WASHINGTON, December 2, 2011 ― The Netherlands, Denmark, Germany and Portugal were drawn in Group B at the Euro 2012 draw today, and the group was immediately dubbed the “Group Of Death.” The Netherlands are ranked No. 2 in the world FIFA rankings, ahead of No. 3 Germany. Portugal is ranked No 7, while Denmark is ranked No. 11. The Netherlands, Germany and holders Spain are leading favorites to win Europe’s top prize.
“It is a difficult draw for us but of course at a tournament like this you have to win all matches to become European champions,” said Netherlands midfielder Wesley Sneijder on UEFA.com.
Fifth-ranked England will play co-hosts Ukraine, Sweden and France in Group D, while Republic of Ireland have a tough time in Group C against Italy, top-ranked Spain and Croatia.
Co-hosts Poland got an easier draw than Ukraine, going up against Greece, Russia and the Czech Republic in Group A.
England’s toughest opponent will be 15th-ranked France. All of England’s games will be in Ukraine, starting with France in Donetsk on 11 June 2012, then Sweden in Kiyiv on 15 June and end against Ukraine back in Donetsk on 19 June. The winner of Group D will play the runner-up from Group C, while the runner-up in Group D will play the runner-up in Group C.
While England beat Sweden recently in a friendly match, the team has never won a competitive games against the Swedes, drawing five and losing two of seven games so far.
Group A: Poland, Greece, Russia, Czech Republic.
Group B: Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Portugal.
Group C: Spain, Italy, Republic of Ireland, Croatia.
Group D: Ukraine, Sweden, France, England.
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