Archive soccer news from around the world
Portugal erupts into party after reaching Euro 2004 finals (Jun 30, 2004)
Cities and towns across Portugal erupted in wild celebrations after the Euro 2004 hosts made history and reached the final of a major tournament for the first time by beating the Netherlands 2-1. . . . more . . .
Ronaldo shows Robben a clean pair of heels (Jun 30, 2004)
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson rarely has a good word to say about international football but even the fiery Scot might have raised a glass to his teenage Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo as he scored in his side's 2-1 Euro 2004 semi-final win over the Netherlands. . . . more . . .
Figo inspires Portugal as Dutch sent packing (Jun 30, 2004)
A virtuoso performance from Luis Figo inspired Portugal to a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands that booked the Euro 2004 hosts' place in the first major final in the country's history. . . . more . . .
Meier fears for family's safety after death threats from English fans (Jun 30, 2004)
Swiss referee Urs Meier said that he feared for the security of his family after receiving death threats from English football supporters infuriated at his disallowing a last minute goal by Sol Campbell in the Euro 2004 quarter-final defeat by Portugal. . . . more . . .
Watch my eyes, read my hips: how to win on penalties (Jun 30, 2004)
At least one of the semi-finals of Euro 2004 is likely to come down to a gut-wrenching penalty shootout. . . . more . . .
Cracks start to appear in King Otto's Greek kingdom (Jun 30, 2004)
Greece's serene if surprising march to the Euro 2004 semi-finals appeared to have hit a few bumps on the eve of the most important match in the country's history. . . . more . . .
Portugal desperate to avoid curse of the blessed Ruud (Jun 30, 2004)
Ruud van Nistelrooy's lethal touch in front of goal may or may not be a gift from God, as the Netherlands' coach Dick Advocaat would have it. . . . more . . .
England coach ducks Euro 2004 blame (Jun 30, 2004)
England assistant coach Tord Grip claims they did nothing wrong in Euro 2004 and could have gone on to win the title if Wayne Rooney had not broken a bone in his foot before losing on penalties to Portugal in the quarter-finals. . . . more . . .
Scolari is wedded to the cause (Jun 30, 2004)
Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari promised he would extend his relationship with the team through to the 2006 World Cup after taking his charges through to the nation's first ever major final with a 2-1 success over the Netherlands in their Euro 2004 semi-final. . . . more . . .
Bitter orange in Amsterdam as Portugal end Dutch hopes (Jun 30, 2004)
Disappointed Dutch fans in Amsterdam tore off their trademark orange shirts and rolled up the national flags but remained philosophical about their team's 2-1 defeat against Portugal in the semi-finals of Euro 2004 on. . . . more . . .
Robson bemused by bizarre Euro (Jun 29, 2004)
Former England coach Sir Bobby Robson reflected on what he termed a bizarre Euro 2004 tournament and admitted he could not answer as to why the so-called giants of the sport had gone out so early. . . . more . . .
Opinionated Seedorf wins over Advocaat (Jun 29, 2004)
First impressions can be deceptive as Dick Advocaat discovered with Dutch midfield general Clarence Seedorf. . . . more . . .
Bolf checks back into training (Jun 29, 2004)
The Euro 2004 favourites the Czech Republic received a boost ahead of Thursday's semi-final with surprise packages Greece when centre-back Rene Bolf resumed training. . . . more . . .
Arsenal's French players gunning for Zidane (Jun 29, 2004)
The fallout from France's disappointing Euro 2004 campaign continued with a report that striker Thierry Henry was plotting along with his fellow French internationals in the Arsenal squad to oust two-time world player of the year Zinedine Zidane. . . . more . . .
Portuguese seek Dutch courage in face of Ruud health (Jun 29, 2004)
Were it not for the "Ruud health" of one player at the peak of his form Euro 2004 hosts Portugal would be confident of stretching a 13-year unbeaten run against Wednesday's semi-final rivals the Netherlands. . . . more . . .
Czechs wary of Greeks ambushing title dream (Jun 29, 2004)
Liverpool star Vladimir Smicer has vowed that the Czech Republic will not fall into the same trap as France by under-estimating their Euro 2004 semi-final opponents Greece. . . . more . . .
I have nothing to prove: Figo (Jun 29, 2004)
Portuguese star Luis Figo, controversially substituted in the quarter-final win over England, said he had "nothing to prove" ahead of Wednesday's semi-final here against Holland. . . . more . . .
