Oleh Blokhin - Coach profile
Date of birth: 5 November 1952 Nationality: Ukrainian Playing career: FC Dynamo Kyiv, SK Vorwärts Steyr, Aris Limassol FC Coaching career: Olympiacos FC, PAOK FC (twice), Ionikos FC (twice), AEK Athens FC, Ukraine (twice), FC Moskva
• Blokhin rose through Dynamo's youth ranks to win seven Soviet titles and five USSR Cups, as well as lifting the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup in 1975 and 1986 and the UEFA Super Cup in 1975. A fearsome forward, he scored 211 goals in 432 Soviet league appearances, both competition records.
• Spent his final seasons in Austria at Vorwärts Steyr and Aris Limassol in Cyprus, staying a year at each before retiring in 1990.
• Record holder of caps (112) and goals (42) for the Soviet national team, Blokhin won a bronze medal at the 1972 and 1976 Olympic Games and also participated in the 1982 and 1986 FIFA World Cups. In 1975, his role in Dynamo's UEFA Cup Winners' Cup triumph and three goals against FC Bayern München in the two-legged UEFA Super Cup helped him win the Ballon d'Or.
• Started his coaching career in 1990 with Olympiacos, spending three years with the club – winning two Greek Cups – and also having spells at PAOK, Ionikos and AEK. Took charge of Ukraine in September 2003, guiding the team to the quarter-finals of the 2006 FIFA World Cup, where they lost to eventual champions Italy.
• Stepped down after missing out on UEFA EURO 2008 but was reappointed in April 2011 after spells at Moskva and FC Chornomorets Odesa, the latter as sporting director.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Euro 2012: Ukraine team profile
Coach: Oleh Blokhin
Leading scorer: all time – Andriy Shevchenko (46); current – Andriy Shevchenko (46)
Most appearances: all time – Anatoliy Tymoshchuk (113); current – Anatoliy Tymoshchuk (113)
Association formed: 1992
Nickname: Synyo-Zhovti (Blue and yellows)
Having reached the 2006 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals in their only previous major tournament appearance since independence in 1991, the co-hosts are eager to go even further at UEFA EURO 2012. According to Oleh Blokhin, back in charge after a turbulent couple of years in which three coaches came and went, the minimum target is advancing from Group D. The tournament is likely to mark the curtain call for Andriy Shevchenko, Anatoliy Tymoshchuk and Olexandr Shovkovskiy; for the likes of Yaroslav Rakitskiy, Andriy Yarmolenko and Yevhen Konoplyanka it could be just the start.
Myron Markevych guided Ukraine to three wins and a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands before relinquishing the reins to focus on responsibilities at FC Metalist Kharkiv in August 2010. Yuriy Kalitvintsev managed one victory in eight games as a caretaker coach before making way for Blokhin in April. After initial success Ukraine suffered a national record four successive losses.
Andriy Shevchenko became the first Ukrainian player to reach 100 caps on 8 October 2010, in a draw with Canada. Three days later, against Brazil, Anatoliy Tymoshchuk became the second. "Our job is to win EURO but we should remember that there are at least ten other very strong contenders. Apart from Brazil and Argentina, the strongest national teams in world football are all in Europe, so we should first focus on qualifying from the group," said Blokhin.
Ukraine was always a prolific resource for the Soviet Union team that won the inaugural UEFA European Championship in 1960 and then finished runners-up three times: losing to Spain in 1964, West Germany in 1972 and then in 1988, going down 2-0 to the Netherlands.
That 1988 side, who had defeated the Oranje 1-0 in the group stage a fortnight earlier, were known as 'Dynamo Kyiv in disguise' after Valeriy Lobanovskiy raided his club for 11 players, eight of which played in the final.
Ukraine have never qualified as an independent nation, but came within 12 minutes of reaching UEFA EURO 2000. Denied an automatic spot after a last-day draw in Russia, they were heading through on away goals in the play-offs before Miran Pavlin struck to earn Slovenia a 3-2 aggregate win.
Leading scorer: all time – Andriy Shevchenko (46); current – Andriy Shevchenko (46)
Most appearances: all time – Anatoliy Tymoshchuk (113); current – Anatoliy Tymoshchuk (113)
Association formed: 1992
Nickname: Synyo-Zhovti (Blue and yellows)
Having reached the 2006 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals in their only previous major tournament appearance since independence in 1991, the co-hosts are eager to go even further at UEFA EURO 2012. According to Oleh Blokhin, back in charge after a turbulent couple of years in which three coaches came and went, the minimum target is advancing from Group D. The tournament is likely to mark the curtain call for Andriy Shevchenko, Anatoliy Tymoshchuk and Olexandr Shovkovskiy; for the likes of Yaroslav Rakitskiy, Andriy Yarmolenko and Yevhen Konoplyanka it could be just the start.
Myron Markevych guided Ukraine to three wins and a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands before relinquishing the reins to focus on responsibilities at FC Metalist Kharkiv in August 2010. Yuriy Kalitvintsev managed one victory in eight games as a caretaker coach before making way for Blokhin in April. After initial success Ukraine suffered a national record four successive losses.
Andriy Shevchenko became the first Ukrainian player to reach 100 caps on 8 October 2010, in a draw with Canada. Three days later, against Brazil, Anatoliy Tymoshchuk became the second. "Our job is to win EURO but we should remember that there are at least ten other very strong contenders. Apart from Brazil and Argentina, the strongest national teams in world football are all in Europe, so we should first focus on qualifying from the group," said Blokhin.
Ukraine was always a prolific resource for the Soviet Union team that won the inaugural UEFA European Championship in 1960 and then finished runners-up three times: losing to Spain in 1964, West Germany in 1972 and then in 1988, going down 2-0 to the Netherlands.
That 1988 side, who had defeated the Oranje 1-0 in the group stage a fortnight earlier, were known as 'Dynamo Kyiv in disguise' after Valeriy Lobanovskiy raided his club for 11 players, eight of which played in the final.
Ukraine have never qualified as an independent nation, but came within 12 minutes of reaching UEFA EURO 2000. Denied an automatic spot after a last-day draw in Russia, they were heading through on away goals in the play-offs before Miran Pavlin struck to earn Slovenia a 3-2 aggregate win.
Euro 2012: Sweden coach profile
Erik Hamrén - Coach profile
Date of birth: 27 June 1957 Nationality: Swedish Playing career: Ljusdals IF, Stockviks FF Coaching career: Njurunda IK, IFK Sundsvall, Bro IK, Enköpings SK, Väsby IK, IF Brommapojkarna, Vasalunds IF, Degerfors IF, AIK Solna, Örgryte IS, Aalborg BK, Rosenborg BK, Sweden
• Played the game only until his late teens. Began coaching at junior level before taking on his first senior posts with Swedish second-tier clubs Väsby, Brommapojkarna and Vasalund.
• Joined Allsvenskan outfit Degerfors in 1994 and moved on a year later to AIK. Guided Stockholm club to three successive Swedish Cup finals, losing the first one, in 1995, and winning the next two.
• Won cup for a third time in 2000 with his next club Örgryte after two-legged final victory against AIK. Remained for six seasons before moving abroad in January 2004 to coach Danish club AaB.
• Led AaB to 2007/08 Danish Superliga title – only the third championship in club's history – but announced mid-season he would be leaving at the end of the campaign for Rosenborg. Masterminded runaway Tippeligaen title success in his first full season.
• Replaced long-serving Sweden coach Lars Lagerbäck in November 2009, remaining with Rosenborg until the start of UEFA EURO 2012 qualification in September 2010. Proved an immediate success in his new role, guiding Sweden to the finals thanks to a defeat of the Netherlands on the last day of qualifying.
