Prediction: Czech Republic vs Northern Ireland

Prediction: Czech Republic win

Best Odds: 3/4

Bookmaker: bet365

While the international break often gives us a chance to take a step closer towards finding out who will qualify for the big tournaments, it also allows for a few friendlies that can test the waters as to where certain nations are in their development. Today, we’re going to take a look at what should prove to be an intriguing encounter between Czech Republic and Northern Ireland. Neither side is considered to be amongst the elite, but they certainly hold out hope that they can make their way to Euro 2020 next year.

Czech Republic

After years of being in a pretty stagnant state, it appears as if the Czech Republic are slowly but surely building a squad that is capable of competing at major tournaments. They certainly still seem to have more drive and passion than they do actual quality, but the process of bringing through youngsters seems to be going well. Either way, with 24 places up for grabs at next year’s European Championships, they’ll be kicking themselves if they can’t qualify.

Team News

Brabec will be hoping to lead the line after his strong display against England, but given that this isn’t a qualifier, there’s every chance that the Czechs will use this game as an opportunity to test out a new formation.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland lost a heartbreaker against the Netherlands earlier in the week, and many believe that could end up damaging their confidence quite a bit as they were just 10 minutes away from a famous win over the Dutch. Alas, they’ll need to dust themselves off and go again, because this squad has the talent necessary to cause quite a few surprises. Sure, they’re not world beaters, but the game against the Netherlands proved that they can contend one day.

Team News

There could be some defensive changes made after Northern Ireland let their lead slip against the Netherlands. Up top, Dallas will likely feature with Lafferty hoping to make an impact once again.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in September 2017, Northern Ireland beat Czech Republic 2-0.
• Czech Republic have won four and lost two of their last six games.
• Northern Ireland have won four and lost two of their last six games.
• Czech Republic have scored 12 goals and conceded seven in their last six games.
• Northern Ireland have scored seven goals and conceded seven in their last six games.

Conclusion

In an international friendly like this it really does just come down to who cares about the result more, because in truth, a friendly at this stage of the season isn’t going to do much for either nation. Given the fact that the Czechs are coming off the back of a morale boosting win over England, we can see them being the team that gets the better of the visitors here. Northern Ireland will come at them but in the end, we just don’t think it’s going to be enough.

Prediction: Czech Republic win

Best Odds: 3/4

Bookmaker: bet365