Euro 2016 Prediction For Group F: Ballon d'Or Contender Cristiano Ronaldo Looks For Big Tournament As He Exits Prime

In arguably the least remarkable group of the Euro 2016, one player reigns supreme over the remaining squad.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Moment

Cristiano Ronaldo is coming off yet another 50 goal season, his sixth straight for Real Madrid. Despite being 31 he is still as lethal as ever and is expected to be a shining beacon for Portugal.

He scored three goals in the 2012 edition of the tournament, singlehandedly carrying his nation to the semifinals where only a penalty shootout stopped him from reaching the finals. In the process, he scored three goals, including winners over the Netherlands and the Czech Republic.

And while he has been key to qualifying his team into the 2014 World Cup and this tournament, he has struggled to maintain top form into the summer. The 2014 World Cup saw him score a single goal through three games. This tournament could define his legacy as there is no top contender and he does have a relatively easy group to contend with.

Austria Could Be Best Team in Group

Austria presents the biggest challenge to Ronaldo in this year's tournament. The Austrian side has no major superstar, but forged a dominant path through its group to qualify for the tournament. Marc Janko had seven goals in qualifying for his country and David Alaba is a top star for the team.

After Austria, things get a bit less complicated with Iceland and Hungary unknown quantities. Iceland had a terrific run to the World Cup playoffs two years ago but had the benefit of an easy group this time around whereas Hungary finished third in one of the least competitive groups of the qualifiers.

Best Player in the Group

When is he on his game there is no question -- Cristiano Ronaldo. He had 51 goals in 48 games and was instrumental for Real Madrid this year. However, injuries hampered his way to the finish line and if he is still suffering from this lingering issue, his effectiveness could be hampered in this tournament. Portugal relies heavily on his greatness to go deep.

Schedule

June 14

Austria vs. Hungary

Portugal vs. Iceland

June 18

Iceland vs. Hungary

Portugal vs. Austria

June 22

Iceland vs. Austria

Hungary vs. Portugal

Predictions

Ronaldo scores some goals, but is peripheral throughout, repeating his form in the 2014 World Cup. That said, he leads Portugal to second place in the group behind Austria. Iceland gets a third place finish.