Controversies Dominating Euro 2012

Wednesday sees the start of the semi-final stage of Euro 2012, where it is hoped, no more so than at Uefa towers, that on the field activities will start to be the major headline makers.

One of the biggest fears heading into this year's tournament was that racism would hit the headlines, an issue that has been simmering and has occasionally bubbled over since the opener between Poland and Greece.  However, Europe's football governing body has had to issue a number of fines thus far and has come under quite some flack for some of the amounts contained.

Fined

Perhaps the most trivial fine dished out so far was the £80,000 Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner was issued for flashing his 'lucky underpants.'  This of course related to the stunt after his second goal during Denmark's 3-2 group victory over Portugal.  With the words Paddy Power clearly visible on those lucky pants, it was the Irish bookmaker who paid the fine.

The mockery of this, is the near £65,000 Croatia were fined for "the setting-off and throwing of fireworks and the improper conduct of supporters (racist chants, racist symbols)."

Many were quick to add their voice to this issue. Is flashing your pants worse than racism?  Clearly the answer is no, and the way in which Uefa seem to be trying to brush these incidents under the carpet is little short of shocking.  The issue was again brought up yesterday, with news the Croats could be facing more action.  Setting off fireworks and the improper conduct of supporters, the displaying of racist banners and symbols, is the reason behind the latest proceedings.  If found guilty, the action taken against them should be hefty.

Another incident involved Russia and Poland supporters, where it is believed that police had to use water cannons and rubber bullets to help bring back a level of peace.  A statement by the police read:

"More than 183 hooligans were caught by the police because of disorders in Warsaw – firstly during the march to National Stadion, secondly in the Fanzone in Plac Defilad Square. Among the kept persons there are fans of both teams – Russian and Polish.

"There are 10 persons who are injured: 7 Polish, 2 Russians and 1 German – their lives are not in danger concerning the information from the medical services."

The latest involves England, who found themselves on the receiving end following the game with Sweden in the group stage.  A fine of just over £4,000 was issued due to the inappropriate behaviour of fans, who attempted a pitch invasion following the victory.

Take-Over

With many of those countries now eliminated, especially those concerning the more serious incidents, maybe we can now see the football take over the headlines.  The tournament has not exactly been mind blowing and full of tremendous football and standout matches.

Hopefully, as we enter the business end of Euro 2012, the hunger will set in amongst the players and coaches, and some superb performances will be exhibited.

Group B

Denmark

The Danes performed admirably in qualification for this years tournament, overhauling Portugal to qualify automatically. A 3-1 away defeat early on was avenged by a 2-1 home victory, demoting Cristiano Ronaldo and co into second place. In the group of death though, can Denmark do the same to keep up hopes of a Quarter Final berth.

When teams head into the European Championships with a team not expected to perform too admirably, there is always one team and one tournament pointed out. Denmark 1992. A side who shouldn't have even been at the tournament and dragged their players off the beaches, going on to triumph against all odds. Since that occasion they have only managed to get out of the group stage once, and even failed to qualify last time around.

One significant advantage they could have, however, is with their coach Morten Olsen. With 12 years experience with the national team, he no doubt knows he players and their system inside out. | 2-0 victory over Australia in their final warm up game will breathe fresh confidence throughout the squad.

Key Man

Man people will point to young Ajax maestro Christian Eriksen, who at 20-year-old has become an integral part of both his club and national sides while attracting interest from the likes of Manchester United. Sports Portal though have gone a different avenue when, and have selected Nicklas Bendtner as Denmark's key man.

The young Arsenal striker has spent the season on loan at Sunderland, performing admirably if not spectacularly. However the 24-year-old has spoken of his desire to leave the Emirates this summer, so could use these championships to fully put himself right in the front of the shop window. A few decent performances and goals and clubs could be lining up to take him off Arsene Wenger's hands.

One To Watch

A once promising centre back with the world at his feet, Simon Kjaer has had something of an unhappy spell over the last few years. After leaving FC Midtjylland in 2008 at just 19, he went to Palermo before an unhappy spell at Wolfsburg in 2010/11, this saw a return to Italy but this time with Roma where his career has begun to get back on track.

