Euro 2012 Fearless Predictions - Day 3

Two days into Euro 2012 and we have our first major upset of the tournament with the Danes taking down the Dutch with a dogged determined defensive effort. I hope everyone likes that little alliteration, I do it for the kids. Let's get to Day 3 with another set of fearless predictions.

Day 3

Spain - Italy

The last two winners of the World Cup begin Day 3 with what should be a titanic battle. While the Spanish enter this tournament without two of their most important international players, Carles Puyol and David Villa, they still are the favorites for the title. With the Dutch sputtering and the Germans squeaking by Portugal by a solitary goal, a strong display against the Italians will solidify Spain as the team to beat.

Spain's success against Italy depends on if they can control the middle of the park with Xavi, Sergio Busquets and Andres Iniesta, yup Spain equals Barcelona sprinkled with Real Madrid and a touch of Chelsea.

For the Italians the question as always is who is going to score the goals? Is it really a wise choice to trust Super Mario not to implode on the world's stage? Regardless we know that the Italians always are a defensive juggernaut that will make life difficult for the opposing team. In this case, the opposition is Spain, so perhaps it might be wise to spring a surprise and attack for the first 30 minutes of the match to grab a quick goal and see if you can catch Spain napping. At the end of the day Spain wins by a solitary goal.

Spain - Italy (2-1)

Ireland - Croatia

While Spain and Italy will draw most of the eyeballs on Sunday, the better game will be between two teams that play an aggressive attacking style of football in Ireland and Croatia. Ireland will be relying on the play of their wingers, Aiden McGeady and James McClean to provide service to their striker Robbie Keane. I would also keep an eye on the form of keeper, Shay Given, because he can steal a point or all three for the Irish.

Croatia will look at their game with Ireland as a big opportunity to gain an early advantage in Group C. With  Luka Modric pulling the strings in the midfield, Croatia should attack the Irish from the onset of the match. Pegging back the Irish will deflate the team and could open the floodgates for the Croats. However, the Irish won't die that easy.

Ireland - Croatia (2-2)

OVERALL RECORD

2-2