The draw did raise a few eyebrows, with some old foes being pulled out of the bowl to face each other in some very mouth watering ties. On the other hand, I believe one of the hosts, Poland, are thanking God that they were given what could be considered the most uneventful and non-glamorous group of all. So if there ever was a chance for them to make it past the group stage, this would be it.

But for better perspective, here is my breakdown on groups A & B:

As mentioned, the group won't make any football fan miss any sleep. Greece won the tournament in 2004 when it was held in Portugal, but they never built on that success. They did qualify as top of a group that had Croatia available. But, with no real tough opposition to test their resolve, the Spartans will need to prepare well for the finals

Poland as hosts have the expectations of making the second round on their shoulders, which could prove to be more of a burden than a positive push for the players. A lot will fall on the quality of Arsenal goalkeeper Szczesny and Borussia Dortmund's Blaszczykowski & Lewandowski.

Russia made it to the finals as top of group B in the qualifiers, beating the Republic of Ireland to 1st place. They do possess some excellent players like goalkeeper Akinfeev, former Chelsea left back Yuri Zhirkov and forwards Arshavin, Kerzhakov and Pavlyachenko. But Russia's real strength is performing as a unit, which they displayed with excellence in Euro08, when they reached the semifinals.

The Czechs are the final country in this group, and they are miles away from the Czech sides that were dazzling football fans in 1996, 2000 and 2004. Nowadays, the Czechs have new names to build their hopes against such as Tomas Necid, Tomas Hubschman & Jiroslav Plasil. They still have Milan Baros & Petr Cech as remnants from the old Czech sides. But, don't expect any fireworks as we were used to seeing in the Nedved days.

The group of death without any debate! Actually, if you're a neutral, you'd be wondering why the Danes are even considering sending their team over. Just a look at that quartet makes me wish the days till the tournament starts could move a bit faster.

Holland finished second in the last World Cup, and qualified to the finals by pouring in 37 goals in 10 games. Huntelaar managed to score a very impressive 12 goals in 8 games, although to be fair with the rest of Europe's elite, he wasn't facing the likes of Germany or Portugal on the way to the finals. As usual, Holland will have high expectations set for themselves, as ever since Ruud Gullit lifted the Cup in 1988, the Dutch have been considered favorites.

Their main rivals and major threat are Germany. The Germans have been, as always efficient in their approach, piling up the points in a perfect manner (30 points from 10 games) to top their group. The crop of players that coach, Joachim Low has at his disposal is envious to say the least. Bayern's Manuel Neuer at goal, Lahm, Badstuber, Hummels, Boateng, Howedes and more in defense. Then it gets electrifying with Ozel, Kroos, Gotze & Marin to add the flair and Khedira and Schweinsteiger do bring in the stability in midfield. In attack, the experience Klose gives added by a rejuvenated Mario Gomez makes the team my favorite for the tournament.

Portugal were one of the countries who booked a late ticket to the finals. They beat Bosnia (albeit in fashion) in the play offs to ensure the finals will be graced by Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United's Nani in addition to others. The team isn't as mobile and sexy as they were in the last two tournaments, but with players such as Raul Meireles & Joao Moutinho in midfield, and experienced Hugo Almieda and Helder Postiga in attack, the Portuguese can hope for better fortunes at the finals.

As for Denmark, I'm really wondering how they are feeling. From one perspective, they actually finished the group stage above Portugal, which should add some confidence. But, on the other hand, any realistic expert would say they would need a miracle to make it through. Former Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner seems to be their main threat in attack, while Liverpool defender Daniel Agger could be a major asset if he could stay fit.

* Sunderland fans made sure their voice was heard after their injury time loss to Wigan last week, as calls for the sacking of Steve Bruce rang through the Stadium of Light. Four days later, Bruce was jobless and Sunderland began a quick search for a manager. The search was sealed on Saturday as Irishman Martin O'Neill signed as the Black Cats' new manager.

* Liverpool enjoyed success in midweek with a 2-0 away win over Chelsea in the league cup. Goals by Maxi Rodriguez and Martin Kelly sealed the win for the Reds, yet it came at a cost as they lost key midfielder Lucas Leiva with a damaged ligament that will keep him out for the remainder of the season. A lot of speculation has been said over Liverpool's next move as they've recalled Shelvey from his loan at Blackpool and could even recall Alberto Aquilani from AC Milan.

* Manchester City also made it to the League Cup Semi finals to meet Liverpool, beating Arsenal at the Emirates stadium thanks to a late Aguero goal.

* But the main shock was Crystal Palace beating a far from impressive Manchester United side at Old Trafford 2-1 after extra time. If anyone hasn't seen Darren Ambrose's opener, they simply should!!

* Cardiff beat Blackburn 2-0 to ensure an all-Championship tie in the Semi-finals and making sure a Championship side will be present in the final at Wembley