Advocaat shrugs off home advantage (Jun 29, 2004)
Dutch coach Dick Advocaat said Portugal would gain little advantage from playing Wednesday's Euro 2004 semi-final in front of their own supporters. . . . more . . .
No fear for Nikopolidis as Greek odyssey continues (Jun 29, 2004)
Greece goalkeeper Antonios Nikopolidis believes his team's progress to the semi-finals of Euro 2004 proves that the balance of power in European football has shifted. . . . more . . .
Larsson completes Barca move (Jun 29, 2004)
Former Celtic striker Henrik Larsson confirmed that he has completed his move to Spanish side Barcelona after passing a medical. . . . more . . .
It could be Overmars and out for not so handy Andy (Jun 29, 2004)
Out of form Dutch winger Andy van der Meyde could be dropped in favour of veteran Marc Overmars for Wednesday's Euro 2004 semi-final according to 'Oranje' coach Dick Advocaat. . . . more . . .
Portugal set to welcome back Nuno Gomes, Andrade (Jun 29, 2004)
Hosts Portugal are set to receive a double fitness boost for Wednesday's Euro 2004 semi-final against the Netherlands with both striker Nuno Gomes and defender Jorge Andrade almost ready to return from ankle trouble. . . . more . . .
Proud Greeks already champions says Giannakopoulos (Jun 28, 2004)
Greece defender Stylianos Giannakopoulos believes his team are already champions in the eyes of their adoring public having reached the semi-finals of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Portugal ready to slay the Dutch: Deco (Jun 28, 2004)
Portugal's midfield dynamo Deco insisted that the hosts were convinced they had what it takes to shoot down the Netherlands and reach the final of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Danish coach laments basic errors as Czechs advance to semis (Jun 28, 2004)
Denmark coach Morten Olsen said his side paid a heavy price for making silly mistakes in their Euro 2004 quarter-final defeat to the Czech Republic. . . . more . . .
Greek clash may not be pretty to watch warns Koller (Jun 28, 2004)
The Czech Republic's giant striker Jan Koller has warned that this week's Euro 2004 semi-final against Greece may not be pretty to watch. . . . more . . .
Dutch without de Boer for Portugal semi (Jun 28, 2004)
Dutch captain Frank de Boer will almost certainly play no further part in the Netherland's bid to win Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Baros destroys Danes as Czechs make last four (Jun 28, 2004)
The Czech Republic claimed a place in the semi-finals of Euro 2004 in style after thrashing Denmark 3-0 at the Dragao stadium. . . . more . . .
Real Madrid hit back at tired Beckham (Jun 28, 2004)
Real Madrid have hit back at David Beckham's claims that the Spanish giants' training programme left the England captain short of fitness for Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Baros determined to impress new boss (Jun 28, 2004)
Euro 2004 top scorer Milan Baros is hoping the five goals which have helped fire the Czech Republic into the semi-finals will have caught the eye of new Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez. . . . more . . .
Postiga has star quality: Portugal's Deco (Jun 28, 2004)
After a dreadful season with Tottenham, Portuguese striker Helder Postiga came to Euro 2004 expecting to be on the bench, but his goal which helped to sink England could transform his career, midfield dynamo Deco said. . . . more . . .
Postiga has star quality: Deco (Jun 28, 2004)
After a dreadful season with Tottenham, Portuguese striker Helder Postiga came to Euro 2004 expecting to be on the bench, but his goal which helped to sink England could transform his career, midfield dynamo Deco said. . . . more . . .
Nedved fears suspension for final (Jun 28, 2004)
The Czech Republic's influential midfielder Pavel Nedved criticised the refereeing which has left him teetering on the brink of suspension for the final of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Baros hits out at Houllier (Jun 28, 2004)
Euro 2004 top scorer Milan Baros says he would have walked out on Liverpool if Gerard Houllier had not been sacked as manager. . . . more . . .
Hitzfeld to decide on German post soon (Jun 28, 2004)
Ottmar Hitzfeld will decide in the next 10 days whether he will succeed Rudi Voller as German coach the former Bayern Munich handler said. . . . more . . .
Things can only get better says penalty hero Robben (Jun 28, 2004)
Chelsea-bound Arjen Robben has been a key component in the Netherland's progress into the last four at Euro 2004, but he believes there's better to come ahead of this week's semi-final against Portugal. . . . more . . .
United plan Van sale to finance Rooney deal (Jun 28, 2004)
Manchester United are reportedly planning to sell Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy to Real Madrid for 30 million pounds (55 million dollars) in order to buy 18-year-old England sensation Wayne Rooney from Everton. . . . more . . .
