UEFA EURO 2008 Results NETHERLANDS 3 - 0 ITALY Goal by Van Nistelrooy, Sneijder, Van Bronckhorst "It's a DISASTER , An Orange Goleada TO FORGET!"

By Anna Italia
Covering the UEFA EURO 2008 from an Italian Perspective
Click here  to find everything about the UEFA EURO 2008 Italian National Team

  
The last time Netherlands beat Italy was in 1978 and today THEY CRUSHED the ITALIANS.               Ouch, how it hurts!

                Netherlands   3   -  0   Italy 
                       26' Ruud Van Nistelrooy
                       31' Sneijder
                       79' Van Bronckhorst

Substitutions: 71' Van Nistelrooy out, Van Persie in  54' Marco Materazzi out, Fabio Grosso in
                     77' Boulahrouz out, Johnny Heitinga in  65'  Di Natale out, Alessandro Del Piero in
                          80' Kuyt out,  Ibrahim Afellay in             75' Mauro Camoranesi out, Antonio Cassano in
        


Are we ready for Italy first match of the UEFA EURO 2008 Tournament in Austria and

Switzerland?  I AM!  AND YOU? 

Watch this funny video of Fans praying to Saint Luca Toni for  Italy to win!

After the first match of Group C  Romania 0 - 0 France,  Italy has the chance to be the #1 of the group if we beat Netherlands today.  Come on guys, we got to do it.

I am watching the match LIVE on ESPN.  Here is saint Goalkeeper Gigi Buffon warming up.

         

It is so nice to watch our guys ready to fight and defend Italy's honor!  As I predicted during the entire week, Italian Head Coach preferred to start with Inter defender Marco Materazzi instead of Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini.  Also, Udinese striker Antonio Di Natale is on the starting line up. Another surprise is to see Roma defender Christian Panucci after  he injured during a training session.

Here is the formation chosen by Italian Head Coach Roberto Donadoni against Netherlands: Buffon; Panucci, Barzagli, Materazzi, Zambrotta; Ambrosini, Pirlo, Gattuso; Camoranesi, Di Natale;Toni.

Donadoni is starting with all three Milan midfielders. That's good news.

                
       Just look at our great defender Marco Materazzi singing the National Anthem "L'inno di Mameli"
                            with such pride!  Forza Materazzi!

Come on guys!  Forza!!!! Wow, our guys are singing the National Anthem.  I have goosebumps just watching  them sing with so much passion.  Buffon is singing with a proud heart as Italy's Captain!  Awesome guys, here we are, this is it.  Join me cheering for our guys waving your Italian flags with pride!

                 
         Thumbs up for these fans displaying proudly their "ITALIA 08" sign.  Photo: ansa

After both captain shaking hands Buffon and Van Der Sar, Referee Peter Frojdfeld whistles the beginning of the match.  It's show time guys!  Let's go!!!

In the 12th minute, our great Roman gladiator defender Christian Panucci create a good move for Italy by passing to Antonio Di Natale sending to Luca Toni but the final action is missed!  It's ok... we still have time!  Come on guys!

Mamma mia!   NOOOO, in the 17th minute, Kuyt sends a pass to Van Nistelrooy  who almost fool Saint goalkeeper Buffon but he slips thanks God our Andrea Barzagli was there to clear the danger.  Uffa... this is the man to watch. Van Nistelrooy is the clear and present danger for Italy.  Just hope our defense remain alert!
                    

            Italian fans supporting our team.  I love this fan with the FOOTBALL ball!  Forza Italia

In the 25th minute, Netherlands get a free kickwith Van der Vaart, and after Buffon went to clear the ball in a crazy moment Van Nistelrooy shoots from close range but he is offside!!! NOOO, uffffa... It is offside accoarding to the replay but the linesman doesn't say so.   So, there you go, I have a headache now.
Netherlands 1 - 0 Italy

                   
 While Netherlands and Real Madrid Striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy celebrates his goal  gli
Azzurri lift the hands saying it was offside.  Here you can see defender Andrea Barzagli protesting.


                                   
         Van Nistelrooy blasted Saint Goalkeeper Gigi Buffon!  Where was the defense?  Photo Reuters
                            
Oh no!!!! In the 28th minute. Referee Peter Frojdfeld books our Luca Toni for protesting against this offside goal.  Uffa. Our guys better get focused or we risk losing concentration.  Come on.

                             
   Nothing can be done and the goal is validated.  Here midfielder Andrea Pirlo reflects the big disappointment from all Italian players while Real Madrid and Netherlands striker Van Nilsterooy runs to celebrate his goal.  Photo ansa

In the 31st minute, Madonna santa!!!! Unbelievable, another goal from Holland!!!!  Kuyt provides the assist for Sneijder and blast goalkeeper Buffon!   Bring the tylenols!   This result is not good for Italy. It should have been the other way around!   We are having problems with the defense.  Come on guys!
Netherlands 2 - 0 Italy
                      
                        
        Sneijder blasting our Saint Goalkeeper Gigi Buffon.  Lady Luck moved away to the other team!
   photo: La Presse

Immediately, our guys trying to score.  In the 32nd minute, Luca Toni sends a cross to Antonio Di Natale only to be saved by Netherlands goalkeeper Van der Sar!  Uffa! 
 