An ever present in qualifying, alongside the main man at the back Daniel Agger, he could be key in unlikely progression from a very tough group indeed.

Germany

The well oiled machine just starts getting stronger and more efficient, highlighted by the dominant way in which they steamrollered their way to the finals. Ten wins out of Ten with 34 scored and just 7 conceded tells it's own story. The three time champs will be more than confident of adding to that haul this time around.

Joachim Loew has a plethora of talent from which to choose from, particularly in those attacking positions. Germany usually like to set themselves up with one striker and three behind in support, but in this case they can easily switch positions at any time they choose. Making them a very tricky proposition indeed.

Key Man

Despite Miroslav Klose top scoring in qualifying, he has been hampered by injuries of late and may not be at 100% even if he does make it to play a part. For that reason Mario Gomez will be the man to the lead line; putting the past behind him and continuing his recent good form.

It has simply been a season of goals, goals, goals for the Bayern Munich hit man, whilst on the national front he also contributed his fair amount despite largely playing second fiddle. With the like of Mesut Ozil et al supplying the ammunition, it could be a worrying time for any side that steps in their way.

One to Watch

Another Borussia Dortmund wonder kid is to now to make another appearance, but this time he will by no means be a regular starter. Mario Gotze has attracted interest in all corners of Europe. Due to creative skills that more often than not leave the opposition perplexed.

He is a two time Bundesliga Champion at club level, but in the international side he will have to bide his time and take his opportunity when it comes. He will no doubt be given game time this summer, it is just up to him to step up and stake a claim for a regular starters spot.

Netherlands

Another side who often promise so much, but fall short at the final hurdle. That happened to Bert Van Marwijk's troops two years ago at the South Africa World Cup, where after defeating Brazil and Uruguay they found themselves undone by Spain in the final. With a performance that is unlikely to be recreated this summer.

A near flawless qualifying campaign saw nine victories and just one defeat, which came in the final game away against Sweden. Their talent is there for all to see, but Van Marwijk faces a healthy dilemma in those attacking positions. Which on fire striker do you choose? Klaas Jan Huntelaar or Robin Van Persie?

Key Man

From Sports Portal's choice here it is clear to see how we would answer the above dilemma, with our key man in the Dutch team being Van Persie. The phenomenal Arsenal striker has finally shown his true potential of late, with injures not plaguing his season.

Together with Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben who will be attacking from further back, defences will have to on red alert when dealing with the danger. The Netherlands will be keen to get back to 'total football' after their negative showing on a world stage v Spain two years ago.

One To Watch

Kevin Strootman has established himself as one the most consistent performer in the Eredivisie with PSV Eindhoven; making himself an international regular in the process. His main attribute in his passing ability, which could be crucial when feeding Robben and the like this summer.

Manchester United are just one of a number of clubs mooted to be interested in securing the services of the 22-year-old, who has said no decision will be made until after this summers tournament.

Portugal

Qualification started dismally for Portugal, with a 4-4 home draw with Cyprus quickly followed up by an away day defeat in Norway. Despite rattling of five consecutive victories, defeat in Denmark in the final group game relegated them to the play offs. Up stepped Bosnia who were full of confidence heading to Lisbon after securing a 0-0 draw on home soil, but any hopes were soon extinguished as the hosts romped to a 6-2 victory.

Final preparations haven't exactly gone to plan though, with a 3-1 defeat in their final warm up game against Turkey denting confidence. Heading into the group of death, and Germany first up, coach Paulo Bento will have to work to do to rouse his side and instil some belief.

Key Man

Cristiano Ronaldo is the obvious choice here, and coming off the back of a terrific season in which he secured a maiden La Liga title confidence will be at all time high. This coupled with his 112 goal haul in just 102 league games highlight just why he so crucial.

Officially the second best player in the world, behind his pesky Argentine arch nemesis Lionel Messi, Ronaldo is once again playing with a smile on his face at international level. Something that could spell disaster for his opponents.

One To Watch

Despite already being known worldwide, Sports Portal have opted for Manchester United winger Nani. A man who certainly isn't shy of confidence, stating last year he could win this years Ballon d'or and most recently saying along with international team mate Ronaldo they represent two of the best wingers in the world.