Euro 2012: Sweden team profile
Coach: Erik Hamrén
Leading scorer: all time – Sven Rydell (49); current – Zlatan Ibrahimoviš (28)
Most appearances: all time – Thomas Ravelli (143); current – Anders Svensson (123)
Association formed: 1904
Nickname: Blågult (Blue and yellows)
After missing out on the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Sweden have made a good start to re-establishing themselves as major event regulars after qualifying as best runners-up. Under Tommy Söderberg and Lars Lagerbäck, the Blågult graced five consecutive final tournaments between UEFA EURO 2000 and UEFA EURO 2008, when losses to Spain and Russia consigned them to third in Group D. Appointed in 2009, Erik Hamrén has ushered in a host of bright young things, and they helped book Sweden's place in Poland and Ukraine as the qualifying competition's best runners-up.
Leading scorer: Zlatan Ibrahimoviš (5) Ever-presents: Mikael Lustig, Sebastian Larsson, Kim Källström, Johan Elmander (10)
Sweden secured their finals place after a superb 3-2 victory against Group E winners the Netherlands in their final qualifier – the Oranje had won nine out of nine going into the tie. That proved a fitting farewell in Sweden's last competitive game at Solna's Råsundastadion as the venue, opened in 1937, will be torn down next year. A new national arena is in construction.
Right-back Mikael Lustig, 24, played every minute of Sweden's qualifying campaign and was one of 14 players to register for Erik Hamrén's side en route to Poland and Ukraine.
"I feel enormous joy and enormous pride; it was a fantastic team effort," said Hamrén after Sweden clinched their finals place by inflicting a first defeat on the Netherlands. "I went to bed around four, and then my eyes were still wide open. Finally I started to reply to my text messages. I think I'd received 82 and I don't know what the time was when I sent off my last one, but finally I fell asleep."
Sweden reached the semi-finals on home turf in 1992, beating England and Denmark after an opening-day draw with France. However, with Stefan Schwarz suspended and Jonas Thern playing through injury, they were overwhelmed by Germany in Solna even if a last-minute effort made it 3-2.
It was not until 2000 – at the ninth time of asking after not entering the inaugural event – that they successfully negotiated qualifying to reach the final tournament. They have been finals ever-presents since.
Sweden exited UEFA EURO 2004 unbeaten. They kicked off with a 5-0 victory over Bulgaria and fought back to draw against Italy – courtesy of a Zlatan Ibrahimoviš back-heel – and Denmark, before losing 5-4 on penalties to the Netherlands in the quarter-finals after a goalless draw.
Leading scorer: all time – Sven Rydell (49); current – Zlatan Ibrahimoviš (28)
Most appearances: all time – Thomas Ravelli (143); current – Anders Svensson (123)
Association formed: 1904
Nickname: Blågult (Blue and yellows)
After missing out on the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Sweden have made a good start to re-establishing themselves as major event regulars after qualifying as best runners-up. Under Tommy Söderberg and Lars Lagerbäck, the Blågult graced five consecutive final tournaments between UEFA EURO 2000 and UEFA EURO 2008, when losses to Spain and Russia consigned them to third in Group D. Appointed in 2009, Erik Hamrén has ushered in a host of bright young things, and they helped book Sweden's place in Poland and Ukraine as the qualifying competition's best runners-up.
Leading scorer: Zlatan Ibrahimoviš (5) Ever-presents: Mikael Lustig, Sebastian Larsson, Kim Källström, Johan Elmander (10)
Sweden secured their finals place after a superb 3-2 victory against Group E winners the Netherlands in their final qualifier – the Oranje had won nine out of nine going into the tie. That proved a fitting farewell in Sweden's last competitive game at Solna's Råsundastadion as the venue, opened in 1937, will be torn down next year. A new national arena is in construction.
Right-back Mikael Lustig, 24, played every minute of Sweden's qualifying campaign and was one of 14 players to register for Erik Hamrén's side en route to Poland and Ukraine.
"I feel enormous joy and enormous pride; it was a fantastic team effort," said Hamrén after Sweden clinched their finals place by inflicting a first defeat on the Netherlands. "I went to bed around four, and then my eyes were still wide open. Finally I started to reply to my text messages. I think I'd received 82 and I don't know what the time was when I sent off my last one, but finally I fell asleep."
Sweden reached the semi-finals on home turf in 1992, beating England and Denmark after an opening-day draw with France. However, with Stefan Schwarz suspended and Jonas Thern playing through injury, they were overwhelmed by Germany in Solna even if a last-minute effort made it 3-2.
It was not until 2000 – at the ninth time of asking after not entering the inaugural event – that they successfully negotiated qualifying to reach the final tournament. They have been finals ever-presents since.
Sweden exited UEFA EURO 2004 unbeaten. They kicked off with a 5-0 victory over Bulgaria and fought back to draw against Italy – courtesy of a Zlatan Ibrahimoviš back-heel – and Denmark, before losing 5-4 on penalties to the Netherlands in the quarter-finals after a goalless draw.
Euro 2012: Spain team profile
Vicente del Bosque - Coach profile
Date of birth: 23 December 1950 Nationality: Spanish Playing career: Real Madrid Castilla, Córdoba CF, CD Castellón, Real Madrid CF Coaching career: Real Madrid Castilla, Real Madrid CF, Beşiktaş JK, Spain
• Came up through the youth ranks at Real Madrid and became an important member of the team as a defensive midfielder during the 1970s, winning five league titles in six seasons and four Spanish Cups.
• Capped 18 times, Del Bosque ended his Spain career at the 1980 UEFA European Championship in Italy – his only major tournament as a player. Also appeared for Madrid in the 1981 European Champion Clubs' Cup final against Liverpool FC.
• Joined Madrid's coaching staff shortly after stopping playing in 1984 and spent many years in youth development, stepping up in 1994 and 1996 as the first team's interim coach.
• Given the job full time in November 1999, he won seven trophies including two UEFA Champions League triumphs and two Spanish titles. Left in 2003 and resurfaced briefly in Turkey with Beşiktaş.
• Succeeded Luis Aragonés as Spain coach in July 2008. Set a new global record by winning his opening 13 matches and steered the European champions to the 2010 FIFA World Cup with a perfect qualifying record. Went on to guide Spain to a first world title in South Africa with a final victory against the Netherlands and subsequently took team to UEFA EURO 2012 with wins in all eight qualifiers.
Euro 2012: Spain team profile
Coach: Vicente del Bosque
Leading scorer: all time – David Villa (51); current – David Villa (51)
Most appearances: all time –Iker Casillas (127); current – Iker Casillas (127)
Nickname: La Roja (The Reds)
As reigning world and European champions, Spain will be the team to beat once more in Poland and Ukraine. After ending a 44-year wait for a major trophy with their UEFA EURO 2008 triumph under Luis Aragonés, the Spanish have kept up the winning habit under Vicente del Bosque. They posted ten straight victories in 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying, then recovered from a slow start in South Africa to reach the final where Andrés Iniesta hit the extra-time winner against the Netherlands. There has been no let-up since with eight wins in a row to reach next summer’s showpiece.
Leading scorer: David Villa (7) Ever-presents: Sergio Ramos, David Villa (8)
Spain put high-profile friendly losses to Argentina (4-1) and Portugal (4-0) behind them to become only the fifth team to complete a EURO qualifying campaign with a perfect record.
The first of David Villa's two goals against the Czech Republic in Granada on 25 March 2011 enabled him to overtake Raúl González as his country's all-time leading marksman. He ended the campaign as the first Spaniard to reach 50 international goals.
Xavi Hernández became the fourth Spanish international to have won a century of caps in that Czech game, while goalkeeper Iker Casillas surpassed FC Barcelona goalkeeper Andoni Zubizarreta's all-time mark during last month's friendly internationals, equalling the record with his 126th cap in the friendly against England on 12 November and surpassing it against Costa Rica four days later. "Nobody has ever won a sequence of EURO, World Cup, EURO," said coach Del Bosque. "That's the huge goal we have ahead of us, now let's see if we can pull it off."
