Portugal Defeats Turkey in Euro 2008

After the opening game of Euro 2008 in Basel, Switzerland with the victory of the Czech Republic over the host country Switzerland, Portugal played its opening game against Turkey in Geneva, Switzerland. The game was transmitted live via Shortwave and Internet Radio by RDP Internacional [The External Services of Portuguese Radio and Television]. During an interview, Luis Felipe Scolari [the Coach of the Portuguese National Team who is from Brazil] was willing to recognize the strength of the Turkish National Team and was willing to be content with either a 1-0 victory for Portugal or a draw. The events that transpired showed otherwise.

FIRST HALF

The Portuguese and Turkish National Teams used the first half to attempt possession of the game. It was a mark of brinkmanship in which the Turkish Team blinked and Portugal took possession of the game within the last ten minutes of the first half. The Turks were no match for the onslaught that was to follow.

SECOND HALF

Portugal continues with possession of the ball and the game with the Turks attempting to play a football that was weak. Portugal continued its consistent offence with the first goal by Pepe after an exchange of the ball with Nune Gomes. There were some members of the Turkish National Team who were playing violently to the point that Kazim Richards, Zan, and Sarioglu were booked. Aurelio deserved a red card for his violent kick to the left leg of Nani leaving a profound gash. Regardless, Raul Meireles helped Portugal get its revenge by scoring a second goal just before the game ended. With the goal by Meireles, Portugal deserved its victory.

REVIEW

Luis Felipe Scolari either on purpose or because of the nerves underestimated the Portuguese National Team. Portugal played a clean, disciplined, and honourable game. Portugal played with dignity and with tenacity. Portugal deserved its victory. Turkey on the other hand played with little desire except to impose pain on members of the Portuguese National Team. The bookings were not sufficient and I insist that Aurelio should have been sent off. At the present rate, Portugal and the Czech Republic will be the top teams in Group A with Portugal winning in the Group. Everything hinges on how Portugal can defeat the Czech Republic and Switzerland. RDP Internacional [The External Services of Portuguese Radio and Television deserves high honours for its exceptional coverage of the first game by the Portuguese National Team in Euro 2008.

Portugal 2-0 Turkey

Portugal: 10/10

Turkey: 0/10