Group E is one the toughest to call at these finals, probably only second to Spain’s. The main thing is that the four teams, even with their obvious technical difference, play with a similar strategy. Sweden and Ireland with pure counter-attacking teams, Italy are compelled by the events to turn to their old style, while Belgium, out of the big favorites, are definitely the ones who tend to settle back also to protect their weak links.
The butterfly that finally must fly. Belgium might have reached the quarters at the World Cup two years ago, before being eliminated by Argentina, but they actually never really impressed. The thing with the Red Devils is that Marc Wilmots is keeping under control all the emotions, the positive and the negative, which is usually what a great manager does for a great team. In fact, nobody is quite as explosive as this Belgian side in attack, but at the same time their defense can be exposed, and now even more so considering Kompany is out.
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This is the worst national team and the worst generation ever for Italy. Simple as that. But at least a great manger – with expiration date – leading them. On paper, Italy are even risking to qualify, which would be unbelievable in a system where up to 3 teams per group could progress. But in Conte you get a guarantee of never giving up and trying to do the best thing. The next Chelsea manager is famous for his intriguing dynamic game, but what Italy will do pass by his open minded attitude to understand that the squad under him can’t bear the pace he requests, and so for once openly and with no shame Italy should maybe go back to the stereotypical defensive game that they’ve surprisingly played very few times in last 40 years.
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It starts with Zlatan and ends with Ibrahimovic. Sweden is an average national team with an average manager, but Ibra is the factor that can turn ants into monsters. When he decided to help in every possible way his teammates and the skipper, Sweden achieved the best results. They will play very basic, and every ball will be addressed to him and diverted to the best solution. But things for Sweden have changed since Zlatan found a partner like Guidetti that can make the most of his art. And with humility, Sweden can.
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The unmatched enthusiasm of the Irish fans army is the best asset for Eire. In 2012 this wasn’t enough to make a very poor squad perform above their station. But this time around it could create some surprise in a group where actually the gap between themselves, Italy and Sweden isn’t that wide. Long ball, Robbie Keane’s goal instinct, Martin O’Neill fine tactical nous to give intensity to their defense. Will it be enough? If it’s not it then it certainly won’t be through lack of fight or effort. And one thing’s for sure, if someone else fails, Ireland will be there to ready to pounce.
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In terms of quality and especially quality in depth, nobody can really challenge Belgium, but still their winning this groups is very well tipped at 2.00 by William Hill. Very low obviously the odds on Belgium and Italy to qualify, but very decent are those on Sweden at 1.83. Sweden have a player in Zlatan who can guide them through these groups and they are expected to at least finish third. But the best selection in this group, at appealing odds of 9/2, is in fact the the Straight Tricast of Belgium/Italy/Sweden.