EURO 2012 Match Previews and predictions

Group Elimination A: Friday, 8 June 2012 - Warsaw - Municipal Stadium

Poland and Greece set to kick things off in the Euro Cup 2012 opener.

Poland

The Poles will open up and kick off the festivities for the 2012 European Championships holding the home field on June 8 when they take on Greece in a Group A match in Warsaw, and this will be the first test for all 2012 Euro Cup betting fans. . .

Greece

Greece came in dominating their qualifying round by winning 7 out of 10 matches in their qualifying round and to also mention they have lost 1 match in their last 20. Greece is entering the tournament on its high horse and deservingly so. . . .

Predictions: Poland wins 2-0

We can see this being a real all out war with Greece wanting payback but with the home field and the crowd behind the home team its going to be very tough for Greece, With striker Robert Lewandowski being Polands biggest scoring threat arrives at Euro 2012 in the best shape of his life.

Poland has competed in one European championship since 2008 not winning one match. The Poles drew one and lost two in the 2008 Euro Championships. They didnt qualify past the group stage. They have had more success on the world stage and have played in seven World Cups.

Greeces last major defeat came at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, when Argentina defeated them 2-0.

We look for Poland to continue their dominance over Greece.

original source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-poland-vs-greece.html
 
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Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Denmark vs Netherlands

Group Elimination B: Saturday, 9 June 2012 - Kharkiv - Metalist Stadium

Netherlands enters the tournament on a high note but, placed in what’s called the “Group Of Death” stage along with Netherlands in this stage is powerhouse Germany, Denmark there are no guarantees when it comes to the knock out stage.

Netherlands

The Dutch put together a nice run by winning 9 out of its 10 last matches (The only loss coming to Sweden) in a death match that had already been secured. Netherlands amassed an astounding 37 goals with an eye popping average of 3.5 per game. The Dutch team has a very aggressive attack being led by a talented group of mid fielders and strikers. Leading the way is striker Robin Van Persie who is most noted for scoring 4 goals last September in a blow out against San Marino. Along with Van Persie is winger Dirk Kuyt who is known for his tireless stamina and aerial ability. Holland is stacked with scorers having amassed 88 goals between Van Persie and Huntelaar leading the way. There high scoring attack has earned them the name ”The Brazil of the Euros.”

Denmark

Danes enter the tournament coming out of a tough qualifying round against Iceland, Portugal and Norway. But, managed to win 6 out of 8 matches losing to Portugal who happened to qualify also for the finals will meet each other in the 2nd group game. Considering that they were in tough company, The Danes managed to score in every one of their qualifying game. That says a lot considering the competition they had. Led by center forward Niklas Bendtner and mid fielder Michael Krohn-Delhi lead a sound attack for the Danes. Defensively , Denmark is quite sound with just 6 conceded in their qualifying rounds.

Prediction: Netherlands 1-0

I like Netherlands in this one. The fact is Denmark will have an inexperience goal keeper to start this match and with the attack the Netherlands posses they will exploit the green thumb goalie. Though Netherlands is not noted for being a defensively sound team I still look for it to continue with their high scoring attack.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/
 
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Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Germany vs Portugal

Group Elimination B: Saturday, 9 June 2012 - Lviv - New Lviv Stadium

The last match on Saturday will be played in Lviv, Ukraine where it will feature the Powerhouse German team who look to make a statement in their opening match against Portugal. This is a pivotal match for both teams as they are paired in the “Euro Cup Group of Death” with also Netherlands and Denmark.

Germany

Germany performed well in their last 5 qualifying matches and coming with the new formation of the players and also their formation or strategy. They won 3 matches, 1 draw and their only loss came to France back in February. The Germans are led by Bayern Munich striker Mario Gomez whom they look for to supply a few goals during the tournament after having a great season in the Bundesliga but, the 26-year-old had some lapses when Munich needed him in the Champions League final against Chelsea and in the German Cup against Borussia Dortmund.