Wow, our fans are chanting loudly "NON MOLLARE MAI" meaning "DON'T GIVE UP" trying to encourage our guys!   The stadium is clearly more for the Italian National team!!!!   Come on guys, wake up, let's do it!

In the 41st minute,  had not been for Saint goalkeeper Gigi Buffon Netherlands would have scored another goal with Van Nistelrooy!!! Van der Vaart seeing Van Nistelrooy available sends him a pass and Buffon saved with his legs!  What a scary moment!  This is not possible, our Azzurri are losing. Come on!  Forza! 

Referee Peter Frojdfeld whistles the end of the first half!  Time for Donadoni to change his strategy in the second half because it is clearly not working!  Now, we need the "ITALIAN JOB" to be done.  We got to win this match.  It will be a total disgrace if we lose after Romania and France ended with a draw, it will mean that we can be in the last position.  So, no way jose!   Time to wake up and smell the coffee in the second half.  I think it might be time to bring Alessandro Del Piero.

Second half starts and there are no changes for the Italian National team. We are playing with the same 11 players.

Ok, guys, get courage and let's do it!  Let's win this match...

In 47th minute, Massimo Ambrosini gets a corner.  Andre Pirlo takes the corner and wow... our Roman gladiator Christian Panucci heads the ball but it goes wide !!!!  It would have been a beautiful goal!   Uffaa... I am just getting desperate.

                     

In the 50th minute, Madonna santa!  Our roaring lion Gennaro Gattuso is booked!  Where is the concentration from the Azzurri!!!

Click the video to watch the highlights of the match.



In the 53rd minute, Milan defender Gianluca Zambrotta made a great move fooling Kuyt right on the byline and make a cross directly to the net but the ball missed the target!  ..  At least they are trying.  Come on.

In the 54th minute, Italian Head Coach Roberto Donadoni makes his first substitution.  Materazzi out, Fabio Grosso in.

In the 57th minute, Referee Peter Frojdfeld books Nigel De Jong for a foul on Massimo Ambrosini.

In the 59th minute, another chance for Italy when Panucci sends a pass to Luca Toni who almost made it. Gee.... nothing guys!   30 more minutes and we better hurry up! 

In the 63, Italy gets a free kick and time for Andrea Pirlo to make a magic kick. Oh no... missed target too.  Time is running by!!!

In the 65th minute, Italian Head Coach Roberto Donadoni makes his second substitution.  Time for my Alessandro Del Piero!!! Di Natale is out.  Come on Del Piero, please make a doppietta!!!! Come on Del Piero.

                 
In the 72nd minute, Alessandro Del Piero gets a pass from Fabio Grosso but cannot get the ball. Though a good try.  Hey, both substitutes are doing a good job.
Wow, In the 75th minute, Italian Head Coach Roberto Donadoni bring his third substitution. Camoranesi out, and Antonio Cassano is in.  Oh please, just hope for Cassano to control his temper and not make a cassanata that might further ruin the team since we are already losing by 2 goals.

                       
     Cassano is welcome with a great applause from fans, especially from this group displaying proudly
 their banner supporting the "Orgoglio Barese" Antonio Cassano.  Photo: ansa

In the 77th minute, Netherlands Head Coach Marco Van Basten makes a substitution. Boulahrouz out, Johnny Heitinga in.

Uffa only 13 more minutes and no goals from Italy yet!!!!   PLEEASEEEE come on guys!!!!!!  Aren't you smelling the coffee?????? It's already BURNED!!!!  We must wake up, we don't have much time!!!

In the 78tth minute, Fabio Grosso gets the best from Kuyt and shoots only to be saved by Goalkeeper Van Der Sar.  Uffaaaaaaaa... 12 more minutes!!!

                     

Oh nooooooo... Netherlands counterattacks and my headache increased to the size of the ocean.  In the 79th minute, Van Bronckhorst scored blasting Buffon!!!!!  Unbelievable!!!!
Netherlands 3 - 0 Italy


                  

Fabio Grosso cannot defend this ball neither Saint Goalkeeper Gigi Buffon. Van Bronckhorst blasted Italy and leaves all Italian fans demoralized at the stadium watching the World Champions totally beaten. Photo: ansa

                            
   Buffon cannot stop this powerful ball. I am wondering where was our defense?  Buffon is "saint goalkeeper" but come on the defense must do their job to help the saint! Photo: figc.it

This is a major disappointment.

Nothing seems to work for the Italians!   Pirlo is not even shining as I was expecting. 

In the 85th minute, Pirlo gets the corner kick sends the pass to Panucci who again missed the target when trying a head ball.  Per la madonna!!!!

More than "VOLARE nel blu dipinto di Blu"  we are sinking!

In the 89tth minute, Van Persie who just entered few minutes ago, almost scored teh 4th goal!!!!

