So everyone is going to go with the headline of this being one of the biggest shocks. On the face of it, probably might appear that way. But when you get past the fact that Iceland are such a small nation, who have no business beating a football-mad country like England, and you look at how both teams have played at these Euros then it's not so surprising.
Iceland have tactically looked really good. They have made it very hard for teams to score against them with a supremely organised defensive setup. Iceland don't have the individual defensive class that Italy have, but what they lack in that department they make up in being tactically sound and very organised. Also, everyone gives 200% and works tirelessly to double-team and put bodies around to make it difficult for their opponents.
In contrast, England haven't looked great. No consistent system, wasting chances and no consistency in their play. They've looked interesting in parts but only in attack. Unfortunately, they haven't had that complete team performance that Iceland have shown in all their games. And in football, it's always wise to go with the group who know exactly what they're doing with a defined system than others who just try and will things to happen rather than having a structure.
England haven't really been tested by a proper team who are well-oiled. Russia have been the worst team of the Euros, Wales are a pretty good team with a superstar and Slovakia are average, again with a great midfielder. But Iceland were the first actual proper team who have done really well in all their games. So this was their first proper test, because they were never challenged in qualifying, and they ultimately failed.
All in all, I can't call this a monumental shock. Yes, it's very surprising and England shouldn't be losing to Iceland but let's give credit to what these white walkers have done. They are good football team, end of discussion. They know what they are and what they can do, and the focus on that and apply it perfectly.
Let's start taking them seriously as a football nation because they have deserved it. Despite their lack of superstars and world class players, they are tactically sound and play simple, pragmatic and sensible football. Just like Greece in 2004, with a bit of luck, that can take you a long way. HH
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