France 1 - 4 Holland

 Well done to the Dutch! What a way to demolish to the French, that was amazing! Now they have beaten both the World Champions and the Runners-Up in a fascinating fashion, not even the most optimistic Dutch fan would have expected that.

 When I saw the French starting lineup, I knew it wouldn't be pretty. Why not start with 2 strikers? Where was Benzema? Anyway, the Dutch drew the first blood through Kuyt's header. Malouda was too busy man handling Kuyt rather than looking to where the ball is. It was too easy for Kuyt. Holland sat back a bit after the goal as Govou had a good chance only to be denied by big Van Der Sar. As the half went on the pace got slower. Govou and Ribery both had shy efforts at goal that didn't trouble the Dutch goalie. 

 So the 2nd half is starting, everyone expecting the French side to make at least one change during the halftime. That wasn't the case, instead it was the Dutch who made an offensive change, brining in Robben for Engelaar. France had a bright start to the half. They had a penalty claim when it looked like Henry's shot hit Ooijer's hand, that's a tough one to call. Henry came close to equalize as it seemed like the French will score soon, but the Dutch had other ideas. A counter attack started by Van Nistelrooy's 360 spin to Robben's great run on the left flank crossing to the open Robin Van Persie who volleys it home to double the lead. That was a classic goal, unbelievable teamwork. French got one back through Henry and we thought we will see a comeback, but the French hope was crushed after 60 seconds when Robben hammered in a goal from an acute angle that should have been dealt with by the defender and Coupet. Just looking at Van Basten's face after each goal shows that even he never expected this. His team wasn't done as Sneijder's scored an absolute screamer into the top corner! Best goal of the tournament so far? Well at least on par with Ibrahimovic's goal. What a way to finish off the night.

My man of the match: Wesley Sneijder

 So Holland are assured a place in the quarterfinals and top spot in the group of death. It's inevitable that they will rest some their key players against Romania, but I don't expect them to just give the game away and let Romania win. What about France? Who will be in the starting 11 against Italy? One thing is certain and that's if Romania beats Holland, both Italy and France will be going home. I can't wait to see what happens next!