The German offensive stormed through the qualifying games like a pack militant skinheads walking through a small Asian grocery somewhere in Munich and achieved a perfect record, winning all 10 of their matches and scoring a massive 34 goals en route. Thomas Muller, Mesut Ozil and Sami Khedira are expected to help propel the team further up the tournament ladder by using their gained experience at top European levels after their World Cup run back in 2010.

However, the Portuguese players are equipped with each of their individual brilliance that can topple any defense and unfortunately, defense is the biggest problem area for the German team and have let in too many goals on occasions so in the case of the upcoming game with Porto, the German power could break down if not corrected in time.

Portugal

While Portugal in the European Cup is a very confident, they boast some of the world’s biggest names namely Cristiano Ronaldo is one of Real Madrid striker, and also winger Nani who comes in from Manchester United. The problem with Portugal is they can never close out the big games having come close in 2004 when they hosted but lost to Greece 1-0. Portugal will heavily depend on Ronaldo for his knack to score having 42 goals in Spanish La Liga.

Cristiano Ronaldo, that already says a lot for a team. Having a player that is on top of the European as well as the world through football can do a lot for a team. Playing alongside Nani, Raul Meireles and Pepe is not bad either and if the Portos put their heads together, they can crush Germany’s already crumbling defensive wall.

But the Portuguese team also seem to face a similar problem with the Germans of having an attack that could open up any team with a defensive structure that can falter at crucial moments. They scored 27 goals in the qualifying matches, but let in a whopping 14 which almost made them miss the trip to the Championships. Plus, a string of bad games comes to mind such as the mismatch with Turkey.

Predictions: Germany 2-1

Both teams come into this game with high expectations to win. They have similar styles in their attack. This is a game where Portugal has to play to their strength and not play too cautiously. I favor the Germans because this team is on a mission after coming short to Spain in 2008. I don’t want to take too much away from Portugal because with Ronaldo and Nani in the game anything is possible.

By the problems facing opposition, Portugal is not expected by many to make it through the group; and it would take a major upset to qualify for the next round. Just recently, Portugal suffered a 3-1 defeat with Turkey. Germany’s national team has a more players that are experienced and battle hardened.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/
 
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Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: England vs France

Group Elimination D: Saturday, 11 June 2012 - Donetsk - Donbass Arena

Catch the duel between England and France as they batlle it out at Donbass Arena.

France

France enters the tournament with a very evenly matched group D . Their 1st opponent will be a very good England team. France qualified over Bosnia and Romania with 6 wins losing only to Belarius. French made it in with 1 point defeating Bosnia but, their hard work paid off giving them the right to play England. France has a solid scoring attack being led by striker Nasir Nasri , Ribery and Karim Benzema . Goal keeper Lloris is very sound as well. France’s weakness is their back where Mexes plays . He is prone to make key errors. I don’t see very many clean sheets coming from France but with the type of attack they posses they should do well.

England

The pressure builds for England as they are expected to win this group. Coach Capello was able to qualify by winning 5 out of 8 games losing none. Team manager Roy Hodgeson won a couple of friendlies against Norway and Belgium . Hodgeson is known for using a 4-4-2 type set up with solid backs. The only problem is England has key injuries and striker Wayne Rooney is going to be suspended for this game and against Sweden.

Predictions: France wins 2-1

Face it with the injuries and suspensions England is short of key players. Hodgeson has to improvise for the lack of players and I think with France’s attack it will be hard for the Brit’s to overcome this match. England has to play like they have nothing to lose and they have to play their normal slow down tempo and hope for at least a draw.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-england-vs-france.html
 
Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Ukraine vs Sweden

Group Elimination D: Saturday, 11 June 2012 - Kiev - Olympic Stadium

Sweden is considered to be the underdog not only in this match but in their group. Don’t under estimate the Swedes as they try to get off to a strong start in the tournament with a win over Ukraine this Monday. They have some difficult match ups coming up against France and England . Sweden can’t take Ukraine lightly and not overlook their match on Monday’s . Ukraine playing host who will look to be fired up to play in front of their home fans. Sweden is currently No. 17 in the latest FIFA rankings will look to make some noise in Group D.

