Prediction: Ireland win
Best Odds: 40/85
Bookmaker: 888sport
UEFA Euro 2021 is right around the corner but before all of that kicks off this summer, we have the start of 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying to contend with across the continent of Europe. There are plenty of nations out there who will really fancy their chances at reaching Qatar next year whereas others just want to try and put forward a good account of themselves. Today, we’ll look at a game between two teams who are probably in the latter of the two categories – Republic of Ireland and Luxembourg.
Republic of Ireland
The Republic of Ireland seemed to be going through something of a silver generation a few years back after qualifying for two straight European Championship tournaments, but after failing to make it three in a row for the upcoming Euros, many are questioning what kind of side they actually want to be moving forward. Nobody can answer that question right now so instead, it’s just a case of throwing them out there to see what they can do.
Team News
Long, Hourihane, Kelleher and O’Dowda have all been ruled out through injury. There are some decent options within the squad with a back three being predicted to allow Doherty and Coleman to start.
Luxembourg
The goal for Luxembourg previously seemed to be quite familiar with many believing them to be one of the weakest national teams in the region. However, recent wins over Cyprus and Montenegro – in addition to a draw against Azerbaijan – have forced many of us to reevaluate. They may not be the kind of team who will be constantly pursuing qualification but as the years go on, it does feel as if they’re starting to put together a system they can be proud of.
Team News
Carlson and Selimovic were at the heart of Luxembourg’s resistance in the Nations League last year but neither have made the squad this time around, but aside from that, there aren’t any notable injury problems for the visitors to contend with.
Factors to Consider
- Ireland hold a 5-0 lead in their head to head series against Luxembourg.
- Ireland have drawn two and lost four of their last six games.
- Luxembourg have won two, drawn one and lost three of their last six games.
- Ireland have scored two goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
- Luxembourg have scored five goals and conceded seven in their last six games.
Conclusion
Ireland may not have been the best team to watch over the course of the last few years but in the game against Serbia, they scored two goals – which, in itself, seems like a minor miracle based on their recent performances. At the very least that should give them the motivation to go out there and really put a beating on Luxembourg even if it may not seem like they’re capable of doing so. They’re a decent team when they stay structured, and we think they’ll win this one.
Prediction: Ireland win
Best Odds: 40/85
Bookmaker: 888sport
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