Spain and the Joy of Playing

Eight are still left, but all twenty-four nations have contributed to the success of the tournament. Atmospherically anyway, but also in sporting terms. The 5:1 in Germany’s opening match against Scotland remained an exception, the rule was close matches and tight results. When Uefa increased the number of participants in a European Championship a few years ago, I was sceptical. Now I’m glad that Europe is so well represented. National teams are about a different