Czech Rep v Portugal
The Czech's were a surprise qualifier from Group A, especially considering their 4-1 loss to Russia on Match Day 1. However since that defeat they've played some brilliant football. Petr Jiracek looks a real talent and has scored a couple of great goals at this tournament, while Gebre Selassie has played a crucial role from the back. However Portugal finally look like they're coming to the fore. They left it late against Denmark, and Cristiano Ronaldo's double against Holland announced his arrival at this competition. If Portugal can take their chances against a resolute Czech side, I think they should do enough to get the win.
Prediction: Czech Rep 0-2 Portugal
Germany v Greece
Germany did what they needed to in order to qualify for the knockout stage of Euro 2012. They weren't brilliant, but they were very good. I still feel like their best is still to come, and that's a worrying sign for a lot of sides still remaining at this tournament. Mario Gomez is joint-top scorer so far, and I think he'll have a day out against the Greek's. Greece did well to qualify, however I think they've played their part at this Championship. Without their inspirational skipper in Giorgos Karagounis, who is suspended for this match, I think they'll really struggle.
Prediction: Germany 3-0 Greece
Spain v France
Spain have a lot of work to do if they want to defend their title. They left it late against Croatia, but looked nervous and were far from convincing. Fernando Torres is the crucial element to their side. Without him, they lack a centre forward target which they really need. He looked dangerous against Ireland, but struggled against the physical Croatian defence. Vicente Del Bosque has a tough decision on his hands as to whether to start Torres or to opt for Cesc Fabregas instead. Meanwhile for France, they've shown their quality, but this could be a little too difficult for them. They lacked effort against Sweden in their last match, and they need to find a spark quickly to match it with the Spanish. Their talented midfield needs to show it can unlock defences, however I doubt their ability to get through one as good as Spain's.
Prediction: Spain 1-0 France
England v Italy
England surprised many by topping Group D, despite some below-par performances. They're still learning Roy Hodgson's game plan, so hopefully that doesn't cost them against Italy. Wayne Rooney's inclusion was a big help, and I think he'll continue to find form the longer this competition goes. Italy did well to qualify, however weren't brilliant either. Daniele De Rossi's doing a wonderful job in defence, however it's whether they have the pace and stamina to break through England which worries me. I think we could be in for a dull contest in this one, but an absorbing one nonetheless.
Prediction: England 0-0 Italy (Italy on penalties)
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