egafd.com

!laugh!

I'll do my team once all the squads are finalised,incase of late injuries.Cactus Jack wrote:

> I've just set up my team for the league. How anyone on this
> forum can have a team without a goalkeeper call Quim is beyond
> me.
>
>

Makalele has massive support as everyone at Chelsea defends as a team. I don't think you can compare both philosophies!

Anyway, I hope Holland get through.

went to Germany with school trip two years ago and took in a game. The whole thing was brilliant from start to finish,for that reason I will be cheering on Germany.

Babel out---ligament problems.

I don't think this competition is causing much excitement in the UK. Only good point of no UK teams is Sky and all the other TV companies, sports shops etc. lose out on a chance to rip us off. All that lost sponsorship, advertising, pub sales - what a shame!

very true.I'm amazed that the big supermarkets have'nt sued Steve McClaren for the loss of revenue they are set to encounter,what with no home nations involved.Can't remember the last time a major football tournament had no home nation,if you include the ROI as well.If ROI are not included then it would be the 1994 World Cup in America.

well as someone who works in the bookmaking industry you dont have to tell me that mclaren has caused a loss of trade! I agree with alot of people that the bbc are stupid for hiring him. WHAT A NOB! oh well should be a good tournament anyway.

I'll be rooting for whoever Germany are playing against.

Unfortunately though, I can see the Germans winning the thing (via penalty shoot-outs, of course).

- Eric

Italy..top totty,top wine,top food,sexy language and beautiful countryside,a culture to die for and the most stylish population on earth...no brainer really...

With just hours to go before it all kick's off,here's my take on the participating nations,and how well i think they'll go.I'll do it a group per day to avoid the post becoming long-winded,

Switzerland:In the tournament for only the 2nd time since Euro96,the Swiss could be the surprise of group A.A winning start will be needed and as they're the better of the hosts,a good home support could help them too.
Star Man:Sebastien Frei:His goals and performance will determine the Swiss's lifespan in the tournament.
My verdict:Shock quarter finalists?.

Turkey:The Turk's have produced some good football in past tournaments and possess some decent players,but they are in a tough group,and a tough opening game dawns upon them.
Star Man:Tuncay:The frontman who has replaced Hakan Sukur will carry the hopes of his nation,but one man certainly does'nt make a team.
My verdict:Bottom of group A

Czech Republic:The Czech's have always done well in this tournament and have a ever reliable goalkeeper in Chelsea's Petr Cech.The Czech's have attack in abundance,but will miss their midfield playmaker Thomas Rosiscky through injury.
Star Man:Milan Baros:The golden boot winner of Euro2004 will be out to retain his crown,and is a good favourite to do so.
My verdict:Their survival in Euro2008 could depend on their opening game with Switzerland,and they will just edge through.Quarter finals.

Portugal:They don't call them the 'Brazil of Europe' for nothing,though many cynics dub them Christiano Ronaldo FC.The Portuguese posess a dynamic midfield and can score goals from all over the park.This could well be Scolari's swansong before he moves to pastures new.
Star Man:No,not Ronaldo,Ricardo Quaresma.A pacy midfielder with deadly shotpower,can also play as a second striker.A decent contender for player of the tournament.
My verdict:It will take a VERY good team to stop them.But more heartbreak for the Portuguese i'm afraid as they'll turn out second best,again.Runners up.

Group B will follow tomorrow !thumbsup!