Euro 2012 is almost upon us, people! Even though there is a huge cloud of controversy looming over the competition amidst racism fears, government boycotts and security concerns, but one can’t help but start to get a tingle of excitement on the eve of a major international tournament getting underway.

This time round at the Euros, the competing nations are probably the best the world has to offer, and the South American teams who so fiercely contest when it comes to World Cups will not be missed once we get underway. Of course, all we know in terms of fixtures right now are the Group stages, but already we are promised some cracking encounters, below are listed the euro 2012 group stage fixtures you don’t want to miss. Happy viewing, folks.

Poland Vs Greece – The curtain raiser! Perhaps not the fancied teams but lets not forget that Greece have won the tournament as recently as 2004! The first game is always a must-see.

Germany Vs Portugal – On the second day of the tournament we see one of the favourites for the tournament in a tough game against a competitive Portugal side.

Spain Vs Italy – Sunday 10th June – Two of the powerhouses of Europe compete on the Sunday in what promises to be an action packed encounter. Spain are much fancied and have an unbelievably talented squad.

France Vs England – Monday 11th June – Rivals and neighbours England and France, both teams who have won the world cup in their time, but wont be fancied in this Summers Euros, sleeping giants meet.

Netherlands Vs Germany – Weds 13th – The Germans are the favourites in most bookies’ eyes, but dont forget that they’ve got a tough group, and Holland, much fancied to reach the knockout stages, will provide tough opposition here.

Spain Vs Republic of Ireland – Thurs 14th – 10 Years after Spain knocked Ireland out of the World Cup in a cruel penalty shootout, the boys in Green will be looking for revenge.

Sweden Vs England – Fri 15th June – The Swedes will fancy their chances here, England expects, but their record against Sweden is poor in recent years.

Portugal Vs Netherlands – Sun 17th – The ‘Group of Death’ of the Euros will be decided in this final game of the group, and it looks like a lot will be at stake in this battle of evenly matched teams.

Best of the rest: England Vs Ukraine, Italy Vs Croatia, Italy Vs Ireland, Sweden Vs France.

Of course, International football is always providing us with unexpected classics, and I hope there wont be a single dull game as the nations compete for this prestigious trophy.