Prediction: England win
Best Odds: 1/200
Bookmaker: Betfair
While the focus for many on the international stage is on the rescheduled UEFA Euro 2020 tournament this summer, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced nations across the globe to start thinking about next year’s FIFA World Cup in Qatar. There are still plenty of distractions and problems that could arise before the WC actually takes place, but for England and San Marino, there’s no time to rest as they begin their respective qualification campaigns in a David vs Goliath style showdown.
England
After reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup many fans have been left to wonder what the Three Lions will be able to produce at the Euros. Of course, they’ve had to wait another year or so to try and prove themselves, but there’s a quiet confidence within the squad that Gareth Southgate’s men could go pretty far – so long as they stay consistent and find the right formation. For now, though, the next WC is in sight, and everyone wants to see football come home.
Team News
Rashford is the only fitness concern for England but isn’t likely to be risked anyway, in a game that many see as a perfect opportunity for Southgate to test the waters with some of the squad’s fringe players.
San Marino
When we think of countries making up the numbers, San Marino is one of the first that comes to mind. They’re always considered to be guaranteed bottom of the table finishers in every single qualifying group they’re in and many of us are just waiting for the day that they spring a surprise. That probably isn’t going to happen at Wembley, but for their faithful selection of fans, they’ll always live in hope.
Team News
San Marino captain Simoncini was sent off in their last game of 2020 and as a result, he’ll be suspended for this one. That’s the only absence the visitors have to worry about as they prepare the strongest team they can possibly put out for what is bound to be a long night.
Factors to Consider
- England have won all six of their games against San Marino.
- England have won four and lost two of their last six games.
- San Marino have drawn two and lost four of their last six games.
- England have scored 12 goals and conceded four in their last six games.
- San Marino have scored no goals and conceded 10 in their last six games.
Conclusion
It’s almost a foregone conclusion at this point that England will win the game, so punters are better off trying to predict just how many goals are going to be scored. We don’t tend to think the outcome is going to be too outrageous, which is why our official scoreline prediction is going to be 5-0. Either England will start off like a house on fire and slow down, or they’ll take their time to get going before really unleashing on the minnows late in the game.
Prediction: England win
Best Odds: 1/200
Bookmaker: Betfair
- Soccer News Like
- Be the first of your friends!
