10 Things To Look Out For At The Euros (Part 1)

So People. The Euros are upon us finally and everyone in 4 days time will be glued to their TVs. But is there a lot to keep those occupied whilst they neglect their regular duties to cheer on a nation? I’ve came up with 10 cracking reasons for you to get excited about the Euros. In no particular order, here we go.

Group A – Some say its one of the weakest groups ever in a major championship, however could one of the winners come from this group? Poland as the home nation no doubt have a steady team, they do also have one of the best strikers in Europe at the moment in Dortmund goal hero Robert Lewandowski. A terrific bet for top goalscorer as well if he has his way in the group stages. Also in there, our own hero Georgios Samaras. No doubt he’ll be used as the lone striker or on the left wing, can he really be the one to convert a Greek tragedy into a Greek miracle? Never write off the Russians, they were terrific to watch in Euro 2008 before falling short against Spain in the semis. The Czechs stumbled past Scotland to get into the play offs and in my opinion are the weakest team in this group. It could be a group of all 0-0 draws or it just could be something special. Greece won Euro 2004 from Group A.

Germany – Since their defeat at the hands of Spain in the semi finals of the World Cup, Germany have been awesome. Exciting footballers combined with typical German efficiency and you’ve got a mix that equals real title contenders. My favourites for the tournament, the real players to watch are Mario Gotze, Ozil and Arsenal bound Podolski, who always pops up with a few pearlers in major competitions. They will be a joy to watch.

Incriminating Italians? – Remember 2006 when Italy was last shamed by a match fixing scandal? Yes thats right, they went on and won the world cup. Who says 6 years later they can’t do the exact same? They’ll most likely be fronted by Mario Balloteli and Milan’s Cassano, 2 undoubted match winners if they’re on the top of their game. If it happens, who’ll be the Tardelli screaming his name at the top of his lungs when he scores the winner in the final? Write off Italy at your peril.

The Re-emergance of Fernando Torres? – Spain need a goalscorer after David Villa’s leg break ruled him out of the tournament, so step forward Fernando Torres. The Chelsea hitman has been anything but the world class best he showed at Euro 2008 when his expert finish won the tournament for Spain against Germany. With Spain’s actual striking options somewhat limited, Torres must prove he can be the player he once was with a strong showing. He could be special. He could also be the same old lonely man he’s been for 18 months at Chelsea.

The Dutch Masters –  Ah, the Dutch. They might not be out in the best colours but what they and their fans bring to a major championship is an absolute joy to witness. Their first 2 games in Euro 2008 were spectacular but as usual with the Dutch, they faltered at some stage, that time to the Russians. With Robben, Van Der Vaart and Robin Van Persie, as well as many others, the Dutch have a tremendous attacking threat. Their defence isn’t at all bad either.

Well thats it for part 1 folks. Part 2 will follow soon and will be concluded with a few bold predictions. Watch out for it people!