The Jedi Reviews - The Euro 2012 draw + forecast!

So the schedule for Euro 2012 is set.

And in true Manchester United style, England dodged the bullet and was dealt a VERY favorable draw.

How come shit like this only happen to the super overrated England team? Fooken hell!

So here are my first thoughts of the draw. Detailed analysis coming soon.

Group A

Greece, Poland, Russia, Czech Republic

Looks like a hard group to call if it was a few years back, with the Czechs making strong favorites to qualify and Greece slugging it out with Russia for second place. Sadly, this is not 2006 and for that, I'm calling for Greece to win this boring group, with the Ruskies making second spot theirs.

Group B

Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, Denmark

The 'Group of Death' and the hardest group to call on paper. Then again, considering how erratic Portugal is, don't be surprised if they flop - it is almost a one man team anyway, relying too much on Cristiano Ronaldo. Nani? He's crap. Expect the Jerries to get through unscathed, with the Dutch close behind. Possibly separated due to goal difference. Mark my words - Denmark will spoil the party for the Portuguese.

Group C

Spain, Italy, Croatia, Ireland

The group I feel, is most interesting to watch, and truly, the group of death, really. Two most recent World Cup winners with two erratic teams in the Croats and the OIRISH. And with Trap coaching them, don't be surprised seeing him biting back at Italy. My call would be Spain to qualify, along with Italy who scrape past Ireland on goal difference or a point.

Group D

England, France, Ukraine, Sweden

I think this favorable draw was given to compensate England missing the World Cup hosting bid. Really. A has-been France, Ukraine and ageing team of furniture makers. England cannot not qualify through this group, and to their advantage, able to preserve their players from any injuries heading into the knock-out stages. A draw with France, an easy win past other two. So it's gonna be the English and the French who gets through.

So recap - The Greeks, Ruskies, Jerries, Dutch, Spanish, Italians, English and the French to make it through to the quarters.

Notice how all teams in debt due to the Euro crisis got through? Heheh!

Next entry I will analyze how these teams pair up with each other come the knock-out stages and possibly call on a winner. =)