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Yesterday six international friendly matches were played. Two teams were preparing for the upcoming European Championship, while others were preparing for the World Cup qualifying tournament. Three matches took place in Great Britain, one each in Estonia, Tunisia, and Algeria. The match between the Czech Republic and Liechtenstein was postponed.
In a three-team tournament in England, in the first match, the Japanese national team defeated Iceland's team 3-2. Five minutes after a goalkeeper's mistake, Iceland took the lead with a goal by Heidar Helguson, but the Japanese finished the half in the lead due to two goals by Tatsuhiko Kubo. In the 50th minute, Helguson scored his second goal to equalize, but seven minutes later Alex scored a penalty kick.
Scotland achieved their biggest victory under Berti Vogts, defeating Trinidad and Tobago 4-1. After the first half, the Scots were leading 4-0, with goals from captain Darren Fletcher, Gary Holt, Gary Caldwell, and Nigel Quashie. Stern John scored a consolation goal for the visitors in the second half.
Wales extended their streak of four consecutive games without a loss. This time they defeated Canada with a minimal result. The only goal was scored by Paul Parry in the 21st minute.
In the matches held in Tallinn, our neighbor Estonia managed to secure a draw against Denmark, who are preparing for the European Championship. The first goal was scored by John Dahl Tomasson in the 28th minute, but then the Danes missed numerous opportunities. In the 77th minute, the Estonians equalized after a header by Kristen Viikmae. Shortly after, Kenneth Perez put Denmark back in front, but the hosts did not give up, and Joel Lindpere scored the equalizer in the last minute.
Italy, the future opponents of Denmark in Euro 2004, warmed up for the championship against the African champions Tunisia, coached by Frenchman Roger Lemerre. In the 15th minute, Riadh Bouazizi of Tunisia scored an own goal, and after thirteen minutes, team captain Fabio Cannavaro scored his first goal in 78 national team matches, doubling the lead. With four minutes left, Andrea Pirlo scored a great penalty kick, and three minutes later Zambrotta scored.
All results of the day:
Japan - Iceland 3 - 2
Scotland - Trinidad and Tobago 4 - 1
Wales - Canada 1 - 0
Estonia - Denmark 2 - 2
Tunisia - Italy 0 - 4
Algeria - Jordan 1 - 1
