FazSpain and Portugal smart bets for EURO 2008
June 4th 2008 07:41
Cesc Fabregas looks set to star for Spain in this year's EURO
If you're looking for a wildcard for this years Euro competition, look no further than two of the continents most flamboyant nations.
Both Spain and Portugal have shown enough in recent years to take charge of Europe's highest national honour.
Although the likes of France, Italy and Germany will have plenty to say come the finals, Spain and Portugal have the potential to dominate the rest of the field and fire themselves up for a shot at glory.
The Spaniards in particular have an abundance of player talent all over the park. Their defence is marshalled well by likes of Puyol, Marchena and Sergio Ramos. Those three create a formidable backline and with Casillas in goal, they will be immensely difficult to break down.
In terms of their midfield, Spain arguably possess the most dynamic players in Europe with the likes of Xavi, Fabregas, Joaqian and Xabi Alonso all world class footballers. They really shouldn't have trouble setting up opportunities for their forwards to pounce.
Speaking of forwards, the Spaniards have them in crops with the likes of Torres, David Villa and Silva leading the way in terms of goal scoring prowess.
Despite the key absence of Real Madrid captain Raul, Spain really should offer no excuses for another failed tilt at their first major championship. The Spaniards should have what it takes to progress beyond the quarterfinal stages.
It is here where the true championship qualities of a side stand out. Regardless of pressure or expectation, teams such as Germany and Italy have really responded well to critisim of their respective player styles.
Despite playing the game with less flair, the Germans and Italians have always produced a habit of winning games when the stakes are at the highest level.
In terms of player roster, both Spain and Portugal possess far more in attack than their counterparts and really should take advantage of the arsenal at their disposal.
Portugal in particular have some of the most exciting players throughout European football, none more known than United superstar Christiano Ronaldo.
Portugese coach Luis Felipe Scolari, has the pick of a star studded midfield base which will take shape with the likes of Ronaldo, Nani, Maniche and Deco at the helm.
Their only considerable weakness would be the lack of forwards they have, with none currently at the helm ever making a considerable presence through Europe.
Despite these flaws, Portugal were finalists in 2004, albeit lost to Greece but have now shown enough to suggest better things should be expected.
All in all, the likes of Portugal and Spain really do have what it takes to pinch Euro 2008. They certainly have the players to make a fist of it but do they have the desire?
When it comes down to the nitty gritty, who will stand tall? It has been an age since Spain and Portugal have really knuckled down for a win.
Although they play the most attractive football out of their European opposition, both have lacked the mental aspect or belief to go all the way.
this is the only aspect stopping these two from dominating the European scene for years to come.
Most importantly, it could guarantee one of these nations with a far greater piece of glory in South Africa two years from now.
And it's about time too.
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