Euro 2008

It was great to see my two favorites finish the group stage on top... but then Holland played a shameful game - they were so confident about winning half the team didn't show up to play - against Russia in the quarters and lost. Since Russia was the one team in the entire tournament that could have caused them serious trouble, it was doubly sad.

The same scenario seemed destined to occur to my other favorite team in this tourney, especially as they got the one team that could cause them serious trouble. Then when Spain and Italy went to extra time my heart sank. Spain would never beat Italy in extra time, let alone penalties. If they had any chance, it was in regulation.

So thank you, Iker Casillas and the entire Spain national team, for proving me wrong. I don't know how you did it, considering your overall penalties record compared to Italy's, but you did. None of the other teams left can cause you real trouble, as long as you play to win, which you sometimes forget to do. Don't underestimate Russia in the semis, but you have much better quality and depth, so just play your regular game. Germany is the same exact story. Maybe the only danger is if Turkey pulls off another crazy win, because they will come to the final with tons of heart and determination, and these are the things that hit your weak spot. But you can handle them, too.

It's time you won one, anyway.