World News
Guide to Euro 2008 Group D
Spain are again rated among the tournament favourites and their group draw should offer hope they can finally shake off their underachievers' tag.
Luis Aragones' side have been as high as fourth in the world rankings this year and, on paper, they boast a squad much more capable than that of reigning champions Greece, Russia and Sweden.With the outstanding Cesc Fabregas and Fernando Torres among their talented number, expectations will naturally be high and progress to the last eight will be a minimum requirement.
Their presence in the group makes Greece's title defence a difficult one but, after missing out on the last World Cup, Otto Rehhagel's men returned to form in qualifying for this event.
The Greeks suffered just one defeat on their road to Austria and Switzerland, that being against the group runners-up and Aegean rivals Turkey - a loss which was later avenged.
They are certainly capable of proving a thorn in Spain's side and would clearly like to prey on the old insecurities that traditionally seem to affect the Iberian nation when the pressure is on.
Having upset England, Russia - coached by the indefatigable and vastly experienced Guus Hiddink - can also throw a spanner in the works.
The Russian squad may not be full of household names but in Dutchman Hiddink they have a leader who has shone on the biggest stage with South Korea and Australia.
Eclipsing England was no mean feat and the confidence gained from that suggests Russia are very much a side on the up.
Sweden came through the same qualifying group as Spain, so will travel with good first-hand experience of their chief rivals.
But Lars Lagerback's men were beaten 3-0 in Madrid and have much ground to make up to challenge.
Their qualifying campaign was also an uneven one, with difficult moments also coming against Denmark and Northern Ireland.
Spain overcame a difficult start and early calls for Aragones' head with a strong run and should be the group's form team.
Key game: Greece v Russia, Saturday June 14. With Spain clear favourites to take the group, the Salzburg clash between the next two fancied teams could be crucial to the make-up of the last eight.
Player to watch: Fernando Torres. If the effects on an outstanding first Premier League season with Liverpool are not too debilitating, the former Atletico Madrid star could set the event alight.
Prediction: Spain to take group with Hiddink's magic working again to carry Russia to the quarter-finals.
Copyright (c) 2008 Press Association
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