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Group C at the soccer betting preview by breaking down this tough foursome and their chances of emerging into the knockout stages from Group C.

Group C: France, Italy, Netherlands, Romania

France

Sans Zizou and some key French players that have featured in national competition for France over the last decade, the French arrive on the heels of a modest run up in qualifying. Winners of the 1998 World Cup (and runners up in 2006) and winners of the 2004UEFA Euro Cup championships, despite the return of veterans Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira, amongst several others, the French squad is a far cry from the championship squad of glory times past. Few bookies include France amongst the top four favourites of the tournament, but that is no reason to discount them from emerging from the Group stage. Key players held back with injuries have seen little playing time in the lead up to the start of the competition – a factor that could be crucial as they come into form for the championships. In fact, I cannot help but think the experience on this team combined with the injection of youth needed to fill the void Zizou`s departure left them with, makes them one of the most underestimated sides. A finish in either of the top two spots of the Group stage would not be surprising.

Italy

Bad news in the Italian camp with the injury of their captain Cannavaro could not have come at a less inopportune moment. Significantly hurt by his absence on the pitch, the Italian`s enter the European competition that much less certain. In fact, I see Italy`s campaign going one of two ways – impressive or a huge disappointment. There is no middle ground for the Italians and with a tough Group to contend with I would lean towards the latter. There I said it. I know: a total contradiction to what the bookies claim, having slotted the Azzuri in their top four favourites. A winning start to their campaign will be vital and with a match against Romania first that may be just the case. However, the deal breaker could come against the Oranje – their second scheduled match. What the Netherlands lacks in experience they more than make up for with youthful exuberance. Should Italy survive the Group stage there is no doubt they will become the overwhelming favourites to take the coveted silverware, but before we get ahead of ourselves, the Italians must survive the Group of death first.

Netherlands

Clearly the Dutch won't have it easy in the Group stage, but in spite of drawing a tough Group, I like this side. They are not huge favourites in Group C, but they are no less a threat for it. If they remain undefeated against the 2006 World Cup champions, they may be inspired to perform above expectations. The Romanians will be a tough team in their Group, but a lending hand from the stoic Romanians – in shaking up this Group with an upset, could see this Group unfold contrary to expectations. I would not be surprised to see Marco Van Basten`s Oranje reach the knockout stages.

Romania

Romania is the long shot team in this Group and frankly anything better than a third place finish in this group would be sensational. Romania will have the most difficult job against the Azzurri since they are traditionally tough rivals. They own a victory against the Dutch in qualification – an encouraging result – but as for the French, they have not had a chance to get well acquainted with Les Bleus. Romania could perhaps be a Cinderella in this tournament, but I would wager they will surprise one of the favourites and end their sojourn in the Group stage.

Group C Soccer Free Picks: France and Netherlands to emerge as the winners of Group C

Nila Amerova is a freelance sports writer and regular contributor to the BetUS.com Locker Room.