The much-awaited European Championship gets underway this evening with Austria and Switzerland well prepared to stage the event successfully.

There are many who have pointed towards Germany or Italy as the top favourites, but I will also dare say that the Netherlands, Spain or Portugal could spring a surprise.

Let us take a quick glimpse at the top nations in these finals.

Greece, the holders, have been mostly unimpressive in their run-up to the finals, Germany have also left much to be desired in their most recent matches, while Italy have suffered a big setback with the injury to Fabio Cannavaro which will rule him out of the whole tournament.

France are also hit by several injuries to some of their top players including midfielder Patrick Vieira.

Having said that, one cannot forget other nations like the Netherlands, Spain and Portugal who are all eager to taste success in this year’s event.

All three seem to have the right credentials to leave a big impact on Euro 2008.

The Netherlands have been the most impressive in their warm-ups to this championship and Marco Van Basten’s line-up seems to be well prepared for a good run.

If they manage to survive their Group which also includes Italy, France and Romania, then I am sure they will advance.

I also consider Portugal as one of the dark horses. With the unpredictable Ronaldo among their ranks – I expect him to be the major attraction of this tournament – I am sure they will be no joke. As will Spain. With such an array of stars including the up and coming Fernando Torres, coach Luis Aragones seems to be on the way to beat a jinx which has hit Spain in most major events – that of promising a lot but never achieving anything.

Such predictions, however, could mean nothing as, in most cases, it is the form of the day that will eventually count at the end.

For all those in Malta and Gozo who love the game of football, Euro 2008 will have something missing. The fact that England have failed to qualify this time round, leaves a void which will be difficult, if not impossible, to fill. But we all sincerely hope to see some first class football during the next three weeks.