Not good enough

LISBON: Italy and Germany have each played twice, and they haven’t beaten anybody yet. We’re talking about two countries that have each won the World Cup three times, and Germany has also won a record three European titles. After Germany’s 0-0 draw Saturday with 500-1 underdog Latvia, it may be that the German team simply doesn’t have enough talent. Italy is looking for excuses, blaming the grass and the three-match suspension handed to star striker Francesco Totti, for spitting in the face of a Danish opponent in a 0-0 tie.

Another Rooney fan

PORTO: Former Croatian striker Alen Boksic is a fan of 18-year-old England striker Wayne Rooney. Boksic visited England’s team hotel to meet with coach Sven-Goran Eriksson, for whom he played at Italian club Lazio. “I think at the moment Wayne Rooney is the biggest threat for England. He is some kind of phenomenon,” Boksic said. “But in Croatia we are watching games all over the world. Wayne Rooney is no surprise to us.” Rooney’s two goals against the Swiss in England’s 3-0 win over Switzerland on Thursday made him the youngest-ever goalscorer in European Championship history.

Wimbledon bans soccer

PORTO: Fans at Wimbledon in the next two weeks will be seeing lots of tennis — but no soccer. Officials have decided that, even if it’s raining — always a possibility — Euro 2004 matches will not be shown on the big TV screens around the All England Club. That includes Monday’s opening day at Wimbledon, which is the same day England faces Croatia in Lisbon needing a draw to reach the quarters.