Euro 2012 Preview - Czech Republic

Wrapping up our discussion of Group A (or Group Arsenal, as I'm starting to think of it), it's time to discuss the Czech Republic.

Nickname: “Narodak” (No idea what this means - sorry)

Absurd FIFA ranking: 26th

Coach: Veteran Sparta Prague midfield Michal Bilek

Match Schedule:
June 8 – Czech Republic v. Russia (Wroclaw, 2:45 p.m. EST)
June 12 – Czech Republic v. Greece (Wroclaw, 12 p.m.)
June 16 – Czech Republic v. Poland (Warsaw, 2:45 p.m.)

Prospects: The Czechs limped into this year's tournament after seeing off Montenegro in the playoffs. Some of the LOB brain trust seem to rate them, but I don't see it. The Czech's opening match with Russia will show us a lot. If they can pull off a win, then all bets are off. However, on paper they seem like an aging squad that nearly always qualifies but rarely sets tournaments alight.

Key Player: Arsenal schemer Tomas Rosicky came into rich form toward the end of the Premiership and the Czechs will lean heavily on him for invention in the middle of the park.

Youngster to watch: Slovan Liberec striker Michael Rabusic's fine form for the U-21s might tempt Bilek to take a gamble on him.

Who Will Get the Goals: 30 year journeyman Milan Baros (now inevitably playing at Galatasaray) is still the leading scorer in the squad.

Who Will Get the Cards: Gritty Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Tomas Hubschman.

Prediction: Just about edged out of second place and the tournament by hosts Poland in the final group stage match - home advantage still matters IMHO.