Country: Russia

Manager: Guus Hiddink

Euro 2004 Performance: At the last Euro Championships, Russia played in Group A but failed to progress after losing twice and winning their last match which had no meaning.  Although they were in arguably the toughest group at that tournament, the taste of defeat always runs sour, so they will be looking to show their Russian pride at the start of this weekend.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: In qualifying, Russia was in Group E, the same group that saw England fail to reach the finals.  Finishing on 24 points, Russia crept their way into the finals, and will be looking to prove that they really are a better side than football giants England, as they want to show they deserve their place.

Key Attacking Player: Andrei Arshavin showed last month in the UEFA Cup Final why people instill so much belief in him.  He controlled the game completely for his side FC Zenit St. Petersburg, dictating pace and play.  However, Arshavin will miss the first two games of the group stage, as he was red-carded in the last match of qualifying.  At that point when he returns, he can only hope Russia still has a chance to qualify to the knockout rounds.

Key Defensive Player: Aleksei Berezutski might be entering his first major tournament at the national level, but that does not mean he will not show the same fortitude he has for CSKA Moscow over the past few seasons.  After receiving the captaincy for the first time in March, he will look to use his leadership knowledge to keep the back line together.  Four years ago, it was the lack of goals and poor defense that led to Russia’s exit from that tournament.  For a strong tournament this year, Berezutski needs to keep that backline locked down.

Breakout Player: Pavel Pogrebnyak may be in his mid-20s, but the striker has been in the form of his life the past campaign, tying as top scorer in the UEFA Cup with none other than Luca Toni.  However, in the defeat to Serbia last Wednesday, Pogrebnyak suffered a knee injury that could leave him out of the squad.  This would be a major blow to Russia as he brings energy and tenaciousness every time he touches the pitch.  Hopefully, his injury will not be serious and he will be geared for action when Russia kicks off next Tuesday.

Predicted Group Finish: Fourth

Russia really does have a strong squad, but their lack of strength at the back will fail them, as keeping the ball out of the net has always been their weakness.  With Arshavin in amazing form, he will need to give some brace for Russia, even if it is only for that final game.  With him missing the first two though, it’s difficult to find a player in their squad that resurge and assume the role of controlling midfielder.  Not only does Russia have injury woes, but their group is one hardest to predict, as class is located all around.

Country: Spain

Manager: Luis Aragones

Euro 2004 Performance: Like their group mates Russia, Spain failed to progress to the knockout phase, but only after going through a tiebreak with Greece.  However, Greece was allowed through to the next round, as they both had the same goal differential, but Greece had netted more goals than Spain.  That problem will certainly be fixed come this tournament.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: Spain finished atop Group F on 28 points, with a record of 9-1-2.  Their nightmare from the last Euros also seemed answered as they tied in the group for most goals scored.  David Villa led the team with 7 goals scored.

Key Attacking Player: Fernando Torres has proved to be one of the most lethal strikers in all of football.  In his first season at Liverpool, not enough could be said to how nearly single handedly on many occasions looked to be salvaging the team’s season.  Scoring 33 times through the campaign is what Spain will want to see, as they are looking to finally live up to the hype that is associated with Spanish football through the eyes of enthusiasts around the world.

Key Defensive Player: Carles Puyol is a name that every football fan knows.  Everyone knows of his ability to clear, to lock down, to start counter attacks, etc.  It will be interesting as to how he interacts with the assumed partnership with Sergio Ramos, the Real Madrid brick wall in defense.  With the tournament so short, mistakes cannot be allowed, so it is crucial for the ball to be kept out the net.  This has failed Spain before, but hopefully this year, a new chapter is finally written.

Breakout Player: David Silva might not be the youngest player at this years tournament, but his presence will defeinitly be called upon.  Although he may be limited to appearances from the bench, he is the kind of player that can regenerate a squad and reinvigorate all the players on the field.  His strike against Chelsea in the previous Champions League campaign is a testament to what this kid can do.  Inevitably, players like Villa and Torres will get tired, so having the firepower such as David Silva will certainly not hurt Spain.

