by Sourav Saha Ratul
With the Euro 2016 approaching towards the Round of 16, it’s time to make a call for the strongest contender for the title. This Euro 2016 presents us with European super powers like Germany, Spain, Italy, and England. On the other hand some newbies like Wales, Albania, and Iceland who have proved their capability to upset any of these super powers. However, you shouldn’t forget teams like Portugal, Sweden, or Poland. They have big names like Cristiano Ronaldo, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, or Robert Lewandowski. You know they don’t believe in the word “Impossible”! Despite all these super powers, big names, or rising threats, my vote for the strongest contender goes to France.
Automatically qualifying as the host, France always has to be in the conversation when it comes to major competitions, even if they are no longer ‘the team to beat’ after a purple patch that saw them claim both World Cup and Euro glory. France has a respectable record in the Euros, qualifying for every edition of the tournament since failing to feature in the 1988 championships in Germany.
The Les Blues have numerous attacking options and possess talent in abundance across the park. The swashbuckling Paul Pogba in midfield, combined with the dynamism of Blaise Matuidi and Kante is a sight to behold. In attack, Antoine Griezmann is arguably Europe’s most lethal striker at the moment, netting at a prolific rate for club side Atletico Madrid. Dimitri Payet has been a revelation at West Ham and continuing his legacy with two consecutive goals in his two Euro 2016 appearances. He poses a threat from set-pieces as well as on the wing. Don’t forget to keep an eye on youngster Anthony Martial, who has made such impressively free scoring start to the season for Manchester United. Besides they have experienced seniors like Olivier Giroud and Patrice Evra. Besides, these individuals also make a great team, after playing 12 friendlies right before the tournament.
You might have noticed that France is a dangerous side on the counter, but simultaneously like to dominate possession and dictate proceedings on their terms. And like icing on the cake, they are having the advantage of playing on the home grounds. The support from the spectators will definitely lift their spirits up. This advantage also comes with tremendous pressure too, and it is fascinating to see how they are playing with their hearts out.
Just think about it. Wasn’t it amazing to see two stunning goals in last couple of minutes of the game against Albania? To me, the spirit that they demonstrated is the beauty of the game.
What are your thoughts? Who’s the favorite in your eyes?