Spain's long wait for silverware came to an end in Vienna in 2008 as Aragonés's side defeated Germany 1-0 to deservedly win a competition they had taken by storm. Fernando Torres provided the decisive blow in the final, shooting beyond Jens Lehmann in the 33rd minute.
Prior to that tournament, Spain had failed to even reach a semi-final since claiming their first major prize on home soil in Madrid in 1964. They won that year's final 2-1 against the Soviet Union at the Santiago Bernabéu. Marcelino Martínez headed a memorable winner six minutes from time after Galimzian Khusainov had quickly cancelled out Jesús Pereda's sixth-minute opener.
Up until the end of UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying, Spain had been involved in the most fixtures by a single country in the competition with 135 matches played since their 4-2 away win against Poland in the last 16 of the 1960 UEFA European Championship on 28 June 1959.
Leading scorer: all time – David Villa (51); current – David Villa (51)
Most appearances: all time –Iker Casillas (127); current – Iker Casillas (127)
Nickname: La Roja (The Reds)
As reigning world and European champions, Spain will be the team to beat once more in Poland and Ukraine. After ending a 44-year wait for a major trophy with their UEFA EURO 2008 triumph under Luis Aragonés, the Spanish have kept up the winning habit under Vicente del Bosque. They posted ten straight victories in 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying, then recovered from a slow start in South Africa to reach the final where Andrés Iniesta hit the extra-time winner against the Netherlands. There has been no let-up since with eight wins in a row to reach next summer’s showpiece.
Leading scorer: David Villa (7) Ever-presents: Sergio Ramos, David Villa (8)
Spain put high-profile friendly losses to Argentina (4-1) and Portugal (4-0) behind them to become only the fifth team to complete a EURO qualifying campaign with a perfect record.
The first of David Villa's two goals against the Czech Republic in Granada on 25 March 2011 enabled him to overtake Raúl González as his country's all-time leading marksman. He ended the campaign as the first Spaniard to reach 50 international goals.
Xavi Hernández became the fourth Spanish international to have won a century of caps in that Czech game, while goalkeeper Iker Casillas surpassed FC Barcelona goalkeeper Andoni Zubizarreta's all-time mark during last month's friendly internationals, equalling the record with his 126th cap in the friendly against England on 12 November and surpassing it against Costa Rica four days later. "Nobody has ever won a sequence of EURO, World Cup, EURO," said coach Del Bosque. "That's the huge goal we have ahead of us, now let's see if we can pull it off."
Spain's long wait for silverware came to an end in Vienna in 2008 as Aragonés's side defeated Germany 1-0 to deservedly win a competition they had taken by storm. Fernando Torres provided the decisive blow in the final, shooting beyond Jens Lehmann in the 33rd minute.
Prior to that tournament, Spain had failed to even reach a semi-final since claiming their first major prize on home soil in Madrid in 1964. They won that year's final 2-1 against the Soviet Union at the Santiago Bernabéu. Marcelino Martínez headed a memorable winner six minutes from time after Galimzian Khusainov had quickly cancelled out Jesús Pereda's sixth-minute opener.
Up until the end of UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying, Spain had been involved in the most fixtures by a single country in the competition with 135 matches played since their 4-2 away win against Poland in the last 16 of the 1960 UEFA European Championship on 28 June 1959.
Euro 2012: Russia coach profile
Dick Advocaat - Coach profile
Date of birth: 27 September 1947 Nationality: Dutch Playing career: ADO Den Haag (twice), Roda JC, VVV Venlo, Chicago Sting, Sparta Rotterdam, K. Berchem Sport, FC Utrecht Coaching career: DSVP, HFC Haarlem, FC Dordrecht, Netherlands (twice), PSV Eindhoven, Rangers FC, VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach, United Arab Emirates, Korea Republic, FC Zenit St Petersburg, AZ Alkmaar, Belgium, Russia
• A combative midfielder, Advocaat's playing career lasted 18 years and included three seasons in the North American Soccer League with Chicago Sting.
• Twice served as assistant coach to Rinus Michels with the Dutch national team, where he earned the nickname Little General. Then took charge himself and led the Oranje to the 1994 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals in the United States.
• Won the Dutch Cup and Eredivisie with PSV (1995-98) before moving to Scotland and picking up domestic treble in the first of four seasons with Rangers.
• Then opted for a second spell with the Netherlands and led team to UEFA EURO 2004 semi-finals. Two years later he was in charge of South Korea at the World Cup finals.
• Returned to club football with Zenit, winning the Russian title in 2007 and the UEFA Cup – where he defeated former club Rangers – and UEFA Super Cup a year later. Left in August 2009, becoming Belgium coach two months later before agreeing to coach AZ Alkmaar for the rest of the season. Took charge of Russia in May 2010, clinching a place at UEFA EURO 2012 with a 6-0 defeat of Andorra on the final day of qualifying.
Euro 2012: Russia team profile
Coach: Dick Advocaat
Leading scorer: all time – Vladimir Beschastnykh (26); current – Roman Pavlyuchenko (20)
Most appearances: all time – Viktor Onopko (109); current – Sergei Ignashevich (71)
Association formed: 1912
Nickname: None
Semi-finalists in 2008, Russia approach UEFA EURO 2012 confident after topping a major tournament qualifying group for the first time in five attempts. That ensured no repeat of two years ago, when Slovenia claimed a surprise away-goals triumph in the FIFA World Cup play-offs.
Unbeaten on their travels this time round, Dick Advocaat's side conceded four goals in ten qualifiers. It was their attack that illuminated UEFA EURO 2008, namely Andrey Arshavin. Suspended for the first two games, he returned to inspire them out of their group and then past the Netherlands. It took Spain to halt him.
Leading scorers: Alan Dzagoev, Roman Pavlyuchenko (4) Ever-presents: Vasili Berezutski, Andrey Arshavin (10) Dick Advocaat's side made a slow start to qualifying, following a sluggish victory over Andorra with a 1-0 home loss to Slovakia.
They steadily improved, sealing progress with a final-day win. Sergei Ignashevich's goal in the 6-0 win against Andorra that clinched the group on 11 October was the 50th of his professional career. He is the most prolific defender in Russian football history.
Russia's success emanated from a strong base as they conceded four times in ten qualifiers – only Italy shipped fewer – while three crucial deflected goals all ultimately earned victories.
"We took part in a difficult ten-match competition and deservedly won it," said Dutchman Advocaat. "I hope any criticisms towards the national team will die down now."
As part of the Soviet Union, Russia helped win the inaugural competition in 1960, as a side containing FC Dinamo Moskva goalkeeper Lev Yashin and FC Spartak Moskva's Igor Netto beat Yugoslavia 2-1 in the final; striker Viktor Ponedelnik scored the extra-time winner.
The USSR were runners-up to Spain in 1964, lost the 1972 final to West Germany and suffered more showpiece woe in 1988 as a Ukrainian-accented team went down 2-0 to the Netherlands.
Since playing under the banner of the CIS (Confederation of Independent States) in 1992, Russia have struggled to repeat past glories. They earned one win in nine finals games in 1992, 1996 and 2004, failing to qualify in 2000, before a welcome return to the business end in Austria and Switzerland where they reached the semi-finals.
Leading scorer: all time – Vladimir Beschastnykh (26); current – Roman Pavlyuchenko (20)
Most appearances: all time – Viktor Onopko (109); current – Sergei Ignashevich (71)
Association formed: 1912
Nickname: None
Semi-finalists in 2008, Russia approach UEFA EURO 2012 confident after topping a major tournament qualifying group for the first time in five attempts. That ensured no repeat of two years ago, when Slovenia claimed a surprise away-goals triumph in the FIFA World Cup play-offs.