Predicted Group Finish: First

You would have to assume that Spain would be a good favorite to win this group and progress decently deep into the tournament, but every major tournament, something always happens, whether on or off the pitch.  Prior to the ’06 World Cup, Aragones was placed on high scrutiny after he made racist comments on the training pitch in reference to Thierry Henry.  That incident left a gushing whole in the Spain squad, and although they performed decently, it marred their World Cup.  In terms of their play, they have all the tools, but sometimes having all the tools still doesn’t get the screw in the hole.  The thing that’s been missing with Spain has been chemistry: chemistry that Portugal has or even Germany.  I want Spain to do well this year because of all that flair in their side, but whether they can put it all together leaves me doubtful.

Country: Sweden

Manager: Lars Lagerback

Euro 2004 Performance: At the 2004 Championship, Sweden finished atop Group C on 5 points, level with Denmark.  Unfortunately, Sweden’s hopes were soon dashed in the first round of the knockout phase as their match with the Netherlands went to the dreaded penalty shootout, where they would lose 4-5 on penalty kicks.  That disappointment spells redemption quite clearly to the Swedes.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: In qualifying, Sweden finished second in Group F behind group mate Spain on 26 points.  With a record of 8-2-2 with 23 goals scored, their defense will draw the biggest question marks when the first ball is kicked next week.

Key Attacking Player: Zlatan Ibrahimovic over the past few seasons has shown his appetite for goal leaves other teams with nothing but an empty plate.  For Inter Milan, he continues to be one of the most menacing forces in Serie A and the Swedish fans hope he can translate that ability into the national squad.

Key Defensive Player: Olaf Mellberg may be best remembered for that infamous Aston Villa, Birmingham game in which his throw-in found its way into the back of his own net, but surely he has moved on from that and into a class defender.  His move to Juventus is testament to this and his solid defensive skills will be called to action.

Big Surprise…: Henrik Larsson has amazingly come out of retirement at the request of Lagerback to give it one last go at a major trophy.  Larsson has had one of the most illustrious careers a footballer can achieve, and knowing that this will no doubt be his last tournament will just be a bigger motivator for the Swede.  His experience and leadership will be a great locker room builder for the Swedish squad, and should translate to on the pitch success.

Predicted Group Finish: Second

Sweden is another team that is full of firepower.  Players like Kallstrom, Ljunberg, and Elmander will all be crucial in how deep their success will run.  Again though, qualifiers are one thing, but major tournaments are completely different.  I do not know if Sweden can carry over the same chemistry they had through qualifying into the tournament.  And the news of Elmander sustaining an injury is another worrisome thought.  As one of the leaders in qualifying, his presence is crucial for triumph for Sweden.

Country: Greece

Manager: Otto Renhagel

Euro 2004 Performance: After entering the tournament as one of the teams with absolutely no expectations placed upon them, they left a month later as European Champions.  Their sit-back-and-wait tactics brought about that wretched play all enthusiasts of soccer hate to see.  However, their defensive tactic ultimately prevailed.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: In qualifying for this year’s tournament, they finished on 31 points with a 10-1-1 record.  Their similar tactics once again proved to sit down other team’s offense, as they let up only 10 goals, while scoring 25 goals.

Key Attacking Player: Fanis Gekas is like most of the Greek players in emerging later in their careers.  Leading the squad in goals in qualifying with five, including a hat trick against Malta.  His break into the national squad with the belief from Rehhagel is what will give him the confidence needed to keep up his prolific form for his country.

Key Defensive Player: Traianos Dellas is a towering defender who earned All-Star honors at the last Euro Championships.  Although he never performs well at the club level, his consistent performances for the national squad are what keep getting him the caps he wants.  His height will make the other teams attacks off the ball be resorted to counter-attacks or ground play.

Breakout Player: Vassilis Torosidis is one of the most prominent rising Greek stars.  Although he may not start, he will just be taking in everything around him and gain experience with the aged stars on his squad.  As it turns out, his birthday is on the same day Greece opens their campaign against Sweden, so what a sweet present that would be to get an appearance.

