Poland drew while Russia crushed Czech Republic

Co-host Poland did not manage to win the first game of the European Championship in their home country as they drew against Greece with 1-1 (1-0). In the second match of Group A Russia crushed Czech Republic with 4-1 (2-0).

Russia had four reason to celebrate.

European Championship´s co-host Poland drew in the first match of 2012´s EC. Against Greece they scored the early lead in person of Borussia Dortmund´s forward Robert Lewandowski in minute 17. But despite Greek player Sokratis was sent to the rail with yellow-red card after 44 minutes Greece managed to equalize the score in minute 51. Salpingidis shot the goal.

Greece also had the chance to win the match as Poland goal keeper Szczesny fouled Salpingidis in the box resulting in a red card and a penalty for Greece. Karagounis failed to score as Polands second goalie Tyton managed to safe the shot. The 1-1 was equitable as Poland had more of the game and better attempts but Greece fought back and missed a penalty.

The second game of Group A was Russia against Czech Republic. Kerzhakov and Shirokov scored in first half for Russia in minute 15 respectively 25 despite the Czechs looking the livelier in the opening exchanges. After the break the Czech finally regarded their efforts by scoring the 1-2 in person of Pilar.

The Czechs did not manage to put more heat on the Russians and Dzagoev and Pavlyuchenko broke their necks in minutes 79 and 81 scoring the final two goals leaving the final score board showing 4-1 for Russia.