11 more minutes guys!!!!! Unbelievable!

I cannot believe this result!  Italy being beaten not only by one goal but by 3 goals!   Since when!!!!  Where is the defense!

Referee Peter Frojdfeld adds 2 minute stoppage time!

One thing is clear is that Donadoni should have brought Del Piero earlier because in few minutes he had made good moves and could have changed the score. 

In the 92nd minute, our Luca Toni had the chance at least to score the "honor goal" "la rete dell'onore" but the ball is deflected for a corner.  

                         
  Luca tried until the end but LADY LUCK definitely was not with the italians. Photo: ansa

It is just a bad day, the worst Italian team.  Whatever happened to the Campioni del Mondo? 
No guys, that's it.... a very dark shadow over  Italy!!!!!  Italy beaten brutally by the ORANGES of coach Marco Van Basten.

                 
   This photo speaks louder and clear. A total chaos for Italian football being beaten by Netherlands after 30 years!   Look at Grosso, Gattuso, just devastated.  Photo: ansa

              
  I imagine the pain of our Captain Fabio Cannavaro watching his beloved Italy being beaten so shamefully
without being able to defend the Italian flag! Precisely, his teammate in Real Madrid Ruud Van Nilsterooy scored the first goal.  Ironically, Nilsterooy is coming after Cannavaro with a happy smile, the smile of victory.  Cannavaro leaves at the end with an emotional pain stronger than the physical pain of his injured ankle.  Photo: ansa

In this battle among former Milan players Donadoni and Van Basten now Head coaches for their countries, the one happily smiling is Netherlands Coach Marco Van Basten.  Donadoni will have to do lots of prayers to find the "light."

A match to forget!

LINEUPS


NETHERLANDS

Van der Sar; Ooijer, Boulahrouz, Mathijsen, Van Bronckhorst; Engelaar, De Jong; Sneijder, Van der Vaart, Kuyt; Van Nistyelrooy.

Coach: Marco Van Basten



ITALY

Goalkeeper:  Gigi Buffon;
Defenders: Christian Panucci, Andrea Barzagli, Marco Materazzi (54' Fabio Grosso), Gianluca Zambrotta;
Midfielders: Massimo Ambrosini, Andrea Pirlo, Gennaro Gattuso;
Forwards: Mauro Camoranesi (75' Antonio Cassano), Antonio Di Natale (65' Alessandro Del Piero); Luca Toni.

Subs not used:  Amelia, De Sanctis, Giorgio Chiellini, Alessandro Gamberini, Simone Perrotta, Daniele De Rossi, Alberto Aquilani, Fabio Quagliarella, Marco Borriello.

Coach: Roberto Donadoni

Referee: Peter Frojdfeldt. (Agr)


Forza Azzurri!!!!

 Have your say about the match, players, everything related to NETHERLANDS - ITALY!

Let's keep the ball rolling..... what do you think of the result? 


          

Posted by Anna Italia at 6/9/2008 12:47 PM
Categories: Italian National Team,General Soccer News,Euro 2008
 
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  • 6/8/2008 1:22 PM Pietro wrote:
    I am ready to cheer for my Italia! Anna, Nina let's sing PO PO PO PO, man, i am nervous. The good news guys is that i am taking the day off tomorrow to enjoy this match so i will be commenting a lot tomorrow.

    Starting line up? Man, we will finally find out whether Materazzi will be in the starting line up.

    My guess is Donadoni uses the 4-3-3 is:
    Goalkeeper: Buffon
    Defenders: Barzagli, Materazzi, Grosso,Zambrotta
    Midfielders: Pirlo, Gattuso, Ambrosini
    Forwards: Del Piero, Toni, Camoranesi
    What's your take?
    ah, oranges are already set for our ritual before the match so we can beat Netherlands.
    Reply to this
  • 6/8/2008 1:36 PM Anna Italia wrote:
    Pietro that is a good news you are taking the day off to watch the match! I will be updating the post with all the news so we can keep in touch with our Azzurri.

    You think Donadoni will go for an all "Milan midfield?" I think he will go with Pirlo, Gattuso, and Daniele De Rossi or Perrotta.

    I started eating my oranges today LOL
    Reply to this
    1. 6/8/2008 1:41 PM Pietro wrote:
      Between De Rossi and Perrotta, i think De Rossi will be better because Perrotta is still recovering. What do you think of my suggested forward: toni, del piero and camoranesi?
      Reply to this
  • 6/8/2008 3:03 PM Mike Diamente wrote:

         I very excited about the game tomorrow.

    I plan on watching with my family.

    I like how Materazzi said he is ready for the challenge of facing a striker like Ruud van Nistelrooy. It tells me he is ready for the game.

    I really think Pirlo is the player that makes the entire Italian team go. If Pirlo can control the midfield, it should be a comfortable win for Italy.
    Reply to this
    1. 6/8/2008 3:42 PM Anna Italia wrote:
      Mike tell me!!! I am just counting the hours, minutes, seconds for the kick off of the match.. I have my Italian flag ready and my oranges to eat prior the match.