Predicted Group Finish: Third

After their 2004 triumph, other European nations quickly realized the tactics Greece used were just draining to play against and even more draining to watch.  Any enthusiast will tell you that if they see those same tactics, they would a hope a team like Spain or Sweden would just quickly show them how to play real football, fluid football, and flair football.  This tournament, every squad knows their tactics and will be able to combat it, which spells a short June for Greece.

As defending champions, we almost need to thank them for their gritty and grinding finals performance in Portugal, as now every team knows: you cannot just play defense and expect to win. You are going to have to score, and score a lot.  With the talent located throughout literally every single squad at this tournament, the goals will be flying, bodies will be rolling, and pure heart will give eternal glory to those who will give it all in a total football tactic.  So until June 29^th, everyone has got a chance, and what a chance it is.

Popularity: 31%

Country: France

Manager: Raymond Domenech

Euro 2004 Performance: Four years ago in Portugal, France began their Euro campaign with convincing fashion finishing atop their group without losing a match.  However, they were quickly knocked-out in the first elimination round by eventual winners Greece 1-0.  Having won the championship four years prior to that point, the defending champs were surely crushed in their defeat.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: In qualifying for this year’s tournament, France was once again matched with its World Cup Final counter part, Italy.  Throughout the entire qualifying campaign, France struggled with new players and formations, but a win on the final day and a Scotland loss meant the two-time winners were through to the finals in Austria/Switzerland.

Key Attacking Player: Who to pick, who to pick… The shear attacking options that France has just makes any football enthusiast want to salivate.  Anelka, Henry, Gomis, Benzema, Govou, Ben Arfa, and Nasri are just some of the players who if on another team, would easily be the top scorers.  If I had to choose someone though, it obviously would be Henry.  In what could be his last major tournament for the national squad, he should be looking to end on the highest note he can, by lifting the Euro trophy.  As France’s all-time leading scorer, there’s no doubt that total will rise by the end of June.

Key Defensive Player: Again, whom do you choose? The experience matched with the youth on this squad makes me quiver.  After impressing just a couple days ago in the friendly against Ecuador, Lilian Thuram showed that he still has the tenacity needed to be one of most concrete defenders in the world.

Breakout Player: Karim Benzema is without a doubt the future of Les Bleus.  Is there even a question to his ability?  After scoring 20 league goals this past season for l’OL, he has showed he has the eye for goal that critics have been proclaiming about for years now.  If he does not get the nod to start with Henry or Anelka, coach Domenach might as well just recall Trezeguet, seeing as they would both just remain on the bench.  The partnership Benzema engineers with Anelka or Henry will ultimately determine France’s success in the tournament.

Predicted Group Finish: First

As much as it pains me to say it, France by far has the most class, youth, and talent of any team represented in the tournament.  To think of the combinations at Domenech’s disposal is horrifying to the eyes.  Within their squad, four or five different teams could be assembled, all with a very different look, and yet France would still be favorites to win the tournament.  Like I said two weeks ago, my favorite is Portugal, but France has the fire power from all of the big four leagues, from the big teams, and with that arsenal, France will most likely be seeing bleu, blanc, et rouge at the end of June as they hoist the trophy.

Country: Italy

Manager: Roberto Donadoni

Euro 2004 Performance: The reminder of Euro 2004 in Portugal to Italian fans will bring a bitter taste.  Although not losing a match in the group stages, Italy lost out on a place in the elimination rounds through goal differential.  Needing a win on the last day, Italy succeeded in downing Bulgaria, but came one goal short in the end, as Sweden and Denmark moved on into the knockout phase.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: Again, Italy was placed into the same group as the arch nemesis, France.  Although they were assured a spot in this years tournament on the second to last match of qualifying, the level of competition Italy had to face throughout qualifying has already given them an edge as they have experienced competitive football against class squads.  Also, there one loss has proved that they can still provide solid play although being a much more mature side.

Key Attacking Player: Luca Toni will be Italy’s go-to man in attack.  After his summer move last year to Bayern Munich, he has showed his quality ranks among the best and scored 24 goals to prove that point.  Whether he acts as a lone striker or is partnered with Quagliarella/Cassano/Del Piero, his presence will mean goals for Italy.

