Published 12/2/2011 1:57:11 PM by Shane Barrow from soccermogul

The Euro 2012 draw is complete and there are definitely four compelling groups for next summer's tournament being held in Poland and the Ukraine.  Groups B and D are definitely the most difficult with Group A looking to be the softest of the four.

Group A -
Poland, Greece, Russia, Czech Republic
Should be a wide open group with any of the four capable of getting out of this group lacking the big European powers.

Group B -
Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, Denmark
Ouch!  What a grouping.  Two of the top teams in the world are here with Germany and Holland going head to head.  Denmark are definitely no slouches and have to be shaking their heads at the bad luck of the draw.  No question Portugal has talent, but Cristiano Ronaldo and friends better step up or they'll finish bottom of this group.

Group C -
Spain, Italy, Ireland, Croatia
Spain and Italy are clearly the headliners and should advance from this grouping.  Ireland will be gritty as always and they'll probably be able to grind out a surprising result somewhere in the three matches.  Croatia is a bit of a wildcard, but shouldn't have the guns to trouble Italy or Spain.

Group D -
France, England, Sweden, Ukraine
Another tough group.  France and England would be the logical choices, but Ukraine will have the home crowds behind them.  Look for them to not go quietly.  Also definitely do not overlook a quality Sweden squad.  Could be the upset of the group stages when Sweden goes through over England or France.

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