      I agree with you, I LOVE IT how Materazzi is showing his good spirit for the sake of the team and ready to stop Ruud. Yep, I think Materazzi is more than ready, he has that motivation to win for Italy.

      Oh my God! Definitely, PIRLO is the one to read the match and help the team in the field, especially if being sharp with his free kicks.

      I love your last statement "If Pirlo can control the midfield, it should be a comfortable win for Italy." I AGREE 100%
      Reply to this
      1. 6/8/2008 3:47 PM Nina wrote:
        Long live our sleepy prince Andrea Pirlo.
        Reply to this
        1. 6/8/2008 4:47 PM Mark wrote:
          Nina we need Pirlo super awake for the match because Italy needs him alert to manage the midfield. Long live Pirlo! nice..
          Reply to this
          1. 6/8/2008 6:14 PM Pietro wrote:
            Long live our Pirlo!
            Reply to this
          2. 6/8/2008 10:10 PM Milan99 wrote:
            Mark we all want Pirlo super awake, man I know you'll be so happy if he score or make a good assist!!!
            Reply to this
        2. 6/8/2008 10:14 PM Milan99 wrote:
          lol, Nina thanks for the laugh girl! he might look sleepy but still he's a handsome prince along 10 Italian princes!
          Reply to this
  • 6/8/2008 6:13 PM Pietro wrote:
    Guys, time is running and our Italia will make their debut, i was watching the match against Belgium and gets me energized. Man, just want Donadoni to have the right formation for this opening match and crush the oranges!

    PO PO PO PO PO Anna, i will be checking the blog for updates because i have the day off tomorrow.
    Reply to this
  • 6/8/2008 9:12 PM Milan99 wrote:

         Hey everyone, do I always suppose to be late? god, I'm tired of always being late! well hopefully I won't be late tomorrow for the game!!! I'm so ready, hopefully Italy wont disappoint a new fan! Pietro calm down man!!!!
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 8:40 AM Pietro wrote:
      Girl i can't calm down, imagine that i had to take the day off to really enjoy this match and wave my Italian flag. I am ready to share my thoughts on the match, so don't be late! PO PO PO PO PO PO
      Reply to this
    2. 6/9/2008 8:55 AM Anna Italia wrote:

             Milan99, don't be late, we got to be together today! oh no way jose, Italy must win! I am on fire and singing along Pietro PO PO PO PO PO PO

      Forza Italia!

      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 3:04 PM Milan99 wrote:
        Sorry Anna I was late again whats up with the Italian flag, it looks COOL!!!
        Reply to this
        1. 6/9/2008 3:31 PM Anna Italia wrote:
          Don't be late kid, Pietro, Mark, Nina and Vivek were early with their comments. But it's ok, you are here and that's what matters. All of us being united in this sad moment BUT KEEP SUPPORTING OUR TEAM because they need us.

          I added the flags to make it more alive since we were all so enthusiastic for our Azzurri...
          Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 1:54 AM fotis wrote:
    Will Del Piero play today??I do not think he will be in the starting line up!
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 8:42 AM Pietro wrote:
      Man, i hope Del Piero play today because he is on fire, don't you think. Luca Toni and Del Piero are the top scorers and Italy need both. PO PO PO PO PO PO
      Reply to this
    2. 6/9/2008 8:52 AM Anna Italia wrote:
      I also hope DEL PIERO play today! Donadoni must include him, my heart is exploding with this build up! PIRLO, LUCA TONI, MATERAZZI, GATTUSO, GROSSO, CAMORANESI, BORRIELLO, BUFFON, BARZAGLI, AMBROSINI, ZAMBROTTA, CHIELLINI, CASSANO, DE ROSSI, PERROTTA all our guys FORZA!!!
      Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 4:57 AM Nina wrote:
    Well,i have to take my last exam today and getting ready to school now,but all i can think of is the Azzurri. This is so stressful for me,don't know about you Guys.I'm praying that we can win because Holland is not an easy opponent.Forza Azzurri and Long live our Italia!
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 8:45 AM Pietro wrote:

             Nina, what a terrible day to take an exam when your mind will be with our Italy. Good luck with your test. I will be here all day having fun in my favorite blog for Italian football. Not working toay. FORZA AZZURRI AND LONG LIVE OUR ITALIA, i love it!
      PO PO PO PO PO PO
      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 2:30 PM Nina wrote:
        Thank you pierto for the good luck wishes on the exam. It went well,let's just hope the same for our Italia for the remainder of the games..Long live our Italia always and forever.
        Reply to this
        1. 6/9/2008 3:56 PM Pietro wrote:
          G. now only thing is to hope for Italy to win the next two matches. Pass the Tylenol Anna!
          Reply to this
    2. 6/9/2008 8:54 AM Anna Italia wrote:

             Nina, don't tell me you are having your final precisely today? Wow, girl, I understand your desperation because your mind will be with our Azzurri. I am praying for your test too, hope you do well, and join us here after to share our passion for our azzurri.