Unbeaten on their travels this time round, Dick Advocaat's side conceded four goals in ten qualifiers. It was their attack that illuminated UEFA EURO 2008, namely Andrey Arshavin. Suspended for the first two games, he returned to inspire them out of their group and then past the Netherlands. It took Spain to halt him.
Leading scorers: Alan Dzagoev, Roman Pavlyuchenko (4) Ever-presents: Vasili Berezutski, Andrey Arshavin (10) Dick Advocaat's side made a slow start to qualifying, following a sluggish victory over Andorra with a 1-0 home loss to Slovakia.
They steadily improved, sealing progress with a final-day win. Sergei Ignashevich's goal in the 6-0 win against Andorra that clinched the group on 11 October was the 50th of his professional career. He is the most prolific defender in Russian football history.
Russia's success emanated from a strong base as they conceded four times in ten qualifiers – only Italy shipped fewer – while three crucial deflected goals all ultimately earned victories.
"We took part in a difficult ten-match competition and deservedly won it," said Dutchman Advocaat. "I hope any criticisms towards the national team will die down now."
As part of the Soviet Union, Russia helped win the inaugural competition in 1960, as a side containing FC Dinamo Moskva goalkeeper Lev Yashin and FC Spartak Moskva's Igor Netto beat Yugoslavia 2-1 in the final; striker Viktor Ponedelnik scored the extra-time winner.
The USSR were runners-up to Spain in 1964, lost the 1972 final to West Germany and suffered more showpiece woe in 1988 as a Ukrainian-accented team went down 2-0 to the Netherlands.
Since playing under the banner of the CIS (Confederation of Independent States) in 1992, Russia have struggled to repeat past glories. They earned one win in nine finals games in 1992, 1996 and 2004, failing to qualify in 2000, before a welcome return to the business end in Austria and Switzerland where they reached the semi-finals.
Euro 2012: Ireland team profile
Giovanni Trapattoni - Coach profile
Date of birth: 17 March 1939 Nationality: Italian Playing career: AC Milan, AS Varese Coaching career: AC Milan, Juventus (twice), FC Internazionale Milano, FC Bayern München (twice), Cagliari Calcio, ACF Fiorentina, Italy, SL Benfica, VfB Stuttgart, FC Salzburg, Republic of Ireland
• Capped 17 times by Italy, Trapattoni spent the majority of his club career as a defender and ball-winning midfielder with Milan, winning seven major trophies including two European Champion Clubs' Cups.
• Started coaching with Milan but established himself as one of Italy's greatest ever 'allenatori' during ten-year spell with Juventus, which yielded victories in all three major European club competitions – an unprecedented achievement – and six Serie A titles.
• Decamped to Inter in 1986 and led the Nerazzurri to long-awaited Scudetto triumph in 1988/89 as well as the UEFA Cup, a trophy he won again during a second spell at Juve from 1991 to 1994.
• Moved abroad and won national titles with Bayern, Benfica and Salzburg, becoming the first coach since Ernst Happel to win league championships in four different countries. No success, however, with the Italian national team after unexpected early exits at 2002 FIFA World Cup and UEFA EURO 2004.
• Returned to international management with Ireland in 2008; led the team undefeated through 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying group – including two draws against Italy – before suffering play-off defeat by France. Reached the play-offs again for UEFA EURO 2012 but this time there was a happy ending as Estonia were defeated 5-1 as Ireland qualified for the first time since 1988.
Euro 2012: Ireland team profile
Coach: Giovanni Trapattoni
Leading scorer: all time – Robbie Keane (53); current – Robbie Keane (53)
Most appearances: all time – Shay Given (120); current – Shay Given (120)
Association formed: 1921
Nickname: The Boys in Green
When Giovanni Trapattoni took the reins in summer 2008, he assumed control of a side that had not graced a UEFA European Championship in two decades. Their UEFA EURO 2008 qualifying campaign had brought just four wins in 12 outings – including two against San Marino – as Ireland finished well adrift of the Czech Republic and Germany; 'Trap' made an instant impression. He took Ireland to the brink of the 2010 FIFA World Cup before William Gallas's extra-time goal sent France through at their expense. After finishing behind Russia, a 4-0 first-leg victory over Estonia ensured there was no play-off woe this time.
Ireland suffered only one defeat – a 3-2 loss to eventual section winners Russia in their third qualifier – and performed consistently throughout, also picking up some creditable friendly results including a 2-0 win against Trapattoni's native Italy in June.
Shay Given and Robbie Keane both enjoyed campaigns to remember, the former – Ireland's most-capped player – making his 120th international appearance in the play-off second leg against Estonia while Keane's double in the Tallinn opener took him on to 53 goals for his country. The striker had brought up his half-century in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia with another two goals on 4 June.
Trapattoni's side also established a new national record for consecutive clean sheets; between the 3-2 friendly defeat at home by Uruguay in March and the 2-1 win at home to Armenia in the final group game, Ireland went eight matches without conceding and are unbeaten in 11 matches. "Ireland picked [this coaching team] to get results and now we've given them the perfect answer
Leading scorer: all time – Robbie Keane (53); current – Robbie Keane (53)
Most appearances: all time – Shay Given (120); current – Shay Given (120)
Association formed: 1921
Nickname: The Boys in Green
When Giovanni Trapattoni took the reins in summer 2008, he assumed control of a side that had not graced a UEFA European Championship in two decades. Their UEFA EURO 2008 qualifying campaign had brought just four wins in 12 outings – including two against San Marino – as Ireland finished well adrift of the Czech Republic and Germany; 'Trap' made an instant impression. He took Ireland to the brink of the 2010 FIFA World Cup before William Gallas's extra-time goal sent France through at their expense. After finishing behind Russia, a 4-0 first-leg victory over Estonia ensured there was no play-off woe this time.
Ireland suffered only one defeat – a 3-2 loss to eventual section winners Russia in their third qualifier – and performed consistently throughout, also picking up some creditable friendly results including a 2-0 win against Trapattoni's native Italy in June.
Shay Given and Robbie Keane both enjoyed campaigns to remember, the former – Ireland's most-capped player – making his 120th international appearance in the play-off second leg against Estonia while Keane's double in the Tallinn opener took him on to 53 goals for his country. The striker had brought up his half-century in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia with another two goals on 4 June.
Trapattoni's side also established a new national record for consecutive clean sheets; between the 3-2 friendly defeat at home by Uruguay in March and the 2-1 win at home to Armenia in the final group game, Ireland went eight matches without conceding and are unbeaten in 11 matches. "Ireland picked [this coaching team] to get results and now we've given them the perfect answer
Euro 2012: Portugal team profile
Paulo Bento - Coach profile
Date of birth: 20 June 1969 Nationality: Portuguese Playing career: CF Estrela da Amadora, Vitória SC, SL Benfica, Real Oviedo CF, Sporting Clube de Portugal Coaching career: Sporting Clube de Portugal, Portugal
• Capped 35 times, the former midfielder who made an instant impact at Sporting in October 2005, Paulo Bento has enjoyed success throughout his footballing life. He began his playing career at Estrela da Amadora, helping them to the Portuguese Cup in 1989/90. He moved on to Vitória SC before a switch to Benfica brought another cup triumph in 1995/96, prior to four seasons in Spain with Real Oviedo.
• Returned to Sporting for 2000/01, helping them win the Portuguese double the following season. Retired from playing in summer 2004 and quickly accepted a role in the Sporting coaching set-up where he guided the youth team to the national title in 2004/05.
• In October 2005, promoted to first-team coach after the sacking of José Peseiro and quickly improved the side's fortunes, leading Sporting on a run of ten straight victories between January and April 2006.
