FCBARCELONA.CAT

09.06.2008 21:23

Holland issue a warning (3-0)

Jesús Carrillo

at Euro 2008, scoring no fewer than three past an Italy side that included Zambrotta and was powerless to prevent the Oranje from getting an important win.

Holland played the ball from the start and did so coherently. Italy were closed in at the back as Van Basten’s side dominated, and after 18 minutes Van Nistelrooy was denied a great opportunity with a possible penalty committed by keeper Buffon. A minute later, Sneijder shot just wide, and Holland were clearly the superior side.

Holland go ahead

It was a 26th minute cross from Sneijder that supplied the ball for Ruud van Nistelrooy, possibly offside, to put the Dutch a goal up against the world champions, and moments later Gio cleared a potential equaliser off the line. The same player then led a Dutch counter attack leading to Sneijder scoring Holland’s second. It was impressive stuff from Holland, and Van nistelrooy almost made it three just before the break, but Buffon got to the ball first.

Italy seek solutions

The Italians tried to find something more in the second half, but time was against them and they were lacking their typical composure. Roberto Donadoni sent on Cassano and Alessandro Del Piero, and although Italy did get their chances Van der Sar, the Dutch keeper, was having a superb evening in Berne.

Gio van Bronckhorst caps great show

Andrea Pirlo had been denied one such opportunity when Gio van Bronckhorst once again rampaged off on a counter attack, finishing the move with a headed goal for himself. Young Afellay almost made it four, but his effort hit the bar. But 3-0 against the World Cup champions is quite some result, and Holland have presented their candidature for the European title in style. Barça’s Gianluca Zambrotta played the full 90 minutes.