Euro 2012 Bracket: Groups That Will Provide Fans with Instant Classics

We've already seen some fantastic matches in Euro 2012, complete with upsets and hard-fought draws.

But more awaits in the group stage, with several teams looking to avoid elimination. There have been some rocky starts for the favorites thus far, while some virtual unknowns have already shocked the world.

Here's a look at the groups I see closing strong in the opening round of Euro 2012.

Group B

Group B has already treated us to two solid matches. Germany battled for a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Portugal, and Denmark shocked the heavily favored Netherlands.

But there's more. Portugal will try to get a win against Denmark on Wednesday, and Germany versus the Netherlands should be a spectacular affair between two strong squads.

Last but not least, on Sunday we have Portugal versus the Netherlands, with Denmark gunning for its second shocker of the tournament against Germany.

Group C

Spain versus Italy was a fantastic game, as both sides battled to a 1-1 draw. The prime contenders showed each other they wouldn't be pushed around. Antonio Di Natale came off the bench to give Italy a 1-0 advantage, but the talented Cesc Fabregas equalized just three minutes later.

Croatia also has the potential to do something in the group. Ireland appears to be the worst team in the tournament, so Croatia's 3-1 victory wasn't incredibly impressive, but that doesn't mean the Croatians didn't play well.

We'll see if Croatia has what it takes when the side takes on Italy on Thursday then Spain next week, but I have a feeling the Croatians have some tricks up their collective sleeve. Remember, Croatia is ranked eighth in the world this year—certainly nothing to sneeze at.