Time running out for De Boer (Jun 28, 2004)
Dutch captain Frank de Boer is almost certainly out of this week's Euro 2004 semi-final against Portugal, coach Dick Advocaat said. . . . more . . .
Eusebio sees Portugal destined for title (Jun 27, 2004)
Portuguese legend Eusebio is convinced the Euro 2004 hosts are destined to win the title. . . . more . . .
Zidane undecided over international future (Jun 27, 2004)
France's two-time world footballer of the year Zinedine Zidane said he hadn't made up his mind as to whether he would retire from international football following his country's disappointing defence of their European title. . . . more . . .
Asian press quick to turn on Beckham after years of adoration (Jun 27, 2004)
After years of helping to make David Beckham the most popular sports figure in Asia, the region's media turned on the England captain over the weekend after his disastrous Euro 2004 campaign. . . . more . . .
No calf measures for Bolton dynamo as he is set for semi clash (Jun 27, 2004)
Euro 2004 giantkillers Greece received an added boost with the news inspirational midfielder Stylianos Giannakopoulos has recovered from a calf injury and looks set to start in Thursday's semi-final. . . . more . . .
Advocaat deserves the credit says de Boer (Jun 27, 2004)
A week ago if Dutch coach Dick Advocaat had looked up he would have seen vultures circling overhead as the Netherlands faced a humiliatingly early exit from Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
French football chief gives nod to Blanc in race to succeed Santini (Jun 27, 2004)
Former France internationals Laurent Blanc and Jean Tigana have emerged as the favourites to succeed Jacques Santini following France's humiliating early exit from the European Championships. . . . more . . .
My mind was a blank says Swedish skipper after missing penalty (Jun 27, 2004)
Sweden captain Olof Mellberg said his mind was a blank when he left the pitch after missing his penalty - the first he'd ever taken for his country - in the quarter-final against the Netherlands. . . . more . . .
Baros destroys Danes as Czechs make last four (Jun 27, 2004)
The Czech Republic claimed a place in the semi-finals of Euro 2004 in style after thrashing Denmark 3-0 at the Dragao stadium. . . . more . . .
'The Gentleman' cools on succeeding Voller (Jun 27, 2004)
Germany's search for a successor to Rudi Voller suffered an unexpected blow when the hot favourite for the job former Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld said he was far from certain to take it. . . . more . . .
Injured De Boer's celebrations tinged with sadness (Jun 27, 2004)
Captain Frank De Boer's delight in seeing the Netherlands finally overcome their penalty jitters to clinch a semi-final date with Portugal was tempered by the harsh reealisation that his role in Euro 2004 may have come to an untimely end. . . . more . . .
Andrade sends get-well soon message to Rooney (Jun 27, 2004)
Jorge Andrade, the Portugal defender whose tackle left Wayne Rooney with a broken foot, said he wished the Everton and England striker a speedy recovery. . . . more . . .
Nedved determined to lead from the front (Jun 27, 2004)
The Czech Republic have demonstrated their powers of recovery at Euro 2004, but Pavel Nedved would like to see the comeback kings make Denmark play catch-up when the teams meet in the quarter-finals. . . . more . . .
Andrade ready to face van Nistelrooy (Jun 27, 2004)
Portugal defender Jorge Andrade has declared himself fit and ready to face Ruud van Nistelrooy in Wednesday's Euro 2004 semi-final against the Netherlands. . . . more . . .
Dutch start favourites but Swedes promise fireworks (Jun 26, 2004)
The Netherlands and Sweden meet here in what promises to be an explosive Euro 2004 quarter-final as master marksmen Ruud van Nistelrooy and Henrik Larsson do battle. . . . more . . .
End of an era for France's aging heros (Jun 26, 2004)
Greece finally hammered home the message that had been clear in the Euro 2004 first round - the backbone of the French team that remain from their great championship wins in 1998 and 2000 are a spent force. . . . more . . .
Real-ity check for Real Madrid's Four Musketeers (Jun 26, 2004)
Any hopes England, France, Spain and Portugal had that Real Madrid's form slump would not be reflected by their star turns at Euro 2004 has been brutally shattered during the tournament. . . . more . . .
Denmark can emulate class of '92 says confident Olsen (Jun 26, 2004)
Denmark coach Morten Olsen believes his side can go all the way at Euro 2004 and emulate the success of the championship-winning team of 1992. . . . more . . .
The players betrayed me claims Santini over French farce (Jun 26, 2004)
Jacques Santini launched an astonishing attack on the French squad blaming them for France's failure to defend their European title successfully following the shock 1-0 defeat by Greece. . . . more . . .
