Group C

Croatia

The Croats qualified for Euro 2012 the hard way after finishing behind Greece in their group and having to go through the play offs.  There they drew a potentially tricky tie with Turkey, but made light work of an away day that has got the better of some of the very best sides out there.  A convincing 3-0 win in Istanbul was enough to see Slaven Bilic's side though, with the second leg finishing a 0-0 draw.

Not the force they once were, Croatia still occupy one of the top 10 places in the Fifa rankings and have done since 2006.  The experienced players in the squad will carry a lot of the burden, but there is every chance they could make the Quarter Final.  Spain will top the group, but any of the other three could occupy second spot.

Key Man

People may disagree with this choice, but Sports Portal are going to plump for Darijo Srna as the key man for Croatia.  A one time right back Srna has always been widely renowned for his attacking intentions, something which has recently prompted Bilic to switch him further up the field.

The captain will have to be at his creative best to ensure his side have a chance of progression, his frequent goals could also come in handy.

One To Watch

A key, if not the key, man in the Croatia line up is Luka Modric.  He shot to prominence during the last European Championships, but luckily for them Tottenham Hotspur clinched his signature before the tournament even began.  After working so hard to keep him last summer, chairman Daniel Levy could face a similar battle this summer.  Especially if he tries to use the tournament to showcase his talent to potential suitors.

Italy

A nation once again plunged into chaos after a near perfect qualifying campaign.  Eight wins and two draws doesn't exactly tell the whole story though, the old football once associated with the nation is being shed.  Cesare Prandelli tries to have his players impose themselves on the opposition through an intricate passing style, although their defence was the best across the whole of qualifying.  Something that runs back to the Italy sides of old with only two goals conceded.

However, all their good work could now count for nothing.  Another match fixing scandal has reared it's ugly head with players dropping out to clear their names, and a dawn raid on their training camp all hampering Italian build up.  The thoughts they could be kicked out seem to have passed, but the 3-0 friendly defeat to Russia show how much this has affected them

Key Man

The Italian squad is littered with star names, but one man who continues to keep his side ticking over is Andrea Pirlo.  The enigmatic middle man left AC Milan last summer, but he has highlighted what the San Siro has been missing by leading Juventus to the Seria A title.

His calming presence in the middle of the park could be just what Italy need to get over their recent bad results that have come as a result of the above mentioned circumstances.

One To Watch

The world just cannot stop talking about Mario Balotelli.  His antics this have lit up the Premier League, entertaining and dividing opinion in the same breathe.  He is, however, a terrific footballer who is capable of turning a game on it's head in an instant.  What he needs to do though is just get his head down and focus on the football if that happens we could see miracles.  What we don't need is ridiculous provocation following he statement that he would kill anyone who is racist towards him.

Republic of Ireland

Following the infamous Thierry Henry handball incident that denied the nation a place at the 2010 World Cup, it is only right that the Republic of Ireland have followed it up by qualifying for Poland/Ukraine.  It would be a big ask for them to qualify beyond the group stage in only their second appearance, but if they can instill some of the belief of the previous two years leading to this then they have every chance of doing so.

Built on a solid foundation with creativity further up the field Ireland finished second to Russia in the qualification phase and entered the play offs.  Here they faced Estonia, and became another side to progress courtesy of a tremendous performance away from home.  The 4-0 away victory was followed up with a 1-1 home draw; can Giovanni Trapattoni work yet more miracles.

Key Man

There is only one man in the Irish side that is worthy of this title, Robbie Keane.  Despite a yard of pace having been lost Keane remains the chief goal threat, and highlighted his credentials during a brief loan spell at Aston Villa earlier this year.  He followed that up by setting up the only goal in the MLS Cup final, with LA Galaxy duly triumphing.

Keane was the main man at the World Cup in 2002, the last tournament that they qualified for, and he will need to find similar form this summer.

One To Watch

It is rare that a British or Irish footballer leaves these shores to ply their trade abroad, so when Spartak Moscow maid Celtic nearly £10m for Aiden McGeady it was something of a surprise.  Together with Damien Duff on the other wing he will be responsible for being the creative hub of the side, providing the ammunition for those further up the pitch.

McGeady could also use this summer's spectacle to engineer a move back closer to home, something that is being mentioned with increasing regularity.

Spain

What more can be said about Spain that hasn't been already.  The current World Cup and European Championship holders will no doubt have a target on their back, but who would back against them triumphing again this time round. 

