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Best Bet Of The Day Azerbaijan vs Sweden Prediction Nov 16, 2023. Match preview, stats and best bet prediction for the game.
As Finland prepares to host Northern Ireland in a Euro 2024 qualifying match on November 17, 2023, the stakes couldn’t be more contrasting for the two teams. While Finland’s playoff spot is assured thanks to their UEFA Nations League performances, Northern Ireland has been eliminated from qualifying contention. This game at Helsinki represents different objectives for both teams: Finland aims to regain their scoring form, and Northern Ireland seeks a morale boost after a series of narrow losses.
| Aspect | Finland | Northern Ireland |
|---|---|---|
| Form | W1, L3 | L3 |
| Head to Head | 4 Wins, 2 Draws, 4 Losses | 4 Wins, 2 Draws, 4 Losses |
| Key Player | Teemu Pukki | Dale Taylor |
| Odds to Win | 19/20 | 10/3 |
| Prediction | 3-1 Win | – |
Finland’s recent performances in Group H have been less than stellar, marked by defeats to Denmark, Slovenia, and Kazakhstan, and scoring a mere goal across these fixtures. Despite securing a playoff place, coach Markku Kanerva’s side has only found success in four out of their last 12 games, indicating a need for improvement.
Northern Ireland, under Michael O’Neill, has struggled significantly in Euro 2024 qualifying, losing five of their six defeats by just one-goal margins. Apart from two victories over San Marino, their campaign has been disappointing, highlighting a lack of firepower upfront and a need for rebuilding.
| Team | Win | Draw | Loss | Goals For | Goals Against |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finland | 4 | 0 | 8 | 5 | 12 |
| Northern Ireland | 2 | 0 | 8 | 4 | 9 |
Historically, the head-to-head record is evenly balanced, with both teams winning four games each and drawing twice. However, Finland’s recent 1-0 victory in Belfast and Northern Ireland’s struggles in the qualifiers tilt the scale slightly in favor of the Finns.
| Date | Match | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 26.03.23 | Northern Ireland vs Finland | 0-1 |
| 11.10.15 | Finland vs Northern Ireland | 1-1 |
| 29.03.15 | Northern Ireland vs Finland | 2-1 |
| Date | Match Result | Notable Aspect |
|---|---|---|
| 27.03.2023 | SWE 5 – AZE 0 | Sweden’s Dominance |
| Historical | SWE 3 – AZE 0 | – |
| Historical | AZE 0 – SWE 1 | – |
Coach Kanerva might make changes to the Finland lineup, bringing in Jere Uronen and Pyry Soiri for defensive stability and attacking flair. Benjamin Kallman could also feature as a central attacking option.
Possible Starting XI: Hradecky; Jensen, Hoskonen, Ivanov; Soiri, Kairinen, Kamara, Hakans; Pukki, Kallman, Taylor
Northern Ireland faces the absence of Shea Charles and Jonny Evans. Daniel Ballard and George Saville are likely to return, with Paddy McNair’s versatility playing a crucial role.
Possible Starting XI: Peacock-Farrell; Hume, McNair, Ballard, Lewis; Smyth, Thompson, Saville, Lyon, Taylor; Magennis
Teemu Pukki, the veteran forward, is the key man for Finland. Despite a subdued qualifying campaign, his club form in the MLS suggests he could be a decisive factor in this match.
Youngster Dale Taylor, on loan at Wycombe, is one to watch for Northern Ireland. His potential and energy could bring a new dynamic to the Irish attack.
The odds are leaning in favor of Finland, with bookmakers like William Hill offering 19/20 for a Finnish victory. Northern Ireland stands at 10/3 with BetMGM, indicating their underdog status.
| Bet | Finland | Northern Ireland | Draw |
|---|---|---|---|
| Odds | 19/20 | 10/3 | 12/5 |
Finland, playing at home and seeking to build momentum for the playoffs, appears to be the stronger side. Northern Ireland, despite their recent struggles, will aim to put up a resilient fight. However, Finland’s superior form and home advantage make them the favorites. We predict a 3-1 victory for Finland, with the goals coming in the latter part of the match.
A: For Finland, it’s an opportunity to gain momentum ahead of the playoffs, despite having already secured a spot. For Northern Ireland, already eliminated from Euro 2024 qualifying, it’s about rebuilding and gaining valuable experience.
A: Finland’s form has been shaky, with only four wins in their last 12 games and scoring just once in recent defeats against Denmark, Slovenia, and Kazakhstan.
A: Northern Ireland’s campaign has been challenging, with most of their defeats being by a narrow one-goal margin, highlighting their struggle in attack and defense.
A: The head-to-head record is evenly matched, with each team having four wins and two games ending in a draw. Their last encounter saw Finland winning 1-0 in Belfast.
A: For Finland, Teemu Pukki is the key player, given his goal-scoring abilities. For Northern Ireland, young forward Dale Taylor is one to watch for his potential and energy.
A: Finland’s predicted lineup includes Hradecky, Jensen, Hoskonen, Ivanov, Soiri, Kairinen, Kamara, Hakans, Pukki, Kallman, and Taylor. Northern Ireland’s likely starters are Peacock-Farrell, Hume, McNair, Ballard, Lewis, Smyth, Thompson, Saville, Lyon, Taylor, and Magennis.
A: The odds favor Finland at 19/20, with Northern Ireland at 10/3 and a draw at 12/5.
A: The prediction is a 3-1 victory for Finland, considering their home advantage and Northern Ireland’s recent form.
A: Northern Ireland will be without Shea Charles (suspended) and Jonny Evans (injured), which could impact their defensive capabilities.
A: The match is scheduled for November 17, 2023, and will be played in Helsinki, Finland.