      LONG LIVE ITALIA! Forza sister!!!
      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 2:17 PM Nina wrote:
        Anna,thanks for asking about my exam dear.I had my last exam today and i was happy about the result only to be hit with this tragedy. I call it a tragedy because i have never seen my Italia humiliated like this.
        Reply to this
    3. 6/9/2008 3:24 PM Milan99 wrote:
      Nina, I hope you did well in your exam, it was a bad time but I know u CAN DO IT!!! tell us if u think u did well in this exam? again I wish u all luck!!!
      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 4:23 PM Nina wrote:
        It went well Milan,thanks for asking.let's join forces and pray for the azzurri now.
        Reply to this
        1. 6/9/2008 5:03 PM Milan99 wrote:
          Welcome Nina, yes we all should cheer our Italia,just imagine how sad the players are girl we got to cheer them up so they can do well next game!
          Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 8:38 AM Pietro wrote:
    Good morning everyone! I am taking the day off, i will be commenting almost all day about our Italia. Man, it feels good, i am ready to watch the first match Romania-France and we want them to be a draw or Romania to win, right? FORZA ITALIA, Nina, milan99, fotis, Mark, Mike, do you all have your Italian flags waving? I have mine already and started eating oranges early for breakfast wishing for Italy to crush Holland. PO PO PO PO PO PO. What's your take guys?
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 8:49 AM Anna Italia wrote:

         Buon giorno tutti, good morning!!! How are you guys??? ARE YOU WAVING YOUR ITALIAN FLAGS!!!!! I have mine already!... I do one thing, I will add some waving flags and how about your ritual for the match. I already had 6 oranges! Making fresh orange juice to have more. Let's be united guys and support our Italy with our comments. Send positive energy to our guys.

    Pietro I join you singing PO PO PO PO PO PO
    I love Italy!!!!
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 9:10 AM Pietro wrote:

             Anna here i am! I will be here freely cheering for our Italia! PO PO PO PO PO PO, i am so happy and watching also the Romania - France match, man, you bet i am for ROMANIA. We need them to beat France.

      I had my orange juice too and 1 dozen of extra oranges for the rest of the gang here.

      Long live Italia like Nina said!

      Come on guys, Forza Italia!
      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 2:25 PM Nina wrote:
        True, long live Italia always, and forever, but what a day. The boys in blue have disappointed us today, no will power, and no grit. Don’t just feel so helpless?
        Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 9:22 AM Mark wrote:
    Hello! I am here too, after praying to Saint Luca Toni, I had 3 crushed oranges. Pietro, I also join you with PO PO PO PO PO PO, wow, finally the day has come and Italy got to win, they must win guys.
    Are you watching Romania - France? We have to because they are in group C!

    Anna keep up the good work, I will be checking for updates. FORZA ITALIA!
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 11:04 AM Pietro wrote:
    Anna good news, i love it ROMANIA managed to get a draw, now our guys must win and we can be on top of the group. Man, let's keep eating our oranges and praying to Saint Luca Toni
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 12:26 PM Pietro wrote:
    Impossible, we are losing, man, what's happening! Wake up Italy!
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 12:27 PM Anna Italia wrote:
    Pietro I am dying too! Let's keep praying with our hearts for Italy to react. Come on Luca Toni!!!!!
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 12:35 PM Mark wrote:
    Guys, what's happening with our Azzurri? Maybe we are not waving our flags strong enough, come on let's be united and cheer, pray for our guys to react. Forza ragazzi. Anna I also need a Tylenol right now! by the way I like the "football fan wearig the soccer ball" very funny!