Robben the Dutch master as Sweden crash out (Jun 26, 2004)
The Netherlands knocked Sweden out of Euro 2004 and claimed a semi-final match-up against Portugal after a nerve tingling penalty shoot-out after the match ended 0-0 after extra-time. . . . more . . .
'King Otto' doesn't want to be crowned German football 'Kaiser' (Jun 26, 2004)
Otto Rehhagel has no intention of deserting his Euro 2004 semi-finalists Greece to take over the poisoned chalice of German national coach he revealed. . . . more . . .
British press still outing Euro 2004 scapegoats (Jun 26, 2004)
More than 24 hours after England crashed out of Euro 2004 in a dramatic penalty shoot out against Portugal, the British newspapers were still struggling to find a fitting fall guy for a nation's loss. . . . more . . .
I'll walk to Fatima shrine if we win: Portugal keeper (Jun 26, 2004)
Portugal goalkeeper Ricardo, hero of the penalty shootout win over England, will get down on his hands and knees big time if his countrymen go all the way to glory at Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
No rift with Figo, insists Scolari (Jun 26, 2004)
Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari insisted he and skipper Luis Figo had not fallen out following the side's nailbiting Euro 2004 quarter-final win over England. . . . more . . .
Slow-starting Czechs will tighten up says Bruckner (Jun 26, 2004)
Czech Republic coach Karel Bruckner is confident his team will be quicker off the mark when they face Denmark in Sunday's Euro 2004 quarter-final here at the Dragao stadium. . . . more . . .
Angry Figo left to contemplate Fatima (Jun 25, 2004)
Angry Portuguese skipper Luis Figo did not join in celebrations after his country's penalty shootout win over England after coach Luiz Felipe Scolari hauled him off with his side 1-0 down, according to media reports. . . . more . . .
Saez resigns as Spain coach after Euro 2004 flop (Jun 25, 2004)
Spain coach Inaki Saez announced he had handed in his resignation to the Spanish football federation following his side's elimination from Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Sand in race against time to make Czech match (Jun 25, 2004)
Denmark striker Ebbe Sand is confident he will be fit in time to face the Czech Republic in Sunday's Euro 2004 quarter-final. . . . more . . .
Dutch start favourites but Swedes promise fireworks (Jun 25, 2004)
The Netherlands and Sweden meet here Saturday in what promises to be an explosive Euro 2004 quarter-final as master marksmen Ruud van Nistelrooy and Henrik Larsson do battle. . . . more . . .
Former England star slams 'cowardly' Eriksson (Jun 25, 2004)
A member of the last England squad to win a major football competition branded coach Sven Goran Eriksson a 'coward' after a dramatic Euro 2004 quarter-finals loss to hosts Portugal on penalties. . . . more . . .
Spanish coach Saez he is going (Jun 25, 2004)
Spanish coach Inaki Saez resigned from his post just days after he defiantly declared he would stay on following Spain's first round exit from Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
King Otto puts Greeks on the football map (Jun 25, 2004)
To beat Portugal in their own back yard just about registered on football's Richter scale of surprises. . . . more . . .
Olsen keeping stum on key to unlocking Czech puzzle (Jun 25, 2004)
Coach Morten Olsen believes he may have devised a masterplan to help Denmark beat their quarter-final opponents the Czech Republic in Porto on Sunday. . . . more . . .
Experienced Lucic set for Sweden return (Jun 25, 2004)
Sweden's' hopes of muzzling Dutch master marksman Ruud van Nistelrooy in Saturday's Euro 2004 quarter-final look set to receive a major boost with the return of experienced Teddy Lucic. . . . more . . .
Greek passion play derails French busted flush (Jun 25, 2004)
After 65 minutes of action which barely rose above the mediocre a little flash of skill and a classic header unlocked the trapdoor - and sent the holders crashing through as Angelos Charisteas soared to propel Greece to victory over France here. . . . more . . .
Thanks for the memories but can Rooney avoid the pitfalls? (Jun 25, 2004)
The most talked-about player at Euro 2004 ended his tournament by hobbling to the sidelines and out of the media glare he has been basking in for two weeks. . . . more . . .
Santini reign ends on sour note (Jun 25, 2004)
Jacques Santini's two-year spell in charge of France ended on a sour note with the Tottenham-bound coach laying the blame for the shock defeat by Greece firmly at the feet of his players. . . . more . . .
