Euro 2008 - A look at the teams
On 06/06/08 by ed
Group A
Portugal
A lot of technically gifted, talented players in the squad with the pick obviously Cristiano Ronaldo. Tough defence, tough to beat and a winning coach in Scolari.
Czech Republic
Not quite to team they were - no Nedved, Smicer, Berger for example but probably have the best keeper in the world in Petr Cech and big Koller always causes problems. Always an entertaining team to watch and at an average 16/1 at most bookies worth a look.
Switzerland
On home turf for the most of it, so that will be a big advantage. I think they're capable of defending but goals maybe a problem - their top scorer Alexander Frei didn't have the best of seasons with Dortmund who finished 13th.
Turkey
They're as high as 84/1 at some bookies which is tempting. They're always a useful side with talent with the striker Nihat (Villereal) probably the best.
Group B
Germany
Not far from home for Deutschland so they be used to the surroundings. They're favourites at most bookies which I thing is a bit strange but then you look at the squad and possible first 11 and you can see why. Always difficult to beat and will almost certainly progress to the knockout stages.
Austria
I don't know much about Austria to be honest other than the bookies have them way out at 100+/1. They're at home though so that may give them a lift.
Croatia
Another one of the stylish technical sides and are worth a look at avg. 12/1. No pushover.
Poland
Are going to find it tough and the bookies have them at 40 or 50/1.
Group C
France
Les bleus have talent by the bucket-load but have been disapointing in tournaments. If it comes together for them they will be a threat no doubt about it. Priced at avg. 8/1.
Italy
Reigning World champs, Italia will be looking to get the double. Always well organised with a superb defence and a patient approach. Luca Toni has been playing well in Germany and if they do well he'll probably be a part of it.
Holland
With Robben and Van Nistelrooy scoring goals for Real Madrid last season they have 2 on form players. Maybe lack a bit at the back but if they score a hatful I don't think it will matter.
Romania
Don't rule them out because they can be a dangerous side with a strong team spirit. But the group is probably going to be too tough to get out of.
Group D
Spain
La Espana have got the lot. Brilliant keeper, solid defence, creative midfield and potent attack. The only thing stopping them from reaching the latter stages is themselves.
Greece
You never know with Greece - they won it last time, and with only Spain sticking out of this group they may cause an upset or 2. They'll find it tough in the knockout stages though if they get through. Maybe.
Russia
Believe it or not they're in mid-season in Russia (due to frozen winters - like Sweden) so they'll be well up for it. They're a useful side and with big Guus behind them who knows.
Sweden
Again, in mid-season in Sweden, but unlike Russia most of the player don't play there. They're got every chance of progressing especially with Ibrahimovic on form at the moment and the re-emergence of Henrik Larsson.
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