Euro 2012: Quarterfinals Preview

Having gone 5 for 8 on his predictions for the Group Winners and Runner Ups, the Nation now turns his attention to the Euro 2012 Quarterfinal match ups.

Thursday, 6/21: Czech Republic vs. Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo finally came through big time for his country in this tournament, with 2 huge goals vs. the Dutch which sent Portugal to the Quarters. The Czechs will need to keep him from having the same impact in this game.  The Czechs’ 2 main players are having issues – Tomas Rosicky with injuries, and Peter Cech with a bad tournament. Expect Portugal to take this one.

Friday, 6/22: Germany vs. Greece

The Germans’ usual machine like efficiency is on full display again, with Mario Gomez showing he deserves to start over Miroslav Klose. The Greeks have overachieved again like they did in 2004, but this isn’t exactly like 2004. The Germans are too deep both with their starting eleven and on the bench, and too technically good, to lose this game.  Expect a blowout by the Germans.

Saturday, 6/23: Spain vs. France

Spain has gone with Fernando Torres at striker the last 2 games, with Cesc on the bench, after playing their first game with 6 midfielders and no strikers. France had a horrible end to group play, as they got outclassed by Sweden. They still made it through though thanks to England beating Ukraine. Gotta go with Spain on this one.

Sunday, 6/24: England vs. Italy

If there’s a game in the quarters that seems most likely to head into PK’s, it would be this one. If it goes into PK’s, England has had a horrific history with that in major tourneys. Italy, while not spectacular, might have enough to pull the win out. I’m torn with this one, but I’m going to go with Italy since if it goes to PK’s, England will find a way to lose.

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