Only nine different teams have won the European Championships since its inception in 1960. Putting the annals of history aside, this write up will look at the likely teams that will lift the trophy in 2016, some of which the past events in the competition does not favour. These are the six teams that might lift the Euro 2016 trophy in France.
1. France – The French national team are the number one contenders for the coveted trophy and history reveals that the tournament hosts are at advantage having lifted the 1984 European Cup and the 1998 World Cup which they also play hosted.
However with the pedigree of players the Les Blues possess who ply their trade for top European clubs, it is most certain that they are bound for glory on home soil.
2. Germany – Germany are always favourites in any tournament they participate, especially the European Championships where they have played in six finals, winning three.
With all things being equal the reigning world champions have all it takes in the defence, midfield, and attack to win their fourth European Cup irrespective of the venue the tournament holds.
3. Spain – Although the footballing era is gradually coming to an end in Spain but coming into this competition as the defending champions make them viable contenders, even though they are always labelled ‘under achievers’. The La Roja arguably have the best players in the world because most of them were drafted from two of the best teams in global football and who says the defending champions can not repeat the consecutive European glories in three competitions?
4. England – The Three Lions have always dreamt of a European Cup glory and considering the promising display at the qualifiers one should believe they will be a contender for the Cup.
The closest they have come was when they play hosted the tournament in 1996, but eventually losing out on penalties to Germany. All eyes will be on the Roy Hogdson’s squad who are aiming to go all the way in the competition with their youthful squad.
5. Portugal – This generation of a Ronaldo-led Portuguese side can beat the pundits to their game if the A Seleccao can combine youth and experience in getting the needed results.
The likes of Ronaldo, Bruno Alves, Pepe, Carvalho, Nani and Quaresma can make the difference if everyone of them can find their bearings especially from their inspirational captain, Cristiano Ronaldo.
6. Russia – It might sound strange that ‘Mother Russia’ is a contender for the European Championship but it should be noted that the maiden edition of the competition was won by the Soviet nation.
Also, the oil-rich nation have played their best football in European competitions than any other tournament which includes; winning the first ever European trophy in 1960, having played three other finals in 1964, 1972, and 1988 as well as their recent feat when they upset the Netherlands 3-1 in the quarter final stage of the 2008 edition.

cuddle by http://waltertimmi.com

FTC

Dont rule out Slovakia.