Prediction: Greece vs Finland

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 5/2

Bookmaker: bet365

While a lot of people already have their eye on the playoffs next year, it certainly feels like there’s a lot left to be resolved in the next few days as we prepare for a hectic conclusion to the international break. Some teams are going to be battling it out in winner-takes-all encounters, whereas others will already be preparing for next summer. Today, we’re going to be taking a look at what should prove to be an intriguing clash of styles between Greece and Finland over in Athens.

Greece

The Greeks are well known for their heroics at UEFA Euro 2004 where they were able to stun the football world and win the tournament. Fifteen years later, though, they haven’t really made any significant progress beyond that. They seem to make up the numbers in a few tournaments they’re able to qualify, but that’s never really been good enough for their expectant fans. If they can get one over in Finland, they’ll hope that they still have enough fight left in them to make a push for Euro 2020.

Team News

Greece will look to continue to line-up with their unusual 4-2-3-1 setup, with not all too many changes being expected from their big win over Armenia which put them in pole position to finish in third place.

Finland

Finland was sent into a state of sheer ecstasy just a matter of days ago after it was confirmed that they have qualified for UEFA Euro 2020. It’s their first appearance at a major tournament, and you can bet that they aren’t going to allow this opportunity to slip through their fingers. They have grit and determination throughout their entire squad, and much like Iceland three years ago, they’ll feel as if they’ve really got something to prove on the big stage.

Team News

After serving as Finland’s main man once again against Liechtenstein, Teemu Pukki will lead the line for his side against the Greeks. In the middle of the park, Sparv will captain his side as Finnish fans come out to celebrate reaching next year’s Euros.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting, Finland beat Greece 1-0.
• Greece have won two, drawn one and lost three of their last six games.
• Finland have won four and lost two of their last six games.
• Greece have scored six goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
• Finland have scored 11 goals and conceded six in their last sixg games.

Conclusion

While both nations are just going to be going through the motions, it feels like Greece will really give it their all in order to try and secure third place. We aren’t so sure the quality of the game is going to be up to a qualifier level, mainly because Finland have already confirmed their spot in next year’s UEFA Euro 2020 tournament. There are probably going to be a few goals, but we can’t picture either team doing enough to claim all three points.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 5/2

Bookmaker: bet365