A demotivated Republic of Ireland travels this week to take on Finland in the UEFA Nations League. The match schedules for Wednesday at Helsinki with kickoff at 9:45 pm.
The Republic of Ireland has many problems for their side, including a positive coronavirus test among players, bouts of injuries, and suspensions. A loss this Wednesday will see the side relegated from Group B4.
Finland is second in the group with four points clear of their opponents. The side is currently chasing heels against Wales after the Dragons played a goalless draw last Sunday against the Republic of Ireland.
Stephen Kenny is still searching for his first win in the UEFA Nations League for his Republic of Ireland side. The best performance for the side so far is their recent goalless draw against Wales on Sunday.
After seven attempts in the UEFA Nations League, the Boys in Green are still without a win so far in the competition. Their campaign is full of defeats and draws. A loss this weekend will be the last stride for Stephen Kenny.
Their opponents will be looking to make the most from the side off and on-field woes this Wednesday. A win could elevate the side to the top of the group. The side registered a 2-0 win over Bulgaria last Sunday with goals from Frederik Jensen and Robert Taylor.
Finland vs. Republic of Ireland Head to Head
Both sides have only faced once against each other, ending in a Finland win. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
Finland 2-0 Bulgaria
Poland 5-1 Finland
Ireland 0-1 Finland
Finland 0-1 Wales
Greece 2-1 Finland
Away
Ireland 0-0 Wales
Slovakia 0-0 Ireland
Ireland 0-1 Finland
Bulgaria 1-1 Ireland
Ireland 1-1 Denmark
Finland Team News
Kanerva is less likely to make any new changes to the squad following their last three consecutive games in the competition. Teemu Pukki, with 25 goals in 83 international games, will be leading the attacking line. Jensen will be pushing for a starting in the XI this weekend after netting a goal from the bench against Bulgaria.
Republic of Ireland Team News
Idah and Conolly are back in contention for a starting XI after a controversial two-match ban for the duo. Mclean remains suspended ahead of the match. Positive cases of coronavirus in the camp include John Egan, Callum O’Dowda, and Callum Robinson.
Prediction and Odds
We expect Finland to take advantage of the woes currently faced in their opponent’s camp this Wednesday.
Finland Win
Goals Under 2.5
Pukki to Score