Key Defensive Player: Fabio Cannavaro proved in the last World Cup that he is a worthy defender and a brick wall in the Italy defense.  The former World Player of the Year and European Player of the Year will have to exhibit the same composure needed two years ago, in which the Italian defense only allowed two goals the entire tournament, if they want to lift that Euro silverware.

Breakout Player: The one critical component missing from Italy’s squad is the inclusion of young talent.  With the likes of Mario Balotelli missing, who is lauded to be one of the next superstars in world football, it gives the appearance of Italy being a “has-been” side; a team that does not have the speed or agility to play the new modern game.  By next tournament, Donadoni will have to pick players like Balotelli and other rising stars for Italy to keep its prestige.

Predicted Group Finish: Second

Although I think the Italian side is full of aging players, the slow, simple pass, wind-and grind style will just eat up the games they play but will see them earn the victories.  This is not the kind of football we want to see, but it’s what we are going to get: pure and simple.  If you want to pick an exciting team, then stay away from Italy.  Just remember to keep yourself awake because it is true that they sneak goals like that from sleeping defenses.

Country: The Netherlands

Manager: Marco Van Basten

Euro 2004 Performance: At the past Euro Championship, the Netherlands managed to reach the semi-finals before losing to hosts Portugal.  In the group stages there, the Dutch finished second behind the Czech Republic with unconvincing 1-1-1 record.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance:  Over the course of the past two years, the Dutch had to fight for qualification in Group G, before finally securing their place in the finals in the second to last match of qualifying.  Robin van Persie led the squad in goals, netting four in 7 appearances.

Key Attacking Player: Robin van Persie will have to re-find that thirst for goal if there is to be any attacking presence for the Dutch.  Granted that the Dutch are another example of a squad full of superstars, it is still important to note that van Persie brings electricity and power to any offense.  His stunning goals for Arsenal are just some examples of how he can change the game with a kick of the boot.  With the attacking options at hand for Holland, it is essential a working partnership be found in the coming friendlies.

Key Defensive Player: Giovanni Van Bronckhorst has always proved he is a rock in defense for both club and country.  As a member of the Barcelona squad that won back-to-back league titles and the Champions League, he was very influential as a left-back and even managed four goals in his first season with Barça.  Now as a Feyenoord player, the club he has supported since he was a child, he has continued to prove his value as stable hold in defense.

Breakout Player: Although already making the break through for his club, Ryan Babel will be ready to take that next step and be a major influence in this years finals.  Appearing in all 12 qualifying matches, he seems to be a favorite to van Basten and could be starting along side fellow Reds teammate Dirk Kuyt.  Having missed out on the World Cup through a knee injury, that limited him to only one second half appearance, he will be looking to prove that he can play at the highest level, with van Basten saying he has the potential to be the next Thierry Henry.

Predicted Group Finish: Third

The caliber of the Dutch squad is truly something to watch, but having not faired very well at all lately in major tournaments, it is hard to believe that they can manage to beat out the Italians or the French.  Ever since the groups were drawn months ago, this group has been analyzed and analyzed, and frankly, it all comes down to a coin flip.  Edwin van der Sar is surely flying high after his Champions League triumph, having saved the match winning penalty kick.  If he can carry that momentum into the national squad and protect that net like his child, then the Dutch could even scale their way to the top of the group and a place in the knockout phase.

Country: Romania

Manager: Victor Piturca

Euro 2004 Performance: Failed to Qualify

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: Oddly enough, all four teams in this group were had to play against one of the other group members.  Romania, in their case, beat out the Netherlands to land atop Group G in qualifying with 29 points.  In 12 matches, scoring goals did not at all seem like a problem, as they netted 26 goals, while only conceding seven.

Key Attacking Player: Adrian Mutu is one of the best footballers to ever have come out of Romania.  His 23 goals this last past season for Fiorentina prove his ability to put the back in the back of the net.  As co-leader in goals scored during qualifying (tied with Ciprian Marica) with four, he surely will be adding too that total this June.  

