Except Portugal, other teams have won the competition in the past. Three time European champions Germany (1972, 80, 96) are favourites to top the table which also includes former champions and 2010 World Cup runners-up Netherlands (1988). Denamrk, winners of the competition back in 1992, are the underdogs in the most competitive group of EURO 2012.
Portugal - will surely eye for silverware this time around after narrowly losing the title to Greece back in EURO 2004. But after struggling to qualify for the competition itself, Portugal can also be termed as underdogs. They may have Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani, Raul Mereiles, Joao Moutinho but the Portugese have lacked consistency and intensity even with smaller sides. The Iberian side have been struggling lately in friendlies with two draws and a defeat.
Recent form: DWDDL
Best EURO performance: 2004 Runners-up
Key players: Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani, Raul Mereiles, Joao Moutinho
Germany are no doubt considered favourites after a 100% qualifying campaign. Scoring 34 goals and conceding only 7, the youngest German side certainly have the fire power to beat even the strongest side. But recent dip in form saw them lose to France and Switzerland. Key players to watch are Mesut Ozil, Mario Gomez, Lukas Podolski and Bastian Schweinsteiger.
Recent form: DWLLW
Best EURO performance: Winners 1996
Key Players: Mehzut Ozil, Mario Gomez, Lukas Podolski and Bastian Schweinsteiger.
Netherlands are the second team after the Germans to be tipped favourites in this competition. The Dutch have been unlucky when it comes to the big stage but their attacking style of play with huge amount possession gives them an edge over opponents. Oranje have scored 37 goals during the qualifying stage, the highest by any team. While considering their strike force of Robin van Persie, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Arjen Robben and Wesley Snieder rival teams may feel the heat on the field.
Recent form: LWLWW
Best EURO performance: Winners 1988
Key Players: Robin van Persie, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder.
Denmark are tagged underdogs in 'The Group of Death' but they will be optimistic against Portugal after finishing on top in the qualifying stage. Spearheaded by captain Daniel Agger, Denmark know well enough about the challenge they face in the group stage. Niklas Bendtner struck form in the recent friendlies but the Danes need to find pace on either flanks to deliver good crosses inside the box.
Recent form: WWLLW
Best EURO performance: Winners 1992
Key Players: Daniel Agger, Dennis Rommedahl, Christian Eriksen and Niklas Bendtner.
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