Portuguese hail Ricardo the Lionheart, conqueror of England (Jun 25, 2004)
They restored the monarchy in Portugal, crowning Ricardo the Lionheart, conqueror of England and winner of the greatest match of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Multitude of woes led to England's doom, says British press (Jun 25, 2004)
David Beckham's penalty miss, Wayne Rooney's injury, a disallowed goal a minute from full-time: Britain's press highlighted a multitude of woes that were responsible for England's exit from Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Referee cost England from going through in Euro 2004: Woodward (Jun 25, 2004)
England were cost a semi-final place at Euro 2004 by the referee in their match with Portugal, England's World Cup-winning rugby coach Clive Woodward revealed. . . . more . . .
Lippi's coolness can bring best out of Italy (Jun 25, 2004)
Marcello Lippi has been handed the unenviable task of trying to revive the fortunes of the once revered Italian football team which left red-faced from Euro 2004 after just three matches. . . . more . . .
Ruud's divine goal-scoring ability a gift from God: Advocaat (Jun 25, 2004)
Ruud van Nistelrooy's uncanny goal-scoring ability was a divine gift, Dutch coach Dick Advocaat suggested on the eve of his team's quarter-final clash with Sweden. . . . more . . .
Listless France dethroned by Greece (Jun 25, 2004)
Greece created one of the biggest shocks in the history of the European Championships by dumping defending champions France out of the tournament here. . . . more . . .
Penalty practice does not make perfect claim Dutch (Jun 25, 2004)
The Netherlands are perhaps just behind England when it comes to incompetence in penalty shootouts yet they still have no intention of practicing ahead of the Euro 2004 quarter-final clash with Sweden here Saturday. . . . more . . .
Italy's early Euro exit was deserved says players' chief (Jun 25, 2004)
The president of the Italian footballers' association Sergio Campana said that Italy were simply not good enough to reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
France warned to beware Greeks bearing German gift for tactics (Jun 25, 2004)
After facing England in their opening match and then being given an almighty scare by Croatia, France could be forgiven for thinking they have earned a bit of a rest. . . . more . . .
Lippi in as Italy show Trap the door (Jun 25, 2004)
Marcello Lippi has replaced Giovanni Trapattoni as coach of Italy, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed. . . . more . . .
Press says multitude of woes led to England's doom (Jun 25, 2004)
David Beckham's penalty miss, Wayne Rooney's injury, a disallowed goal a minute from full-time: the newspapers highlighted a multitude of woes that were responsible for England's exit from Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Penalty hell for England is heaven for Portugal (Jun 25, 2004)
England's dreams of glory at Euro 2004 ended in heartbreak after more than two hours of gut-wrenching drama culminated in a penalty shoot-out defeat to Portugal. . . . more . . .
Ricardo the hero at both ends of Portuguese equation (Jun 25, 2004)
One man's hero is another man's villain in the high-octane world of modern football and Portuguese goalkeeper Ricardo resolved that he only wanted to be the former at Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
I won't quit: Beckham (Jun 25, 2004)
David Beckham angrily hit out at suggestions he had lost his ability to inspire England and insisted he would not be reliniquishing the captaincy in the wake of his side's exit from Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Diplomatic Eriksson says England are on course for major title (Jun 25, 2004)
England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson refused to openly criticise Swiss referee Urs Meier over his controversial decision to disallow Sol Campbell's last minute goal in their heartbreaking Euro 2004 quarter-final defeat by Portugal. . . . more . . .
Support from 'the enemy' for under-fire Advocaat (Jun 25, 2004)
Dutch coach Dick Advocaat, under fire from press, fans and his players at Euro 2004, received support from an unexpected quarter - Swedish joint coach Lars Lagerback. . . . more . . .
England and Portugal ready to face the pain (Jun 24, 2004)
Whether it is the Rooney-mania sweeping through England or the Euro fever engulfing Portugal, something has to give in the Stadium of Light on Thursday night. . . . more . . .
British press wills Rooney to carry England through (Jun 24, 2004)
The British press was awash with pictures of England's teenage sensation Wayne Rooney and willed him to score again in his country's Euro 2004 quarter-final against Portugal later in the day. . . . more . . .
Voller resigns from Germany job (Jun 24, 2004)
Germany coach Rudi Voller announced he had resigned following the three-time European champions' elimination from Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Desailly tells Portugal how to down England (Jun 24, 2004)
Veteran France defender Marcel Desailly says Portugal must close down the England midfield in the quarter-final if the host nation are to progress to the semi-finals of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Euro 2004 to have little impact on Portugal economy: study (Jun 24, 2004)
The three-week European football finals currently underway in Portugal will have only a limited impact on the economy despite bringing thousands of visitors to the country, a finance ministry study concluded. . . . more . . .
