Quote:
Originally Posted by CuriousJim
England are in an unusual and unique position where it's fans are so deflated and are going into it with no expectations, so however we do will be a bonus. However, I dont expect us to be able to win it. There are sides in Europe that are in far better shape than us.
France are looking menacing. Since sacking the manager and the entire team after their shambolic 2010 world cup campaign, the new manager has started fresh with a young, focused and tightly knit team. They've not lost in the last 21 games, the 22nd game was their last match at the 2010 world cup.
Cant write off Spain, they're not looking as good as they were in 2008 or 2010, but they'll be in with a shout. I think for me Germany, Spain, France or Portugal are likely to come out on top this year.
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Germany has high hopes and they are a definite contender. I don't share your thoughts about France. I really don't think that they are strong enough to get to the finals. The semi-finals are a good possiblility for them. I'm not so sure Portugal is going to give a strong showing. A lot of sports commentators hold Portugal in high regard, but I haven't seen good resons for such ratings.
Italy is going to be an unknown quantity this time. They have always had a good team for international competitions, but their recent scandals will quite possibly have a bad effect on them. I think their first game is going to be telling as to how they are going to play throughout.