UEFA Euro 2012: Republic of Ireland soccer team preview

How they will do: This will be a demanding group for Ireland, who were efficient and effective in qualifying. That owed a lot to their solid defensive set up with Sean St Ledger and Richard Dunne offering Shay Given plenty of cover. They will need to be at their best to frustrate nifty opponents from Croatia, Spain, and Italy. Ireland's midfield will continue to work diligently, but whatever chances that are carved for skipper Robbie Keane must be taken. The opener with Croatia carries a deep importance.

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Nster.com