Greece vs Republic of Ireland Predictions

Greece vs Republic of Ireland predictions for this UEFA Nations League clash. Greece host the Republic of Ireland on Sunday in the UEFA Nations League, following an emotional victory over England, aiming to build momentum against the Irish side. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.

Nations League | League B | Oct 13, 2024 at 7.45pm UK at Stadio Georgios Karaiskaki

Greece vs Republic of Ireland Predictions

Will Greece’s Resurgence Continue Against Ireland?

• Greece’s Clean Sheet Record: Greece have kept two clean sheets in their first three Nations League games and conceded only one goal so far, showing their defensive resilience.
• Ireland’s Goal Struggles: Ireland have managed only two goals in their three Nations League fixtures, averaging just 0.7 goals per game, highlighting their attacking struggles.
• Pavlidis in Form: Vangelis Pavlidis has been in scintillating form for Greece, scoring twice against England, and he could be pivotal in unlocking Ireland’s defence once again.

Our Tips

The UEFA Nations League clash between Greece and the Republic of Ireland has all the ingredients for an intriguing contest. Fresh off a massive high after their stunning victory over England, Greece will return to the Karaiskakis Stadium in Piraeus, where they’ll look to continue their perfect start in the competition. Meanwhile, Ireland will also arrive in good spirits, having grabbed a much-needed win against Finland. However, the Irish will have their work cut out for them against a Greek side currently riding the crest of a wave, both emotionally and tactically.

The emotions are undoubtedly running high in the Greek camp. Just days after losing their former teammate George Baldock, Greece’s players honoured his memory with a gritty 2-1 win over England, a performance that oozed resilience and determination. With the home crowd behind them and the momentum firmly in their favour, they’ll be eager to put in another strong performance. Ireland, on the other hand, have struggled for consistency, though their 2-1 win in Finland will give them some belief.

But as we break this game down, it becomes clear that Greece hold the upper hand. The question is whether the Pirate Ship can keep sailing smoothly or if Ireland might conjure another surprise.

Best Bet: Greece to Win and Under 2.5 Goals

Looking at the form of both teams, Greece are the side to back here, particularly when coupled with the prospect of a low-scoring game. Greece have only conceded one goal in their three Nations League fixtures so far, and they have shown a real ability to manage games defensively. Despite their attacking prowess, their recent games suggest that they don’t tend to go goal-crazy. A 2-0 victory over Ireland in their last meeting underlines this.

Ireland, on the other hand, have only scored twice in their three games and are struggling to find consistent attacking form. Although they managed two goals against Finland, one could argue that Finland’s leaky defence has been their downfall for a while now, making that result less convincing. Ireland’s struggles in front of goal, coupled with Greece’s organised defence, make a low-scoring affair very likely.

The tactical approach from Greece under Jovanovic has been one of defensive solidity, with a reliance on patient build-up play. It’s worth noting that Greece’s last three competitive wins have all come with under 2.5 goals in total. Their measured style of play, combined with Ireland’s vulnerability in defence, makes the case for a relatively tight contest.

Ireland’s away form in the Nations League has been less than stellar, and despite their recent triumph over Finland, it’s hard to see them breaking down a disciplined Greek side. In their last six meetings, Ireland have only managed to score once against Greece. That speaks volumes about how this game might pan out.

As BettingTips4You expert John Pentin points out: “Greece’s defensive organisation, especially at home, is impressive. Combine that with Ireland’s struggles to score goals, and you’re looking at a game where Greece edge it but keep things tight at the back. Backing Greece to win with under 2.5 goals feels like a very smart bet.”

The emotional high Greece are on after their victory against England could well carry them through this game, but it’s unlikely they will run riot. Expect a solid, controlled performance from the hosts.

Correct Score Prediction: Greece 2-0 Republic of Ireland

Given the rationale for the best bet, a 2-0 win for Greece looks like the most likely outcome. This prediction aligns with both teams’ current form and playing style. Greece have already beaten Ireland 2-0 in Dublin earlier in the competition, and with the confidence from their Wembley win, another clean sheet seems entirely plausible.

Greece’s defensive stats back this up—two clean sheets in their three Nations League games so far. Their ability to shut down attacking threats was on full display against England, and with Ireland hardly a free-scoring team, it seems unlikely they will find the back of the net in this one.

Ireland, despite their win over Finland, have found it difficult to consistently create and convert chances. Their attack, led by the likes of Evan Ferguson, has not quite clicked yet, and against a well-drilled Greek defence, chances could be few and far between.

Greece, with the likes of Vangelis Pavlidis in form, should be able to grab a couple of goals. Pavlidis’ brace against England highlighted his ability to step up in crucial moments, and Ireland’s defence, which has already leaked five goals in this competition, could struggle to contain him.

A 2-0 scoreline would reflect a professional, disciplined performance from the hosts, where they control possession and pick their moments to strike, without allowing Ireland too many chances.

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