    Pietro, I won't order the pizza yet until we equalized the score, at least.
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 12:43 PM Pietro wrote:
    Let's hope Donadoni changed his strategy in the second half. Man, unbelievable, we got to change this result.
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 12:47 PM Mark wrote:
    Second half started, come on guys.
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 12:49 PM Nina wrote:
    I told you guys,the Real Madrid duo Sneijder,and Van Nistelrooy will kill you if they team up.where is our defense?I so so much miss Canna.our midfield disappeared and Luca Toni is stranded in an island all by himself.i can't deal with this.I'm holding back tears.just bring on cassano and del piero.
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 1:12 PM Pietro wrote:
      We know this but our guys are sleeping or forgot to score, man, Del Piero just in so I am counting on the man to give us a victory.
      Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 1:14 PM Anna Italia wrote:
    I am going nuts... I can't believe our Italia is losing by 2 goals!!! Del Piero is in good. Come on!!!!
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 1:35 PM Pietro wrote:
    Man, this is a bad start, a bad day for Italian football. Maybe Donadoni should start with Del Piero in the starting lineup next time, at least the man convinced me more with the few minutes he has been on the field. What's your take?
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 1:46 PM Mark wrote:
    Guys what can I say but to keep supporting the team because they need us right now Sad day for us, what happened??
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 1:49 PM Monica 08 wrote:
    omg! Is this a joke? I am stunned. I have no words. Now I have to watch the Netherlands-Italy game. I recorded it and didn't see it. I assumed Italy was going to win- even by a 1 goal difference. .......And I was complaining that France drew 0-0.
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 2:02 PM Pietro wrote:
    Monica it is a dark day, i even took the day off to enjoy the match and instead like Anna I've got a big headache!
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 2:04 PM fotis wrote:
    Donadoni made a lot of mistakes in the game...He should have started de rossi or aquilani instead of ambrossini,grosso instead of zanetti,chiellini instead of materazzi(very very bad he should not paly again because the whole year was not good in inter) and finally del piero instead of camoranezi or di natale.It is not possible in this team for del piero not to play.He was in with grosso and they change the game...
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 2:17 PM Pietro wrote:
      Man i agree on using De Rossi instead of Ambrosini, but i don't think Chiellini would have been a better choice. Materazzi did well. Sure, man, where we agree is about Del Piero because he made quick impact, i still question Donadoni for not giving proper respect to Del Piero after the guy has been solid gold in the Serie A with Juve. What's your take?
      Reply to this
    2. 6/9/2008 2:42 PM Anna Italia wrote:
      I totally agree with you guys. I think Donadoni should have seen the RED ALARMING SIGN when we were down by 2 goals, instead the guy waited too long to make changes. Yet, I think he made the big mistake of LEAVING OUT Del Piero from the starting lineup. Don't you think?
      Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 2:11 PM Nina wrote:
    Well, I’m sorry to say this, but I knew we were off to a bad start from the early minutes of the game. Our midfield disappeared and our defense, well our defense was on the bench looking on with sad eyes. I’m talking about Cannavaro. Today more than ever we saw what his absence did to the back line. Let’s face it, if it wasn't for Buffon we could have conceded 5 or 6 goals. This is disgraceful. No this is scandalous. Never have Italy lost by 3 goal margin, never ever. I don't know what to say. I’m mad, I’m sad, I’m about to hit my head against the wall. How can this happen? This is only the beginning. After generation of world class defenders in the past, we are now left with bunch of nothings excuse my french. This is warning sign for things to come.
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 2:38 PM Anna Italia wrote:
      Nina, sadly our Pirlo was not sharp. He forgot to wake up and the defense, WHAT DEFENSE !!!!! I did not see it and neither those 3 goals that blasted our net!

      I agree, had not been by Buffon it would have been a SHAMEFUL goleada. A TOTAL DISGRACE. I see the big RED ALARMING sign!!!
      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 4:46 PM Nina wrote:
        Pirlo was not sharp at all, and his free kicks were aimed for planet Mars!!! But then again the entire team was out of it. Like they were possessed by evil spirit, unaware of what is happening around them. They looked like zombies. How can we concede two goals from a counter attack? Makes you wonder where the defense was? What angered me the most was when Pirlo took a corner for Italy which was supposed to be a goal opportunity for us and it was turned into a goal against us?

        We definitely have a big red alarming signs as Anna puts it!!!!!
        Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 2:16 PM Ridha wrote:
    Never saw Italy playing so bad. Even if this is not new, Italian players used to be realistic and strong in defence. The defence was completely out. I liked very much Donadoni as a great player but as a trainer, I am really disappointed. Netherland did not seem to be good but they gained confidence as Italian players showed lack of concentration and motivation. Anyway Italy made us used to this type of start in International competitions and I am confident that they will, as history showed us, make it against France and Roumania.
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 2:34 PM Anna Italia wrote:
      I am speechless but Italy's defense is really in deep trouble! I agree with you that our defense was out. Donadoni is getting on my nerves but I have to stick to the Azzurri right now because we risk being left out of the Europei if losing or drawing the next match. Exactly, that's my point our AZZURRI were not concentrated not to talk losing total control after the 2nd goal. It was only until Del Piero came in that we saw some hope but it was too late.

      We have to beat France and Romania now, we got no other option. Right?
      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 2:53 PM Nina wrote:
        You are right Anna, it is Do or Die for our Italia from now on. We can't afford to slip again. You are right, Alex was active and should have been in the starting lineup. Also why have all Milan midfield, when you have Roman players on the bench. Why not rotate and mix it up a bit. After all, they finished 2nd in the league, and we finished 5th.I love my Milan, but if some of the players are tired or distracted, Don should have made some changes and early on. Our players gave up before the game even started. The first goal was clear offside, but it is no excuse. It shouldn’t have damaged the morale of the team to that level. If any consolation, Italy has historically performed well after slow or a bad start. Let's hope this is just another bad start.
        Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 2:45 PM ANT wrote:
    OK as soon as I saw the first 11 today i knew we were in trouble, seriously Donadoni is terrible the bench had better players on it today than the pitch. Absolutely horrendous choices Terrible!!!! WHy is ADP not starting WHY IS DDR not starting Where is Chiellini? Where is GRosso?.... Ambrosini? what why is he even on the team? Good job Roberto with your UEFA Cup AC Milan Midfield. they looked like the team that just barely made the UEFA cop positions. SIngle worst Azzurri game i have ever seen Roberto Donadoni should be fired today. Im furious right now. MAterazzi looked about oh idk 45 years old today and was getting beat left and right. I am disgusted just disgusted. TODAY WAS A DISGRACE.
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 3:04 PM Nina wrote:
      Ant,I'm a die hard Milanista,but i couldn't have agreed with you more.The midfield was the wrong one.The matrix should have never been even on the bench ,but it wasn't just the players.it was more lack of determination.It was like they weren't even there.
      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 3:16 PM Nina wrote:
        "The matrix should have never been even on the bench"
        By that i meant,he should have been left home.Doesn't deserve a place in the bench even.
        Reply to this
    2. 6/9/2008 3:28 PM Anna Italia wrote:
      ANT I agree with your ending "TODAY WAS A DISGRACE"