France warned to beware Greeks bearing German gift for tactics (Jun 24, 2004)
After facing England in their opening match and then being given an almighty scare by Croatia, France could be forgiven for thinking they have earned a bit of a rest. . . . more . . .
Voller resigns after Germany crash out (Jun 24, 2004)
Germany coach Rudi Voller resigned after the three-time European champions crashed out of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Portugal into Euro semi-final after beating England on penalties (Jun 24, 2004)
Portugal moved into the Euro 2004 semi-finals after beating England 6-5 on penalties - the match had ended 2-2 after extra-time. . . . more . . .
Vieira not healing as well as Gallas: Desailly (Jun 24, 2004)
France midfielder Patrick Vieira remains a serious doubt for the Euro 2004 quarter-final against Greece, his teammate Marcel Desailly said. . . . more . . .
European giants have their feet of clay exposed (Jun 24, 2004)
They came, they saw and they choked. . . . more . . .
Spain coach Saez 'has handed in resignation' (Jun 24, 2004)
Spanish coach Inaki Saez has already handed in his resignation to the Spanish football federation after his side's Euro 2004 flop and will leave his post, Spanish media reports said. . . . more . . .
Everton warn clubs off chase for Rooney (Jun 24, 2004)
Everton manager David Moyes attempted to cool transfer speculation surrounding teenage sensation Wayne Rooney. . . . more . . .
Rooney injury 'pretty serious' says Eriksson (Jun 24, 2004)
England teenage sensation Wayne Rooney could be out for several weeks after he went off injured in the first-half of the Euro 2004 quarter-final penalty shootout loss to Portugal according to England's coach Sven-Goran Eriksson. . . . more . . .
Toldo retires from international football (Jun 24, 2004)
Inter Milan goalkeeper Francesco Toldo announced his retirement from international football following the Azzurri's disappointing first round elimination in Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Penalty hell for England is heaven for Portugal (Jun 24, 2004)
England's dreams of glory at Euro 2004 ended in heartbreak after more than two hours of gut-wrenching drama ended in a penalty shoot-out defeat to Portugal. . . . more . . .
France will show Greece respect says Santini (Jun 24, 2004)
France coach Jacques Santini insists his players will not be taking the challenge of Greece lightly in their Euro 2004 quarter-final on Friday. . . . more . . .
Defeated Germany Czech out of Euro 2004 (Jun 23, 2004)
Three-time European champions Germany became the latest big names to exit the Euro 2004 finals after going down to a 2-1 defeat against a second-string Czech Republic side here. . . . more . . .
British fan stabbed in southern Portugal's Algarve (Jun 23, 2004)
A 19-year-old British fan was stabbed in the neck in Portugal's southern Algarve region, police said. . . . more . . .
Newcastle interested in Portugal's Miguel (Jun 23, 2004)
Newcastle United are considering making a 13 million euro bid for Portuguese defender Miguel in a cash plus player deal involving out of favour Newcastle midfielder Hugo Viana going the other way, sports daily A Bola reported. . . . more . . .
Conspiracy theories show Italian football's dark side (Jun 23, 2004)
Italy's failure to accept that the 2-2 draw between Sweden and Denmark was a fair result perhaps says more about the current paranoid state of Italian football than it does about the Euro 2004 tournament. . . . more . . .
Make or break time for the Dutch (Jun 23, 2004)
The Netherlands' Euro 2004 campaign could come to an abrupt end as Dick Advocaat's side square up to so-called minnows Latvia in Braga's stadio Municipal. . . . more . . .
Vieira and Gallas doubts for Greece game (Jun 23, 2004)
France midfielder Patrick Vieira and defender William Gallas did not train with their teammates and both must wait to see if they recover from injuries in time for the Euro 2004 quarter-final against Greece on Friday. . . . more . . .
Rooney takes it all in his stride (Jun 23, 2004)
Wayne Rooney has shown no signs of being affected by the extraordinary interest that his performances at Euro 2004 have generated around the world, England skipper David Beckham revealed. . . . more . . .
England make formal request to commemorate slain fan (Jun 23, 2004)
England players made a formal request to wear black armbands for their forthcoming Euro 2004 quarter final clash against Portugal. . . . more . . .
Wakey wakey Swedes says skipper (Jun 23, 2004)
Sweden must be sharp right from the kick-off in their quarter-final with the Dutch on Saturday if they are to progress further in Euro 2004, claimed captain Olof Mellberg. . . . more . . .