Super striker Zlatan Ibrahimović will lead the attack and look to punish in Ukraine with his aggressive style and he’ll be joined up front by mid fielder Johan Elmander and will look to receive the fruits from the midfielder duo of Anders Svensson and Kim Kallstrom.

Sure home crowd can give you the support and make you the favorite but , in this case it’s won’t be the case to necessarily win Group D. On paper they’ll have trouble stacking up against the three opponents in their group, but to have any chance of advancing they need to win this opener against Sweden. The strategy will be to defend deep and look to create chances on the counterattack.

Midfielder Anatoliy Tymoshchuk and striker Andriy Shevchenko will look to set up that timely goal. Injuries to keeper Oleksandr Shovkovskiy and defender Dmytro Chygrynskiy won’t help matters at all.

Predictions: Sweden 2-1 over Ukraine

I’m not sold on the whole home field thing. With the attack that Sweden posseses I see Ibrahimovic being that thorn in the side of Ukraine. I think the pressure get’s to the home team. Sweden walks away with this one.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-ukraine-vs-sweden.html
 
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Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Greece vs Czech Republic

Group Elimination A: Tuesday, 12 June 2012 - Wroclaw - Municipal Stadium

History tells us in this match up, this match is unlikely to arouse us with high scoring. In the last 3 encounters between Greece and the Czech Republic, there has only been one goal that has been scored( YES!! Just 1). It was back in the 2004 finals when Greek defender Traianos Dellas scored in extra time, to deliver a silver goal that ended the match, to give to give Greece a 1-0 victory in Porto and a place in the final.

Even though Greece has never gave up a goal against the Czechs, the Czech’s own them. Their record against their predecessors Czechoslovakia, defeated them in all five head to head match ups.

Greece's 1-1 draw against Poland in the opening match of the tournament was their first point in the Eurofinals since their surprise win in 2004. In 2008, they lost all three group games.

In 2004 Greece played out of their minds to pull off an amazing upset beat then hosts Portugal in the opening match of the tournament and repeated the feat in a final no one had expected. The odds on them playing Poland again in the Euro 2012 final look extremely slim.

The Czech Republic's 4-1 beat down by Russia in their opening game was their worst defeat in their history . Czech’s suffered only a three-goal margin defeat twice before - 3-0 to Switzerland in 1994, the second game they ever played after the break-up of Czechoslovakia, and 3-0 to Norway in a friendly last year.

The Czechs have now lost their last three games at European Championship finals. In 2008, they won their opening group game against hosts Switzerland but then lost 3-1 to Portugal and 3-2 to Turkey to exit before the knockout stage.

Predictions: Czech 1-0 over Greece

Czech’s bounce back and continue to own Greece. It’s a must needed win for the Czech’s in order to move on into the tournament.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-greece-vs-czech-republic.html
 
Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Poland vs Russia

Group Elimination A: Tuesday, 12 June 2012 - Warsaw - National Stadium

Poland will play host again and have their second meeting against Russia in Group A at Stadion National Stadium June 12,2012. Poland will be heavily supported by their wild fans who fill stadiums ambition to be able to win this second match.

Super stud striker Robert Ledwandoski will once again be heavily depended on to provide his scoring punch. It will be up to him to be able to win this match as the capital to fight Rep.Ceko in the last game. With the victory this victory in his own back yard can be a memorable one if Poland can pull this off.

As for Russia itself, although on paper they will not be carried away underdog. With the defeat Poland will break down the motivation of the players. Russia is completely stacked with star players such as striker and no doubt Russia’s most valuable player Roman Pavlyuchenko, Andrey Arshavin and Alan Dzagoev and some young players.

But don’t jump on Russia’s band wagon so soon, They are at a disadvantage due to the home crowd of Poland and with support from thousands of supporters who would have packed the stadium. Russia coach Dick Advocaat believes that they can definitely beat Poland. Russians think they are the toughest opponents in Group A. Czech Republic met with the Polish on a test event in 2007, with the interminable 2-2.

