As everyone is aware, in the real world the defender has plenty of options to deal with the strikers and his main advantage over him is the extra speed, as he doesn't have to control the ball while advancing.  Strange enough in this latest installment he is crippled by the fact that the player without the ball can't sprint so the defenders are merely sitting ducks that can be fairly easy to evade. Once you manage to pass the ball to a free striker inside the box he will easily sprint his way to a scoring position leaving no chance to the helpless goalkeeper.

When the striker manages to penetrate the stiff defense he will constantly try to score with the exterior of the foot, no matter of his position towards the goalkeeper. Spectacular as it may seem at first glance it's unrealistic and simply defies logic, but then again goals scored like this make it worth watching the replay. Uefa Euro 2008 shines in this department as each goal will be celebrated with numerous replays from various angles that allow you to enjoy every successful incursion.

The animation of public cheering after a goal though is nothing short of horrendous, and the resemblance to most of the real players is minimal, but certain coaches and strikers will be easy to recognize. While these pleasant surprises are quite rare, most players are so poorly designed that stun you, and though you'd think it would be physically impossible, because they consistently set the bar so high, these guys just get exponentially creepier each time.

One of the most annoying aspects of this game is the complete lack of control when you have to deliver a corner or a free kick, as there is no "target" to assist you and make your mission easier in front of the net.  This leaves you pretty much guessing where the ball will go as you shoot blindly, and the controls are not even remotely accurate so these "chances" will be frequently wasted. If you already felt like heaving yourself repeatedly onto a rusty pile of sharp nails than prepare for the potential "penalty lottery" which determines the winner if the match goes to overtime and it is still undecided. Just like the free kicks you have no real control and if the striker won't shoot wide, than most likely the ball will be virtually passed to the goaltender.

"Captain your country" mode presents you with the unique chance of cruising your way to the top, and eventually become the captain of your national team. Starting as an average player in the second squad you earn the trust of your coach and promote from reserve status to undisputed regular after completing certain achievements. This addition will greatly improve UEFA Euro 2008's lasting appeal and give this game a chance, once the main event in soccer this year will come to an end.