Key Defensive Player: Cristian Chivu is one of those defenders you look at and then quickly look away, as there looks to be nothing special.  But one would be sorely mistaken.  The Inter Milan back has been a key fixture in his club’s side that has now won back-to-back Serie A titles.  Although being a strong defender, he can give the random and reckless two-footed sliding tackle a little too often, so it will be important for him to stay out of the referee’s book and make sure that nothing gets into the net.

Breakout Player: ?tefan Radu is the youngest player on the Romanian squad and will be looking for more experience this June, even if it means learning from his teammates.  Dubbed “the new Chivu,” the Lazio fullback will hope to see action from the bench, but even if that plan fails, Radu is a player that could be leading the defense of this squad come next World Cup.

Predicted Group Finish: Fourth

Face it. What can you expect?  France, Italy, and the Netherlands.  Just acknowledge that at least you know you have the chance to show three of the worlds biggest football powers that you have been reforming.  It really is a shame for the Romanians, because there squad is not necessarily weak, but everything is proportional.  When judged up against the likes of Henry, Benzema, Cannavaro, Toni, Sneijder, van Nistelrooy, and van Persie, can you really expect anything good?  Not to discredit Romania and say they will not score or anything.  I would not be surprised to actually see a lot of high scoring matches in this group.  All four teams know the only way to win is to put the ball in the net.  Chances will not be taken, and by chances, I mean holding onto leads.  The two teams that make it to the knockout rounds will be the teams with the most fluid run of play, with a lot of attack and flair.

The glamour group of Euro 2008…let’s see what really happens…

Popularity: 70%

Country: Austria

Manager: Josef Hickersberger

Euro 2004 Performance:  Failed to Qualify

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: Qualified through hosting Tournament.

Key Attacking Player:  Ivica Vastic’s return to the Austrian national team might be one of the biggest surprises for the host’s fans.  The last national level game Vastic played was back in 2005, but his immaculate form this season for LASK Linz has earned him another call up to the national squad.  With 12 goals for Austria, he will surely be looking to add to that total.  And although he may not get the nod to start, his senior experience is what is needed to coax the young Austrian team into the Elimination rounds.

Key Defensive Player:  Emanuel Pogatetz might be one of the most ruthless and crazed defenders in European football, but its that determination and gut that makes him such a rock in defense.  Although not the most skilled technically, when fortitude and grit are used as factors, he might as well be labeled as class.  If he can manage to keep the back four sound, problems could ensue for their opponents.  Another wild card will be whether or not Pogatetz shows up, or his often-called nickname, “Mad Dog,” comes as he is known for horrible tackles at times.  Only June can tell us that, so until then…

Breakout Player:  Erwin Hoffer is beginning to find his niche as Euro ’08 approaches.  In the recent friendly against third Division side SV Spittal, Hoffer helped his side in the 6-0 thumping, adding two goals in the second half.  Also, in league play for Rapid Vienna, Hoffer was influential in the 7-0 thumping of Red Bull Salzburg.  He may not be a starter in June, but his appearances should be persuading for Austria.

Predicted Group Finish: Third.  With their first entry into a major tournament since the 1998 World Cup, as well as being hosts, the sheer energy pumping in Austria could see them through to the Elimination rounds.  However, it is very concerning that the national squad could only net 6 against a third division squad.  Although that might seem like a high scoring game, it just wont get the job done.  Unless magic is found in the form of a supernatural football, their demise will be the lack of goals. 

Surely, the pride of Austria and the nationalism associated with the tournament will be driving factors in their performances.  Unfortunately for Austria, they were drawn into the same group as Germany, which as another German speaking country could steal the spotlight away from the Austrians.  However, a strong performance against specifically Germany will undoubtedly be one of the most proud accomplishments the country has ever seen at the national football level.  It may even give them the drive to pull off the shocker and sneak into the knockout stages.

Country: Croatia

Manager:  Slaven Bilic

Euro 2004 Performance: At Euro ’04, the Croats found themselves drawn into the group of England, France, and Switzerland.  Unfortunately, the Croatians failed to even win a match, drawing twice and losing once to England.  Redemption will certainly be sought with a refurbished squad come this June.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance:  In Group E of qualifying, the Croats managed 9 wins with only one loss, finishing on 29 points.  However, the memory that most will remember is how they were so influential in keeping England out of the tournament.  The 77^th minute strike from Mladen Petric dashed the hopes of England, and the Croatians are now looking to use that momentum to have a great run in Austria.

