The Spanish is not only playing a beautiful game, they also have a beautiful character, a humble body language compared to their opponent. I am not the supporter of either side but I am happy to see the prettier side both in game and attitude winning the game. It’s just like seeing a fairy tale film where the cool and calm protagonist win in the end of fierce fighting with the villains. It also reminds me of an individual all time great tennis player: Roger Federer.

A nice wrap up and stats by James Cone of Bloomberg:

Spain beat Germany 1-0 to win soccer’s European Championship, ending a 44-year wait for a major international title.

Fernando Torres scored after 33 minutes at Ernst Happel stadium in Vienna, giving Spain its second European Championship. Its first came in 1964.

Spain’s Luis Aragones, at age 69 years and 338 days, becomes the oldest coach to lead a team to the title. Spain hadn’t advanced beyond the quarterfinals since finishing as runner-up 24 years ago. The national team, once known for being unable to match the successes of clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia, now has played 22 matches without a loss.

The most shocking upset yet of Euro2008’s quarter final

Turkey defeated Croatia in a penalty shoot-out following a remarkable last few minutes of extra-time in Vienna Friday to reach the semi-finals of the European Championships and a meeting with record champions Germany.

Anyone dare to put their money for Turkey against Germany in semifinal?

Fatih Terim, the Turkish coach describe the victory thus:

What has happened to us today is unique in history. We have become one of the most important football nations.

And

Our people can celebrate with us. If our people are proud of us then we are proud of our people

Obviously the Turkish people will celebrate with them and proud of them. Just like if Indonesian football team were to achieve what they have gone through.

It’s easier to be associated with something proudable.

Now, after Turkey beat the “killer of the giants” Croatia, it’s understandable to further another puzzle: Can Turkey Do what Greece has done?

Update 26 June:
Final score in the first Euro2008 semifinal Germany 3 – Turkey 2