After a wild end to the Premier League and Championship
League seasons, the amazing summer for sports is upon us. This Friday, the
highly anticipated Euro 2012 begins in Poland and Ukraine. Most of the top
international teams reside in Europe, so this satiates the void left between
World Cups for most soccer fans. This year there are several countries that
should contend and this may be one of the most exciting competitions we have
seen in awhile. So, sit back, relax, and get pumped.
Group A
Czech Republic, Greece, Poland, Russia
The battle of eastern Europe (plus Greece) could go down to
the wire or could be a runaway. Poland has homefield, but the other three
countries will not be intimidated. Greece has tended to surprise in Euro
competitions of the past, including winning it in 2004. Russia has the talent
to go far in this competition if they can get on the same page and realize
their ability. The Czechs have the best goalie in the world (Petr Cech) but are
coming off a disappointing qualifying season. Time will only tell us if they
can move on.
Must-see Match: Poland
v. Greece, June 8; It’s the first match of the competition and will set the
tone for the tournament. Russia-Greece should also be entertaining.
Group A Winners: Russia and Greece
Group B
Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Portugal
For me, this is the most exciting group. Germany and
Netherlands are the clear-cut favorites, but Denmark and Portugal won’t go
without being heard from. Portugal were the losers to Greece in 2004, a loss
that I’m sure still stings to the core, given that the final was played in
Portugal. Led by Cristiano Ronaldo, they will definitely provide for some
intriguing matches. While Denmark may have a chance in another group, I can’t
see them overcoming the other three teams. As a youngster, I fell in love with
Le Oranje, and I’m hoping they can show up like they did in the World Cup.
Must-see Match: Netherlands
v. Germany, June 13; Maybe the best group stage match of the tournament.
Depending on how the tournament breaks down, this could be a potential Finals
matchup. It would be a shame to miss any matches from this group.
Group B Winners: Netherlands and Germany
Group C
Croatia, Ireland, Italy, Spain
What a cakewalk for Spain. The reigning World Cup champions
must have counted their blessings when the groups were announced. Italy is in
turmoil off the field with the allegations of match-fixing (see my fellow
soccer writer’s article here). They also recently lost at home to the United
States, showing a slight lapse in quality. Ireland were robbed from appearing
in the World Cup by a Thierry Henry handball, so I think they come out with
some underdog fire. Croatia has little chance but would be a potential upset
candidate against Italy.
Must-see Match: Spain
v. Italy, June 10; Even though Italy is reeling, it may be fun to watch
Spain break down the Italian side. If Italy is to move on, they may get out of
bed for this one and actually put up a fight. I’m also excited to see Ireland’s
passion in all their matches.
Group C Winners: Spain and Ireland
Group D
England, France, Sweden, Ukraine
A bad break for the other co-host
in Ukraine. Sweden has Serie A star Zltan Ibrahimovic to lead them into battle,
while England and France look to turn around disappointing World Cup showings.
France look like they have overcome the coup that marred their World Cup and
the English look talented and ready to compete (for once). Ukraine will be
hard-pressed to win atleast one match, but could hold a team back if they steal
some points.
Must-see Match: England v. France, June 11; This match
will be key in deciding which of these teams is ready to compete again. If one
team prevails as the winner, the other may have a tough time picking its head
up to move on to the knockout stages. It will also present Sweden an
opportunity to sneak through.
Group D Winners: England and
France
So there you have a preview of the
group stages. If it plays out like I predicted here is how the first knockout
round looks:
Russia v. Germany
Netherlands v. Greece
Spain v. France
England v. Ireland
Germany and Spain would occupy one
semifinal and Netherlands and England would duke it out in the other. I like a
Netherlands-Germany final. England’s ability to make it this far will be applauded,
but they don’t have the talent to match up with the Dutch. I think Spain’s days
of dominance are behind them (for now) and Germany has looked good recently. I
like Netherlands to finally come through in the clutch to take home the title
as Europe’s best. The final will be played at a very high level and should be a
fantastic finish to a great tournament. You won’t regret tuning in. I promise.
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