EURO 2008

Poland – Poland rue their stoppage time penalty giveaway to Austria. It has to win the game with at least a 2 goal margin and depends on Austria to beat Germany to go through.

Poland Captain Jacek Bak

Croatia – Croatia are beginning to look like Champion material in the game against an erratic Germany. They will likely give the reserves a chance to run out and soak in the atmosphere. They need a point to top the group, else Germany may overtake them.

Slaven Bilic providing the side show during the match.

Verdict – Poland is in a better position then the other two strugglers in the group as it plays against pressureless Croatia. However, they will get no favours from the Croats looking to avoid a quarter final clash with Portugal.
Score: Poland 1-1 Croatia

Market odds: Poland (+0.85), Croatia (-1/4, -0.925)

Austria – Their game plan seems to be tight markings leaving no room for the opponents to exhibit the flair and they played with a lot of passion against the Croats. They were also unlucky to have a few refereeing decision going against them. Did show they can pose a few threats in the game.

Poland – Were completely outclassed by the Germans. To be fair they played a good game in the opener. Their defense is the main concern here, allowing the Germans to come face-to-face with the goalkeeper on several occasions.

Prediction: Austria had to be careful of being too aggressive as they already had quite a few players yellow carded. Poland looks to be more superior here but the passion of the Austrian may see them get away with a draw. Score: Austria 1-1 Poland.

Market odds: Austria (+0.95), Poland (-1/4, +0.975) 

Germany – Perhaps the most technical and disciplined team in the competition. Qualified second in the table behind Czech Rep with the highest number of goals in the group. Had one of the tallest players in the competition averaging 1.85m. They had an unbeaten record of 11 wins and four draws against Poland since 1933. However, in their last encounter, they needed a 91st min goal to settle the score of 1-0.

Poland – Poland had made much improvement in recent years and had grown into a formidable force to be reckon with. In the qualifiers, they topped the group which included Portugal and Belgium. Of concern is that their winger Jakub Blaszczykowski and goal keeper Tomas Kuszczak both dropped out 2 days before the opening through injuries.

Prediction – Germany is the overwhelming favourite right now, however, I see an upset may be on the cards. Do not expect Germany to get too many goals past the Poles. Going by their last friendly match as guide, I hazard the guess that we will see the first goalless draw of the tournament. Germany 0-0 Poland.

Market odds: Germany (-1, +0.85), Poland (-0.925)