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Germany enters Euro 2008 as one of the strongest current football powers in not only Europe but also the world. In 2006 during the World Cup they had the luxury of playing as hosts and getting a big boost from their home fans. Die Nationalelf left its mark on the qualifying process, scoring a remarkable 35 goals including a historical 13-0 victory away to San Marino.

Paired in Group B with long time rivals Austria, as well as Croatia and a Poland team they also faced in group stage in 2006, Germany is clearly the monster favorite to advance. Currently fifth in the FIFA World Rankings, another European Championship could be enough to vault Germany towards the top spot, a place they held in August of 1993 but not since.

Champions of Europe in 1972, 1980 and 1996, the Germans have had a great deal of success in this tournament over the years. However, their last two appearances have left a lot to be desired, failing to advance past the group stage in both 2000 and 2004.

Golden Player Watch - Lukas Podolski, F

Germany's success in the 2006 World Cup was due a lot to the magnificent striking power of forward Miroslav Klose. He captured the Golden Boot and was the top scorer two years back with a tournament-high five goals.

His partner up front in 2006 was young 20-year-old Lukas Podolski. He scored his first-ever World Cup goal and finished the tournament with three strikes. Now age 22, Podolski has taken his game to the next level and will play a vital role for Germany in Euro 2008. Already with 25 goals in just 46 games for the German senior team, it's safe to say the German offense will be in good hands this summer and for years to come.

Reason Why They Will Advance to Elimination Round

Overpowering. Germany has too much to bail out early in this event. Scoring 35 goals in 12 qualifying matches was no mistake; this Germany side could be the strongest attacking unit that will take the field in Euro 2008.

You've already heard about the team's top two strikers in Klose and Podolski, but with news that head coach Joachim Löw has all but ensured a roster spot for fellow forward Kevin Kuranyi, that adds another dimension to be accounted for. The 26-year-old Brazilian born player has raised his game to his utmost peak to find a spot on this year's national side. Fourteen goals scored in the current Bundesliga season, Germany's top flight domestic league, as well as three more in UEFA Champions League and two more in the Germany Cup, the rest of the competition better take note of Kuranyi and the impact he will undoubtedly have for Germany this summer.

Group Play Schedule

Germany vs. Poland - June 8

Germany vs. Croatia - June 12

Germany vs. Austria - June 16