Don't Kick It, Pass It.: Euro 2012: Group B- Group of Death

There is always one 'group of death' in any tournament and this one is a doozy. All four teams could beat the Group A teams. Its a shame that one of these countries- Germany, Holland or Portugal will miss out.
This will be a high scoring group, there are plenty of top class strikers in these teams and all the defences have question marks.
Game to watch: Watch all of them if you can as they will all be competitive but the Germany vs Holland match on 13 June takes the cake. Two attack-minded teams with a bitter rivalry, could decide who tops the group.

Why they could advance- One of the favourites to win it all, young and attacking, have Klose, Podolski, Muller and Gomez as strikers.
Why they won't- Defence is not their strength which is strange for a German side. May concede a few.
Player to watch- Mesut Ozil- Real Madrid forward, had a great World Cup in 2010. Looking to carry on with his good form this season. Looks like an alien.

Why they could advance- Sublime form leading up to the tournament, finalists of the 2010 World Cup, attacking style play and have two of the best on form strikers right now in Van Persie and Huntelaar as well as Robben on the wing.
Why they won't- The Dutch are notorious for infighting, if they can stick together they can go all the way. Defence is weak, especially at left back.
Player to watch- Robin Van Persie- the Arsenal striker is a favourite to win the tournament's Golden Boot Award for most goals scored. A deadly but moody striker.

Why they could advance- Have as talented a midfield as either Germany or Holland do, especially their wingers. Having Christiano Ronaldo always helps. Their defence could be the strongest in the group.
Why they won't- They don't have any good strikers. Ronaldo hasn't played nearly as well for Portugal as he has for Real Madrid, time for him to step up.
Player to watch- Ronaldo- How he goes, Portugal goes.

Why they could advance- Played really well in the qualifying rounds, have a young team who like to attack, can create chances to score.
Why they won't- Unfortunately they are in the Group of Death so it looks unlikely that they will advance but stranger things have happened.
Player to watch- Christian Eriksen- An exciting midfield prospect who plays for Ajax in Holland. Loves to attack and represents the new generation of Danish football.

Predictions to go through: Germany and Holland

My NZ TAB bet for the group: Netherlands to win the group $2.65

Photo sourced from blog.umbro.com

Don't Kick It, Pass It.