European Championship coaches grab spotlight, too

VIENNA, Austria — Fans of the European Championship will no doubt remember Michael Ballack launching an unstoppable free kick winner against Austria. Or Gianluigi Buffon's remarkable penalty save against Romania. And Arjen Robben's dribble and goal for the Dutch against France.

It's also been a lively championship for the men who are not allowed on the field, can't kick or head the ball or make saves. Yet the coaches go through every emotion possible during each 90 minutes. Some even get into trouble.

The sight of Germany's Joachim Loew and Austria's Josef Hickersberger being ejected simultaneously from the bench for a heated argument will stay in the mind.

But how many people watched Luiz Felipe Scolari's nonstop performance in urging Portugal's stars on to another quarterfinal spot? He scowls and berates anyone — opposition and referees — who appear to get in the way.

Scolari, who helped Brazil win its fifth World Cup in 2002, has already led the Portuguese to a European final and a World Cup semifinal. He also negotiated a move to Chelsea just as the European Championship was starting. But, for the moment, anyone who doubts he is focusing 100 percent on Portugal is in for a fight.

Likewise, those fans who naturally concentrate on the actions of the players may not have caught sight of the animated way Slaven Bilic urged his Croatian players to a group-winning performance.

Facing underdog Turkey in the quarterfinals, Croatia has a great chance to at least reach the last four and is considered a genuine contender for its first major title. That is due to his expertise in cajoling his players, applauding every good move and glaring at players who don't stick to the script.

The 39-year-old Bilic was disappointed at his team's tepid performance in a 1-0 victory over Austria in its opening game. But he masterminded a 2-1 victory over three-time champion Germany, his tactics being just about perfect. His movements on the side of the field — jumping, spinning around and mentally kicking and heading every ball — suggested he was virtually on the field with his players.

It's rare that Russia's Guus Hiddink dances around in the technical area. He stands and analyzes every move and, although his command of Russian is minimal, gets his message across clearly both to his players and the media.