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EURO 2012 Match Previews and predictions

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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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Group Elimination D: Friday, 15 June 2012 - Kiev - Olympic Stadium

The Swedes meets the Three Lions on June 15 at the Olympic Stadium in Kiev.

England

FIFA world ranked number 6, England looks to win this time after struggling against France on June 11. A victory is needed or else it will be an uphill battle for the Three Lions. A win will put them in a more position. England exhibited an excellent defensive play against France and discipline was present thanks to Roy Hodgson.

What England showed with their defence, they failed to do the same with their offensive side during the game against France. Plus, the absence of Wayne Rooney due to a suspension does not help the English either. James Milner also needs to step it up against the desperate Swedes for every small effort from each player will go a long way for a team that had issues with losing players in the recent past.

Sweden

Sweden was given a devastating blow to their climb up the qualification ladder after an upset of a 2-1 victory by Ukraine on June 11. Theres still hope for the team and it comes in the form of players ZlatanIbrhimovic, Christian Wilhelmsson, and striker Johan Elmander. Another factor to consider is the presence of club scouts from the U.K., plenty of them, so one can expect the Swedes to really put in much effort to impress the possible suitors.

The Swedes come in at number 17 in the world FIFA ranking. A pretty gap from England at who are at number 6. Also, their loss to Euro first timers Ukraine showed a lot. Sweden really needs to win this upcoming match and anything other than a victory can be considered game over for Sweden.

Predictions: England wins 1-0

All the English need to do is cast away their skirts and start attacking. If this is accomplished, it will be the end for the Swedes. Defence is already a strong point as long as they play with the same formation. According to fans of TheOnlineSportsWorld, Sweden is a no go.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-sweden-vs-england.html
 
Group Elimination D: Friday, 15 June 2012 - Donetsk - Donbass Arena

On June 15 “Les Bleus” meet with the “Yellow-Blues” in their Home Turf at the Donbass Arena in Donetsk.

Ukraine

After defeating Sweden on June 11 by overturning a one goal deficit, the Ukrainian team will be going up against the French on home turf. Playing at home is a big advantage for a sports team regardless of how diverse the spectators can be. This is one strongpoint that the Ukrainians hold. Team captain Andriy Shevchenko seems ready for another battle after a fantastic victory against Sweden where he scored the two goals sealing a 2-1 win.

Although according to fans within the site, Ukraine looks to be the favourite, France is still FIFA World no.14 against Ukraine at a mere no.52 and elsewhere is considered the favourite regardless of a less than explosive performance against England during the Group D opener. Plus the track record says a lot as well.

France

The French remain unbeaten in 21 matches during the climb up to the European championships up to the game against England which ended in a draw. Not bad despite the lacklustre performance over the English team whoare considered already washed up. Equipped with the dangerous and brilliant Franck Ribery and Samir Nasri on the wings the “Bleus” look to deploy 4-5-1 formation once again.

France however needs an upgrade in their gameplay. Although their attack is impeccable, the Ukrainians proved many people wrong with their performance against Sweden. The days of Zidane are long gone so a step up is in place.

Predictions: France wins 1-0

Let’s take a look at the numbers: France, world ranked number 14; Ukraine, world ranked number 52. The French also have a straight 21 wins up to the Euros. There’s really no argument in this but upsets can happen so we’ll just have to see on the 15th.

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

Group Elimination A: Saturday, 16 June 2012 - Warsaw - National Stadium

Its the Ruskies and the Greeks time to face off on June 16 at the Warsaw National Stadium.

Russia

Overwhelming favourites by a long shot, Russia is currently on a 12 game unbeaten streak including a 1-1 draw against Poland. They annihilated the Czech Republic during their opener with a 4-1 victory. Russia has a much better squad than all three teams within Group A and the line-up includes well-known defenders Yuri Zhirkov and AlekseiBerezutski.