Bolton dynamo in race to be fit for French clash (Jun 23, 2004)
Greece are sweating on whether inspirational midfielder Stylianos Giannakopoulos will recover from his calf injury in time for the most important date ever in their footballing history, Friday's Euro 2004 quarter-final with reigning champions France. . . . more . . .
Chelsea let Gerrard secret out of bag (Jun 23, 2004)
Chelsea have admitted for the first time they are ready to make a swoop for England's Euro 2004 midfield star Steven Gerrard to trump a move by Manchester United. . . . more . . .
Toothless attack at the heart of Germany's demise (Jun 23, 2004)
Germany's powder-puff front-line was under attack before the 2004 European championships and a glut of missed chances contributed to their 2-1 defeat by the Czech Republic which sent the three-time winners out of the finals. . . . more . . .
Trapattoni defiant after Italy say arrivederci (Jun 23, 2004)
Italy coach Giovanni Trapattoni said his team were still one of the top five teams in Europe despite their early exit from Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Euro 2000 nightmare spurs Germans on for Czech clash (Jun 23, 2004)
Four years ago Germany exited the European championships at the first group hurdle and the World Cup finalists face a similar fate in the Portugal finals should they fail to defeat the Czech Republic in a must-win match. . . . more . . .
Latvia get Ruud awakening as Dutch go through (Jun 23, 2004)
Ruud van Nistelrooy inspired the Netherlands to a 3-0 victory over Latvia, a result that sealed the 1988 European champions a quarter-final date against Sweden. . . . more . . .
England and Portugal ready to face the pain (Jun 23, 2004)
Whether it is the Rooney-mania sweeping through England or the Euro fever engulfing Portugal, something has to give in the Stadium of Light on Thursday night. . . . more . . .
Italy deserved to qualify not Sweden says Tomasson (Jun 23, 2004)
Denmark striker Jon Dahl Tomasson believes Italy deserved to qualify for the quarter-finals of Euro 2004 instead of Sweden. . . . more . . .
Eriksson backs Owen to end Euro 2004 goal drought (Jun 23, 2004)
Sven-Goran Eriksson is backing Michael Owen to end his Euro 2004 goal drought in England's quarter-final against Portugal here. . . . more . . .
More than 3,500 stopped at Portugal's borders since checks restored (Jun 23, 2004)
Border guards in Portugal have turned back more than 3,500 foreigners caught trying to enter the country illegally since full border checks were reintroduced in May as part of security measures for Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Denmark scoff at 'fix' claims (Jun 23, 2004)
Denmark coach Morten Olsen and his players scoffed at claims that their 2-2 draw with Sweden was fixed in order to ensure they progressed to the quarter-finals of Euro 2004 at the expense of Italy. . . . more . . .
Van Nistelrooy hits peak form in Portugal (Jun 23, 2004)
To say Ruud van Nistelrooy is enjoying his first ever major championships would be a gross understatement - he's loving it. . . . more . . .
It's the team that matters not me says Becks (Jun 23, 2004)
David Beckham said he was prepared to accept the criciticsm of his form at Euro 2004 so long as England kept on winning - starting with eliminating hosts Portugal in the quarter-final. . . . more . . .
Eriksson sees England peaking German-style (Jun 23, 2004)
Sven-Goran Eriksson believes England could be about to take a leaf out of Germany's book by running into form just when it matters most. . . . more . . .
Pele hails wonderkid Rooney (Jun 23, 2004)
Pele agrees with England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson that Wayne Rooney has made a bigger impact on a major tournament than any young player since Pele himself. . . . more . . .
Winner of Portugal/England clash should win Euro: Mourinho (Jun 23, 2004)
New Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has said he hopes the winner of the Euro 2004 quarter-final match between Portugal and England on Thursday will go on to win the 16-nation football championship. . . . more . . .
Becks: my best is yet to come (Jun 23, 2004)
David Beckham has warned Portugal that Euro 2004 has still to see the best of him. . . . more . . .
Euro success brings in euros aplenty for Greek team (Jun 23, 2004)
Greece's national football team will receive a one-million euro bonus for reaching the European championships' quarter-finals, the Greek government said. . . . more . . .
French defenders in the wars as Santini focuses on next battle (Jun 22, 2004)
France's roller-coaster ride through Euro 2004 shows no signs of stopping, the defending champions' relief at making it into the quarter-finals tempered by injuries to defenders Willy Sagnol and William Gallas. . . . more . . .
