Euro 2012 Qualifying, Group E Preview, Picks: The Calm Before The Sweden, Netherlands Storm

Sweden is the surprise leaders, their eight goals for, none allowed, giving them an edge on the Netherlands. The Dutch are Group E favorites, and although they've equaled Sweden's six points, their goal difference is two worse. Hungary, sitting on three points, is hoping to nip Sweden for second place, and while at one time Finland hoped to do the same, a loss at Moldova on the first match day leaves the Finns in need to an upset to get back into the competition.

• Hungary versus San Marino, 1:00 p.m. Eastern, Friday - San Marino is the minnows' minnow. In two matches this cycle, they've allowed 11 goals while scoring none. This is coming off finishing a World Cup qualifying campaign with a -43 goal difference. San Marino should be the universally used the exemplar when arguing Europe needs a preceding stage of qualifying.
• Moldova versus Netherlands, 2:30 p.m. Eastern, Friday - The only surprises in Bert van Marwijk's team see Nigel de Jong excluded and veteran striker Ruud van Nistelrooy called back in. Neither will matter in Chisinãu, with the Oranje expected to walk. This match's greater value is as preparation for Sweden's Tuesday trip to Amsterdam.