France have dominated world football for the best part of the last decade but their creaking failure in the World Cup and Euro 2004 signals the end as far as I am concerned. Their best players are all at the end of the road, their desire is non-existent so it’s au’ revoir as far as I am concerned
The Czechs look a very good side but for me the surprise team has been Portugal. One time pansies of world football all their useless showboaters have been sidelined by coach Phil Scolari (Coutto, Jao Pinto, Baia, Rui Costa…) and replaced by dynamic youngsters such as Ronaldo, deco, Maniche etc.
The defensive back four are outstanding. This team just lacks killer forward and it would be a world beater. In fact it might become one anyway if they play Nuno Gomez alongside Ronaldo
It's not just one tournament, France flopped in the World Cup as well. Zidane, Lizerazu and Desailly to name just 3 are going to be past their peak or retired by the time the next WC comes around so it's definitely the end of their era :p
Don't get over-excited guys. Greeks have won the semi and might even win the final. But Greek football is very mafia controlled. There is practically no high-school or college level football which generates new players. This info from a Greek friend of mine.
i think this marks the end of the 'born 72-73 era': Zidane, Figo, Rivaldo, Rui Costa, Davids, Nedved, Pires to name a few won't be around in the next 2/3 yrs
