Egypt proved that it can be done. Three tournaments in a row, they were African champions. Although, the one big difference was the tournament came round in a shorter timespan than the Euros. Still, that shouldn't deter the Spanish who have the players, some experience, and the ability to win it all next year, without there being that one team that should be feared.
Xavi is gone, no Villa, Xabi Alonso is retired. The very core that brought them three major trophies are gone, and those that do remain of that team are in that thirty-something zone. So in that sense, one would think it unwise that they have what it takes to do something historic and win the Euros for the third successive time. There are new players like Isco and Diego Costa who are not of the tiki ilk, which means it's a slightly different brand of Spanish football. One that I think it a bit more exciting than the drab-fest we were subjected to from 2008-1012.
I look at the field and the only two other teams that jump out at me as a threat to Spain are Germany and France. I still think Spain have the psychological edge over Germany, although with those key players now retired, they may have lost that key tactical advantage. But the Germans have struggled to qualify, despite having the most talented team in Europe, as both Klose and Lahm are huge misses. If they do meet, I think it would be a very close game that either team can win.
As for France, they may be hosts and have some very good players, but there is lack of experience. Yes, I am the first person to say that experience is greatly overvalued, but in this case where this young French team are yet to be tested in big matches, and knowing how to edge a semi-final match, I think that is where the chips will fall in Spain's favor. It's football, you never know what can happen on the day as Greece proved back in 2004. But, if it's a semi-final between Spain and France, even with the home support, I will give the Spanish the edge because of Pique, Ramos, Iniesta and Casillas being there and getting it done.
Let me be very clear. If Spain do win the Euros next year, every European nation should be slapped with a six month ban from all football related activities. It would be embarrassing and disgraceful if that were to happen, on the parts of the other nations. Really, Spain should reach the semi-finals, MAX but then I think back to 2012. Nobody gave them any hope. Even when they beat Portugal in the most boring football match in the last thirty years, everyone took the side of Italy who swiped up Germany with the help of the young Balotelli. Then that final came, and the rest as the goose says is history...
Don't write off Spain. Don't do it. Especially where there isn't that one strong team who are ultimate favorites, it would be foolish to write them off. I think within the Spanish camp, they are hoping that teams don't take them seriously and assume because of the retirements of some of their best players, they are not in the conversation. Then they could repeat 2012 all over again, and really leave a nice slab of fried egg on everyone's faces at the Euros.
HH
