Euro 2012, Group Analysis: Group C Is Most Predictable.

Group C might win the title of "Most Predictable Group" for Euro 2012. It contains the world champions, Spain; the resurgent Italy, hot-and-cold Croatia, and the plucky Republic of Ireland. That's also the order in which most will predict the group will finish. Alas, we here at SB Nation Soccer aren't able to throw you any curve balls, placing our bets in much the same manner.

Out before it starts

Republic of Ireland. When the best adjective to describe a national team is "plucky," you know they're over before they've even started. It came down to the wire in Group B, with Ireland nearly losing out to Armenia, and the Boys in Green failing to make much of an impression until their playoff against Estonia, in which they won the first leg 4-0.

Sorry, you're just missing out

Croatia really are a great side, but their inconsistency forces us to tip them for third-place finishers. They demolished Turkey in the playoffs for the group stages, yet managed to lose to a Greek side that never seems to want to score. Put them in Group A, and they're through to the knockout round. Unfortunately, I don't think we get to make those sorts of changes.

Advancing to the Knockout Stage are...

Italy and Spain. Do you even need reasoning? Spain are Spain. Let's face it, if they don't make it to the finals, it's probably due to a new strain of plague that starts on the shores of Valencia or something. As for Italy, they might not be a spectacular squad, but they're certainly a strong one. Provided they work out their issues with finding another forward (Pablo Osvaldo is not a good long-term solution), this will be a stroll in the piazza for the azzurri.

Player to watch

Mario Balotelli. Not only is the Italian on the verge of becoming world-class, but every match in which he plays practically guarantees some sort of spectacle. Personally, I'm rooting for another boot to Shay Given's abdomen, followed by SuperMario poking the Irishman in the stomach to see if it hurts.

Must-watch fixture

Fans of Italy will be intrigued by the Prandelli - Trapattoni matchup when Italy and Ireland play, but the one to watch will be Spain - Italy, played on June 10. We really wish we could be more prosaic in our recommendations, but, geez, the match between the big two will be the most important in the group. But, hey, at least this isn't Group A, and we can heartily recommend tuning in for almost every match in Group C.