After scraping a draw in Bulgaria on Thursday, Republic of Ireland face a tough test as they welcome Finland to Aviva Stadium in Dublin for their second Nations League B4 match of the season.
If Wales fails to beat Bulgaria in their clash, a win for either Republic of Ireland or Finland could send them top of Group B4 with four rounds left over the next two months.
Team News
Republic of Ireland have no fresh injury concerns to report from Thursday’s trip to Bulgaria with a full squad available for selection.
Finland have no fresh injury concerns with a full squad available for selection, including defender – Daniel O’Shaughnessy who opted to represent Finland over the Republic of Ireland.
Stat Attack
- Republic of Ireland are unbeaten in five previous meetings against Finland in all competitions (W3, D2)
- Finland have conceded three goals in two of three previous trips to Republic of Ireland (D1, L2)
- Republic of Ireland are unbeaten in their last eight home games dating back to June 2018 (W5, D3).
- Finland have won just two of their last six away matches in all competitions (W2, L4).
- Each of Republic of Ireland’s last 18 home goals have all been scored by different individual players, dating back to October 2016.
Prediction
After a positive attacking display in Bulgaria, Stephen Kenny will be keen for his Irish team to kick on and find that clinical edge but they’re are coming up against a stern Finland team, who pushed Wales all the way on Thursday despite falling to a narrow one goal defeat.
Finland however don’t boast a great defensive record with seven goals conceded in three visits and if Ireland can find that clinical edge then this should be a routine home win.
Prediction: Republic of Ireland 2-0 Finland