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Euro 2008 Day Three Preview

By Brian Lofrumento | 8th June 2008

Euro 2008 Day Three Preview  | read this item

Group C is the most widely talked about group of the entire tournament. With three world superpowers in it, at least one will be going home. Romania rounds out the group with an interesting side, composing of former Chelsea and current Fiorentina striker Adrian Mutu.

Romania vs. France
12:00pm EST on ESPN2
This game shouldn’t even be close. France has an entire new crop of youngsters in their squad that should dismantle Romania. The post-Zidane era should be just as successful, as players like Hatem Ben-Arfa and Karim Benzema step up. Veterans like Thierry Henry and Eric Abidal are still around to ensure success. The only real threat Romania poses lies in Adrian Mutu. If Mutu turns up he should have the ability to make it interesting, but I can’t see anything but a French victory.
Look out for: Karim Benzema. The Lyon striker is one of the most sought after players this summer as clubs like Manchester United are lining up for his signature. His first big tournament should result in some goals.

Holland vs. Italy
2:45pm EST on ESPN2

The first of three huge matches in Group C, Italy v Holland promises to be entertaining. Italy come off a fantastic World Cup victory and Holland are trying to get themselves back on track on the international stage. With key injuries to both sides, this match can go either way. Personally, I think the Italians will edge this one, but Holland won’t go down without a fight. Players like Wesley Sneijder and Ruud van Nistelrooy come up with big performances in big games, and with a solid goalkeeper in Edwin van der Sar the Dutch have the ability to do some damage.
Look out for: Andrea Pirlo. The AC Milan midfielder is the maestro for both club and country. Pirlo’s impeccable passing can tear any defense apart, and a defense with no real world-class center back will struggle.


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