in WC qualifying. Italy took care of business and despite playing poorly have advanced. They were hard done by the referee against Romania and although both goals in this match were fortunate I feel they deserve to advance. We will see what the loss of Pirlo and Gattusso will mean in the next round. I feel for Spain as they once again play well in the groups only to draw a giant just gaining its form, but Spain knew at the outset that they would face a powerhouse in the round of eight. I am looking forward.

What can we say about Holland. Tournaments are not won here but fans and neutrals alike just show appreciation for their football display. A lot of people would insist on throwing this one to knock out Italy but there is something greater than that at stake. It is called pride. Holland wanted revenge for the loss in qualifying and wanted to satisfy the pure desire to win a football game. An excellent performance that seemed like a stroll in the park. The much maligned defense, conceded only one chance and a single corner, while some of the next generation showed their stuff. They squandered chances early and kept Romania in the game but enough was enough and shut the door. There is a long way to go but watching Oranje has been a pleasure and privilege. With everything on the line, the team that gave italy a run for its money was chasing shadows as Holland deftly outclassed them today. There is pretty much nothing to say about their performance other than they were completely dominated. Class from Klaas and rifleshot for Van Persie, and it could have been 4-0. A weak performance for a team with everything on the line, but Holland was too strong and sturdy in defense.