Switzerland

The co-hosts will carry the expectations of a nation on their shoulders as they go in search of glory on home soil.

Jakob Kuhn's side are appearing at their third European Championship, and their third consecutive major finals, but have failed as yet to leave a lasting impression on the world stage.

Their two previous showings at the Euros have seen them exit the competition with just a solitary point to show for their group endeavours, and as a result they will be keen to secure an historic victory in front of the home support.

Their preparations may have been blighted by injuries, but Kuhn has been able to welcome key personnel back into the fold over the weeks leading up to the tournament.

A disappointing defeat at Wembley against England in February proved that the Swiss are some way short of putting together a squad capable of challenging for glory, while a 4-0 thumping against neighbours Germany a month later will have done little to restore damaged confidence.

Despite their recent troubles Kuhn, who is set to retire upon Switzerland's exit, remains optimistic that he will be able to leave the international arena with his dignity in tact.

He is targeting the quarter-finals as a realistic ambition for his troops, though it remains to be seen whether the Swiss have the capabilities to claw their way out of a tough looking group.

However, should they secure a safe progression to the last eight then Greece's heroics four years ago goes to prove that anything is possible once a side gains momentum.

Kuhn will be hoping to go out with a bang after announcing his intention to step down as manager of the national side at the conclusion of the tournament.

He became the first home-grown coach of Switzerland for 12 years when he took the reins following the resignation of Argentine Enzo Trossero in 2001.

His promotion from the U21 set-up to the senior side raised a few eyebrows among the Swiss faithful, but after leading the country to Euro 2004, their first major finals since 1996, the doubts soon evaporated.

Kuhn repeated the feat two years later as he booked a place at the 2006 World Cup, and guided Switzerland to the second round in Germany.

The instant success he was able to achieve was partially due to the radical changes he introduced, including the removal of many of Switzerland's more experienced internationals in favour of enthusiastic youngsters.

The ploy worked, and with the majority of the 2002 UEFA European U17 Championship winning side having made the step up to the full squad the hosts could be ready to fulfil their potential on home turf.

Kuhn announced his retirement plans in October 2006, although his timing has been called into question by some. Switzerland's recent poor performances have been put down to a lack of understanding and cohesion within an international set-up unsure of what the future may hold.