Final Play-off for the European Championships.

Well, the last 4 teams have been selected to take part in the European Championships in 2012 and they include Croatia who drew at home to oust the Turks from the tournament after a 3-0 embarrassment in Turkey. The Czech Republic scored once more in their 2nd-leg match against Montenegro to finish 0-3 winners while the Republic of Ireland had quite the fight against Estonia at home in Dublin. Already leading 4-0 from the 1st match, the Irish were on their way to their first Finals tournament in 24 years! While the game was essentially just about pride, the Irish got things started in the 32nd minute with a goal from Stephen Ward. While the Estonians had to realize that they had met their match, they did equalize through captain Konstantin Vassiljev in the 57th minute. They thus kept their heads high as the game ended 1-1. Yes, it was an aggregate score of 5-1, but the Estonians did well for themselves, proving that they have the guts and heart to compete. Last but not least, Portugal faced Bosnia and Herzegovina in Lisbon. The two sides stood poised 0-0 after an unenthusiastic 1st-leg match. This match was totally different. Cristiano Ronaldo struck in the 8th minute while Nani added a second in the 24th to really put the visitors on the back foot. Zvjezdan Misimovic slotted home from the penalty spot in the 41st minute to make the match seem closer than it was. No matter, the 1st half ended 2-1 for the Portuguese. Ronaldo struck his second in the 53rd which was abruptly followed by unsportsmanlike conduct from Senad Lulic that resulted in his sending-off. Bosnia and Herzegovina's captain Emir Spahic struck in the 65th to keep the two sides close: 3-2. However, as the end of the match approached, the toll started to take effect as Bosnia's defense started opening up more and more. The Portuguese were merciless: Helder Postiga struck on either side of Miguel Veloso's 80th minute strike to make it 6-2 by the 82nd minute. With that the Portuguese secured their progress and Bosnia and Herzegovina bid farewell to the limelight for a time. Thanks to all the teams that have competed! Looking forward to the European Championship to kick off!