Quote:
Originally Posted by VANFLAMESFAN
I'd agree with that, but Switzerland did make Euro 04 and WC 06, so I have less issue with them being in. Austria would probably have no chance of making it.
Next Euro is Poland-Ukraine. Same kind of scenario as this one. 2 average to bad teams get a pass.
Interesting stat, I looked at the history of the Euro, home teams have made at least the semi finals in EVERY TOURNAMENT!! In 2000, it was co hosted by Holland and Belgium, Belgium didn't do well, but Holland made the Semis. Looks like this year, that stat will end, I don't see Austria making the QTRS, let alone the Semis.
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Yeah, Switzerland isn't that bad... just very mediocre. That stat is definitely coming to an end unless Austria have a miracle run of games.
Poland-Ukraine is not quite as bad as this one... Poland made both the WC and Euro, as did Ukraine... and Ukraine made it to the knockout in the WC. Of course, I think the WC is the easier tournament before the knockout rounds, because there are so many weak teams from CONCACAF, AFC, CAF and even some weaklings from CONMEBOL. The final 8 are almost always UEFA featuring Brazil and Argentina.
I still don't like two countries getting a pass... even if Italy-France, Spain-Portugal or Netherlands-Germany decided to co-host... I think it takes a little away from the qualification aspects.