• Started 2008/09 with a Super Cup win against FC Porto but failed to add to that and left the club midway through the following campaign after a run of poor results. In September 2010 was appointed Carlos Queiroz's successor as Portugal coach after the team had taken only one point from their first two UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying games and oversaw a revival that culminated in a play-off win against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Euro 2012: Portugal team profile
Since reaching the UEFA EURO 2004 final Portugal have become fixtures in the knockout stages of major tournaments. Semi-finalists at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, quarter-finalists at UEFA EURO 2008, they were unlucky to encounter eventual winners Spain in the last 16 in South Africa two summers ago. Yet a fifth successive UEFA European Championship final tournament was in jeopardy when Paulo Bento replaced Carlos Queiroz two games – and just one point – into UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying. He made an immediate impact, culminating in a resounding play-off triumph against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Leading scorer: Cristiano Ronaldo (7) Ever-presents: Raul Meireles, Nani (10)
Bento oversaw five wins but defeat in Denmark left them second in Group H. They beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 6-2 – the biggest winning margin in the play-offs – despite a goalless opener in Zenica. Cristiano Ronaldo took his international tally to 32 goals with two in the second leg, going level with Luís Figo in third on Portugal's top scorer list. Only Pauleta (47) and Eusébio (41) lie ahead.
Ronaldo, still just 26, became Portugal's fifth most-capped player during qualifying and is now on 87 appearances. "Credit goes to the team – all the players – who had the ability to adapt to a new philosophy and new ideas," Bento said after Portugal confirmed their place in Poland and Ukraine.
Portugal made their UEFA European Championship final tournament debut in 1984, and came within six minutes of the Paris showpiece. Leading hosts France 2-1 deep into extra time, Jean-François Domergue levelled before Michel Platini clipped in a 119th-minute winner.
The Selecção next qualified for the tournament in 1996 and are one of seven nations to take part then and reach every finals since, along with Spain, Germany, Italy, France, Netherlands and Czech Republic.
Portugal have contested five final tournaments and have never failed to advance beyond the group stage, losing semi-finals to eventual winners France in 1984 and 2000. They went one better on home soil at UEFA EURO 2004 before losing 1-0 to Greece, 100-1 outsiders at the start of the tournament, in Lisbon.
Leading scorer: Cristiano Ronaldo (7) Ever-presents: Raul Meireles, Nani (10)
Bento oversaw five wins but defeat in Denmark left them second in Group H. They beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 6-2 – the biggest winning margin in the play-offs – despite a goalless opener in Zenica. Cristiano Ronaldo took his international tally to 32 goals with two in the second leg, going level with Luís Figo in third on Portugal's top scorer list. Only Pauleta (47) and Eusébio (41) lie ahead.
Ronaldo, still just 26, became Portugal's fifth most-capped player during qualifying and is now on 87 appearances. "Credit goes to the team – all the players – who had the ability to adapt to a new philosophy and new ideas," Bento said after Portugal confirmed their place in Poland and Ukraine.
Portugal made their UEFA European Championship final tournament debut in 1984, and came within six minutes of the Paris showpiece. Leading hosts France 2-1 deep into extra time, Jean-François Domergue levelled before Michel Platini clipped in a 119th-minute winner.
The Selecção next qualified for the tournament in 1996 and are one of seven nations to take part then and reach every finals since, along with Spain, Germany, Italy, France, Netherlands and Czech Republic.
Portugal have contested five final tournaments and have never failed to advance beyond the group stage, losing semi-finals to eventual winners France in 1984 and 2000. They went one better on home soil at UEFA EURO 2004 before losing 1-0 to Greece, 100-1 outsiders at the start of the tournament, in Lisbon.
Poland coach profile
Franciszek Smuda - Coach profile
Date of birth: 22 June 1948 Nationality: Polish Playing career: Unia Racibórz, MKS Odra Wodzisław Śląski, KS Ruch Chorzów, KS Stal Mielec, GKS Piast Gliwice, Wisła Garfield, Hartford Bicentennials, Legia Warszawa, Los Angeles Aztecs, Oakland Stompers, San Jose Earthquakes, SpVgg Fürth, VfR Coburg Coaching career: VfR Coburg, ASV Forth, FC Herzogenaurach, Altay GK, Konyaspor, KS Stal Mielec, RTS Widzew Łódź (three times), Wisła Kraków (twice), Legia Warszawa, Piotrcovia Piotrków Trybunalski, AC Omonia, MKS Odra Wodzisław Śląski, Zagłębie Lubin (twice), KKS Lech Poznań, Poland
• Spent a significant part of his playing career as a defender in the North American Soccer League during the 1970s. Retired after a spell in Germany, where he also started coaching.
• Moved on to Turkey, but relegated from top flight with Konyaspor in 1993 and returned home to Poland – after a 16-year absence – to coach former club Stal Mielec.
• Led Widzew Łódź to undefeated title success in 1996, defending the crown the following season and playing in the UEFA Champions League. Also a title winner with Wisła Kraków in 1999.
• Flitted between teams over next few years before establishing himself once again at Lech Poznań and leading the club through the UEFA Cup group stage, to victory in the Polish Cup and third place in the league in 2008/09.
• Left for Zagłębie Lubin, succeeding Leo Beenhakker as Poland coach after the national team's failure to qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Coached Zagłębie in tandem with the UEFA EURO 2012 co-hosts until the end of December 2009.
Euro 2012: Poland team profile
FIFA World Cup semi-finalists in 1974 and 1982, Poland had to wait until 2008 before making their UEFA European Championship debut. Dutch coach Leo Beenhakker's side exited after the group stage, as they had at the 2002 and 2006 World Cups, and their bid to reach South Africa two years ago ended when they finished fifth in their six-team qualifying group. It is all a far cry from their heyday of the 1970s and early 1980s. Yet with a squad including many players not even born then and some positive friendly results, home comforts could bring the best of Franciszek Smuda's co-hosts.
Over the past 18 months Poland's friendly results have included wins against Ivory Coast, Norway and Argentina. They have also held Germany and Greece to draws, but have struggled for consistency, as witnessed by their 2-0 defeat by Lithuania.
Nine of the XI that started November's 2-0 loss to Italy were 28 or younger, including Wojciech Szczęsny (21), Robert Lewandowski (23) and Jakub Błaszczykowski, their captain at 25.
Former skipper Michał Żewłakow, now 35, retired from international football on 29 March after winning his 102nd cap – a Poland record – in the goalless draw with Greece.
"We have made mistakes, but that happens in friendlies – we will only be 100% ready in May 2012," said Smuda. "We've met big teams and in most cases we didn't feel inferior. The players gained belief that they can perform during the finals. We are heading in the right direction."
Poland, twice third at FIFA World Cups and 1972 Olympic gold medallists, had to wait until 2008 before finally reaching the UEFA European Championship at the 13th time of asking, Leo Beenhakker's side topped a qualifying group featuring Portugal, Serbia, Finland and Belgium.
The Biało-czerwoni made a limited impression in Austria and Switzerland, managing a goal – scored by Brazilian-born Roger Guerreiro – and a point as they finished bottom of their section.
The closest Poland had previously come to qualifying was in 1976 and 1980. In 1976 they missed out on goal difference to a Netherlands side that barred their path again four years later when they recovered from 2-0 down to beat East Germany and pip Poland by a point.
Over the past 18 months Poland's friendly results have included wins against Ivory Coast, Norway and Argentina. They have also held Germany and Greece to draws, but have struggled for consistency, as witnessed by their 2-0 defeat by Lithuania.
Nine of the XI that started November's 2-0 loss to Italy were 28 or younger, including Wojciech Szczęsny (21), Robert Lewandowski (23) and Jakub Błaszczykowski, their captain at 25.
Former skipper Michał Żewłakow, now 35, retired from international football on 29 March after winning his 102nd cap – a Poland record – in the goalless draw with Greece.