Much criticism goes largely to Russias manager, former Dutch player Dick Advocaat who has put far too much time in developing the teams defensive side instead of cultivating the strong goal-scoring line-up. The choice of formation and positioning will have a huge effect on the Russians performance as the tournament progresses. So far, not bad but a 1-1 draw with Poland proved that the team missed out on several opportunities that could have led to a swift victory.

Greece

A 1-1 draw with Poland and a 1-2 lost to the Czechs has put the Greeks in a very tight spot. Now on the 16th of June they will be facing the strongest team in Group A, the Russians. Best remembered for their outstanding performance during Euro 2004, Greece has been a fixture in recent major tournaments since then but with varying degrees of success. The Greeks did well in the qualifying stages of Euro 2012 finishing at the top of the Group F ladder above the likes of Croatia, Isreal, Latvia, Malta, and Georgia winning 7 games and have 3 draws.

However, a low tally of goals has put Greece in the category of being a mainly defensive unit. Russia has a stronger attack than the Greeks and this can put the team in a hard situation. Its up to keyplayersGiorgiosKaragounis, the team captain have 116 caps to his name and Theofanis Gekas to put their experience and brilliance to work.

Predictions: Russia wins 1-0

In terms of individual qualities, Russia ranks much higher. They also excellent keepers, so does Greece, but they are one up on the attacking aspect. Greece has shown their best and their worst since the start of the qualifiers up to the Group stage, but sorry to say, the worst side is happening during the recent matches and Russia is by far, the superior team. But since Greece has an above average defence, lets give the Russians only that much.

http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-greece-vs-russia.html
 
Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Czech Republic vs Poland

Group Elimination A: Saturday, 16 June 2012 - Wroclaw - Municipal Stadium

The Czechs square off against the Poles on June 16 at the Wroclaw Municipal Stadium for Group A

Czech Republic

Coming off a 2-1 victory over Greece, the Czechs are back in the fight, this time against the Euro 2012 co-host Poland. Looking to regain their reputation as one of Europe’s more formidable squads after a series of disappointments like missing out on the 2010 World Cup and falling off Euro 2008 during the Group Stage. The Czechs did fair during the qualification stage finishing second in Group I after defending champions Spain. Fortunately, they have been placed in Group A alongside Greece, Russia, and Poland. With key players such as keeper PetrCech, the team’s most experienced player, plus striker Milan Baros with a staggering 40 goals, the Czechs can take themselves further up the ladder.

The Czechs are not a favourite within Group A and are not expected to make it far in the tournament. This is mainly due to the retirement of former stalwarts, PavelNedved and Jan Koller. The absence of captain Rosicky due to an injury may be detrimental to the team as well. Manager Michal Bilek has struggled to gain support of the fans having a large number calling for his ouster but that part should not affect the team’s performance.

Poland

The Poles qualified for the Euros by virtue of being co-host and this is only their second time participating in such tournament. Their previous appearance came four years ago when they finished at the basement of their group. Underdog is such an understatement for this team with limited exposure. However, their performance during the friendlies have earned draws against teams within the calibre of Portugal or Germany. If key players Robert Lewandowski and JakubBlaszczykowski would combine their individual brilliance, the Poles have a shot of cruising pass the Czechs.

However, with three injuries worries concerning defender Damien Perquis, midfielder DariuszDudka and Eugen Polanski, the Polish force might have a problem.

Predictions: Poland wins 1-0

The verdict, surprising enough, still go to the Polish team. The momentum is more with the Polish side than the Czechs. The advantage of playing in home turf goes a long way. They played the better of two sides with Russia, the game ended in a draw.

http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-czech-republic-vs-poland.html
 
Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Denmark vs Germany

Group Elimination B: Sunday, 17 June 2012 - Lviv - New Lviv Stadium

The Danes and the Germans meet up on June 17 at the New Lviv Stadium for a final Group B match

Denmark

The Danes were looking to repeat their heroic exploits from 20 years ago but the agenda was put down by the Portuguese on the 13th. Despite their current state, the Danes stormed through the qualifications losing only to Portugal along the way. The previous match up against the Portuguese almost went to their favor with their defense keeping Ronaldo and the boys at bay. Christian Eriksen, the main focal point of the group alongside striker Nicklas Bendtner and team captain Daniel Agger, the team can pursue their intentions as long as they stay true to their formation of 4-2-3-1.

