Rep of Ireland v Finland

Ireland vs Finland Preview

The other match being played in Group 2 on Thursday night features this upcoming clash between third placed Republic of Ireland and the bottom nation, Finland, when the two sides meet at the Aviva Stadium with a precious three points at stake for both sides as they each look for a way to avoid possible relegation.

Back-to-back defeats at home to England and Greece, both by 2-0 margins at the start of this Nations League campaign was not the sort of start Republic of Ireland coach Heimir Hallgrímsson would have had in mind for his squad in this current edition of the competition.

However, a 2-1 win away from home against Finland have eased the nerves somewhat and although the Irish were handed a 2-0 loss in Greece last time out on Matchday 4, they now return to their Aviva Stadium for this upcoming clash against strugglers Finland, no doubt looking to do ‘the double' over their visitors and therefore take their chances in the relegation play-offs.

The bigger picture shows Republic of Ireland have managed to capture just three wins within their last 14 internationals overall and having picked up just one win on home soil from their previous eight attempts, Hallgrímsson will be urging on is players to turn things around in their own backyard.

Finland have two games remaining in order to save themselves from relegation down to League C but results so far in this Nations League competition have left a lot to be desired and suggest this could be a tall order for the Fins.

An opening 3-0 loss away from home at Greece was followed by home and away losses to England along with a disappointing 2-1 defeat at home to Republic of Ireland, and they now face the Irish in their own backyard on Thursday night.

The omens therefore do not look good for Markku Kanerva's side who have failed to win any of their last six internationals, slipping to five defeats within this period while the bigger picture hasn't painted a bright outlook either.

Indeed, Finland have managed to capture just three wins from their last 13 matches overall, two of which were achieved on home soil while also being handed no fewer than nine defeats in the process.

Results away from home have also done the recent damage for Finland as the visitors have lost four of their last five games on the road in all competitions, and they look to have their work cut out once again when they take on Republic of Ireland.

Republic of Ireland v Finland Verdict

Republic of Ireland have won three of the last five meetings against Finland and the hosts should prevail once again on Thursday night.

Therefore, our main bet will be Rep. Ireland win @ 1.66

Other side bets worth considering:

Rep. Ireland win & Over 2.5 goals @ 3.00

Correct Score: Rep. Ireland 2-1 @ 9.00