Europe awaits feast of football

By Pete Sanderson in Preston

After 130 qualifiers involving 33 teams, the countdown to the UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2005™ is finally over. The teams have now been whittled down to just eight and it would be cruel to condemn any of these talented nations for dreaming of glory with the opening game of Europe's most prestigious international prize just hours away. So, sit back, and enjoy the action as the continent's finest do battle in the north-west of England.

Five venues
The competition begins with eight teams, five venues and three former winners but, come 19 June, there can be only be one champion. Tournament hosts England arrive in the north-west in sparkling form having won nine of their last ten games and will doubtless be keen to make home advantage count. According to the eight participating coaches and the history books, however, the smart money is on one of Germany or Sweden, two sides with real pedigree, locking horns in the final as they did four years ago.

National icons
It is not just the north-west of England which has been gripped by EURO 2005™ fever. Key national figures such as England coach Sven-Göran Eriksson and Prime Minister Tony Blair have admitted the competition has captured their imagination in what could potentially be England's second full international tournament victory on home soil. Not since Sir Bobby Moore lifted the FIFA World Cup in 1966 have England delivered in front of their own fans.

Good luck message
"I would like to wish the England Women's team the best of luck for their UEFA European Women's Championship campaign," said Mr Blair. "The team should be very proud to represent their country on home soil. I hope the whole country gets behind them as they strive for success when they kick-off their group against Finland.

Warm reception
"I would also like to welcome the seven nations competing in the UEFA European Women's Championship to the UK. Some of the world’s best players will be in the north-west of England and I hope the public give them a warm reception. I congratulate the Football Association on bringing this prestigious tournament to Great Britain. We have a strong tradition of hosting successful sporting events and this is a unique opportunity to promote the growing participation in women’s football."

Setting sail
As the good ship England embarks on another voyage, captain Faye White is keen to set a precedent for fellow England captain David Beckham ahead of next year's men's World Cup in Germany. "It's going to be huge," White told uefa.com. "Hopefully we can put in a good performance and turn a few heads. We have also developed a winning mentality which is crucial going into a tournament like this."

Fair play
With an estimated 25,000 supporters expected to attend England's opening game with Finland at the City of Manchester Stadium at 19.00 today, it is hard not to feel the fervour which is sweeping the region. UEFA president Lennart Johansson is certainly in no doubt this year's tournament will help the women's game make another almighty leap in the right direction. "This summer's tournament promises to be a huge success," said Mr Johansson. "I have no doubt the teams will contest their matches in the true spirit of the game."

Blackburn finale
The target of all eight teams is to reach the 19 June final at the Ewood Park home of Blackburn Rovers FC. Preston, Warrington, Blackpool and Manchester will provide the stepping stones to the final. It promises to be a fascinating fortnight of football.