Last Five Matches Polish:
June 2, 2012, Poland 4-0 Andorra
May 26, 2012, Poland 1-0 Slovakia
May 23, 2012, Latvia 1-0 Poland
March 1, 2012, Poland 0-0 Portugal
November 16, 2011, Poland 2-1 Hungary

Last Five Matches Russia:
June 2, 2012, Italy 0-3 Russia
May 30, 2012, Lithuania 0-0 Russia
May 25, 2012, Russia 1-1 Uruguay
March 1, 2012, Denmark 0-2 Russia

Predictions: Russia wins 2-1

Even though Poland has the home field advantage, everyone could see how Russia defeated Czech Republic in their last game with a score of 4-1. But like what we have said earlier, don't jump on Russia's band wagon so soon because of the home crowd of Poland.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-poland-vs-russia.html
 
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Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Denmark vs Portugal

Group Elimination B: Wednesday, 13 June 2012 - Lviv - New Lviv Stadium

The “Red and Whites” go up against the “Navigators” on June 12 in Lviv.

Denmark

The Danes played as a real team should play during their last match up against the Netherlands that resulted in an astonishing victory. Now, as they head into a match against Portugal this time, they are even more determined to not let the opportunity of qualification go down the drain. The team’s line-up of Anderson, Krohn-Dehil, and Zimling just to name a few surprised everyone during performance against the Dutch who had a formidable team and will start with the same formation against Portugal on the 13th with the impressive Andersen who kept a clean sheet against the Dutch attack.

Denmark would be playing with the same style against Portugal as they did in the previous game with the Netherlands but the Portuguese have two key players, Ronaldo and Nani with their individual brilliance. What worked in the previous match might not work this time against the mighty Portuguese line-up.

Portugal

It’s a must win for the “Navigators” especially after losing to world no. 3, Germany. But they still have a fighting chance considering their line up consisting of heavies, Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani, Rui Patricio, Joao Pereira, and Pepe. Plus these boys play in an attack formation of 4-3-3 which might be effective against the Danes.

Portugal already loss their opener to Germany so they need this win in order to move on to the next qualification. The Portuguese team lost to the Danes three years and for some reason they always seem to underrate Denmark which is very contradicting. Plus, Denmark’s victory over the Dutch, a team considered to be a favourite when in comparison just goes to show that the opponent is a strong one.

Predictions: Denmark 1-0

Based on the previous match ups with each other and the previous victory on Denmark against the Netherlands, a team that was considered a favourite second to Germany of the group, the match will most likely be in favour for the Danes. One can argue this point since many believe that Portugal’s formation will be effective against Denmark’s. We will have to wait and see.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-denmark-vs-portugal.html
 
Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Germany vs Netherlands

Group Elimination B: Wednesday, 13 June 2012 - Kharkiv - Metalist Stadium

The Dutch matched up with Denmark in the opening rounds in what was supposed to be a walk in the park for Netherlands in the group. the Dutch had 28 shots in the game in comparison to Denmark's 8 but they still lost the game 1-0 such is the beauty of football. With an attacking quartet of Sneijder, Robben, Van Persie and Affelay the dutch just didnt get it right and wasted way too many chances. The team probably had too many defensive options in midfield with both Van Bommel and De Jong, surely against a weaker side they would have been better served with the attacking options of Van Der Vaart. Bert Van Warwijk will be under intense pressure as they dutch face into what is more or less a knockout game, the dutch must try to get a win here or they will be going home early. I fancied the dutch to win this tournament from the start for me they must put in a performance and get a result here.

Germany beat Portugal 1-0 in their opening game but the Germans were surprisingly sloppy and gifted the Portugese a couple of great chances at the end of the game. Mezut Ozil and Muller were instrumental in creating Mario Gomes goal but it was a brilliant finish by the Bayern Munich striker who up until that point had looked wasteful and uncapable of producing a finish on the big occasion. Joachim Lowe will be looking for more from Podolski on the left and Gomes up front and will also have concerns about how Portugal got at the back four of Germany in the last fifteen minutes.

