Russia vs. Czech Republic Euro 2012: 2 Key Players for Each Team

Along with Poland, Russia are favoured to progress from Group A. The Russians have plenty of experience and attacking flair and were one of the highlights of Euro 2008.

Dick Advocaat's team will begin their campaign against a Czech Republic team not the force they once were in the days when the great Pavel Nedved graced the international stage. However, the Czechs do possess some veteran talent and could surprise in what is sure to be an entertaining game. Here are two key players to watch from both teams:

Andrei Arshavin, Forward, Russia

Mercurial technician Andrei Arshavin remains an enigma. As creative and skillful as any player in the game when the mood strikes, Arshavin is sadly too often blighted by prolonged periods of torpor.

Yet the Russians need him on form if they are going to make an impact in Euro 2012. His quick thinking, deceptive pace and ability to score from distance make Arshavin a vital member of the attack.

If Arshavin relishes a free role behind the striker and doesn't lose interest and drift out to the wings, he may be impossible for the Czech Republic defense to contain.

Petr Cech, Goalkeeper, Czech Republic

If the Czechs are unable to replicate the dynamism in attack that has defined their play in past tournaments, they will need Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech to be at his best. The 29-year-old Uefa Champions League winner is one of the finest stoppers of his generation.

Cech is nearly faultless technically, able to combine natural timing and instincts with exceptional reflexes and athleticism. If Arshavin is on form and Russia begins brightly, expect Cech to be called into action early and often.

Aleksandr Anyukov, Right Full-back, Russia

Aleksandr Anyukov was one of the stars of Russia's exciting Euro 2008 team. The energetic right-back can play a crucial role for the Russian defense.

He will be tasked with marshaling Czech left-winger Vaclav Pilar. Anyukov has the strength to combat the tricky wide man and his own forward runs could help repel the Czech Republic left flank.

Tomas Rosicky, Attacking Midfielder, Czech Republic

Tomas Rosicky plays a vital role in the Czech Republic's 4-2-3-1 formation. He aligns behind the lone striker and is chiefly responsible for providing creative output.

Rosicky is a quick and cerebral attacker who excels at one-touch passing. The Czechs are relying on an aging Milan Baros at striker, so Rosicky will also need to contribute his share of goals.

Conclusion

Russia boast a wealth of talent, but players like Arshavin and Yuri Zhirkov don't always play to their tremendous ability. The Czechs are being overlooked, but Premier League duo Cech and Rosicky are as capable as any at their respective positions.

Pilar is a youngster on the rise and if the Russians take time to establish their quality, the Czech Republic could steal the game. With this level of attacking talent on display, a score draw seems likely.