The Euro cheat sheet

Back in 2006, Ireland native - and former pitcher for the Irish national baseball team - Cormac Eklof created a popular cheat sheet in order for Americans to understand the World Cup on their terms. Well, two years layer and Eklof is back to aid the common U.S. sports fan in enjoying the 2008 European Championships.

Of local note:

Spain - The '08 Boston Celtics They both have the big name, superstar players. The magnificent Raul, Pierce, Torres, Garnett, Ramos and Allen. A veritable galaxy of stars. They both have passionate fan bases desperate for success. They are also both second favourite to win the title, the Lakers and Germany favoured ahead of them. The Celtics and Spain, who knew their destinies were intertwined. Raul and Pierce have both toiled loyally for their team, and have both scored at will, all career long. Both men have one thing missing from their stellar careers, a championship. They can both set that right over the next couple of weeks.

France - The 2008 New England PatriotsJust call Thierry Henry, Tom Brady. Much like France lost a stomach-punch championship game last time out, the Patriots lost a championship in even more horrific fashion. Be that as it may, both France and the Patriots share a recent history literally overflowing with success. While the Patriots have won three Superbowls since 2001, France recently held both the World Cup and European Championships simultaneously.

France's recent European Championships record is excellent

• 1996 - Semifinals
• 2000 - Champions
• 2004 - Quarterfinals

They might have a few older stars now, and they will have to deal with holding the title as one of the tournament favourites, however France will be itching to avenge their World Cup Final defeat in 2006. Can you imagine an Italy/France final?

They might have a few older stars now, and they will have to deal with holding the title as one of the tournament favourites, however the Patriots will be itching to avenge their Superbowl defeat in 2007. Can you imagine a New York/New England final?

See how I did that? Nice, huh?

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