Maybe It's on its Way Home

Harry Kane scored the extra-time penalty to clinch the tie

Watching both semi-finals, there was no real surprise of the outcome. And keeping up with the theme of no further surprise coming round the corner, I would expect Italy to win the Final this weekend. And this is going from an England supporter.

This is a good start for England, and they will be a stronger unit in the future. They have the right ingredient for a solid setup. But at the end of the day, they lack that certain something which makes a good team great. Something which Italy has in this tournament.

England also will have the added pressure of playing in front of their home crowd. This tournament also is the best chance for them to win a trophy. Look at the current Belgium golden generation of players. They have the talent, but they did not win any major trophy so far. This opportunity only comes once in a generation, and come this Sunday, England must seize the moment. If they lose, they will not have a better chance of winning something, even if the core England team becomes a stronger one in the future. Talent and ability do not usually translate to winning. Winning a tournament like the Euros only happens when everything turns out right on the day. There will be an element of luck.

Puan Anita’s sumptuous scones

Will England be lucky this weekend? Or will the true class of the Italians shine through? Either way, I will be rooting for England, although I know that it would not be a significant upset if Italy is to win it. They have the guile and the knack to do just enough to win ... But at the moment, just enjoy the occasion as football is making its way home, before returning to Rome ...

For breakfast today, Anita baked some scones and we enjoyed a nice brew of tea to celebrate the win. Served in fine China of course. Rumour has it, we might be having pasta on Monday night.