Key Attacking Player: Mladen Petric provided the fireworks only months ago against England, and with Eduardo Da Silva out for nearly nine months with that horrific leg break, he will be the man to look to for goals.  With seven goals in qualifying, Croatia will be looking to him to lead the way if the goals are to pour in.

Key Defensive Player: Robert Kovac has been recently dubbed one of the best defenders in Croatian history.  His immaculate sense of timing more than compensates for his lack of physicality and speed.  With his brother Niko captaining the squad and patrolling midfield, the Croation defense looks to be pretty sound.

Breakout Player: Ivan Klasnic is one of the youngsters Bili? is putting much faith in with his inclusion in the squad.  After his recent kidney transplant, Klasnic will look to show that he is the future of Croatian football and wants to show his capabilities have not lost him.

Predicted Group Finish: Second

Without at doubt, if you were to speak of Croatian football four months ago, you would have to be bonkers not to mention Eduardo Da Silva.  His departure from football for the next few months from that graphic leg break does raise some question marks as to how well the Croatian squad can keep the gears turning without their top scorer in qualifying.  The likes of Niko Kranjcar and Mladen Petric will need to fill the void and keep the goals flowing if they want to see their way to the latter stages of the tournament.  With a strong squad with great chemistry, Croatia is one of those wild card teams that could sneak all the way to finals on June 29.

Country: Germany

Manager: Joachim Low

Euro 2004 Performance: Four years ago, Germany struggled to find the net in the group stages, scoring only two goals.  Failing to even win a match, they were eliminated from the tournament in the Group stages.  With Austria in such close proximity to Germany, this year will essentially be a home tournament to Germany, so they will look to perform well.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance:  In this years qualifying stage, Germany finished second in Group D behind the Czech Republic.  Finishing on 27 points with only one loss, their immensely strong squad will give them the push they will need for a good tournament.

Key Attacking Player: Lukas Podolski broke out at the ’06 World Cup, and his scoring prowess will be a key component to Germany’s tournament.  With his likely partnership with Miroslav Klose one of the most deadly combinations in the Bundesliga for Bayern Munich, the goals should fly in for the Germans.  With 8 goals in qualifying, he should be looking to pick another big tally this June.

Key Defensive Player: Jens Lehmann has been given the nod to start this June, despite his lack of appearances for his club, Arsenal.  With the amount of talent present at this year’s tournament, this is very disconcerting to the Germans, as Lehmann is even known for inconsistent play.  Not only that, but his temper could be another downfall for Germany, as they cannot afford any mishaps from the German international.

Breakout Player: Marko Marin may not be anywhere close to a recognizable name, but the VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder is one of the rising stars in Germany.  Although playing in the second division of the Bundesliga, his first call-up to the national squad seems promising, and appearances could be limited to only the bench, the atmosphere of such an enormous tournament could see Marin move to a bigger club come the end of the summer.

Predicted Group Finish: First

The German squad might be one of the strongest in the world.  With Ballack set for a fantastic tournament after hitting form for Chelsea the last couple weeks, and the strong attacking presence within the squad, the stream of goals should not fail them.  However, the biggest uncertainty is the fitness/readiness of Jens Lehmann.  Although he may be signed to one of the best clubs in the world, his lack of actual play this past campaign is a gigantic worry and most likely will be the reason the Germans don’t lift the trophy on June 29.

Country: Poland

Manager: Leo Beenhakker

Euro 2004 Performance:  Failed to Qualify.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance:  At the end of the qualifying rounds, Poland finished atop Group A on 28 points with 8 wins and 2 losses.  Their star striker Euzebiusz Smolarek also was very influential in Poland’s qualification, as he was one of the top goal scorers with 9 goals.

