Franz Beckenbauer recognizes Russia's success at Euro-2008 as a surprise
for the whole European football community.
An outstanding German coach, manager and former player Franz
Beckenbauer spoke at press-conference organized by Adidas on Saturday.
"There are no doubts that Russia's storming to Euro-2008 semifinal
came as a big success for everybody", said Beckenbauer.
"It's a great achievement for Guus Hiddink and his men."
"But Russia's marvelous performance at the tournament became bigger
surprise, since following their 1-4 defeat from Spain in the opener, they
impressed all people watching their games."
"However Spain looked perfect in the second half of semifinal match."
"I believe they could have beat ay team in the world."
"I liked Andrei Arshavin's display in his first two games at the
championship, however he failed to keep on his brilliant play in semifinal."
"Russia achieved big success at Euro-2008 and they shouldn't be disappointed."
"They played brilliant football in Austria and Switzerland and their
match against Holland proved their high class."
"I assess the European tournament as very successful, both from football
and organizational points of view."
"The European championship is a bigger event than the World Cup,
so it's a huge achievement for Germany and Spain that they reached the
final."
