This weekend’s fixtures in the European Championships qualification could be the key to which countries will be appearing in Poland and Ukraine next year.
There are some massive countries attempting to edge closer to qualification. Here are some of the more interesting clashes:
Germany vs. Austria
The Germans could be the first country to confirm their presence at next years European Championships with a victory over neighbours Austria.
The German FA are that confident that Die Mannschaft will qualify for Euro 2012 that they have released a new kit for the occasion.
The Austrians are not completely out the running for second spot in Group A but are four points behind second placed Belgium with a game in-hand. The game at the Allianz Arena will be a difficult one and Germany will be confident of continuing their unblemished victory in the group.
Prediction 3-0 victory for Germany
Bulgaria vs. England
England have been far from impressive in recent games and as usual are making it difficult for themselves. The Three Lions are top of group G, only on goal difference with Montenegro hot on their heels.
Bulgaria are not completely out of the reckoning for qualification but will probably have to win all their remaining games to qualify for Euro 2012. England’s squad has been slightly refreshed with the injection of some younger players and I think that will be just enough for England to shade this encounter.
Prediction: 2-1 victory for England
Israel vs. Greece
This is a really intriguing clash between two teams both hoping for qualification from group F. The visitors are currently leading the home side by just a point in the group, with Croatia sandwiched in-between the pair.
The Greek’s also have a game in-hand, so it is vital for Israel to claim a victory in this fixture. However I think that both sides will cancel each other out in this one.
Prediction: 2-2 draw
Republic of Ireland vs. Slovakia
Two of the top teams from group B go head to head at the Aviva Stadium. Both countries have 13 points and are also competing against Russia for qualification from the group. It’s anybodies guess who will get those final qualifying places with Russia also on 13 points.
Republic have a good home record and they have to be regarded as slight favourites for this clash. However this looks set to be a close encounter. With a good crowd behind them I think Republic will just shade this one.
Prediction: 2-1 victory for Republic of Ireland
Northern Ireland vs. Serbia
With Italy looking like running away with group C, two of the hopefuls for second place meet at Windsor Park. Northern Ireland have failed to qualify for an international tournament since the 1986 World Cup.
The Serbian’s on the other hand have became perennial qualifiers for recent international tournaments. Serbia however have struggled in qualification and are fourth in the group.
Slovenia are currently in second place with 11 points, Northern Ireland have nine and Serbia are a point behind. This clash is vital for both countries, as both have a game in-hand on the Slovenians. Although I expect Northern Ireland to put up a brave fight, I can see the Serbians winning this one.
Prediction: 3-1 victory for Serbia
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