Euro 2012 Draw

First a quick recap of the groups for Euro 2012 along with the respective teams’ outright odds

Group A
Poland 66/1 Betfred
Greece 70/1 Boylesports
Russia 22/1 Boylesports
Czech Republic 66/1 Skybet

Verdict: The group of life, Russia are 6/4 (Coral) to win the group but all four teams will fancy their chances.

Group B
Netherlands 8/1 Boylesports
Denmark 125/1 Victor Chandler
Germany 7/2 Skybet
Portugal 20/1 Bet365

Verdict: Will be called the group of death. Germany and the Netherlands will be cursing, but it could have been worse; they don’t meet until the second round of fixtures and might have their campaigns up and running by then.

Group C
Spain 5/2 Skybet
Italy 16/1 Paddy Power
Rep. of Ireland 100/1 Victor Chandler
Croatia 50/1 Blue Square

Verdict: Giovanni Trapattoni will relish playing against his home nation and that might be the highlight in an incredibly tough group. With Spain playing Italy in the opening round of fixtures, they could take points off each other and open up the group for one of the underdogs. Croatia don’t play Spain until last, by then a draw might suit both teams.

Group D
Ukraine 40/1 Bet365
Sweden 80/1 Bet365
France 14/1 Boylesports
England 10/1 Stan James

Verdict: France and England will be the paper favourites but the Ukraine have the benefit of home advantage. Unlikely to be as straightforward as the betting suggests.

Outright Betting Moves
The bookmakers think England have enjoyed a good draw, cutting Capello’s team to 10/1 (Stan James) from 14s. Russia have the kindest draw and are 22/1 (Sportingbet) from 28/1.

The Netherlands have drawn rivals Germany in a difficult group and have drifted out to 8/1 (Boylesports) from 11/2. Spain remain steady as 5/2 (Skybet) favourites.