Euro 2012 Quarterfinals: Players Who Will Dominate Round of 8

Generally, an individual player doesn't dominate a soccer match, especially when the level of play is as high as it is at a tournament like the 2012 European Championship.

But that doesn't mean this tournament isn't full of players able to dominate nonetheless.

From a winger who gives defenders nightmares to a striker who has proven to be one of the best finishers in this tournament—and one midfield so talented they have to be included—there are a few players you absolutely need to keep an eye on in the quarterfinals.

The biggest players save their best performances for the biggest stages. The stage is set, gentlemen.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal

Finally, against the Netherlands, Ronaldo finished his chances. That's not a good sign for the Czech Republic.

I'm not sure we've seen a more dominating performance in this tournament than the one Ronaldo provided against the Dutch. Sure, the Netherlands' back line was as stout as a wet piece of paper, but few players can put pressure on a back line quite like Ronaldo does from his wing position.

The Czech Republic was carved to pieces by the Russian counter-attack in its first game of group play, eventually losing that game 4-1. If the Czechs attack the Portuguese with haste and allow Ronaldo space on the counter, he's capable of duplicating that four-goal output by himself.

Mario Gomez, Germany

There are a number of players from the German side who will leave a major mark on this game—Thomas Mueller, Philipp Lahm, Mesut Ozil and Bastian Schweinsteiger, to name a few—but look for Gomez to to find the back of the net at least once in this contest and give the Greek defense absolute fits.

Gomez already has three goals in this tournament and is one of the elite goal scorers left in this tournament alongside the likes of Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney (who has too tough a matchup against Italy to dominate, though he'll be a factor).

The Greeks will sink back against the Germans and hope to win with grit, stout defending and perhaps even a lucky bounce or two. Greece will do everything in its power to keep Gomez frustrated and without room to create, but it will be to no avail.

Gomez will have his chances, and he'll capitalize on them.

The Spanish Midfield

Cesc Fabregas and Fernando Torres may score the goals, but don't get it twisted—the midfield will control the game against France, because that's what they do. You could make the argument that there isn't a grouping of players better in the world than the Spanish midfield.

Perhaps before the tournament you would have made a case for the Dutch attackers, but not so much now, huh?

Xavi will quarterback the operation, while Andres Iniesta and David Silva will threaten from the wings. With Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso transitioning what little defense the Spanish side actually has to play back into offense with crisp passes up the field, France will have its hands full trying to retain and regain possession.

Watching Spain toy with opponents through pristine passing and intelligent movement is truly fun, though I've felt the Spanish side has gotten too cute at times in this tournament. Often, they try too hard to create the perfect chance rather than take shots or send in crosses to put pressure on goal.

Sometimes, you have to hope that a bounce or two will go your way rather than make one pass too many and squander the build-up.

France has plenty of skill, but not enough to match this Spanish side. Look for the five Spanish midfielders to once again control the game and lead the team to a win.

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