Despite the successful run through the qualifying stage and having a decent FIFA world ranking of 10, the Danes undoubtedly are the worst team within the Group B realm mainly due to the fact that they have strong opponents within the group. Another problem that they have to live with is that the vastly experience keeper Thomas Sorensen is out due to a back injury possibly compromise their defensive state.

Germany

With a perfect record by winning all 12 matches and achieving close to 40 goals en route, the Germans look untouchable at this point and will surely give the Danes a run for their money on the upcoming match this June 17. They did fairly well against Group B heavyweights the Netherlands and Portugal early on in the group stage. Mario Gomez is a formidable player and looks to drive the Germans all the way.

But defense has always been a weak point for the Germans for having let in too many goals on occasion. The Danes need to learn how to exploit this weakness then they can well overtake the German supremacy and achieve an upset.

Predictions: Germany wins 2-0

The records show a lot about the two teams and Germany’s current state is still more favorable as compared to that of the Danes. If they upgrade on their defense, which is most likely to happen, the Danish team does not stand a chance against the German offensive.

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

Group Elimination B: Sunday, 17 June 2012 - Kharkiv - Metalist Stadium

The Dutch face the Portuguese in their last group matchon June 17 at the Kharkiv Metalist Stadium

Portugal

The Portuguese get back on the Euro track after a 3-2 win against the Danes on the 13th of June. Even though a loss can take them through, the Portuguese team would have to beat the Dutch in the upcoming match-up by a large goal difference. Main striker HelderPostiga is expected to deliver such a win with wingers Nani and team Captain Cristiano Ronaldo beside him. Silvestre Varela, now a key player can add to that effect withNani, RuiPatricio, Joao Pereira, and Pepe.

Team captain Ronaldo however needs to get his head back in the right way of thinking after being the one responsible for almost blowing away the victory against Denmark. He needs to come back and defend on the wing, if he falls short in the next game, it can lead to a loss against the Netherlands.

Netherlands

The Dutch had been one of the favourites from the start coming into the tournament in fine form but unfortunately they failed to capitalise on this factor. Having two losses on their belt against Germany with a score of 1-2 and Denmark at 0-1, the Dutch are just about ready for an exit out of the tournament. Unless manager Bart Van Marwijk make some changes to the line-up and strengthen the teams defense, they dont have a chance against the strong Portuguese attack. Ron Vlaar should probably return to the line-up since Mathijsen failed to deliver the last time out. Van Persie should regain his form and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar shows a lot of potential but has not been given the time of day to shine.

Predictions: Draw 1-1

Based on prior performances and factors concerning both sides, the fight is equal. The Netherlands have two losses against them and the Portuguese showing a weakening attack and defense. It is hard to point which side is better as of now. One thing is for certain however, both teams, especially the Dutch, need a win.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-portugal-vs-netherlands.html
 
Denmark - Germany
Germany and Denmark are against each other tonight in this Euro 2012 match. This is the third and the last match that would be played in the group B and Germany is already very close to the qualification while Denmark need a miracle to make a step forward in this competition.

Denmark is actually in the 2nd position with 3 points from 2 matches that they had done in this season. It seems like Denmark now will hope to beat Germany despite that they can reach even qualification with a draw in case that Netherlands would be able to beat Portugal in the other match of the group.

In the other side Germany stands in the 1st position of the group very calm with 6 points from 2 matches and now would be able to qualify in the next round even with a draw in this match but Germany is a team that never gets satisfied with a draw but always tries for more.

