EU - Football - Europe - Euro 2008 Qualification

Republic of Ireland boss Steve Staunton had blamed a lengthy injury list for his side’s disappointing defeat at Cyprus & embarrassing, last-gasp win at San Marino in previous qualifiers. However, not even a fully-fit Irish squad or playing before 70, 000 fans at Croke Park could lift their game as they narrowly & unconvincingly edged past Wales 1-0.

If the Irish keep this up, I can’t see how they can make it to the Euro2008 finals especially with giants Germany & Czech Republic in the group. Even the likes of Slovakia could be a serious hurdle for them! This is why I think Slovakia have been under-rated by the market & should be back at +0. 5 1. 88 on Wednesday.

My price: Slovakia +0. 25 1. 88

Slovakia are a rejuvenated side under new boss Jan Kocian, undefeated in 4 matches since he took charge in Nov 2006. Kocian kicked off with a 3-1 win over Hristo Stoichkov’s Bulgaria & this was followed by a 2-1 victory over United Arab Emirates with a second-string squad. Then, he led his charges to a respectable 2-2 draw at Group A leaders Poland in another international friendly. On Saturday, Kocian reignited their qualification hopes with a spirited, come-from-behind 3-1 win at Cyprus – a venue in which the Irish were thumped 2-5.

What I like about Slovakia (or prefer over the Republic of Ireland) is their attacking prowess. The Slovakians are the 2nd highest-scoring nation in the qualifiers with 15 goals, behind fellow Group D counterparts Germany. But do bear in mind that the Germans hit 13 goals at lowly San Marino while Slovakia have yet to play this group minnows. With the Germans in control of the group, this clash at Croke Park could very well come down to who can score more goals as both the Republic of Ireland & Slovakia go all out for the win. The Irish will miss skipper Robbie Keane through suspension while Stephen Ireland, the hero in Republic of Ireland’s last 2 outings, could miss out through injury. It is likely he will play but not at 100% physical condition. Another injury doubt is keeper Shay Given who suffered a gash to his knee on Saturday.

Slovakia have 2 suspensions – defender Jan Durica & midfielder Matej Krajcik – but both are easily replaceable.

All in all, I can see Slovakia coming away with at least a point, if not all 3 on Wednesday.

Prediction: 1-2

Record Date : 25/03/2007 18:09