Goal-shy Germany look to Ballack for inspiration (Jun 22, 2004)
German international midfielder Michael Ballack claims he is not putting himself under pressure to score goals in Euro 2004 despite his country's shortcomings in front of goal. . . . more . . .
England stars back Rooney magic to conjure up final place (Jun 22, 2004)
Wayne Rooney's team-mates are growing increasingly confident that his unique brand of teen spirit is burning brightly enough to fuel an England drive all the way to the final of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Scolari lauds rapidly maturing Ronaldo (Jun 22, 2004)
Portugal's Brazilian coach Luiz Felipe Scolari knows a thing or two about what makes a winning side, having taken one Ronaldo-inspired team to World Cup glory. . . . more . . .
Dutch could lack bite in midfield for Latvian clash (Jun 22, 2004)
The Netherlands suffered a blow on the eve of their must win Euro 2004 match with feisty debutants Latvia as it was revealed midfielder Edgar Davids was in doubt because of a stomach muscle injury. . . . more . . .
Sweden out to clip Denmark's wings (Jun 22, 2004)
Sweden and Denmark, in the driving seat to make it into the Euro 2004 quarter-finals from Group C, meet here aware that Italy's beady eye is keeping a close watch on the outcome. . . . more . . .
We've only ourselves to blame, says Italy striker Corradi (Jun 22, 2004)
Italy striker Bernardo Corradi refused to point the finger of blame at anybody else other than himself and his Azzurri team-mates after their early exit from Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Not even Spielberg could come up with a script like that: Larsson (Jun 22, 2004)
There was little sympathy for Italy here Tuesday after Denmark and Sweden froze the former European champions out of Euro 2004 with a 2-2 draw here Tuesday. . . . more . . .
Bookies cut Rooney-inspired England to second favourites (Jun 22, 2004)
England's 4-2 victory over Croatia persuaded those ultimate arbiters of which way the wind is blowing the English bookies to make them second favourites for Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
France defender Sagnol out for two months (Jun 22, 2004)
France defender Willy Sagnol will be out of action for two months after x-rays revealed he had broken his left arm in the 3-1 victory over Switzerland at Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Italy have stuffing knocked out of them despite last gasp winner (Jun 22, 2004)
Italy suffered the ultimate heartbreak as an injury-time goal by Antonio Cassano was enough to beat Bulgaria 2-1 but not good enough to see them through to the Euro 2004 quarter-finals. . . . more . . .
Sweden and Denmark book tickets to the quarter-finals (Jun 22, 2004)
Sweden and Denmark drew 2-2 and both qualified for the knock-out stages of Euro 2004 at the expense of Italy. . . . more . . .
Paranoid Italy fear being frozen out by Scandinavian skulduggery (Jun 22, 2004)
Italy will only be sure of a place in the quarter-finals of Euro 2004 if they beat whipping boys Bulgaria and there is a winner in the other Group C game between Sweden and Denmark. . . . more . . .
We're not here by chance says high-flying Latvia coach (Jun 22, 2004)
Latvia, who are still in the hunt for a quarter-final berth as countries like Spain and the Euro's first ever champions Russia have fallen by the wayside, are growing in confidence says coach Aleksandrs Starkovs. . . . more . . .
England wounded set to be ready for Portugal battle (Jun 22, 2004)
Chelsea centre-back John Terry has vowed to be fit for England's Euro 2004 quarter-final against Portugal on Thursday, despite limping off the pitch at the end of the 4-2 win over Croatia which booked his side's place in the last eight. . . . more . . .
Germany search for goalscorer (Jun 22, 2004)
German national coach Rudi Voller admits his side do not possess world strikers such as Thierry Henry, Wayne Rooney or Ruud van Nistelrooy and must look at other options ahead of the crunch Euro 2004 clash with the Czech Republic on Wednesday. . . . more . . .
England stars back Rooney magic to conjur up final place (Jun 22, 2004)
Wayne Rooney's team-mates are growing increasingly confident that his unique brand of teen spirit is burning brightly enough to fuel an England drive all the way to the final of Euro 2004. . . . more . . .
Tough-talking Cole vows to stop Ronaldo (Jun 22, 2004)
Arsenal left-back Ashley Cole has spiced up the build-up to England's Euro 2004 quarter-final clash with Portugal by claiming tough tackles are the way to stop Cristiano Ronaldo. . . . more . . .
Thanks for the memories says bitter Celestini (Jun 22, 2004)
Swiss midfielder Fabio Celestini bid a bitter farewell to international football aiming a broadside at national coach Jakob Kuhn. . . . more . . .