Did the last couple of days leave you itching for more football? Fear not. Here’s four matches to leave you completely distracted and unproductive at work. Let’s start with the early matches in Group C.
Northern Ireland became one of the ‘feel good’ stories of the summer just by qualifying for this tournament, let alone beating Ukraine 2-0. Could they top that with a win over the World Champions? They have done it before. Twice in fact. During qualifying for Euro 84, but you’ll be reminded of that triumph several times during today’s broadcast.
Judging by the tone and doubt from German media, sounds like they fear Northern Ireland may do it again. I don’t read German, but they seem none to pleased with Die Mannschaft. Despite the lack of a conventional number 9, most thought depth was a strength of this team. After two matches, others snicker that this is simply the 2014 World Cup team a little more tired, and a lot less creative.
But let’s not get carried away. Germany haven’t conceded a goal yet, and even the most passionate Northern Ireland supporter would be hard pressed to throw their hard earned money on the odds that the Green and White Army will be the first to score one.
Can understand where the doubt comes from. To win it all, Germany could play France, Italy and Spain. Not exactly what you’d call “an easy road.” Very much expect them to have an easy time today in Paris, and expect Thomas Muller to put his name on the scoresheet.
Prediction: NIR 0-2 Germany
Easy pep talk for Poland coach Adam Nawalka today. “Don’t lose and we’re through.”
Ukraine are unbeaten in the last five versus their Euro 2012 co-hosts. But at this tournament, Ukraine share the unwanted tag with their Russian neighbours to the east as “the worst teams at Euro 2016.”
Clearly Russell Crowe bet that Poland would do the deed against Germany on matchday 2. Why else would be chirp Arkadiusz Milik for failing to score? Maybe Crowe should start tweeting Robert Lewandowski. Few would have bet the Bayern frontman would have zero goals after two matches in France. But many will bet he nets at least one today. Based on the way Ukraine have played this month, that would be a smart play.
Prediction: Ukraine 1-2 Poland
How early do you think security staff in Bordeaux were asked to come to work today? Gut feeling that Croatian Ultras will have to be a bit more creative to sneak flares and fireworks in to the Stade de Bordeaux. One would certainly hope so.
The protesters made their point to the Croatian FA. And any repeated self sabotage will not win over any new supporters.
With a healthy Luca Modric on the pitch for 90 minutes, Croatia look fully capable of a good result against Spain. The Spanish have been amongst the most impressive through two matches, but Croatia have enhanced their darkhorse label.
The Czech got more than they deserved, and anybody who watched that match or can sympathize with the fear Croatian players would have watching it all “kick off” in the section where their friends and family were sitting, knows that.
Couldn’t blame Croatia for being nervous about today’s opponents either. Spain haven’t conceded at The Euros since the opening match of Poland/Ukraine 2012. Also haven’t lost a European Championship match since Euro 2004, in Portugal.
Alvaro Morata and Nolito have made everyone in Spain forget that their team has traveled north without a “big name frontman” for the first time in two decades. Top to bottom, La Roja have yet to show any weaknesses. A boring opening match doesn’t count. That’s just how this team operates more often than not.
The smart play would be to pick a repeat of Spain’s 1-0 group stage victory over Croatia four years ago. But if you read this blog, you know that I’m not very smart.
Prediction: Croatia 2-2 Spain
I don’t like watching Fatih Terim suffer. The Turkish master seems all out ideas and his players seem incapable of playing up to their potential. Most teams would have lost to Spain. Few would have looked as overwhelmed.
Arda Turan has taken the brunt of blame the Turkey‘s disappointment. Was a rumour that he would even quit the team. To which he firmly denied with “that’s not me.”
A draw could be enough for the Czech to make it through. They’ll have quite a few bruises to show for it, but I think that fate will come with ease.
Prediction: Czech 0-0 Turkey
Enjoy today’s matches and check the blog daily for recaps, previews and my general EURO 2016 opinions.
Dunlop's Daily Dose 
Can’t see the Czechs getting through with a draw. They will likely need to go for all 3 points which should lead to an open, free-flowing game!