"We have made mistakes, but that happens in friendlies – we will only be 100% ready in May 2012," said Smuda. "We've met big teams and in most cases we didn't feel inferior. The players gained belief that they can perform during the finals. We are heading in the right direction."
Poland, twice third at FIFA World Cups and 1972 Olympic gold medallists, had to wait until 2008 before finally reaching the UEFA European Championship at the 13th time of asking, Leo Beenhakker's side topped a qualifying group featuring Portugal, Serbia, Finland and Belgium.
The Biało-czerwoni made a limited impression in Austria and Switzerland, managing a goal – scored by Brazilian-born Roger Guerreiro – and a point as they finished bottom of their section.
The closest Poland had previously come to qualifying was in 1976 and 1980. In 1976 they missed out on goal difference to a Netherlands side that barred their path again four years later when they recovered from 2-0 down to beat East Germany and pip Poland by a point.
Netherlands coach profile
Bert van Marwijk - Coach profile
Date of birth: 19 May 1952 Nationality: Dutch Playing career: Go Ahead Eagles, AZ Alkmaar, MVV Maastricht, Fortuna Sittard, FC Assent Coaching career: FC Herderen, RKVCL Limmel, SV Meerssen, Fortuna Sittard, Feyenoord (twice), Borussia Dortmund, Netherlands
• Capped once by the Netherlands in 1975, Van Marwijk was a dynamic left-winger who racked up 393 appearances in the Dutch Eredivisie with four different clubs. His only trophy success was the 1978 Dutch Cup with AZ.
• Served a long coaching apprenticeship with several minor clubs before replacing Pim Verbeek at top-flight Fortuna Sittard in 1998. Steered Limburg club to Dutch Cup final in first full season before joining Feyenoord in 2000.
• Masterminded Feyenoord's UEFA Cup triumph in 2001/02, sealed with a 3-2 victory against Borussia Dortmund on home turf at De Kuip in the one-off final.
• Joined Dortmund in 2004 but finished seventh in the Bundesliga in both of his first two seasons and dismissed midway through his third. Returned to Feyenoord and led Rotterdam club to 2008 Dutch Cup win in their centenary year.
• Appointed Netherlands coach in succession to Marco van Basten in July 2008. Led Oranje through perfect 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, winning all eight matches, and subsequently guided them all the way to the final, falling at the last to Spain. The Dutch bounced back by winning their first nine UEFA EURO 2012 qualifiers to book their place in Poland and Ukraine.
Euro 2012: Netherlands team profile
Coach: Bert van Maarwijk
Leading scorer: all time – Patrick Kluivert (40); current – Ruud van Nistelrooy (35)
Most appearances: all time – Edwin van der Sar (130); current – Rafael van der Vaart (93) Association formed: 1889 Nickname: Oranje
Still with only the 1988 UEFA European Championship to show for over four decades near the summit of world football, there are signs that the Oranje are ready for more silverware. For a while it looked like coming at UEFA EURO 2008, before Russia sent the Netherlands home in the quarter-finals. Out went Marco van Basten and his brand of attacking football; in came Bert van Marwijk's more pragmatic style, driving them beyond expectations to the 2010 FIFA World Cup final. Having stormed through qualifying, only dropping points in their final game when already through, anticipation will be higher in Poland and Ukraine.
Netherlands qualified with a game to spare after winning their opening nine matches before blotting their copybook with a 3-2 final-day defeat by nearest challengers Sweden.
Top scorers in qualifying, the Netherlands recorded their biggest ever win on 2 September when they beat San Marino 11-0 in Eindhoven, with Robin van Persie contributing four of them.
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar was the leading scorer en route to Poland and Ukraine with 12 goals in eight appearances (he registered in seven of them), finishing three clear of Miroslav Klose, the second highest.
"We have won nine in a row and advanced as group winners," Van Marwijk said after sealing progress with a 1-0 victory over Moldova. "Still, the feeling in the dressing room was one of disappointment. There was champagne, but no one drank it. I think that is a positive thing."
Three times FIFA World Cup runners-up, the Netherlands went one better in their only UEFA European Championship final appearance in 1988. Ruud Gullit and Marco van Basten, with that volley, struck against a USSR side Rinus Michels' men had lost to in their tournament opener.
The Oranje have been ever-present in the final tournament ever since, reaching the semi-finals in 1992, 2000 and 2004. A side captained by Johan Cruyff finished third on their debut in 1976.
The Netherlands were eliminated in extra time by Czechoslovakia in 1976, while in 1992 and 2000 they lasted the additional 30 minutes before succumbing to penalties. Those disappointments came amid a run of five shoot-out exits in six major tournaments, the EURO '96 quarter-final defeat included.
Leading scorer: all time – Patrick Kluivert (40); current – Ruud van Nistelrooy (35)
Most appearances: all time – Edwin van der Sar (130); current – Rafael van der Vaart (93) Association formed: 1889 Nickname: Oranje
Still with only the 1988 UEFA European Championship to show for over four decades near the summit of world football, there are signs that the Oranje are ready for more silverware. For a while it looked like coming at UEFA EURO 2008, before Russia sent the Netherlands home in the quarter-finals. Out went Marco van Basten and his brand of attacking football; in came Bert van Marwijk's more pragmatic style, driving them beyond expectations to the 2010 FIFA World Cup final. Having stormed through qualifying, only dropping points in their final game when already through, anticipation will be higher in Poland and Ukraine.
Netherlands qualified with a game to spare after winning their opening nine matches before blotting their copybook with a 3-2 final-day defeat by nearest challengers Sweden.
Top scorers in qualifying, the Netherlands recorded their biggest ever win on 2 September when they beat San Marino 11-0 in Eindhoven, with Robin van Persie contributing four of them.
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar was the leading scorer en route to Poland and Ukraine with 12 goals in eight appearances (he registered in seven of them), finishing three clear of Miroslav Klose, the second highest.
"We have won nine in a row and advanced as group winners," Van Marwijk said after sealing progress with a 1-0 victory over Moldova. "Still, the feeling in the dressing room was one of disappointment. There was champagne, but no one drank it. I think that is a positive thing."
Three times FIFA World Cup runners-up, the Netherlands went one better in their only UEFA European Championship final appearance in 1988. Ruud Gullit and Marco van Basten, with that volley, struck against a USSR side Rinus Michels' men had lost to in their tournament opener.
The Oranje have been ever-present in the final tournament ever since, reaching the semi-finals in 1992, 2000 and 2004. A side captained by Johan Cruyff finished third on their debut in 1976.
The Netherlands were eliminated in extra time by Czechoslovakia in 1976, while in 1992 and 2000 they lasted the additional 30 minutes before succumbing to penalties. Those disappointments came amid a run of five shoot-out exits in six major tournaments, the EURO '96 quarter-final defeat included.
Italy team coach
Cesare Prandelli - Coach profile
Date of birth: 19 August 1957 Nationality: Italian Playing career: US Cremonese, Atalanta BC, Juventus Coaching career: Atalanta BC, US Lecce, Hellas-Verona FC, AC Venezia, Parma FC, AS Roma, ACF Fiorentina, Italy
• Made his name as a promising coach in the prestigious youth system at Atalanta, the club where he finished his playing career in 1990 after three league titles with Juventus (1981, 1982, 1984). His six seasons in Turin also brought the 1983 Coppa Italia, the 1984 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup and the European Champion Clubs' Cup a year later.
• Prandelli became Lecce head coach in 1997 but resigned the following January. He then earned promotion to the top flight with both Verona and Venezia before further boosting his burgeoning reputation after moving to Parma in 2002.
• In 2004 Prandelli took over at Roma but soon left as wife Manuele – who sadly died in November 2007 – fell seriously ill. He moved to Fiorentina in 2005, leading them to fourth place in his first season although they were subsequently stripped of their achievement for their part in Italy's sporting fraud trial.