Key Attacking Player: Euzebiusz Smolarek was one of the surprises in qualifying when he netted nine goals, and it will take that presence in front of goal if Poland is to get out of this group.  His dynamic play as either a striker or wide winger will give Poland different attacking options in the tournament this June.  Poland will need Smolarek on top form if there is to be any chance of something resembling a good performance.

Key Defensive Player: Michal Zewlakow is one of those wingbacks that every enthusiast loves to see.  His runs at times show brilliance and his free kicks have a potent venom punch that can give even world-class goal keepers trouble.  Although he may lack in technical defensive skills, he is still solid on defense, and his breaks down the wing will be appreciated, because they will be needed.

Breakout Player: Roger Guerreiro has finally been called to the Poland national squad, after the Brazilian recently earned Polish citizenship.  The left-winger will add a strong offensive attack for the Poles, which they surely will need.

Predicted Group Finish: Fourth

The one thing that is for sure is that the constant theme of this tournament is the talent located in every group, as it is very difficult to predict anything, as football can be a crazy game.  It’s going to have to be that kind of madness for Poland if they want to advance to the Knockout Stage.  Not to knock the Polish team or anything, it is simply that they are just over matched.  I have been wrong before though, so hopefully we will see some strongly fought matches.

Popularity: 72%

Country: Czech Republic

Manager: Karel Bruckner, Brucker announced he will be stepping down after Euro 2008, and will surely like to leave the country with silverware.

Euro 2004 Performance:  Four years ago, the Czechs found themselves in the game of the tournament as they crawled back from a two-goal deficit to claim victory over Holland in the group stages.  After the 3-0 trouncing of Denmark in the Quarterfinals, the Czechs ultimately lost to the eventual winner Greece in the Semis near the end of the first period of extra-time.

Euro 2008 Qualifier Performance:  In the two years of qualifying, the Czech Republic finished first in Group D, with Germany qualifying with them in second place.  The Czechs only suffered one loss in the group and finished with 29 points with a 9-2-1 record.

Key Attacking Player: Jan Koller is surely the attacking player in need of watching come start of the tournament.  His domineering height and ball skills will undoubtedly be one of the reasons the Czechs will advance to the knockout stages.  With his move from Monaco only months ago, Koller claimed two goals this half of the campaign but will be thirsty at goal come June.

Key Defensive Player: Petr Cech.  Although not technically part of the back four, the heart of the defense will revolve around Peter Cech.  His keeping and world-class prowess will give the Czechs the cushion they need to progress.  I would be surprised to see Cech give up more than 2 goals the entire group.

Breakout Player: With their aging side becoming more and more of a factor as well, a new star better be grown if they want to prevail two years from now in South Africa.

Predicted Group Finish: Second Given the circumstances of the setting for the tournament, finishing second will be a tough task as Switzerland will come under national unity and not be rolled over.

With the overwhelming experience on the Czech team, jitters and nerves should not even be mentioned as a problem.  As for this tournament, a strong squad could see them either go far, or barely leave the gate.  The news of Tomas Rosicky’s injury keeping him out of Euro ’08 is a big hit to the team, as their driving midfield force will be missing.  This injury could prove to be a giant shock to the psyche of the Czech team and its supporters.

Country: Portugal

Manager: Luiz Felipe Scolari

Euro 2004 Performance:  Four years ago, Portugal was the host of the Euro Championships and commandeered themselves all the way to the final.  Yet, they fell in the final to the Greece in heartbreak.  That loss will just be more of an incentive for Portugal to be strong contenders come this tournament.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: In Group A of qualifying, Portugal finished second behind Poland.  They finished qualifying with a 7-6-1 record.

Key Attacking Player: Cristiano Ronaldo will undoubtedly be the man to watch of the tournament.  Having been in formidable form the entire season, he will be looking for that first major international trophy, and will have the desire to do it after being apart of the team that was heart broken four years ago.  Look for Ronaldo to possibly be the top scorer in this tournament.

Key Defensive Player: Ricardo Carvalho is obviously a good defender, but his sometimes lackadaisical play as seen on numerous occasions this year has led to many missed chances for Chelsea.  His latest was the sloppy back pace right to Wayne Rooney in the crucial Man Utd game.  Although he was saved there, that kind of careless play would not be what Portugal are looking for if they plan to lift the trophy.

