Zloczower proud of Swiss reponse
Monday, June 16, 2008
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Delight at the progress of UEFA EURO 2008™, sadness at his own team's elimination – mixed feelings, therefore, for the Swiss Football Association president.
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Lived up to expectations
Although his country bade farewell to the finals with a 2-0 win against Portugal in Basel last night, Zloczower says the football played and the atmosphere created at UEFA EURO 2008™ have lived up to expectations. "I'm extremely satisfied," he said. "In nine matchdays in the stadiums, the football has been attractive, exciting and outstanding on occasions. Outside the stadiums, there have been celebrations in the Fan Zones and public viewing areas." Last night in Basel, the number of visitors welcomed to the eight UEFA EURO 2008™ Fan Zones reached the two million mark.
Berne celebration
Zloczower elucidated: "For example, my home city Berne experienced something unprecedented – more fans were celebrating in the city than there are inhabitants. That is a great thing. There have been no incidents of real note to report following a few minor initial difficulties, as there can be at any tournament. Let's all hope that the weather will improve, that there will be warmer, sunnier weather, so that the last matches can be enjoyed in accordance with our motto – Expect Emotions."
Swiss fans thanked
The SFV/ASF president also thanked the Swiss fans for their support of the national team in the three matches in Basel. "I am disappointed because our goal was to get to the quarter-finals at least," he said "We haven't achieved that goal. I think the team played well, but the results didn't come in the first two games. I'd like to thank the fans, young and old, and hope that we can count on this support when the EURO has finished."
