Sweden

Evergreen striker Henrik Larsson’s return to the Swedish squad makes them a natural choice as the neutral’s favourite. Lars Lagerback’s side, definitely sports a balanced look with an even spread of experience and youth in their ranks. Regulars at every major tournament in the past decade, the 2004’s quarter finalists should make it out of Group D. Pooled with the abundantly talented Spain and an emerging strength in Russia and reigning champions Greece, it will not be an easy ride for the Swedes.

However, with experienced heads in Larsson, coaxed out of international retirement for the umpteenth time, Niclas Alexandersson and Olof Mellberg – who hold a creaking 279 caps between themselves – guiding the younger promise of Fredrik Stoor (defence), Sebastian Larsson and Marcus Rosenborg, Sweden should be confident of having the strength in depth to progress to the knockout stage.