Euro 2012: Germany to win, United players to be protagonist

Spain are missing key men upfront and Germany look a real force ahead of Euro 2012 tournament. Ethan Rowe, Tips-Free-Bets.com tipster, explains why you shouldn't put your money elsewhere.

All the attention is currently on Euro 2012. After the group stage at Tips-Free-Bets.com we have analysed the form of key players that have still in the tournament to try to understand earlier than bookmakers which side will triumph the 1st July in Kiev. If you expect yet another Spanish victory than you may be disappointed as this tournament may be more of an end of season siesta for the reigning champions.

Vincente Del Bosque's squad are currently favourite to successfully defend the title they won 4 years ago. We disagree with bookmakers and our suggestion is to put your money elsewhere. With a few exceptions, such as Juan Mata, Torres and Soldado, the bulk of Spain's squad is made of players from Barcelona and Real Madrid. Both teams have been battling on a multitude of fronts this season and main personnel have been involved in around 60 official games since last August. They struggled in the group stage and just managed to progress but in the knock out stage it could be a very different story indeed.

Patrice Evra's France have what it takes to beat them and progress to the semi-finals. Although Laurent Blanc's lost their last group game against Sweden they came into this tournament with an unbeaten run that extended to 21 matches. Compared with the last World Cup they are a rejuvenated team that can also count on few elements like Evra who have the necessary experience to bring the squad forward in difficult moments. The current United captain has waned considerably but he still provides defensive solidity and he is still able to unlocking opposition defences with run and crosses.

Even if French's defence has been suspicious in recent games they should be able to contain a Spanish side who will probably play without a striker.

Del Bosque's have a series of selection issues that will be keeping him awake at night: the absence of Spain's all-time goalscorer David Villa who broke his leg back in December is having a massive impact on the squad that have struggle to score in the two most challenging group stage encounters. The coach also made a huge mistake by not inviting to the party Roberto Soldado who has had a fantastic season in Valencia scoring 24 times this season.

So even with injuries Spain still remain a threatening team but the reason why I think they will fail is that they are tired and key players have already won everything and the feeling is that they will rather be on holiday than play yet another tournament.

Meanwhile, second favourites Germany look a real value to me at 4.30. They already looked a real force in South Africa and since than they have only grown in experience and quality.

England will probably face Germany in the semi-finals if they will be able to beat the Azzurri. Roy Hodgson can count on some key United players to get the job done. Ashley Young hasn't been used too much so far yet with the return of Rooney he will be able to provide some extra width on the flanks. If he will perform like he has done in the first half of the Premier League season, than he can play a pivotal role in the Three Lions' success. Many are saying that this could be Danny Welbeck tournament and I cannot agree more: the goal he has scored against Sweden was top class and with the return of Rooney in the mix, he will find his right partner. This will give him even more opportunities to shine. Wayne Rooney scored immediately and this will improve his confidence. There is not doubt that if England wants to have a chance to win this tournament than their talisman has to be in top form. Rooney is matured enough to win a major international title and will help England all the way through. My suggestion is to back Rooney to be England tournament goalscorer at 7/4.

A team that we shouldn't underestimate is Portugal: they survived in style from the 'Group of Death' and they have quality players like Nani who are improving game after game.

At Tips-Free-Bets.com we will be providing the best football betting tips on any every Euro 2012 quarter-finals match. We also have a close relationship with top bookmakers and we are able to negotiate exclusive free bets and money back promotions so make sure you visit us daily during the tournament.

written by tfbets.co.uk