• Prandelli guided the club to the 2007/08 UEFA Cup semi-finals and in 2008 was awarded the Panchina d'Oro for the best coach in Serie A. Took the Viola into the UEFA Champions League group stage in 2008.09 and the round of 16 a year later before succeeding Marcello Lippi as Italy coach, signing a four-year deal and guiding the Azzurri to UEFA EURO 2012 unbeaten.
Euro 2012: Italy team profile
The Azzurri have endured a turbulent period since claiming a fourth FIFA World Cup in 2006, but Cesare Prandelli has brought stability and fresh impetus since his summer 2010 appointment. He took the reins after a forgettable defence of their global title in South Africa, finishing bottom of a group that also included Paraguay, Slovakia and New Zealand. Yet Italy, edged out on penalties by Spain in the UEFA EURO 2008 quarter-finals, head to Poland and Ukraine hopeful of a second continental crown after sauntering through qualifying unbeaten, conceding just two goals in ten outings.
Leading scorer: Antonio Cassano (6) Ever-presents: Giorgio Chiellini, Antonio Cassano (10)
Italy progressed with two games to spare and finished the campaign undefeated, their tally of 26 points from ten games a national record in a qualifying section for a major tournament. The Azzurri also finished with the best defensive record across the nine groups, conceding only two goals.
Discounting the six minutes played of the home game against Serbia before it was abandoned, Italy did not concede for 625 minutes between Estonia finding the net in their opening fixture in September 2010 to Serbia's goal 13 months later. Cesare Prandelli's team are still unbeaten in ten competitive games.
In the last qualifier against Northern Ireland, captain Gianluigi Buffon earned his 110th cap, taking him fourth on the all-time Italian list, while striker Antonio Cassano scored twice to make it six goals in the campaign.
"My side try to unite Italians, not divide them," Prandelli said. "We have ideas, feelings and altruism. I know we will be judged on our results but we have already done a lot. Now it is time to focus on the finals. I just hope the team will continue on this path."
Italy's sole UEFA European Championship success came in Rome in 1968 when, under coach Ferruccio Valcareggi and with Dino Zoff in goal, Yugoslavia were beaten 2-0 in a final replay after a 1-1 draw. They came close to adding a second European title in 2000, only Sylvain Wiltord's last-gasp equaliser for France denying them before David Trezeguet broke Italian hearts with an extra-time golden goal.
Semi-finalists in 1980 and 1988, Italy have reached every final tournament since 1992, when they were edged out by the Commonwealth of Independent States in qualifying. Their 2008 campaign was led by Roberto Donadoni and was ended by Spain, the eventual champions prevailing on penalties after a goalless quarter-final in Vienna.
Zoff, who lifted the FIFA World Cup as Italy captain in 1982 and then took the Azzurri to the final of UEFA EURO 2000 as coach, went 324 minutes without conceding a goal in the 1980 finals, a competition record. Alessandro Del Piero is one of five players to have appeared in four final tournaments – Lothar Matthäus, Peter Schmeichel, Lilian Thuram and Edwin van der Sar are the others – while only Spain (1964) and France (1984) have also lifted the trophy on home soil.
Leading scorer: Antonio Cassano (6) Ever-presents: Giorgio Chiellini, Antonio Cassano (10)
Italy progressed with two games to spare and finished the campaign undefeated, their tally of 26 points from ten games a national record in a qualifying section for a major tournament. The Azzurri also finished with the best defensive record across the nine groups, conceding only two goals.
Discounting the six minutes played of the home game against Serbia before it was abandoned, Italy did not concede for 625 minutes between Estonia finding the net in their opening fixture in September 2010 to Serbia's goal 13 months later. Cesare Prandelli's team are still unbeaten in ten competitive games.
In the last qualifier against Northern Ireland, captain Gianluigi Buffon earned his 110th cap, taking him fourth on the all-time Italian list, while striker Antonio Cassano scored twice to make it six goals in the campaign.
"My side try to unite Italians, not divide them," Prandelli said. "We have ideas, feelings and altruism. I know we will be judged on our results but we have already done a lot. Now it is time to focus on the finals. I just hope the team will continue on this path."
Italy's sole UEFA European Championship success came in Rome in 1968 when, under coach Ferruccio Valcareggi and with Dino Zoff in goal, Yugoslavia were beaten 2-0 in a final replay after a 1-1 draw. They came close to adding a second European title in 2000, only Sylvain Wiltord's last-gasp equaliser for France denying them before David Trezeguet broke Italian hearts with an extra-time golden goal.
Semi-finalists in 1980 and 1988, Italy have reached every final tournament since 1992, when they were edged out by the Commonwealth of Independent States in qualifying. Their 2008 campaign was led by Roberto Donadoni and was ended by Spain, the eventual champions prevailing on penalties after a goalless quarter-final in Vienna.
Zoff, who lifted the FIFA World Cup as Italy captain in 1982 and then took the Azzurri to the final of UEFA EURO 2000 as coach, went 324 minutes without conceding a goal in the 1980 finals, a competition record. Alessandro Del Piero is one of five players to have appeared in four final tournaments – Lothar Matthäus, Peter Schmeichel, Lilian Thuram and Edwin van der Sar are the others – while only Spain (1964) and France (1984) have also lifted the trophy on home soil.
Euro 2012: Greece team coach
Fernando Santos - Coach profile
Date of birth: 19 October 1954 Nationality: Portuguese Playing career: SL Benfica, CS Marítimo, GD Estoril-Praia Coaching career: GD Estoril-Praia, CF Estrela da Amadora, FC Porto, AEK Athens FC (twice), Panathinaikos FC, Sporting Clube de Portugal, SL Benfica, PAOK FC, Greece
• A left-back, Santos started his playing days at hometown club Benfica before two-year spells with Marítimo and Estoril-Praia. Retired in 1975.
• After a career change as a technician – Santos holds a degree in electrical and telecommunications engineering – he returned to football in 1987, taking over at former club Estoril-Praia. Stayed for seven years, guiding them to two promotions and the Portuguese top flight.
• Had four seasons with Estrela da Amadora prior to joining Porto in 1998. Led club to the league title in his first season, adding two domestic cups before leaving for AEK in 2001. Again made an instant impact, winning the 2002 Greek Cup.
• Joined Panathinaikos that summer but reign proved brief. Returned home to Sporting in 2003/04 before rejoining AEK in summer 2004, steadying the ship after a turbulent spell. Left in 2006 for Benfica, where he lasted a year, swiftly opting for yet another Greek sojourn with PAOK.
• Announced his departure in May 2010 and was confirmed as Otto Rehhagel's successor as Greece coach six weeks later, proving an immediate success as he led them to UEFA EURO 2012 as winners of qualifying Group F.
Euro 2012: Greece team profile
Fernando Santos's team were unbeaten in qualifying, owing much of their success to narrow wins. Those were a familiar feature during their stunning UEFA EURO 2004 success, and an emphasis on team spirit to compensate for the shortage of star names remains an overriding characteristic. Before Portugal, Greece had participated in two major tournaments; this marks their third consecutive UEFA European Championship appearance and they also contested the 2010 FIFA World Cup, exiting after the group stage. It was the same story at UEFA EURO 2008, where they failed to pick up a point.
The 2-1 success in Georgia that confirmed qualification was Greece's 100th UEFA European Championship qualifier.
Santos succeeded the long-serving Otto Rehhagel in August 2010 and did not taste defeat in his first 17 matches until a 3-1 home reverse against Romania in their most recent friendly on 15 November. That ended a run of ten victories and seven draws since the Portuguese coach had taken over, the longest unbeaten streak in Greece's history.