Along with this he has recently suggested it could be about time for him to leave the Premier League and seek a new challenge. This could result in heightened performances as he seeks to highlight to potential suitors just why they should invest in him.

Spotlight on - FC Copenhagen

Football Club København, or FC Copenhagen, have a very brief history but it hasn't been without it's controversies. From a manager that lasted one match to a much celebrated year of foundation, the near two decades that this club has been around have certainly not been quiet.  

Established: 1st July 1992
Home Stadium: Parken, 38, 065
Chairman: Hans Munk Nielsen
Manager: Roland Nilsson
Home Strip:  White shirt, white short, white socks
Away Strip:  Blue and Black shirt, Black shorts and Black socks with a Blue trim.

History

It is said to be "the greatest year in Danish Football History," the year this club came to fruition and the year Denmark suprised everybody by roaring to European Championship success.  It was of course 1992, and the reason I say the club "came to fruition" is because in actual fact FC Copenhagen dates back to 1876.  However back then they were known as Kjøbenhavns Boldklub (KB) and Boldklubben 1903 (B1903), making a unique situation which means that now the club's first team is a representation of two clubs.  With KB founded in 1876 this also makes them mainland Europe's oldest football club and first league winners,which they won 15 times, compared to their then rivals B1903s seven.

They slogged it out for many decades, with KB actually trying to run professional football before failing to garner enough financial support, before coming to this unique conclusion.  When Alex Friedmann, the wealthy backer of B1903 couldn't guarantee his support, a process was put in place to merge the two sides.

FC Copenhagen ply their trade at The Parken Stadium

KB were overtly keen to be playing professional football, while their rivals had players in place but no concrete stability heading into the future.  The rebuilding of the national stadium, Parken, also provided a top class arena to ply their trade.  FC Copenhagen was born, while the other two clubs are rooted in local communities around the Danish capital, seeking out talent for what is in essence a shared first team.

The club have gone on to be the focal point of Danish football since then, sticking to the principles and ambitions they set themselves nearly two decades ago:

• To be among the top 3 in the Danish Supliga and/or win the Danish cup and therefore qualify for one of the European competitions every year.
• To have a responsible economy
• To build up a local fan base and establish a wide corporate backing
• Play attractive positive football
• In the long term, to spearhead the Danish attack on European club honours.

 
Danish League titles have continued to roll in, maintaining one the principles they set up in the early 1990s.  It is though on the European front where they have begun to make an impression.  In the 2006/07 Champions League wins over Celtic and Manchester United at home instilled belief, whilst in 2010/11 FC Copenhagen became the first side from Denmark into the last sixteen.

Managers

Jesper Gronkjaer (left) and Stale Solbakken share a joke

Being a relatively new side with a limited history under this moniker, a huge influx of managers there hasn't been (although the 13 and two caretakers that have taken the hot seat is still a rather large number).  Benny Johansen was charged with leading the side in it's debut season, taking charge for two seasons and boasting an impressive win percentage of over 51.72 but winning only a solitary Superliga Championship.

Fans of The Lions had to sit through 8 more managers though, before another championship title arrived.  This was thanks to the only non Scandinavian to have taken up the reins a certain Roy Hodgson who delivered in his only season at the club.

It was here, in the early 2000s, that the domination started, firstly under Hans Backe and then Stale Solbakken.  The latter proving to be the most successful in the history of the club, delivering numerous amounts of silverware and a win percentage of 59.26.  Christian Andersen had the stormiest spell, managing a solitary game before being fired.

Players

Celebrating a goal against Panathinaikos last year

A wide array of fine footballing talent has taken to the Parken pitch adorned in the colours of FC Copenhagen.  Lars Jacobsen, Christian Poulsen, Jesper Gronkjaer and Brede Hangeland are just some of the names that will be familiar to fans of the English Premier League.

By far the biggest name to have plied his trade at the club is Brian Laudrup, who in 1999 managed 12 games and scored 2 goals.

However it would perhaps be Lars Hojer or Todi Jonsson that are remembered with most fondness.  Both managed 54 goals, a club record, doing it in 166 and 167 games respectively.

