Groups C and D feature more predictable finishes than their A and B counterparts. While those groups left plenty of room for debate, it isn't too hard to pick out a pair of teams to advance from the other two divisions, even despite a couple team's reputations.
Group C features defending champions Spain, continental power Italy, and the lower likes of Croatia and Ireland.
Spain might have the second most powerful side in the tournament. Only Germany has more pure talent. When you have a player like Cesc Fabregas coming off the bench, you know your team must be good. Spain is no stranger to international success as of late. They hoisted the 2010 World Cup and won the last European Championship.
Spain have always played a very attractive style of football. They favor a quick passing game and have plenty of skill to dissect any defense. Barcelona's Andres Iniesta might be the most skilled of them all. Chelsea's Fernando Torres could play a big part in the squad's success. Not only has he been accused of racism and other attitude issues, but he fills the shoes of David Villa, who is still out after suffering a gruesome knee injury midway through the La Liga season.
The 2006 World Cup winners, Italy brings another strong side into the Euro and have a plenty favorable draw that should see them into the quarterfinals. They are not really title contenders, but they are more than capable of upsetting another team's hopes past the group stage.
They will rely heavily on the captain and goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon. He has the experience and talent to lead anyone along. He is one of the best keepers the world has right now, and he should make life difficult for opposing strikers. Mario Ballotelli, Manchester City's controversial and outgoing striker, is the main man up front. Italy's team is sort of in a state of flux. Success can doi well for their manager, Caesare Prandelli, but a disappointing early exit can lead to major changes to a once formidable side.
Croatia could be the team that creates havoc in the plan's of Italy or Spain. A win against Ireland in the opening game already puts the pressure on the favorites. While they aren't the same side that finished third in the 1998 World Cup, they could make for an interesting Group C wrecking ball.
They are lead by a couple of Premier League attacking players, beginning with Tottenham's Luka Modric. He aims to bring his success with London's third best team into the major international stage. Everton's Nikica Jelavic provides their main scoring threat. The biggest problem that the Croatians will face is the inability to score. While they netted three against Ireland, a high profile keeper like Buffon or Spain's stronger back line could keep them off the score sheet.
Finally, we have Ireland, one of the weaker sides of the tournament. Indeed, an escape from Group C would be nearly miraculous. This is their first appearance at the European Championship since 1988, where they failed to get out of the group stage.
Ireland will have to play very defensively in order to win. Goalkeeper Shay Given is their most experienced player, and he is good at what he does. Irish captain, and LA Galaxy standout, Robbie Keane brings a strong attacking presence as well as a name familiar to American soccer fans. He led the side with seven goals in qualifying.
I said Group C looked quite predictable, and I still believe that Italy and Spain will take care of the group. The interesting storyline will be if Croatia, coming off an opening win against Ireland, can poach some points from the favorites.
Predicted order of finish:
Spain
Italy
Croatia
Ireland
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