These isn’t exactly a round of fixtures too many of us are looking forward to…however, there are a couple international friendlies which provide a unique opportunity to top up the dusty coffers and prepare us for the last run in toward the end of the domestic season!
Saturday 26 March
5/10 Croatia | Draw 49/20 | Slovenia 54/10 (16:00)
The home side seem to enjoy playing this fixture – well I mean there isn’t too much to argue in terms of the head-to-head statistics with Croatia leading 7-1! I wouldn’t read too much further into it either, the host have a superior quality side with a dominant and aggressive approach to attacking games with unrelenting football, and so backing them to win should prove rather fruitful.
Get on the home win.
5/4 Finland | Draw 18/10 | Iceland 9/4 (18:00)
This is a rather delicate game to call, neither side are world-beaters…but both hold a proud football culture which is intrinsic to their DNA. These sides last met in 2017 (aah yes, a different world indeed) with Finland winning 1-0 in a game plagued by red cards and gritty refereeing.
I don’t think there is too much to split these sides and if you must have a bet – back the draw.
52/10 Republic of Ireland | Draw 49/20 | Belgium 5/10 (19:00)
Belgium have been a side to blow hot and cold recently, they are usually ones to go into a tournament (and indeed a fixture) heavily backed in the betting markets…but take it from me, they can cost you a couple coins.
Nevertheless, they are a side with enough quality and depth to take on anyone. Their players are amongst the best in the world, situated at clubs dominating international football now. They will be too strong here – even for a spirited Irish side playing at home.
8/10 England | Draw 2/1 | Switzerland 37/10 (19:30)
All the talk about England now has been rooted in the side announced by Gareth Southgate and his team. In particular, the exclusion of Jadon Sancho and the ‘alleged’ protection of Harry Maguire.
I must be honest, the omission of Sancho came as a little surprise…but the truth is, if Maguire getting some time away from United can in anyway assist him – LET IT BE.
I don’t think England are good enough to win, Switzerland can score and with the attacking prowess available to the Three Lions, both teams scoring comes strong into the money. Get on at 19/20.
1/6 Spain | Draw 48/10 | Albania 16/1 (20:45)
Spain is another side marred by selection controversy – in particular, that of David De Gea. In this instance though, I agree with the rationale. There is no dispute that De Gea is an incredible shot stopper, he just isn’t the choice if you prioritize a keeper who is competent with their feet and distribution to the point of bringing in other players in the team.
Nonetheless, whilst acknowledging the passion that will surely flow from Albania…Spain wins this comfortably. 1/6 won’t get me too many plaudits – so instead let’s try Spain winning at half-time at 11/20.
1/8 Germany | Draw 6/1 | Israel 21/1 (21:45)
These sides have only played each other once, and to be fair to the visitors, they kept it rather respectable. Israel obviously do not have a side capable of matching Germany on paper – but as is usually the case in football, anyone can show up and get a result on their day!
I think Germany win this game, but they haven’t really been able to put teams away by massive margins. Back Germany and under 3.5 goals at an incredible 7/10.
17/20 Netherlands | Draw 2/1 | Denmark 32/10 (21:45)
This could be a rather emotional game with the inclusion of Christian Eriksen in the Danish side. The Netherlands have an excellent football side themselves, but the passion and determination of the Danish football side shouldn’t be something taken for granted.
I think this could be an upset material game, I just like the way the visitors go about their business. Play hard for 90 minutes, give everything you have and just see what comes of it! I wouldn’t be surprised to see the upset result, for but betting purposes without too much adrenaline – back both teams scoring at 9/10.
