We have a huge matchup in the first semifinal match of the Euros plus some interesting drama stemming from it. Also, it looks like Arsenal locked in a new signing, all in today’s DKA!

Euro 2012

Today is a battle between the Iberian Peninsula as Spain face Portugal in a semifinal match (actually the game is on right now!). Spain are favorites behind Germany to win the trophy, however you shouldn’t underestimate Portugal, who have had a good run so far in the tournament. Last time the two countries played each other, Portugal ravished Spain with a 4-nil victory. Needless to say, today should be an exciting match! The match is underway at the moment (kick off was at 2:45 p.m. ET) on ESPN.

On the topic of Spain, it looks like UEFA has rejected a request by La Roja to have a moment of silence for Real Betis player Miki Roque, who passed away Monday at age 23 after losing a battle with cancer, before the semifinal clash with Portugal. But here’s where it gets interesting, UEFA are denying that they rejected it! UEFA released a statement via their website:

Further to media reports of the alleged refusal to allow a minute of silence in memory of Spanish football player Miki Roque ahead of tonight’s UEFA Euro 2012 semifinal between Spain and Portugal, UEFA would like to underline that it has not received any such request from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

You’d think that out of respect, they’d allow it anyway. That’s UEFA for you.

English Premier League

Olivier Giroud has chosen Arsenal over Chelsea! Giroud completed a £13 million transfer from Montpellier to Emirates yesterday, preferring the set-up at Arsenal. When asked why he chose the Gunners, his answer was simple: He loves the club.

”Why did I choose Arsenal rather than Chelsea?’ Because it is a club I love and I thought it would be easier for my adaptation. Arsenal is a great club, the facilities are wonderful, but I feel it is a club that takes big care before signing a player, notably considering human values. ’There are French players. There is also Arsène Wenger who let me understand he really wanted me.”