Predictions: Netherlands 1-0 over Germany

Honestly, I think this game will be a defensive war. It will be tactical and could verge on vicious, neither side like each other and there is history between the nations going back years. For me I think this game is a coinflip, both have the talent to beat the other but there are enough defensive fraities on both sides to make this an intriguing game. I'm picking the Dutch to get a much needed win because they have to win. This side is as talented as they come and they know they must win or they will more than likely be going home.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-germany-vs-netherlands.html
 
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Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Spain vs Ireland

Group Elimination C: Thursday, 14 June 2012 - Gdansk - PGE Arena

The “Red Fury” meets the “Boys in Green” on June 14 at the PGE Arena in Gdansk

Spain

After the 1-1 draw with Italy last Sunday, reigning champions Spain needs a knockout. Nevertheless, Spain is the overwhelming favourite. Both Euro 2008 and 2010 World Cup champions, the “Red Fury” has proven to be an adversary that’s not to be dealt lightly with. Plus, with a group of hardened veterans, it’s hard to beat a team with experience on their shoulders.

But there is a downside to the fact that their players have played more matches than any other players or teams in the world, the risk of fatigue is a problem and age is another which already sapped the Spaniards of some of their best players.

Ireland

There’s really not much to say about the “Boys in Green” except for the fact that coach Giovanni Trapattoni has a huge task at hand to revive the team after being annihilated early on by the Croatians. But the Irish has proven to be a team full of resilience in the past and who is to say that these boys don’t stand a chance.

The Irish defence needs a lot of improvement. The attack lacks force as well with Kevin Doyle and Aiden McGeady being close to invisible during their crushing game with the Croatians. Trapattoni needs to revitalise the nearly crushed Irish squad as soon as possible as their biggest Euro 2012 challenge is near.

Prediction: Spain wins 3-0

Spaniards are likely to have a better day considering their desperation to turn around their fortunes and successfully defend their crown. Ireland’s trouble defence and weak attack has already been exploited so the “Red Fury” is sure to have a better day in Gdansk on June 12.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-spain-vs-ireland.html
 
Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Italy vs Croatia

Group Elimination C: Thursday, 14 June 2012 - Poznan - City Stadium

Group C continues with the “Blues” taking on the “Blazers” on June 14 at the Poznan City Stadium

Italy

Stepping out of a 1-1 draw against Spain during their Group C opener has proven one important fact, it’s a must win for Italy. Sure, not losing to the world’s best team is a feat all by itself but Italy needs is a victory this time around or they can end up getting booted out of the tournament. Coach CesarePrandelli has stated that their game against Croatia is crucial. Midfielder Daniele de Rossi with his well-known “sweeper” role can prove effective with the help of a powerful line-up of Andrea Pirlo, Antonio di Natale and others can take their team to victory.

Croatia has proven many critics wrong and their victory over Ireland has shown that they are a formidable team. The same style of play they used against the Spaniards should not be used against Croatia for they need to attack and take control of the game. This is not their nature as proven in the past and it can lead to an upset with Croatia.

Croatia

Croatia just came out on top by beating Ireland 3-1 during their opener for Group C. Coach SlavenBilic’s boys scored with the first few minutes in both halves and dominated the Irish throughout the match. The Blazers have a strong weapon in the form of three midfielders: Luka Modric, Ivan Perisic and Ivan Rakitic. Their combinations were very impressive and their relentless attack proved to be the driver.

Croatia, however, does have a weak spot and it’s their defense which the Italians can exploit. Although being on the offensive is not the Italians’ strongpoint, a change in formation and play can destroy the Croatians.

Prediction: Italy wins 1-0

The Italians have a solid team and their defensive line is near perfect. The Croats can put the game to their favour if they were to score early but once again the Italians have a powerful barrier. Plus exposing the Croatians’ defensive weakness can prove fatal.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-italy-vs-croatia.html
 
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