The one big question is will they be able to cope without Carlos Puyol and David Villa who are to miss out through injury?  Sports Portal's guess is no chance, the strength contained within this squad is what has led to this success.  Vicente Del Bosque will no doubt have had contingency plans should any of his key players get sidelined.

Key Man

In a side full of superstars there is one man who keeps them ticking over, Xavi.  He is the lynch pin of both his national and club side, slotting passed through seemingly non-existent gaps at times.  His outstanding pass completion of nearly 90% at Euro 2008 is exceeded by the one that says he completed a pass every 57 seconds in the World Cup.

One To Watch

In a team full of superstars, there are also those players who are set to future stars of this national set up.  Fernando Llorente could well be trusted with a starting spot while Jesus Navas could be relied upon to provide spark from the wings, if things aren't going their way for a change.  Sports Portal though are going to go for Llorente's Athletic Bilbao team mate Javi Martinez.

His phenomenal displays have certainly caught the eye this season, with English fans taking note during the games against Manchester United.  This has led to many gossip column inches being filled with rumours of a move to the Premier League, a strong showing this summer would do little to quash those.
 

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.

Group A

Czech Republic

In a qualification group including Spain, it would be a hard task for anyone to topple them and get through automatically.  So the Czech Republic had to settle for a place in the play offs, which luckily for them they duly progressed through courtesy of a 3-0 aggregate victory over Moldova.

Their best result in the European Championships was finishing as runner up, to Germany, in England in 1996, and they will certainly want to improve on their last showing where they exited at the group stage.  Michal Bilek changed the formation of his side during qualifying, giving more width and creativity throughout.  In what is considered the weakest of the four groups, their is no reason that the Czech's could progress.

Key Man

Crucial to a good showing this year, is the Captain of the national side Petr Cech.  In his fourth major international tournament, the 29-year-old will be eager to make amends for his 2008 showing.  It seemed like his side would be heading through until a late error allowed Turkey to equalise, moments later Nihat bear Cech again and Turkey were heading through.

This time around he heads into the tournament full of confidence, after a potential poor season at club level was transformed by Roberto Di Matteo.  An FA Cup win was eclipsed by the tremendous and somewhat surprising victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League.  The two clean sheets in qualifying will also boost confidence, although the sides 2-1 defeat to Hungary in their final friendly will have to be quickly forgotten.

One To Watch

A man that just keeps improving is left back Michal Kadlec, someone who has bounced back from scoring an own goal on his international debut to establish himself as a regular.  Three penalties in qualifying helped him towards a four goal haul that saw him top the scoring charts for his country.  The 27-year-old Bayer Leverkusen star will certainly have to be watched carefully if other sides are to see success against the Czech Republic.

Greece

Greece are part of an exclusive club heading into the European Championships, doing so on the back of an unbeaten qualifying campaign that saw them win seven time and draw three.  A new concept is being revolutionised in the Greek football team at the moment, with the side liking to explore a more direct style than previously seen.

Another exclusive club they are a part of is that of winning sides that have failed to defend their crown, after famously sneaking up and triumphing under Otto Rehhagel in Portugal 2004.  Progression this time though could be slightly more tricky, with the daunting task of facing co hosts Poland first up.

Key Man

Despite being at the ripe old age of 35, Giorgos Karagounis is still something of a regular for the national side.  Helping pull the strings in the middle of the park, he is one of a select few that remain in the squad from that 2004 triumph.

Despite spending much of his career in his home nation he does have European experience from his time at Inter Milan and Benfica, and if Greece are to progress this tine round Karagounis will be crucial.

One To Watch

A name that has graced the gossip columns on many an occasion is that of Sotiris Ninis, a young creative attacking midfielder that is crucial to the Greek's success.  Rehhagel took Ninis to the South Africa World Cup in 2010 but was somewhat reluctant to use the youngster, restricting him to just two substitute appearances.  Current coach Fernando Santos wasted no time in giving him more of a role though, and he hasn't looked back since.

A cruciate ligament injury suffered last year kept him out for a long period, during which it was largely thought that the Greek hopes of qualification would soon go wayward.  However favourite's Croatia, who have followed them from qualifying to the tournament proper, were held aside and they progressed as group winners.  Ninis though is now back providing the spark, the Greeks are no doubt stronger and a more daunting opposition.

Poland

The co hosts have only previously qualfied for the European Championships once, in 2008 when they failed to emerge from the group stages.  They will of course be hoping to fare much better this time round on home soil, but will be hoping their Borussia Dortmund trio will be on top form to do so.