In this situation i see Germany making things right in this match and in my opinion would be able to beat Denmark quite easy and clear so ill take Germany with handicap.
 
Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Croatia vs Spain

Group Elimination C: Monday, 18 June 2012 - Gdansk - PGE Arena

Spain the defending champions take on Croatia in Gdansk in a pivotal Group C game.

Both sides are two points clear of Italy, who face the Republic of Ireland in the other pool game.

The Irish have already been eliminated after two defeats.

"I think it is going to be a beautiful game for the fans and for the players," the Barcelona midfielder said.

"They will have to go all out and so will we.

"We depend on ourselves to qualify and we will try to win and be first of our group.

"However, Croatia are very good, they have a fantastic team, with great individual talent.

"I don't expect an easy game."

There are fears amongst Italian fans that the encounter could end in a 2-2 draw, a result that would see Croatia join Spain in the next round at the expense of the Azzurri.

"Absolutely not," Xavi said.

"We only know how to play attacking football so a draw would not suit us.

"We will go out determined to hold possession, to move the ball and to go forward.

"This is our style of game and the one that made us European and world champions.

"Our aim is always to go out for victory and against Croatia it will be no exception.

"We will play to get three points from the first minute until the last."

Spain, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Italy in their group opener, already displayed that attacking flair in a 4-0 triumph over Ireland on Thursday.

"We have the same hunger that we had in Euro 2008 and at the 2010 World Cup," Xavi said.

"We are among the favourites and we have the possibility to make history and win another Euro title.

"But we know that only through hard work and humility that will be possible."

Fernando Torres is set to lead Spain's attack for the second consecutive game with the Chelsea striker having scored twice against Ireland.

Rivals Croatia face Spain for the first time in a major competition and coach Slaven Bilic knows his side will have to step up their game.

The Croats beat Ireland before holding Italy to a 1-1 draw on Thursday.

"We will need to play the best game of our lives," said Bilic, whose side hope to reach the quarter-finals of the competition for the second straight time.

"We must be concentrated for 90 minutes.

"We have to work as a team and we are going to have to take our chances."

Tottenham playmaker Luka Modric will play in support of striker Mario Mandzukic, who is the joint-top scorer of the competition with three goals.

Spain will be at full strength with midfielder Sergio Busquets having recovered from a minor foot injury.

Predictions: Spain 3-0 Croatia

Still needing a win to guarantee their own progress, Spain the defending champions will be at their exquisite best, and Croatia will be praying for a miracle from Ireland to progress.

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

Group Elimination C: Monday, 18 June 2012 - Poznan - Municipal Stadium

Italian media is obsessed with fears Spain and Croatia will play out a 2-2 draw in the other Group C game and knock out the Azzurri even if they beat the Irish in Poznan. Such is 73-year-old Trapattoni's standing in the game, though, that no one is questioning his loyalties. Ireland have been eliminated after two heavy Group C defeats and Monday's swansong in the final group match could be the last major tournament appearance for the likes of 31-year-old Robbie Keane who will not want to bow out with a whimper.

Trapattoni, who managed Italy at Euro 2004 when they suspected a never-proved fix when Denmark and Sweden drew 2-2 to eliminate them, will make sure his troops are motivated despite only having pride to play for.

"It would not be fair to the other countries in the group if I did not select my best team," said Trapattoni. "With this team, and these players, I am proud." Italy coach Cesare Prandelli is sure Ireland and Spain will be totally professional. "I know we have to believe right until the end. I don't believe in any suspect goings on," Prandelli said. "It all depends on us, we need to deserve the win, it won't be easy."

A victory would be enough for Italy to reach the quarter-finals in second place if Spain or Croatia win the other match. However, an Italy win and a draw in the Spain game makes the situation complicated because all three teams would then be level on five points and head-to-head results come into play. A 'mini-league' between the three would be the deciding factor, with Italy having drawn 1-1 with both.

