Euro 2008: Man of the matches, June 19
BASTIAN SCHWEINSTEIGER, GERMANY. The standout performer in a ruthless and efficient German effort, Schweinsteiger hit the ground running and helped his team grab an early stranglehold in a 3-2 quarterfinal victory over Portugal.
WHAT WE LEARNED THURSDAY
1. That Portugal cannot defend set plays. Big Phil Scolari's team was exciting to watch and electric going forward, but defensive lapses robbed them of the chance to go on and challenge for the title.
2. That those Germans are up to their old tricks again. When the going gets tough, they get going and they love nothing more than to prove the doubters wrong. Michael Ballack did push Paolo Ferreira for the third goal, but Germany deserved the win.
WHAT WE WANT TO SEE FRIDAY
1. An end-to-end encounter between two fiery and entertaining teams. Croatia cruised through Group B, while Turkey staged a dramatic comeback in clinching a quarterfinal place. Neither team will hold back.
2. Some clarity from Cristiano Ronaldo on his future. He said he would talk further about his possible move from Manchester United to Real Madrid once his tournament was over. Now's the time.
