Euro Cup 2012: Power Ranking Teams Most Likely to Take Home Marquee Title

Spain will enter Euro 2012 as the favorites, as the powerhouse squad attempts to defend its European Championship from 2008. It won't be an easy task for La Roja, however, with several other nations gearing up to make a run toward the title.

Let's take a look at the three top contenders to win the trophy and establish themselves as the best team in Europe, at least until the 2014 World Cup.

Judging by the talent level across the board, there should be plenty of high-quality play starting with group play in early June.

1. Spain

It's impossible to rank another team ahead of Spain. When La Roja are playing their best, there isn't another team in the world that can defeat them. The combination of elite skill and unmatched depth ensures they will always be in the mix.

There are a couple of concerns that could leave the door open, though.

David Villa, who led the team in goals at Euro 2008, is still recovering from a leg injury, and his status remains unclear. His leadership would also be missed.

Another interesting aspect is the recent struggles of Barcelona. The home to many of Spain's top players, Barca hasn't played up to their usual high standards as of late, including a Champions League defeat.

So, Spain won't be unbeatable.

2. Germany

Germany made the finals four years ago before losing to Spain, 1-0, on a Fernando Torres goal. They will field another strong squad, including rising star Mario Gomez, who has scored 21 goals in 51 games for the national team.

Much like Spain's stars play for Barcelona, Germany's top names play club football with Bayern Munich, which will play Chelsea in the Champions League title game. That should allow many of the team's starters to get some key big-game experience ahead of time.

No German player has been more impressive lately than goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. He's really taken his game to another level and should provide stability between the pipes, which is something the squad has been looking for and should boost its chances.

3. England

Even though England's results at major competitions have been disappointing lately, the Three Lions have more than enough talent to make a deep run. The biggest issues, most notably in goal, have been addressed and shouldn't be as costly this time around.

As always, they will only go as far as Wayne Rooney can carry them on offense. The Manchester United striker has been in tremendous form lately and needs to carry that through the summer.

That is, unless a young star like Daniel Sturridge is ready to take the next step, but England can't rely on that.

After Spain and Germany, there's a gap before the next group of teams. The Three Lions have the highest upside of any of those second-tier squads if they live up to the hype, so don't be surprised if they end up making some Euro 2012 noise.