Euro 2012 Preview

I must admit that it has taken some time for me to summon up much enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament in Poland and Ukraine.  However, now that Euro 2012 is upon us, here are some thoughts on the prospective contenders.

My favourites, if only marginally, are Germany.  After impressing so much with their youthful vigour and cohesion in the World Cup two years ago, they will have matured and become steelier and more resilient in the intervening period.  The potential threats come from many areas of their line-up, and they have the tactical flexibility which many other teams lack.  The Germans do have what looks on paper to be a tough opening group, but they should progress to the quarter-finals with some comfort.

If Germany have progressed since 2010, it is tempting to think that Spain peaked in South Africa, or even before, and that their powers might have waned slightly.  However, they remain a formidable proposition, and possess daunting strength in depth and big-match experience.  It might be time for some of their younger players, or those on the fringe of the first-choice eleven, to assume a greater burden of responsibility.

The Netherlands are another country which should be viewed as potential champions.  The experience of their squad is vast, and their creative options in midfield and forward positions are impressive to say the least.  The likes of Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie will pose problems for any opponents.  The flair is solidly backed up by a bewildering array of talented and solid midfielders.  The Dutch will first have to navigate their way through a difficult group, though.

So what about England?  Well, for once, the pundits, and the nation at large, are being realistic and level-headed about the team's prospects.  Perhaps too many disappointments and cruel reverses over the years have finally had their effect, and instilled a sense of perspective.  That said, Roy Hodgson's understated stewardship and all-round expertise should stand England in good stead.  Some new players, and those overlooked under previous managers, will be keen to make their mark.  However, it is also imperative that the likes of Ashley Cole, Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney perform to a good level, to form the bedrock of the effort.

Other teams to look out for?  To be honest, scanning over the sixteen teams, none of them looks especially weak, and this makes predicting form and results very tough, with margins being wafer-thin.  France are difficult to gauge, but a squad containing so many talented and experienced individuals must be respected.  Also, the two host nations will have fervent support, and this will give them a boost.

Let us hope most of all that the next few weeks are remembered for entertaining and memorable football action, rather than unsavoury off-pitch incidents.  I hope that the latter, if they occur, are fully and sensibly covered by the media, and that the powers-that-be do not seek to downplay them, or sweep them under the carpet.  Issues of that gravity must be confronted, addressed and overcome.

My own less-than-scientific analysis of the groups and fixtures suggests that the semi-finalists will be the Netherlands, Spain, Germany and France.  But what do I know?