Euro 2012: Spain Will Win

There is no doubt that Spain is the favourite. On FIFA world rankings, they are rated number 1. In this tournament, they are one of the most steady teams, winning all their matches in full time (except the match against Portugal, where the won the penalties 4-2 after drawing 0-0 after extra time). In terms of club football, they have 2 of the most glamorous and reliable clubs in Real Madrid and Barcelona. They were the previous winner in Austria-Switzerland (2008), beating Germany 1-0, and the World Cup winner in South Africa (2010), beating the Netherlands 1-0. Most of the first team players are team-mates themselves, so teamwork shouldn't be a problem.

 

Most likely, the only problems are over-confidence and complacency. Italy is very good at capitalizing on these weaknesses, especially with Mario Balotelli in a high-spirit after netting 2 goals against Germany.

Another interesting prediction is whether Fernando Torres, Cesc Fabregas, Xabi Alonso or Mario Balotelli is able to snatch the Golden Boot from the other Mario Gomez of Germany. The Spaniards are currently at 2 goals each and Balotelli at 3 goals, and it would be a great finals if any one of them won. This would mean the match would not be a dull one, and worth staying up for.

My pick: Spain to win

Score: 2-0

* amended on 3 July 2012