Group stages

The Rise of the Icelandic Football Team

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Iceland’s ascent from the lower reaches of the FIFA rankings to Euro 2016 contenders is no coincidence. It is the result of a well thought out and meticulous plan that has thrust greatness upon a squad of players who have made history by reaching the tournament in France.

 Iceland had never qualified for a major tournament in 23 attempts but that all changed when they finished 2nd in qualifying Group A to secure a place at Euro 2016. Victories against Holland and Turkey will live long in the memory of Icelandic football fans as their dreams of reaching a major tournament finally became a reality.

 The Panenka looks at the steep and dramatic rise of Group F’s Iceland.

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Italy And Conte Ready To Hit the Road To Euro 2016

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Italy seem to be writing themselves off before they’ve even kicked a ball. That is unusual but there have been plenty of distractions on and off the field in to suggest that the 1968 European Championship winners are unlikely to claim their second Euro crown in 2016.

 The Panenka looks at why the Azzurri and everybody else are already calling Italy major outsiders while they prepare for Euro 2016 in France as Antonio Conte says he is ready to get the car out the garage and hit the road.

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Northern Ireland Punching Above Their Weight, Says O’Neill

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It’s been 30 years since Northern Ireland made an appearance at a major tournament. Manager Michael O’Neill already has his starting XI in mind and believes his team can be one of the many teams capable of springing a few surprises at Euro 2016.

The Panenka hears what the former Shamrock Rovers boss has had to say and takes a look back at his career while assessing some of his squad.

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