Netherlands, one of the strongest team of the Euro Cup 2012, crashed out of the tournament after they lost 1-2 in their ultimate league matchup against Portugal. Netherlands entered into the match requiring a win by two goals and hoped that Germany beat Denmark. They got off to a perfect start and took an early lead but then a brace by Portuguese captain sealed their fate.
Both the teams had some quality players and let us take a take a look as to how they fared. Here are some of the hits and flops of the match:
Portugal
Hits:
Christiano Ronaldo: After not being able to score for two consecutive matches, which made many to contemplate that he is not someone who can perform for his country like how he does for club, Ronaldo inspired his team to a 2-1 victory against the Dutch. The world costliest player rose to the occasion and scored a brace, hit the woodwork twice and almost had an assist to his name when Nani failed to convert his pass. Ronaldo threatened Dutch defence throughout the match and if his form continues Portugal can surely go the distance this Euro 2012.
Joao Moutinho: His speed and technical play in the middle caught the whole Netherlands defence wanting. He exploited the Dutch defence, created good moves and linked with Nani and Ronaldo well. His efforts should have seen him scoring a goal.
Nani: Nani made many counter attacks throughout the game, set up the winner for his skipper and threatened Netherlands’ right back Jetro Williams throughout the match. He should have scored a goal but then missed the target from a close range.
Flops:
Helder Postiga: Portugal could have added to the tally even more had this striker not failed to find the target. He was there in the middle got many opportunities but Postiga who helped Portugal in their victory against Denmark foiled every chance that he got.
Netherlands:
Rafael Van der Vart: He was the only player in this star studded Netherlands side who could be said to have a decent match. He gave the Dutch an early break, saw one more shot hit bounce off the post and was seen tiring endlessly in the match.
Flops:
Gregory Van der Weil: He was up against one of the best players of the game and needed a lot of character to stop him. But then he surrendered totally to Ronaldo and was unable to go anywhere close to him. Even when he tried to clear a ball, it landed straight on Postiga’s feet but then was saved as the striker could not find the target. He had a terrible game and to sum up his failure cost them the match.
Jetro Williams: He was tormented by Nani throughout the match and was caught on the wrong foot throughout the match. He kept on giving away the possession and was seen off his position throughout the match.
Wesley Sneijder: He had a horrible game and never could live up to his reputation. He missed his mark while trying to find the goal, his passes could landed at opposition feet more than his own team.
By Indian Sports News Network
