UEFA EURO reporter's view: Austria

Squad analysis
Austria's strength lies in their defensive organisation. Marcel Koller's side only conceded five goals in qualifying and boast plenty of quality across the backline. David Alaba and Julian Baumgartlinger form a fine holding-midfield pairing, while the squad also contains a number of talented – if inconsistent – attacking midfielders. There remains a lack of major tournament experience, however: only five of the current squad were involved at UEFA EURO 2008.

• Lazaro misses out for Austria

One to watch
Alaba's awareness, long-distance shooting and ability to alter the tempo are vital to Austria's style. The 23-year-old, a defender for Bayern München and a midfielder for Austria, has matured into a complete footballer under Josep Guardiola. With Alaba approaching his prime, UEFA EURO 2016 is a great stage for him to showcase his talent.

How they'll play
Used throughout qualifying, 4-2-3-1 is Koller's preferred formation. Expect Austria to be industrious, defensively solid and to press aggressively. Marko Arnautović, Martin Harnik and Zlatko Junuzović will spearhead the attacks, while set pieces are also likely to be a major weapon: Junuzović and Alaba can be deadly from anywhere around the penalty area.

Austria coach Marcel Koller©AFP/Getty Images

What you won't know
Koller will be nothing if not prepared for the tournament. The 55-year-old Swiss coach is watching 39 videos of Austria's Group F opponents: 17 of Iceland, 12 of Hungary and ten of Portugal.

How they'll do
Austria's aim is the round of 16. "Once you get there, it is down to who you get," Koller has said. "With good luck you can get through – with bad luck you can go out." A manageable group means the UEFA EURO 2008 co-hosts should achieve that goal, but going further would be a significant achievement for a nation at only its second continental finals.

Spain up against Yugoslavia at UEFA EURO 2000©Getty Images

Most memorable EURO moment
I was only seven, but have vivid memories of watching Spain's remarkable 4-3 victory over Yugoslavia at UEFA EURO 2000. Needing to win to reach the quarters, Spain came from behind on three occasions, eventually prevailing in added time. It was a brilliant match, and little could hide my disappointment when eventual champions France beat the Spaniards in the next round – I found out the following morning because the game kicked off after my bedtime.

What I'm most looking forward to this summer
Beyond seeing how far Austria go, the 24-team format means this is one of the most open international tournaments in living memory. A number of nations qualified in impressive style and a little bit of momentum could take sides a long way. I'm most looking forward to seeing if the expanded competition benefits one of the dark horses or even – dare I say it? – England.

Follow Daniel throughout the finals on @UEFAcomDanielT