Horse Racing analyst Will Smith has had a good look at all this weekend's ante-post markets, and provides a 7/1 EW selection in the Grade 2 novices' chase at Newbury on Friday.
Date published: November 28, 2023
In the upcoming Euro Champ Qualifying clash, Finland faces Northern Ireland in a contest that carries significant implications for both teams, albeit for divergent reasons. Sports Mole provides an in-depth preview of the match, encompassing predictions, team news, and potential lineups.
| Finland vs Northern Ireland Betting Tips | ||
|---|---|---|
| Selection | Odds | Bookie |
| Finland | 19/20 |  |
| 3-1 | 16/1 | |
As the two teams prepare to lock horns, Finland finds themselves out of contention for a top-two spot in Group H. Despite a promising four-game winning streak earlier in the group stage, a subsequent three-match losing run has thwarted their automatic qualification aspirations. Markku Kanerva’s squad, having secured a playoff place through their UEFA Nations League performances, now seeks redemption against Northern Ireland and San Marino.
Conversely, Northern Ireland has already been eliminated from Euro 2024 qualifying. Michael O’Neill’s side, despite commendable efforts in close one-goal margin defeats, faces the disappointment of being unable to secure a higher position in the table. The upcoming fixtures against Finland and Denmark provide a chance for Northern Ireland to salvage pride and momentum before heading into 2024.
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Finland’s recent form showcases a rollercoaster journey, with a string of victories followed by successive losses. Kanerva’s team, however, aims to rekindle their attacking prowess against Northern Ireland and San Marino. Their four-match winning streak remains a beacon of hope in an otherwise challenging campaign.
Northern Ireland, on the other hand, has struggled to convert tight contests into victories. O’Neill’s rebuilding project has faced setbacks, with the team losing every game except against San Marino. Despite this, the upcoming matches against Finland and Denmark offer an opportunity for Northern Ireland to play without the weight of qualification expectations.
As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, tactical adjustments and key player performances could prove decisive. For Finland, the expectation is that Kanerva will make changes to his XI following the slip-up against Kazakhstan. Players like Jere Uronen and Pyry Soiri could feature to bring experience and dynamism to the defensive and attacking departments, respectively. Benjamin Kallman presents a viable option in the centre of the attack.
Northern Ireland faces challenges with the absence of key players, including Shea Charles and Jonny Evans. Paddy McNair’s return from suspension adds versatility to their lineup, with the midfielder capable of slotting into right-back, centre-back, or central midfield positions.
Finland: Hradecky; Jensen, Hoskonen, Ivanov; Soiri, Kairinen, Kamara, Hakans; Pukki, Kallman, Taylor
Northern Ireland: Hazard; Hume, McNair, Ballard, Lewis; Smyth, Thompson, Saville, Price, Taylor; Magennis
In our analysis, we predict a 3-1 victory for Finland. O’Neill’s Northern Ireland will undoubtedly strive for a breakthrough, but Finland’s home advantage and recent successes make them the favourites. The potential absence of key players further tilts the balance in Finland’s favour.
Prediction: Finland 3-1 Northern Ireland
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Visit our football previews & predictions page for more betting tips on upcoming matches.
Horse Racing analyst Will Smith has had a good look at all this weekend's ante-post markets, and provides a 7/1 EW selection in the Grade 2 novices' chase at Newbury on Friday.
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