Ronaldo, Portugal Favored to Win Group F

In what could be superstar Cristiano Ronaldo’s swansong at the European Championship,

Portugal draws a fairly easier group compared to some of the other super powers. Advancing to

the knockout stage seems to be just a formality, but the big question is can Turkey or the Czech

Republic find a way to challenge for that top spot.

Group Winner: Portugal -235

Portugal was flawless during qualifying, ten matches, ten wins, 36 goals scored, just 2 allowed.

Barring a collapse, Portugal should finish atop this group and based on the draw, they wouldn’t

face a group winner until the semi-final round. The 2016 Cup holders are once again led by

Cristiano Ronaldo who scored 10 goals in qualification. Despite being 39-years old, Ronaldo

continues to score, bagging 30 in 33 games for his Saudi club, Al Nassr.

Key player: Bruno Fernandes

While Ronaldo is the main offensive weapon, its up to Bruno Fernandes to provide the service.

He had 8 assists during qualifying, most among all players. He’s creative, and provides chances

for his teammates. He leads all of Europe’s top five leagues by creating 82 total chances.

Group Winner: Turkey +400

At the 2020 Euros, Turkey finished last in its group, scoring just once while surrendering 8

goals. While they did win their group in qualifying, Turkey hasn’t been in form of late losing a

couple of friendlies to Austria and Hungary. Turkey’s match against the Czech Republic likely

decides second, and automatic qualification, but is also capable of an upset.

Group Winner: Czech Republic +650

The Czech Republic make their eighth straight appearance at the Euros looking for a first ever

title. They have finished as runners-up once, and reached the quarters and semi-finals twice.

While winning the group will be a tough task, the Czechs should be in the running for one of the

best third-place teams.

Group Winner: Georgia +1400

Georgia made history by qualifying for the nations first ever major tournament after a thrilling

playoff victory over Greece in penalties. But success at the Euros isn’t likely. Georgia has the

longest odds to win it all and looks destined to finish at the bottom of Group F. They are the

lowest ranked nation at the tournament, number 77 in the world but just being at the tournament

is a win for the tiny nation of just under 4 million.