With the 14 qualifying goals shared among 11 players – including 19-year old Kyriakos Papadopoulos, who scored against Malta on his debut in June 2011 – Greece's success was a real team effort.
Captain Giorgos Karagounis was the only player to start all ten qualifiers, although striker Dimitris Salpingidis also appeared in every game; Santos used 32 players overall, giving a first cap to nine of them. "This is dedicated to all Greeks," said Santos. "We gave them a reason to smile in these tough times. Our team is constantly maturing and we set ourselves no limits. We always keep our sights high."
Greece suffered a long wait to follow up on their first finals appearance in 1980 – where they collected one point from their three games – but it proved sensationally worthwhile as Rehhagel's men confounded all expectations to lift the trophy in Portugal in 2004.
The German coach masterminded an effective game plan, his side catching the hosts cold in the opening game with a 2-1 victory. France and the Czech Republic were beaten in the quarter and semi-finals respectively, both succumbing 1-0, before a second defeat of Portugal – thanks to Angelos Charisteas' typical header early in the second period – gave a fairy-tale ending one of football's true surprise stories.
All four of Greece's EURO finals victories – from 12 matches – came in 2004, and all by a single goal. While they lost their three group games in Austria and Switzerland in 2008, it could scarcely take the shine off a momentous achievement.
The 2-1 success in Georgia that confirmed qualification was Greece's 100th UEFA European Championship qualifier.
Santos succeeded the long-serving Otto Rehhagel in August 2010 and did not taste defeat in his first 17 matches until a 3-1 home reverse against Romania in their most recent friendly on 15 November. That ended a run of ten victories and seven draws since the Portuguese coach had taken over, the longest unbeaten streak in Greece's history.
With the 14 qualifying goals shared among 11 players – including 19-year old Kyriakos Papadopoulos, who scored against Malta on his debut in June 2011 – Greece's success was a real team effort.
Captain Giorgos Karagounis was the only player to start all ten qualifiers, although striker Dimitris Salpingidis also appeared in every game; Santos used 32 players overall, giving a first cap to nine of them. "This is dedicated to all Greeks," said Santos. "We gave them a reason to smile in these tough times. Our team is constantly maturing and we set ourselves no limits. We always keep our sights high."
Greece suffered a long wait to follow up on their first finals appearance in 1980 – where they collected one point from their three games – but it proved sensationally worthwhile as Rehhagel's men confounded all expectations to lift the trophy in Portugal in 2004.
The German coach masterminded an effective game plan, his side catching the hosts cold in the opening game with a 2-1 victory. France and the Czech Republic were beaten in the quarter and semi-finals respectively, both succumbing 1-0, before a second defeat of Portugal – thanks to Angelos Charisteas' typical header early in the second period – gave a fairy-tale ending one of football's true surprise stories.
All four of Greece's EURO finals victories – from 12 matches – came in 2004, and all by a single goal. While they lost their three group games in Austria and Switzerland in 2008, it could scarcely take the shine off a momentous achievement.
Euro 2012: Germany coach profile
Joachim Löw Coach profile
Date of birth: 3 February 1960 Nationality: German Playing career: SC Freiburg (three times), VfB Stuttgart, Eintracht Frankfurt, Karlsruher SC, FC Schaffhausen, FC Winterthur, FC Frauenfeld Coaching career: FC Winterthur (youth), FC Frauenfeld, VfB Stuttgart, Fenerbahçe SK, Karlsruher SC, Adanaspor AŞ, FC Tirol Innsbruck, FK Austria Wien, Germany (assistant), Germany
• A native of the Black Forest in south-west Germany, Löw spent most of his playing days with local club Freiburg, where he had three spells, before winding down his career in Switzerland.
• Operated as a player-coach in Switzerland before becoming an assistant, and later head coach, back in Germany with Stuttgart. Succeeded Rolf Fringer in 1996 and led the Swabian side to a German Cup win in his first season and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup final against Chelsea FC in his second.
• Left Stuttgart for Fenerbahçe but struggled to match his early success until he joined Tirol Innsbruck, guiding the team to the 2001/02 Austrian Bundesliga title.
• After nine months with Austria Wien he was summoned by old friend Jürgen Klinsmann to become his assistant with Germany. The pair led the Nationalmannschaft to a third-place finish on home soil at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
• Replaced Klinsmann as head coach, taking the team to a runners-up spot at UEFA EURO 2008 and, subsequently, to the 2010 World Cup finals. There Germany again reached the semi-finals, ultimately claiming third place once more, and went on to win all ten UEFA EURO 2012 qualifiers.
Date of birth: 3 February 1960 Nationality: German Playing career: SC Freiburg (three times), VfB Stuttgart, Eintracht Frankfurt, Karlsruher SC, FC Schaffhausen, FC Winterthur, FC Frauenfeld Coaching career: FC Winterthur (youth), FC Frauenfeld, VfB Stuttgart, Fenerbahçe SK, Karlsruher SC, Adanaspor AŞ, FC Tirol Innsbruck, FK Austria Wien, Germany (assistant), Germany
• A native of the Black Forest in south-west Germany, Löw spent most of his playing days with local club Freiburg, where he had three spells, before winding down his career in Switzerland.
• Operated as a player-coach in Switzerland before becoming an assistant, and later head coach, back in Germany with Stuttgart. Succeeded Rolf Fringer in 1996 and led the Swabian side to a German Cup win in his first season and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup final against Chelsea FC in his second.
• Left Stuttgart for Fenerbahçe but struggled to match his early success until he joined Tirol Innsbruck, guiding the team to the 2001/02 Austrian Bundesliga title.
• After nine months with Austria Wien he was summoned by old friend Jürgen Klinsmann to become his assistant with Germany. The pair led the Nationalmannschaft to a third-place finish on home soil at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
• Replaced Klinsmann as head coach, taking the team to a runners-up spot at UEFA EURO 2008 and, subsequently, to the 2010 World Cup finals. There Germany again reached the semi-finals, ultimately claiming third place once more, and went on to win all ten UEFA EURO 2012 qualifiers.
Euro 2012: Germany team profile
Three-time victors and thrice runners-up, Germany are the UEFA European Championship's most successful side and an exciting squad approach UEFA EURO 2012 knowing the Nationalmannschaft, last winners in 1996, have never had to wait more than four editions for glory. Under Jürgen Klinsmann and now Joachim Löw, a fluid, attacking style has evolved since group stage exits in 2000 and 2004. Third in the last two FIFA World Cups and runners-up at UEFA EURO 2008, Löw's charges qualified with a 100% record this time around. Yet as Germany well know – nothing beats silverware.
Winners in 1972 (final: 3-0 Soviet Union), 1980 (2-1 Belgium) and 1996 (2-1 Czech Republic, golden goal); and runners-up in 1976, 1992 and four years ago in Austria and Switzerland, Germany have won exactly half of their 38 finals matches – all are records.
UEFA EURO 2012 will be Germany's 11th successive final tournament – a UEFA European Championship record. They did not enter the first two editions and failed to qualify in 1968. Germany have advanced to the knockout stage in every one of their 17 FIFA World Cup appearances but in the UEFA European Championship they have suffered group stage exits three times, finishing third in the section in 1984 and 2004, and bottom in 2000.
*As West Germany
Winners in 1972 (final: 3-0 Soviet Union), 1980 (2-1 Belgium) and 1996 (2-1 Czech Republic, golden goal); and runners-up in 1976, 1992 and four years ago in Austria and Switzerland, Germany have won exactly half of their 38 finals matches – all are records.
UEFA EURO 2012 will be Germany's 11th successive final tournament – a UEFA European Championship record. They did not enter the first two editions and failed to qualify in 1968. Germany have advanced to the knockout stage in every one of their 17 FIFA World Cup appearances but in the UEFA European Championship they have suffered group stage exits three times, finishing third in the section in 1984 and 2004, and bottom in 2000.
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