Recent results have breathed confidence into the side, with a 2-1 victory over a young Argentina side followed up with a 2-2 draw against what was strong German opposition.  In order to succeed though our key man, Robert Lewandowski, will have to continue where he left off at club level and provide plenty of firepower.

Key Man

Dortmund's Lewandowski hit 23 goals in the Bundesliga last season, resulting in the player of the year award.  His hat-trick in the German Cup final was a particular highlight, coming as it did in a 5-2 triumph over Bayern Munich.

After taking less than ten minutes to fire his first international goal four years ago, he has gone from strength to strength.  Resulting in links to a number of sides across Europe, particularly in the Premier League.  His fitness in key to Polish success over the next month, he isn't just a goal scorer but someone who can hold the ball up and bring others in to play.

One To Watch

One of the man Lewandowski could potentially be linking up with is right back, and Dortmund team mate, Lukasz Piszczek.  Along with Jakub Blaszczykowski, who will sit ahead of him on the right hand side, he forms part of this spine who hail from the Westfalenstadoin side.

A back to back Bundesliga champion Piszczek is another who has been linked with bigger and better things, further proof that Polish football could be moving on to bigger and better things in the future.

Russia

With a league system that is thriving and being given more column inches worldwide, spearheaded by the uber rich Anzhi Makhachkala, it is no surprise that Russia continue to be a force to be reckoned with.  In qualifying it was a shock home defeat to Slovakia that gave them the impetus to qualify, going on an eight match unbeaten run there after.  A convincing 3-0 thumping of Italy in their final warm up will provide plenty of confidence.

After winning the first ever European Championship in 1960 Russia have since gone on to be runner up three times, but you have to go all the way back to Germany 1988 for the last of those occasions.  If Dick Advocaat can equal the last showing of an semi-final place in 2008 the country would be delighted.

Key Man

Their is talent throughout this side, but the man who will most likely be charged with leading the line is Aleksandr Kerzhakov.  That is unless one of the taller forwards, such as Roman Pavlyuchenko, starts in which case Kerzhakov will be one the man providing the ammunition.

A one time young hot shot his venture into Europe with Sevilla didn't reap the rewards, so he is now back in his native Russia with Zenit St Petersburg and back amongst the goals.  Kerzhakov could just feel that these European Championships are a great chance to show people the talent he does possess.

One To Watch

Alan Dzagoev is regarded is one of the best players in Russia, and is a target for many clubs right across Europe.  His four goals in eight qualifying matches in which he featured highlight the talent he possesses, and why he could be key in this tournament.

In his debut season for CSKA Moscow in the top flight he was named best young player, and has gone from strength to strength since.  His presence in the centre of Midfield has become key for Russia, and despite his tender age, he will turn 22 during the tournament, this summer could be massive in shaping the career of one the brightest prospects in Europe.

Euro 2012: It's Almost Here...At Last

The build seems to have been long and extensive, and as fans of football you no doubt know many of the ins and outs of how each teams has reached the finals.  So instead of taking this approach Sports Portal is to cast it's eye over the squads and picking it's key man and one to watch from each.  We will of course refresh your minds a little, so sit back and enjoy.

England Euro 2012: Over before it's begun?

To say the build up hasn't been ideal would be putting things very mildly indeed, as Englishman we are used to the ruff and tumble world of the national team.  The last few months however have contributed to serve up a stark reminder of how far behind we actually are, in fact the last week could have done that all on it's own.

If we cast our mind back it was the Football Association's decision to strip John Terry of the captain's armband, for a second time, that led to Fabio Capello stepping aside.  The FA then decided it would wait until the end of the season, or very near to, to appoint his successor.  Giving the new man a month, or thereabouts, to prepare for a major tournament.  Perfect!

The country was swept with Harry Redknapp fever, but it was in fact Roy Hodgson who was given the hot seat.  His squad selection caused debate, two scrappy 1-0 wins did nothing to raise expectation and then the whole injury dilemma kicked in.  For a team well prepared this latter problem would be fairly difficult to deal with, so for England at the moment it must verge on catastrophic.  Not to mention Time Magazine's 'world's most disappointing team' tag, something that is hard to disagree with.

The injury to Gary Cahill is the latest debate, why on earth hasn't Rio Ferdinand been given the chance to join up?  A country once again castrating the new man in the job before he has even been given a fair crack of the whip.  Why not just give him a chance to do things his way and then judge when he has gone?

