Top 5 teams after Euro 2016 group stage

Ivan Rakitic of Croatia BORDEAUX, FRANCE - JUNE 21: during the UEFA EURO 2016 Group D match between Croatia and Spain at Stade Matmut Atlantique on June 21, 2016 in Bordeaux, France. (Photo by Manuel Blondeau/Icon Sport) (Photo by Manuel Blondeau/Icon Sport via Getty Images) /

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Robert Lewandowski (Polska), Kamil Grosicki (Polska),during the UEFA EURO 2016 Group C match between Ukraine and Poland at Stade Velodrome on June 21, 2016 in Marseille, France. (Photo by Foto Olimpik/NurPhoto via Getty Images) /

2. Poland

Germany and Poland were really a toss up — it could go either way. They tied 0-0 when they played each other in their second match, but I had Poland in this position for a couple reasons. First, they had the better chances in the match against Germany. They looked more threatening despite not having the talent that the Germans do. Second, I put them here because of their road ahead.

Poland’s first match in the knockout stage is against a Swiss team that haven’t been very impressive. The second round could get both of these teams, though. Germany could play Spain while Poland could play Croatia. But luckily for Poland, Croatia has very little experience in that stage of a tournament.

This, along with Lewandowski, one of the best forwards in the world, gives Poland the edge right now. Lewandowski has yet to score but he always look threatening. Jakub Błaszczykowski has looked pretty good in the midfield as well. Germany may have more talent, but thus far it seems like the Polish have more passion than the Germans. It seems like since Germany got their World Cup, and they are okay with that and don’t want more.

The Polish earned seven points in their group and have yet to allow a goal. They look very good at the moment and could come out of their top portion of the bracket. While on paper, Germany has a much more difficult road to the finals.

Next: Croatia

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