Monday, June 11, 2012

L'VIV, UKRAINE - JUNE 09:  Mario Gomez of Germany celebrates scoring their first goal with his team mates during the UEFA EURO 2012 group B match between Germany and Portugal at Arena Lviv on June 9, 2012 in L'viv, Ukraine.  (Photo by Joern Pollex/Getty Images) Joern Pollex/Getty Images

Spain found out right away that it's going to be a tough road to a second straight Euro title, as Italy battled the Spaniards to a draw on Day 3 of Euro 2012.

Spain once again has a shot at winning it all this year, but there are some significant road blocks in its way, as hungry teams look to take down the Spaniards.

Here's a look at three teams who I see being the biggest challenges for Spain moving forward in the tournament.

3. Italy

146114200_crop_650x440 Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

Italy showed right away on Sunday that it wasn't messing around, scoring first and holding on to record a draw against Spain.

The Italians were only able to get 10 shots off against the favorites, but they were well-placed, with six shots on target.

Spain had its chances, complete with some errant shots by the curious Fernando Torres, but Italy played well and resembled a team legitimately gunning for the title.

Italy reached the quarterfinal of Euro 2008.

2. France

146169040_crop_650x440 Scott Heavey/Getty Images

France was eliminated in the group stage of 2008 but appears to be on the upswing and ready to claim its first Euro title since 2000.

England gave France a scare on Monday, with Joleon Lescott scoring in the 30th minute, but Samir Nasri responded quickly, scoring a goal of his own in the 39th minute.

France certainly needs to be more opportunistic, however. The French had 15 shots on goal but only one of them was converted.

1. Germany

146050758_crop_650x440 Joern Pollex/Getty Images

Who is the bigger challenge to Spain?

  • Germany

    70.6%
  • France

    5.9%
  • Italy

    23.5%
  • Germany figured to be the biggest threat to Spain heading into the tournament and didn't disappoint in its opening match against Portugal, grinding out a hard-fought 1-0 victory courtesy of Mario Gomez's goal in the 72nd minute.

    Germany controlled the ball for more than half the match and played solid defense, limiting Portugal to 11 shots. Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer played well with six saves, keeping Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani at bay.

    Germany, who placed second to Spain in Euro 2008, can find comfort in the fact that the hero for Spain in 2008, Torres, can't seem to find his game right now.

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