Trophies

Danish league
1993, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011

Danish Cup
1995, 1997, 2004, 2009

Coca-Cola Cup
1996
 
Super Cup
1995, 2001, 2004

Ørestad Cup
2000, 2002

King’s Cup
1994

Royal League
2005, 2006

Group E

Cameroon - World Ranking 19

Won their qualifying group, and will feel less pressure in this years tournament given that it is in Africa. With key injuries to the other African nations Cameroon could well have the best chance to be the best performing African nation in this years tournament.

Captain Samuel Eto'o will be the linchpin of the side, and much will hang on his shoulders if his side are to perform well and more importantly escape the group.

Strengths

Paul Le Guen has recovered from the Rangers shambles, and formed a side that has a great unity and belief about it. There are players throughout who have played or are playing at top European side so there credentials cannot be questioned. Eto'o has been on sparkling form for Inter Milan this term under Jose Mourinho, and if he can take this into the World Cup Cameroon stand a chance of at least making the knock-out phase.

Weaknesses

If the midfield men fail to shine, then Cameroon could come falter. Alex Song will have to be the creative force that feeds Eto'o, and if this doesn't happen goals could be hard to come by.

Also there defence could also fail, with an ageing Rigobert song and a player not good enough for the Championship, Geremi, main stays of that back line. This could be an area that will be there downfall, as opposition teams will have highlighted it as a major weakness.

Key Man - Samuel Eto'o

Cameroon's all time top scorer will have to live up to the hype and be firing on all cylinders should Cameroon enjoy any success. At times for both Barcelona and Inter Milan he has looked unstoppable, and it is that fear that opposition defences feel that he will/does thrive upon and exploit.

One to Watch - Jean Makoun

Lyon's combative holding midfielder is an integral part of this Cameroon side, he sits back stands his ground and cuts out attacks before feeding the attacking players. He will have to perform these duties to the best of his ability, as well his defence partner Stephane Mbia, if this side are to challenge.

Manager - Paul Le Guen

After winning three League titles at Lyon Paul Le Guen had an unsuccessful spell at Rangers, before being appointed a surprise short term appointment at Cameroon. However he has proved a success, and now has the chance to test himself on the world stage.

Odds - 100/1

Prediction - Will have their work cut out to get out of the group at Denmark's expense.

Denmark - World Ranking 35

After not qualifying for the last World Cup in Germany, Denmark will hope to equal their run to the second round in 2002. And they will be confident of doing so, they have reached the knock-out stage each time they have made it to the World Cup finals.

The impressive thing about Denmark is the sides they beat on their way to South Africa. Both Portugal and fierce rivals Sweden were swept aside, two thorns in England's side over the last few years.

Strengths

Denmark have a very experienced side throughout, as well as containing a good blend of ages too. On top of this they have the steely determination to pull off the unexpected. Results over both Portugal and Sweden in the qualifiers proved this, after trailing 2-0 to the former they scored three times in the last ten minutes and also left Sweden with a 1-0 victory.

Weaknesses

The simple lack of world class talent could be their undoing in this tournament, however you can never count out the Danes to do the unexpected. A repeat of their 1992 heroics is out of the question, but they could well cause an upset if written off.

Key Man - Christian Poulsen

Being one of only two players to have played in all ten of Denmark's qualifiers shows the importance of Christian Poulsen to this side. The combative Juventus midfielder breaks up play and can also set up attacks for his side too, he no holds barred approach makes him the steel of the Danes midfielder.

One to Watch - Soren Larsen

His form for club and country has been tremendous, and his form of 11 goals in 19 games for Denmark shows his ability. With the lime light bound to be on Jon Dahl Tomasson and Nicklas Bendtner, Larsen could well slip under the radar and surprise a few.

Manager - Morten Olsen

Patience has definitely been the key to Olson's approach, as he is now entering his tenth year at the helm of the Denmark national side. This will be his third major finals, and his experience could be key to his side escaping the group.

Odds - 125/1

Prediction - Despite having the Dutch first up, they should recover and will challenge Cameroon for second spot.

Japan - World Ranking 45

After being the first nation to qualify for South Africa, Japan's bold, brash and unpopular manager Takeshi Okada stated that his side will reach the semi-finals. However that seems way short of the mark and very unlikely.