Breakout Player: Normally, I would have to say Nani.  But since his summer arrival to Manchester last year, he has already shown his capabilities.  Therefore, Miguel Véloso is the player I would guarantee is ready to sprout into his own.  The Sporting Lisbon player will be eager to show his class and use the tournament as a stage to show it off.

Predicted Group Finish: First With the world’s number one player on your team, it would be difficult not seeing Portugal reach at least the semis.  As well the teams natural ability to play fluid football, the chemistry in the Portugal locker room is reminiscent to that of your Sunday game every weekend.  With all of gears going for Portugal, this June should taste pretty sweet.

Thoughts:  With the exclusion of Maniche from the squad, the player that was so influential in both Euro ’04 and the last World Cup, it will be interesting to see who will step into those shoes and be the driving force.  With so much young talent on the Portugal bench, their only downfall may be the lack of experience.  With Figo out, Deco will have to assume the role of keeping the team a tight knit group.  Personally, Portugal is my favorite to win it all.

Country: Switzerland

Manager: Kobi Kuhn

Euro 2004 Performance: Back in Portugal four years ago, Switzerland failed to make it out of the group stages of the competition, yet alone win a match. With a two losses and a draw, they will be looking to show their footballing capabilities now that they are hosting.

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: Due to the fact that they are one of the hosts this year, they did not have to qualify.

Key Attacking Player: Tranquillo Barnetta is surely one of the bright stars for Switzerland.  After first being called up in 2004, he was influential last World Cup but unfortunately had his penalty thump the crossbar, leading to the eventual 3-0 win on PK’s for the Ukraine.  However, he was shortlisted for the tournaments Best Young Player award.  In this current campaign, he has netted 6 goals for Bayer Leverkusen and more will come from him this June.

Key Defensive Player: Philippe Senderos will have to be the strong hold of the defense for Switzerland come June.  Many of us who watch his play in the Premier league might rush off to call him rubbish, yet he does possess quality, and it will be that quality that will see Switzerland put on a good performance.

Breakout Player: Gelson Fernandes has been hailed by Sven Goran Eriksson as the “best young player in Switzerland.”  Since his move to Manchester City last summer, he’s netted twice, but impressively scored his first goal within 40 seconds of his first appearance for the club.  Although he may not get many opportunities, his contributions will be greatly needed if Switzerland is to advance.

Predicted Group Finish: Third.  Although they are gaining talent at the national level, the hosts won’t be able to pull through and will unfortunately just miss out on the elimination rounds.

Thoughts:  Although Switzerland has a promising side, the experience of the Czech Republic will earn them the second qualifying spot, and leave the Swiss out of the tournament.  If the defense remains strong, the goals will just have to pour in for them, then the Swiss could very well sneak into the elimination rounds.

Country: Turkey

Manager: Fatih Terim

Euro 2004 Performance: Failed to Qualify

Euro 2008 Qualifying Performance: Turkey finished second in Group C of qualifying behind Greece.  They finished on 24 points with a 7-3-2 record.  

Key Attacking Player: Tuncay Sanli has given us wonder strikes in the Premier league for Middlesbrough.  If he can provide those electric goals, Turkey might just find the sparks needed to escape the group stages and climb to the elimination rounds.

Key Defensive Player: Emre Asik will be the holding force in the Turkish defense.  The captain will need to keep his line strong, as they will be faced with the tough task of beginning the tournament against one of the favorites, Portugal.   

Breakout Player: Kazim Kazim has proven his class since his move to the Turkish club Fenerbahçe.  He was highly instrumental in their progress in the Champions League and without a doubt will be scoring goals come this June.

Predicted Group Finish: Fourth.  

Thoughts: Hamit Altintop would be the Turkish star this June.  The Bayern striker however may miss the tournament after breaking a metatarsal bone in his right foot.  After being in fabulous form this campaign, his loss would be astronomical.  With Altintop gone, it is hard to imagine Turkey creating the same brilliance they managed back at the 2002 World Cup.  

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