European cliffhangers

First, it was the volcano. That just refused to let flights move.
Then came the financial meltdown, Britain which had felt tremors as early as 2008, followed by Belgium, a Greek Tragedy- a collapse of its currency, followed by Spain and a dramatic fall of the Euro from 70 rupees to 55 rupees in under 12 months!
Then the change in political landscape- as slowly conservative preservationsists come back to power in England, Poland and Germany.
Finally, its manifestation on the soccer field.
This FIFA world cup has seen Italy(reigning defending champions), France( winners in the previous cup), Greece, Denmark already falling off. Spain and England struggling to get to the round of 16. Germany and Portugal just about getting there.
Guess the State of country's mind is the State of the country's game.