Prediction: Slovakia vs Ireland

Prediction: Ireland win

Best Odds: 19/10

Bookmaker: Betfair

Another international break is upon us and yet despite the apathy that tends to create from domestic football fans, there are some important steps to be taken on the Road to UEFA Euro 2021. A parade of semi-finals are set to take place in the playoffs to ensure that we know which teams will be battling it out for a place in the tournament next month. Today, we’re going to be taking a look at what is bound to be an intriguing contest between Slovakia and Ireland.

Slovakia

An appearance in the 2010 FIFA World Cup led to Slovakia surprising a lot of people by making it into the Round of 16 stage, and six years later at UEFA Euro 2016, they matched that accomplishment. They’re viewed as consistent dark horses in European football and they don’t have all too much pressure on their shoulders from the wider continent, but they do possess passionate fans who are more than willing to follow this team to the end of the Earth.

Team News

Dubravka, Hancko, Duris and Stetina have all been ruled out through injury in something of a mini-crisis for Slovakia. They are expected to push forward with a 4-3-3 system, switching over from having three at the back.

Ireland

They may not have appeared at the World Cup since 2002, but they have managed to qualify for the last two European Championships. They faltered at the group stage in 2012 but improved to reach the Round of 16 in 2016, and if they can continue that progression, fans will be delighted. Alas, simply getting to the tournament itself is going to be a challenge considering how competitive the Path B bracket is.

Team News

There are no lingering issues for the Irish to deal with from injuries to suspensions, and the big questions are coming from midfield with many not knowing what kind of starting XI they’re going to put out. It’ll be a competitive Ireland side, but it’ll also be an unpredictable one.

Factors to Consider

• Slovakia finished third in Group E with 13 points, whereas Ireland finished third in Group D with 13 points.
• Slovakia have won one, drawn three and lost two of their last six games.
• Ireland have won one, drawn three and lost two of their last six games.
• Slovakia have scored seven goals and conceded nine in their last six games.
• Ireland have scored five goals and conceded six in their last six games.

Conclusion

This is going to be an ugly game and while that may turn some people off, sometimes, you have to try and grind it out if you want to qualify for big tournaments. We do still believe there’s a notable gulf between the two nations in terms of heart and determination, though, which is why we’re backing the Republic of Ireland to edge out a 1-0 win. It isn’t going to be pretty and they probably won’t win the final, but it’ll still be a vital first hurdle to clear.

Prediction: Ireland win

Best Odds: 19/10

Bookmaker: Betfair