The Euro's are no doubt a lost cause so it's all about preparing for the World Cup in Brazil 2014, so in that case the selection of Martin Kelly is surely a good one.  Giving the future of English football the chance to travel and be around the squad at a major tournament could be ideal, as it could with the likes of Phil Jones, Jordan Henderson and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Hodgson is causing plenty of debate

In that case why not stand back, with the already low expectations, and judge how our appearance in this competition could help progression in the future.  Why take an ageing Rio Ferdinand who won't be making the trip to South America in two years time?  Let's make a decision to leave some of the ageing stars at home, and blend youth in with this squad.  Those who will be charged with taking the country forward, hopefully, for many years to come.

The recent friendly against Belgium did, however, highlight a huge gulf that does exist.  Hodgson's well organised troops did of course close out the victory, but by having a look at the playmaker of both teams you can see the difference.

Ashley Young v Eden Hazard: minutes played 67-90, passes 7-71, assists 1-0, key passes 3-6, shots 0-4, pass completion 58%-87%.  

Many will point to the assist statistic, but the truth is give away that much against a more accomplished opposition and you will be punished.  And there lies the major problem.

Flair is not something we are overly used to, but will have to become a major feature should we progress.  Can this be brought in two years before the next World Cup?  Roy will certainly have to break a defensive habit that currently exists, but let's sit back and let him go about trying his way.

Future Stars - Fabian Frei

Sports Portal apologises for the busy schedule it has faced in recent weeks, and will promise to try and get back to updating on a regular basis.

Back to business for now and a quick preview on Swiss midfielder Fabian Frei, who is no relation to his more well known team mate Alexander Frei.

Despite being a touch older than most others featured at 23 years of age, he has a wealth of experience despite being at a tender age and has matured amongst much sought after players at FC Basel. Team mate Xherdan Shaqiri was being chased by a host of Europe's finest clubs before agreeing to join Bayern Munich this summer, while Granit Xhaka is another that is tipped to reach the very top wherever he ends up after leaving Switzerland.

Frei has come through the ranks at his club; joining in 2004 after stints at other clubs as a youth. After a year progression to the under-21 side followed, where a haul of honours were won before he hit the big time in 2007.

At 17 he made his first team debut, completing a perfect season by winning a League and Cup double. A further year down the line though he was loaned out to St Gallen, before returning and really making his mark.

Frei can now put Champions League experience on his ever expiring CV, including a goal at Old Trafford during an enthralling 3-3 draw. In addition a second Swiss Super League title followed upon his return, making a 15^th League triumph for FC Basel.

On the international front, Frei spent four years in the under-21s which culminated in a European Under-21 Final appearance. Ultimately ending in defeat to a very strong Spain side. Since then a handful of appearances have been made in the senior side.

It is surely a matter of time before we see Frei showing his talents on a much larger scale.

Transfer flops - Hugo Viana

Viana in his Newcastle days

A young promising midfield prodigy arrived at Newcastle United in 2002 on the crest of a wave, but shied away through the back door three years later after a miserable spell.

Hugo Viana began his career at Sporting Lisbon, and hit the ground running by turning in a string of tremendous performances in his debut season.  This captured the attention of clubs Europe wide, with Fifa also sitting up and taking note.

The worlds governing body awarded 19-year-old Viana the Young European Footballer of the Year award, which was enough to persuade Bobby Robson to part with his cash and bring him to Newcastle United.  A fee of around £8.5m saw Sporting part with their young starlet, and expectations about the youngster around St James Park were certainly high.

Unfortunately his big move didn't go according to plan, as you have now probably gathered by the title, and his career in the northeast quickly turned sour.  After two dismal years he was loaned back to his old club, before returning and quickly being shipped out once again.

This time it was to Valencia, where an initial years loan was made permanent for around £1.5m the following year.  This marked a huge loss for Newcastle, but also another chance for Viana to show he wasn't a flash in the pan.  He again flattered to deceive and after two years in which the half century appearance mark again fell out of range, as with Newcastle, another loan spell followed.

This time it was with La Liga rivals Osasuna followed by a trip back home with Sporting Braga the following year.  It was the latter move that was again made permanent, where he remains to this day.  One of his best day's back home came just over two months ago, when, with the game tied at 0-0 he scored from his own half in the 94th minute.

On the international front he represented Portugal under-21s for three years, before progressing up the ranks.  Withe the seniors he has travelled to two World Cups, one European Championship and an Olympics.