Bodog Beat

Captain Michael Ballack leads the Germans into the group stage against Austria, Croatia and Poland. (AP Images)

Firmly entrenched as continental footballing powers, both Germany and Croatia are first-glance picks to advance from Group B at the 2008 European Championships.

Just don't tell Austria or Poland.

The two lesser-lights of the group have already heard enough about being also-rans; having reveled in underdog status since the groups were drawn, both countries are ready to embrace the "nothing to lose" mentality.

"We are not just relying on home advantage," Austria head coach Josef Hickersberger told UEFA.com. "We are also relying on the team spirit we have built over the last few months. We have been criticised a lot and the team have grown together as a result of that and have developed a very strong spirit. All the squad, regardless of who plays, will give absolutely 100 percent and our fighting spirit and team spirit will be second to none.

We, quite simply, expect the whole of Austria to be behind us. If that is the case, I think we will be very difficult to beat. I am convinced of that."

Read the rest of "Euro 2008 Soccer Betting: Group B Preview" in Bodog Nation!