      Donadoni made 2 clear mistakes by leaving out DEL PIERO AND GROSSO.

      I am so furious too that had to take a pause before continue responding to you guys, I just could not believe it. Looking at the fans photo makes me even more mad because WE WERE ALL counting on our CAMPIONI DEL MONDO to win this match, yet, WE LOST MISERABLY!!!!!!
      Don't you think?
      Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 2:45 PM Monica 08 wrote:
    So it looks like you put the responsibility in the starting lineup for the defeat. I wonder how the Italian fans will receive the Italy team outside the hotel tonight. Do they have a public training?
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 3:11 PM Nina wrote:
    They won't be egged Monica lol. We still love them the same. After all, among them are our world cup heroes and we are sticking by them in good and in bad. We are just venting about the disappointment.Long live our Italia
    Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 3:12 PM Milan99 wrote:
    I can't believe this, did I read this right?? 3-0 AGAINIST ITALIA?????? how in the world is that the score?? look at this if that is the start, it might mean that either France or Italia WON'T make it hopefully it would be like in the world cup, where Italia was not that amazing in the beginning and then they fixed it and WON!!
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 3:20 PM Nina wrote:
      "where Italia was not that amazing in the beginning and then they fixed it and WON!!"
      Milan99,from your mouth to God ears.
      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 3:28 PM Milan99 wrote:
        Nina we all need to pray, come on this is unbelievable! girl we are last at the group
        Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 3:16 PM fotis wrote:
    To day i will say ita again ,the defenders were very slow...and a quick defender was absolutely necessary.So,chellini had to play!He is the quickest i think from the defenders.Today Pirlo was a dissapointing.The AC Milan middlefielders were 5th this year.Roma'w middlefielders were 2nd.I cannot think de rossi out or aquilani.Finally,I will agree with my friend before who said that the bench was better than the pitch.Guys i will finish with only one thing....DEL PIERO IS IN HIS BEST SHAPE SINCE '98.HE IS THE LEADER OF JUVENTUS AND A LEGENDARY PLAYER.HOW COME HE IS NOT PLAYING IN THIS ITALY?????This is a question for mister donadoni...also this team better play 4-3-1-2.Where is Lippi????
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 3:34 PM Anna Italia wrote:
      Fotis can you join me by saying louder until DONADONI hear the message "DEL PIERO IS IN HIS BEST SHAPE SINCE '98.HE IS THE LEADER OF JUVENTUS AND A LEGENDARY PLAYER.HOW COME HE IS NOT PLAYING IN THIS ITALY???

      I love it! Del Piero must be among the starting line up, there is no other way. Gee, the guy was the top Scorer and made precious assists too, plus he is a good motivator and team player.

      What's wrong with Donadoni. It is a personal thing or what!!!! Del Piero MUST BE IN, period.
      Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 3:40 PM Michael wrote:
    Holland had a "rarissimo" good day ... Italy had a bad one ... italians must not be sad, it happens ... hopefully, Italia and Romania will be the first two teams. Remember that France is a very old and tired team, and Romania beat Holland in the preliminaries. All is possible ...
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 3:50 PM Mark wrote:
      Mike I agree on the rarissimo good day but what about saying Italy had a "rarissimo day." Yep! All is possible, but Romania is no peace of cake. What a luck today!

      We were all excited even eating our oranges and praying to Saint Luca Toni but no miracle happened because the saint to pray was Alessandro Del Piero. Don't you think guys?
      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 4:05 PM Anna Italia wrote:
        I agree on how about "a rarissimo" day for Italy? It was a real strange Italian team with lack of concentration. Madonna santa lo potete credere!!!! We lost by 3 goals to none!
        Reply to this
      2. 6/10/2008 6:46 PM Milan99 wrote:
        Mark after Romania's show against France, for sure they are not easy to take!
        Reply to this
  • 6/9/2008 3:46 PM Pietro wrote:
    Man, talking about being upset and mad, I took the day off to enjoy a beautiful match instead i watched a goleada by Netherlands? Can somebody tell me whatever happened to Italy's solid defense? Did you see it somewhere?

    I agree with you guys on Del Piero, man, i think Donadoni has something personal against Ale because how else can you explain he is not in the starting lineup with a marvelous season this year?
    Reply to this
    1. 6/9/2008 4:04 PM Milan99 wrote:
      Pietro don't be so sad bro, we still can do it!