A 0-0 draw between Spain and Croatia means Italy would go through with a win while a 1-1 draw would bring group goal difference into play. A scoring draw of 2-2 or higher between Spain and Croatia, though, and Italy are out whatever they do against the Irish. Prandelli is set to make changes with forward Mario Balotelli possibly being replaced by Antonio Di Natale and Alessandro Diamanti in the running for a spot in midfield or as a second striker after impressive form in training. Defender Andrea Barzagli is almost fit after a calf problem.

The Italy coach was annoyed that the players sat on their 1-0 halftime lead over Croatia last time out only for Mario Mandzukic to equalise. "It's not a matter of fitness, it's more a mental thing," Prandelli said. "This is the mentality we have to change. We are a good team, we've got to believe it a bit more."

Prediction Italy 2-0 over Ireland

Ireland winger Damien Duff may wear the captain's armband to mark his 100th cap for his country while normal skipper Keane said the squad were determined to put on a show. "The mindset is we are not going home without any points," Keane told reporters.

Original Source http://www.theonlinesportsworld.com/euro-2012-predictions-and-preview-italy-vs-ireland.html
 
Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Sweden vs France

Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Sweden vs France

Euro 2012 Predictions and Preview: Sweden vs France

France

France demonstrated their prowess during the qualification stages with on Greece being able to penetrate their barrier. The France have one of the finest defensive lines in the UEFA today and amongst their Euro 2012 counterparts. France is far from the power they used to have ten or even six years back when they were able to reach the World Cup finals but even today, they remain a fairly strong team.

One problem however, is the French attack, although defense is strong as ever, their offensive is one of the weakest and the team is considered one of the lowest goal scorers playing in Euro 2012. “les bleus” are place at the second highest within their group at a rank of 16 behind England, the highest. But Sweden on the other hand, is only one rank below France at 17.

Sweden

The Swedes already lost two Group D matches, one against England at 2-3 and against Ukraine at 2-1. The Swedes have solid defense with experienced players like Martin Olsson, Olaf Melber, and Andreas Issakson but there seems to be a lack in team work and this allowed the English to score a 3-2 win against them. Their attacking formation was decent and they quickly took the game early on against England but their drive eventually subsided.

Predictions: France wins 2-1

Both teams have an excellent defensive line-up but Sweden’s strong opposition might not be enough for France’s much superior defensive barrier. All France need to do is figure out a way to exploit the Swede’s weaknesses. The French, by far has done better than the Swedes beginning in the qualification stages up to the group matches where Sweden yet to make a win.

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

Group Elimination D: Tuesday, 19 June 2012 - Donetsk - Donbass Arena

The English and the Ukrainians go at it on the 19th in Donetsk for the finale

England

After winning the game against the Swedes 2-1, the “Three-Lions” are back for a finale and this time against the Ukraine team. The previous game against Sweden was a rollercoaster ride with Sweden being allowed to take a 2-1 lead at first but salvation came in the form of Theo Walcott and the English was able to exploit Sweden’s defensive weakness. Another plus on the English side for this coming match-up is the return of Wayne Rooney, England’s answer to Ronaldo or something of the like.

Roy Hodgson is face with a dilemma however and it involves Rooney’s return and Andy Caroll’s cull due to the return. Carroll showed excellent performance during the two previous games during Rooney’s absence and removing him will surely be detrimental for the English side. Defense is another potential issue, John Terry seemed winded and beaten up by Ibrahomovic’s barrage of attacks.

Ukraine

After a thrilling victory against Sweden and an agonizing defeat against France, Ukraine is at it final game of make or break, this time against England. Andriy Schevchenko has the burden of driving his team to victory, the burden being the team’s weak defense and faltering attack formation.

Changes on formation need to be made for the Euro 2012 Co-hosts the attack line must elarn to work together and act quickly for the English offensive is strong and persistent.

Predictions: England 2-1

England is surely the favorites on this math-up and the return of Rooney will become a huge gap filler within the team. As long as they retain Carroll, England will become a force to be reckon with.

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