Euro 2012 Quaterfinal Predictions

After a rousing two weeks of major and minor surprises and a lot of goals, we enter the knock out stage of Euro 2012 today. My predictions for the four matches ...

1. Czech Republic vs. Portugal
While the Czech Republic was impressive in coming back from the opening 4-1 thrashing by Russia, I don't really see them having enough to deal with a surging Portuguese side, particularly with Ronaldo potentially back in top form for the national team (though one game does not a comeback make). The Czechs do have on of the best big game goalkeepers in the world, but with creative midfielder Rosicky only available as a sub, I see Portugal holding firm at the back and running down the wings without mercy. Prediction: Portugal (2-0).

2. Germany vs. Greece
On paper this should be a mauling by the Germans. But, as Russia found out and everyone in Europe in 2004 for that matter, matches are played on the pitch. Greece has only lost twice in the past two years and while they don't play the most beautiful soccer you will ever see, do have a penchant for holding teams scoreless and poaching a goal on the counter. However, they will be without their best striker and are playing a team that is among the best in the world. If Greece scores first, they could very well go through 1-0, but I see Germany taking this match in the end. Prediction: Germany 2-0. 

3. Spain vs. France
After looking impressive in their mauling of Ireland, Spain looked quite average in beating Croatia 1-0, and actually looked on the verge of a unthinkable knockout before finishing off the job. So are they vulnerable? Well, France comes in after a relatively average group stage, losing their last match 2-0 to Sweden (who were already eliminated) with a chance to win the group. But when these two teams play, there are always fireworks and France certainly has a chance if they can find a way to be menacing in the mid-field and take their chances. I see a higher scoring affair here, though if France does score first, one couldn't blame them for sitting back. Prediction: Spain 3-1.

4. England vs. Italy
England has gotten so used to failing to live up to expectations that even as they won their group, announcers and soccer pundits there are careful not to take anything for granted. But this looks like a game the Lions could win if they shore up the back and find a way through the Azzuri back line. It will probably be a cagey, defense first game, but I going to go with England, against my better judgement. Prediction: England 2-1.