Permutations

Group F finale

Georgia 2 - 0 Portugal

Czech Republic 1 - 2 Turkey 

Two very entertaining games tonight, and for the first time in these finales I had to make a big screen switch mid game. This was mainly because of the emerging last 16 permutation situation.

With the Czech Republic down one down and down to 10 men Vs Turkey, I assumed that one was done, so instead flipped across to the Portugal game, assuming they'd be all over Georgia in attempts to overcome their 1-0 deficit. How wrong I was, as Georgia weaved and battled their way to a glorious victory.

And as the games progressed it became clear that England weren't predestined to play v Netherlands at all, but in fact both results on the night were pushing Slovakia in our direction. The format of the competition is an absolute disaster, clarity wise, with nobody knowing in real time what was what. I missed a good chunk of the second half whilst frantically googling for clarification, finally finding the most ridiculous check sheet that outlined the wild combination of permutations that could unfold. 

The final group games are exciting typically because of jeopardy, and this current format denies us the jeopardy twice. First because hardly anyone gets knocked out, and second because half the excitement is usually "if X score a goal here, then we play vs Y in the next round". When nobody knows, it's harder to care about what's happening.

But, the groups are done, and it's been a cracking tournament so far. I will find some other aspect of life to do for a couple of days and be back, raring to go for the last 16, at the weekend.