Euro Championship 2012: Groups That Will Steal the Show

The start of the 2012 UEFA European Championship on Friday brought with it the weight of expectations for 16 of the best squads in Europe. All four groups have at least one intriguing storyline to keep an eye on, so there will be something for everyone to watch each day. 

Two matches in Group A kicked off the festivities yesterday, with Poland and Greece battling to a tie and Russia dominating the Czech Republic. 

So much is going to be made out of each match, which adds to the intrigue of this event. Here are the groups that are going to steal the show over the next three weeks. 

Group B-Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Portugal

It only seems appropriate to start with Group B, aka "the Group of Death." All four squads in this grouping are not only capable of winning this group, but each would be a strong contender to win the 2012 Euro Championship. 

Unfortunately, only two will emerge from the group. Germany looks like the favorite right now. The Germans will start this event on Saturday against Portugal, with Denmark and the Netherlands doing battle. 

All eyes were focused on this group when it was announced, and there is no reason to think that these four squads won't deliver some of the most compelling storylines and action in this whole event. 

Prediction: Germany and Denmark finish 1-2.

Group C-Spain, Italy, Republic of Ireland, Croatia

While not as top-heavy as Group B, the four squads that comprise this group will make for an interesting dynamic. 

Spain is considered the favorite to win the 2012 Euro Championship, but the Croatians are going to provide quite the challenge when they lock horns on June 21. 

Italy and Ireland are flying under the radar right now, yet the Italians have as much talent as anyone in this group, with the exception of the Spaniards. Ireland must catch a break somewhere along the line to have a chance to make it to the knockout phase. 

Prediction: Spain and Italy finish 1-2.

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