Euro 2016 draw, Group D: Defending champion Spain the clear heavyweight

Spain will begin its title defence in one of the more balanced groups in Euro 2016, with Turkey, the Czech Republic, and Croatia offering no easy tasks to the holders. All of these nations could've expected to advance if they weren't pitted against each other.

Favourite

Spain has to be the favourite to take the group, even if it fails to win all three games. A disastrous showing at the World Cup ended its international run, but doubters cannot count Spain out of taking a shot at a third consecutive continental title. Xavi, Xabi Alonso, and Carles Puyol are no longer on the team as La Roja undergoes its first changing of the guard in a decade. However, the side boasts Sergio Busquets, who's still one of the best midfielders in the game, and young talent in Alvaro Morata and Paco Alcacer. They'll be fine.

There will most likely be a dogfight for the second spot. Each side has a chance of qualifying for the knockout rounds - the Turks, Czechs, and Croats all have previous experience in the business end of the tournament - and where exactly each one finishes probably won't be decided until the final matchday.

Ivan Rakitic is Croatia's most influential player, possessing both goal-scoring and playmaking ability. Beside Luka Modric in midfield, the Barcelona man will have more of an opportunity to push forward and make plays in the offensive third of the pitch. Rakitic, who was recently named the Croatian sportsman of 2015, will dictate matters on the pitch and determine whether his country progresses to the round of 16.

Honourable mentions: David Silva (Spain), Hakan Calhanoglu (Turkey), Petr Cech (Czech Republic)

Spain and Turkey meet in Nice on June 17 in a match that could decide the whole outlook of the group. The champions could book their ticket to the next round with a win, whereas Turkey could come out of it with everything or nothing left to play for in the third and final match. By virtue of being pulled out of Pot 4, the Turks may not seem like much of a threat, but they're capable of upsets. Remember their run to the semifinal of Euro 2008.