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Posted by
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July 1, 2016 |
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@HarJournalist
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VANCOUVER, B.C - Euro 2016 quarter-final action is well underway in France. Portugal pulled out a penalty kick victory over Poland yesterday and three more exciting matches remain before the semi-finals kickoff next week. Some of the heavy weights have already been eliminated, but one particular side of the bracket still features some powerhouse football nations with en eye on winning the tournament.
Italy will play Germany on Saturday at Stade Bordeaux, and the hosts, France will take on everyone's favourite surprise team of the tournament, Iceland on Sunday at Stade de France in Saint-Denis.
Red Nation Online was able to catchup with a pair of players from Toronto FC and Vancouver Whitecaps FC to hear what they think about Italy vs Germany and France vs Iceland this weekend at Euro 2016.
Toronto FC, Benoit Cheyrou - Suresnes, France.
What are your thoughts on France vs Iceland?
"Of course France, but it will be a tough game. They won against England, it's not because of luck, they worked hard. There's always a surprise in the that kind of tournament and Iceland can be that surprise, but I hope not. We are aware that they are in the quarterfinals and they deserve it, so it's a good team."
Are France the favourites to win Euro 2016?
"I don't think so. Italy and Germany did well so far and for me Italy is the best team. They impressed me in the round of 16 against Spain, but after one game, anything is possible. It's between Germany, Italy, and France. My heart says France, but my mind says Italy."
You played in Ligue 1 with Marseille, do you know any French national team players?
"Yes, I'm in touch with Gignac, of course, he's a good friend of mine and I'm very excited he can play in the last game. I hope for him and for the team, and France that they can do something great in front of the host fans. It's very exciting for them to win in France."
Have you spoken to family and friends back home, what is the buzz and excitement like in France?
"Yes of course, I remember in 1998 it was crazy during the World Cup when France won it, in France. I think it's kind of the same fun and entertainment."
Toronto FC, Sebastian Giovinco - Turin, Italy.
Who do you think will win the Italy vs Germany match?
"It's possible for Italy, it will be a great game to watch, my hope is for Italy to win."
Italy's Thiago Motta, De Rossi and Candreva will not be playing due to injury, will their absence be a problem for the Azzurri?
"No it will not be a problem, I think they will find the best solution."
How super and magnificent is Graziano Pelle?
"Yes, I know he is and I'm very happy for him and he's performing amazingly well."
Germany's Manuel Neuer will be tough in net?
"Yes, we know he is an excellent keeper, but I think Italy will play very well."
Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Paolo Tornaghi - Milan, Italy.
What do you make of Buffon's performance and how inspiring is it?
"Yeah of course, Buffon is the best Italian goalie of the history. Many caps on the national team so he is an example for everyone. You see how the teammates rely on him, he is our captain and we're very proud of him."
Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Russell Teibert, Niagara Falls, Ontario.
As an Italian Canadian how closely have you been following the Azzuri at Euro 2016?
"I'm actually Italian and my father's side is German, so this next matchup... I can't really say on camera who I'm going for because my parents, one of them is going to be upset with me either way."
Did you grow up following or having any heroes on Italy or Germany?
"Yeah just my Dad, he's German."
Notes: A special thank you to Marco Sepe in Toronto for transcribing the Sebastian Giovinco audio.
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