The first game i'll talk about will be Germany vs Denmark, the Germans were big favorites after winning their opening two matches whilst Denmark knew a win could see them unexpectedly through to the quarter finals. Germany controlled the majority of the game and were rewarded as Arsenal bound Lukas Podolski, gave his side the lead on nineteen minutes. The Danish then surprised Germany as Michael Krohn-Dehli capitalized from poor marking to level the scores just six minutes later.
Denmark's hopes of qualification were eventually dashed with ten minutes to go as Lars Bender, finished from close range to send Germany through with an 100% record. Denmark put up a good fight in each of their matches and have no shame in their defeat whilst Germany are now odds on favorites to win the tournament.
Portugal knew that victory would probably take them through to the quarters whilst the Netherlands knew a win by at least two clear goals, would be their only hope of progression. The Dutch got the start they wanted as Rafael Van Der Vaart, curled in beautifully to give his side the lead. After this the Netherlands seemed to switch off and looked like a team deserving to be bottom of the group.
Portugal took control of the game and arguably world player of the year Cristiano Ronaldo, scored twice as Portugal progressed leaving the Dutch with no points at the end of the group stage. Portugal will be pleasently surprised to see themselves through and will be confident against the Czechs whilst the Netherlands have had a competition they will want to forget.
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