Their best showing was in 2002 when they co-hosted the World Cup with South Korea, but other than that they have failed to win a World Cup match on non-Asian soil.

Strengths

Like all Asian teams, Japan's strength lies in their work ethic, passion and national pride. They will hassle and fight for every ball, not giving anyone an inch of space to stop or think. It is this that could see them finally win a World Cup match outside of Asia. #

Weaknesses

Goals are not a frequent event within the Japan side, but they managed to get three against England (although two were in the wrong net). In ten of their 14 qualifying games they managed just one goal, with the struggle for goals highlighted by the fact Okada has used 21 forwards during his time as coach.

Key Man - Shunsuke Nakamura

A player that can be deployed on either flank, it is his tremendous left foot that stands him out from the pack. His crossing ability cannot be questioned, while his guile from free kicks is equally as effective as Manchester United know only too well. After making his mark at Celtic where he won three league titles he left for Espanyol, but after an unsuccessful spell in La Liga he left for his homeland and to Yokohama Marinos.

One to Watch - Takayuki Morimoto

A different style of striker than what you'd expect from a Japanesse side, he offers a tall and physical threat to the attack. 'The Japanesse Ronaldo' is both the youngest player and youngest goal scorer in J-League history, and now resides in Italy where he plays for Catania.

Manager - Takeshi Okada

Okada is in his second spell as Japan manager, after taking the team to the World Cup in France in 1998. After leaving he had two management stints in the J-League where he was twice names best manager, before returning as national coach three years ago. The unpopular coach likes to make hopeful predictions, and saying that Japan will reach the semi-final seems like just that.

Odds - 250/1

Prediction - Not enough quality in the side and will fall at the first hurdle.

Holland - World Ranking 4

Similarly to England, Holland are one of the world's great underachievers. Some of the world best are contained within this Dutch squad, Arjen Robben was one of the Champions League's stellar performers similarly to Wesley Sneijder while Arsenal's seasons fell apart following Robin Van Persie's injury.

Their recent World Cup record doesn't make pretty reading, and this time out all who follow this side are trying to keep a lid on expectations. This is in contrast to Germany 2006, when after breezing through the group of death, they disappointingly fell in the second round.

Preparation and warm up games have been going very well so far, but the injury to Arjen Robben could ultimately cost them.

Strengths

A well drilled unit throughout the side, Holland boast some of the finest attacking talent that will be on show in South Africa. Robin Van Persie and Dirk Kuyt are often on target as strikers, while attacking midfielders Robben (should he make it), Sneijder and Rafael Van Der Vaart are equally adept as finding the net.

In addition they posses good strength in depth as well as having a good mix of youth and experience. This has to be one of the main features of a World Cup winning squad, this can only work in their favour.

Weaknesses

As always they could turn out to be their own worst enemy, another thing there bare in resemblance to England. Although they are trying to keep a lid on expectations this time round, a good start could see that go out of the window. And if that happens, a similar situation to 2006 could ensue.

Key Man - Wesley Sneijder

Sneijder has shown Europe in this seasons Champions League what he is capable of, and he could be a main player for his nation if he can take that form to the World Cup. He should certainly be full of confidence, after winning a treble with Inter Milan this season under the stewardship of Jose Mourinho. Possessing both the ability to pass and shoot in equal measure, Sneijder will no doubt be key to Hollands progression.

One to Watch - Eljero Elia

With the injury to Robben, Eljero Elia could see his appearance tally in South Africa rise as a result. Either a winger or striker, it is also this versatility that could see his stock rise. Several Premier League clubs have already been linked and it looks inevitable that he will end up on our shores, so this could be your first chance to see him in competitive action.

Manager - Bert Van Marwijk

In appointing Bert Van Marwijk Holland have the gone against the previous regimes of Marco Van Basten, Ronald Koeman. These were big names that have fallen on the home straight, Marwijk is the opposite of this. He is a manager with big club experience at Feyenoord and Borussia Dortmund, although he has never won the Eredivisie.

Odds - 12/1

Prediction - A quarter-final place should be the least that is expected, although they could struggle to get further than that.

Next Time

Tomorrow I will be previewing current World Champions Italy, Paraguay, New Zealand and Slovakia