We're all addicted to football I suppose. That's why we watch game after game of rubbish, moan a lot, hoping in vain, it'll get better, it doesn't and the cycle continues. All familiar to Palace fans.

This tournament of Europe's finest has produced little in the way of excitement, I wonder how much longer we can call it the beautiful game.

So many games are now so similar, slow careful build up, mostly in the attacking teams half, seeking that opening, usually failing against a packed, prepared defence. It's so boring!

What's happened to pace? The acceleration of great players can take your breath away - we never see that any more.

I never thought I'd miss long ball footie but I do.

I suppose I'll always watch footie, just wish it was as exciting as we know it can be.

End of moan/rant

I have now sufficient funds to last me the rest of my life. Provided I don't buy anything.

Enjoyed seeing Ben ‘n’ Bats leading the line for Belgium - for about 10 minutes. Not sure either of them touched the ball but even so.

You are right. I can rarely watch football without picking up my phone or a book at the same time. I remember watching Spain when they were dominant and the commentators purring about the way they played. I called it death by a thousand cuts football. Ball going forwards, then sideways, then backwards repeatedly, until they bored the opposition to death and found a way through. Two or three good moves in a game. Technically brilliant, bloody boring to watch.

Nearly every team tries to replicate this. Even the stout defending underdogs seem to get the ball forward slower these days. Not yearning for a return to hoofing the ball up pitch these days, but at least a few more risks to score a goal and entertain. The flair footballers are also becoming a thing of the past. I look at Mbappe and just see a physically strong speed merchant, not a Maradonna or George Best type player.

Footballers may be physically fitter, and the tactics based on possession, but the excitement has gone.

Yep agree.

Denmark stadium was full last night and produced a great game and a great story.

As you say selective memory also plays a big part. I can remember many tournaments worse than this and they had the benefit of crowds.

A bit clinical and slow burn, but once the knock out rounds start it's 'must watch'..

I'm enjoying the Euros and I love the tournament and the WC too. Not every game is a classic, but that's ok, I see it more as a giant, multi-layered chess game. That said there have been some great games. The Germans, beating Portugal when they were all-but written off. Denmark last night was about as good as football gets. Watching De Bruyne and Lukaku link up is quite something.

There are so many stories within stories, good players to watch, it's interesting to see formations and football styles evolve. How good teams try to break down a 5-3 defensive line etc.

And of course the ups and downs of England. I'm intrigued to learn more about Southgate and if he'll practice what he preaches about being brave and no regrets. Job 1 is getting out of the group. Job 2 no excuses we have to attack and win at all costs after tonight.

Three games per day at the start, yes please.

Italy have been a joy to watch. Things will get more interesting once the groups have been decided and we're into the knockout stages - where a 'draw' or 'don't lose' mentality isn't an option.

The Euros and WC are football festivals and I love them, watch as many games as I can.

Edited by Frickin Saweet (22 Jun 2021 11.50am)