Euro 2012 Preview: 1 Sleeper Pick from Every Group

The usual names are expected to dominate the field in Euro 2012. Yet while the likes of Spain, Germany and Holland are the most fancied for success, tournaments usually deliver more than one surprise team.

Each group at Euro 2012 contains one legitimate sleeper candidate, capable of upsetting the odds and qualifying at the expense of a more prestigious footballing nation.

Here is a list of one sleeper pick for each Euro 2012 group.

Group A—Czech Republic

The Czech Republic can no longer boast names like Karel Poborsky and the great Pavel Nedved. However, they have had a knack for rising to the occasion in the European championships.

With Chelsea stalwart Petr Cech tending goal and Arsenal schemer Tomas Rosicky dictating the attack, the Czech Republic could be the surprise package of Group A. Rosicky was outstanding at times for Arsenal this season.

He was impressive in the biggest games, particularly home contests against Tottenham Hotspur and AC Milan. The veteran playmaker ran the game away to Stoke City, a notoriously tricky fixture for the Gunners.

If they can match Russia's technique and break down Poland and Greece, the Czech Republic will exceed expectations.

Group B—Denmark

The Danes are the obvious sleeper pick in the nightmare landscape of Group B. Yet they could have more of a chance than many think.

Denmark can rely on a clutch of solid players led by central defender Daniel Agger and the aging, but still effective Dennis Rommedahl. However, the key to the Danes springing a major surprise will be the play of youngster Christian Eriksen.

The Ajax prodigy is the creative fulcrum of the team, and if he is not overwhelmed, Denmark should be able to fashion plenty of scoring chances. The Danes' best hope might be internal strife derailing either Portugal or Holland.

Portugal manager Paulo Bento has had issues with certain players, and Holland are no strangers to tension within the camp. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar has already voiced his frustration at being overlooked in favour of Arsenal's Robin van Persie (via football.co.uk).

Group C—Croatia

Croatia are still a technically proficient team with the ability to out-pass most opponents. Spurs midfield maestro Luka Modric is touted as the key man, but the team also have Everton's bullish forward Nikica Jelavic.

However, the crucial player could well be former Arsenal striker Eduardo da Silva. If he can recapture his composure and accuracy in front of goal, Eduardo can finish off Croatia's intricate passing moves and make them an attacking force to be feared.

Getting past Spain and Italy won't be easy, but the match-fixing scandal could have a negative impact on Italy, and Spain are sure to miss injured duo Carles Puyol and David Villa.

Group D—Sweden

France may be favourites to claim group D, with England not far behind, but Sweden are experienced tournament competitors and never easy to beat.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic will have to provide the impetus for the attack, and he will certainly be helped by the presence of the underrated Johan Elmander.

If they can combine a more expansive approach with their usual resiliency, the Swedes could upset the odds in group D.

Conclusion

The usual suspects may be expected to dominate proceedings at Euro 2012. However, more than one of the favoured nations have issues to overcome. Off-field scandal seems certain to blight Italy's chances, while injuries at key positions could hinder Spain.

Any failings from the tournament's upper echelon can open the door for one of the teams on this list to advance and surprise the competition.