Now that the group stage has drawn to a conclusion, this tournament has taken on an entirely different complexion.

Remember how Germany were installed as the tournament favorites? Remember when the Netherlands were expected to fight it out with Romania for the second spot in a treacherous Group C while Italy and France waltzed to the top of the table? Remember how an unknown and inexperienced Russia was expected to fall by the wayside while the more experienced Swedes would nail down a place in the quarters along with Spain? Its all so much hogwash now isn't it?

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