      Italia can still make a comeback, next is Italia vs Romania, if they beat Romania they'll have 3 points, and France vs Netherlands maybe a draw, which put Netherland first with 4 points then Italia with 3 points and then France with 2 points and Romania with 1 point. than comes France vs Italia (and Italia just need to draw to pass) Netherlands vs Romania most likely Netherland will win, Man we do have a chance as long as Italia beat Romania!!!!

      EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE!!!
      Reply to this
      1. 6/9/2008 4:12 PM Pietro wrote:
        Girl this time it will take a while to calm down because the beautiful day i had to enjoy the match turned out a nightmare. Man, i still cannot swallow this defeat. We still can make it but i want to see the real Champions playing with heart, concentration.

        Let me think about the possible combination after my head is clear. What's your take? Have not seen your opinion regarding our forwards.
        Reply to this
        1. 6/9/2008 4:28 PM Milan99 wrote:
          I understand, Pietro, it does suck so much, but we have to have faith and get over it,so the team would get over it too and show us the TRUE CHAMPIONS!!!

          about our forwards, they BETTER play harder next time, and the def need to help Buffon.
          Reply to this
        2. 6/9/2008 4:36 PM Mark wrote:
          Pietro I don't blame you at all. Are you taking the day off for the next match too?
          Reply to this
      2. 6/9/2008 4:35 PM Nina wrote:
        Milan99, i love your spirit today.I see you have it all figured out. Let's just hope that things go as calculated.

        Pierto,I'm sorry about your off day being ruined like this.I know how you feel.It is hard to except a defeat like this and with 3 goals.Hang in there.
        Reply to this
        1. 6/9/2008 4:42 PM Pietro wrote:
          I recorded the match but believe me, i am not planning to watch it again. A day off, man, a day gone with a big headache. Man, losing by 1 goal is already bad, but come on how can we calm down fast when we lost shamefully by 3 goals!
          Reply to this
          1. 6/9/2008 4:54 PM Nina wrote:
            Pietro i agree with you, no need to watch that game again! I'm trying to forget it even took place.I'm already having nightmares about the azzurri repeating euro 2004. I hope not.
            Reply to this
            1. 6/9/2008 5:37 PM Mark wrote:
              Guys, are you kidding me? I won't watch it , just shamefully.
              Reply to this
              1. 6/9/2008 5:53 PM Nina wrote:
                I am starting to have a headache reading about the game and the comments. I think I'm heading to bed early tonight. It is only 8:48 here, but I spent my entire day between school, screaming, crying, arguing with the TV, and talking to myself. Someone please pinch me, and tell me it is all just a bad dream. I’m worn out.
                Reply to this
                1. 6/9/2008 6:23 PM Pietro wrote:
                  Anna by any chance you made a mistake with the report and Italy was the winner? Man, we all need to think this report is wrong and that the ones beaten were Holland. Anna is there is a way to chance the order and have Italy winners? If only that could be true than I can pinch Nina to wake up from this nightmare. Man, but Anna's report is right with all details and photos displaying the disappointment.
                  Reply to this
                  1. 6/9/2008 6:42 PM Mark wrote:
                    Pietro sadly we must accept reality. Anna's report is right on target and beautifully done as a true Italian fan suffering gradually the defeat after starting the report enthusiastically. We can all pinch ourselves but reality is everywhere, we were beaten after 30 years as reported by Anna.
                    Reply to this
                    1. 6/9/2008 9:48 PM Milan99 wrote:
                      Pietro, I agree with Mark. We have to get over it and cheer our players so they can get over it too and show us the REAL CHAMPS and win the Euro! I understand its hard but for Italia's sake we will get over it and have faith i them, right?!
                      Reply to this
        2. 6/9/2008 10:17 PM Milan99 wrote:
          Thanks Nina, but u know what u guys put me down so badly sorry I know u guys are so disappointed but please LETS GET OVER IT NOT ONLY FOR ITALIA'S SAKE BUT ALSO FOR OUR OWN GOOD!!!
          Reply to this
          1. 6/9/2008 10:51 PM Anna Italia wrote:
            Time to cheer up like Buffon said, it was the worst match in the 1ast 12 matches. Now, time to think on France and Romania.

            Forza Italia!
            Reply to this
  • 6/10/2008 11:23 AM Jina wrote:
    hi guys...that was sad news to hear that my Azzurro lost.. I didn't watch the match but I watch the news. is ok..We still are the champian and we still have two more chances ..so lets not give up ..we are gonna win this Euro2008
    Forza Azzurri
    I will always be Azzurri fan no matter what happenes
    Reply to this
    1. 6/10/2008 11:48 AM Pietro wrote:
      Jina we had a terrible day yesterday. Man, so we adopted now to be optimistic and forget this nightmare.

      Forza Italia
      Reply to this
  • 6/10/2008 2:23 PM Mark wrote:
    It's a new day and time to energize again. Forza Italia
    Reply to this
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