Wednesday's Euro Qualifying Matches: Group D
| 8
|
by Foolsgold
Czech Republic vs. Republic of Ireland, Sparta Stadium - Prague
Continuing with the 'every group's got a cracker of a match' theme, we have the Irish traveling to Prague with basically their Euro hopes on the line. A devastating Marek Cech equalizer in the 91st minute of their Saturday tie with Slovakia could end up costing the Boys in Green their spot. A loss here puts them six points behind the Czechs with three matches left each and neither really have the advantage opponent-wise.
The Czechs will be looking for blood and all but assure their Euro attendance next summer. Considering that when they met in Dublin last October and all Ireland could manage was a draw, you figure the Czech side should be at least a goal better at home, despite their uninspiring performance at San Marino on Saturday.
Ireland tend to be a streaky side and from the looks of it, they appear to be in the midst of a downer. The Czechs know how important it would be to wrap up a qualifying spot as early as possible and that can pretty much be done with a win here. Neither side appears to have any major injuries, so I've got to believe the Czechs will do it, 2-1, but the Irish never go down without a fight.
Slovakia vs. Wales, Antona Malatinského - Trnava
Both these sides are pretty much done. Wales sits at 7 points with a game-in-hand over the whole group except Cyprus and Slovakia is basically in the same position with 10. If they draw and the Czech Republic beat Ireland, they are both mathematically eliminated. If either lose and the Czechs win, the losing side's hopes are crushed.
It's not even worth looking ahead to see what each of these teams have in store for them. Wales could win this match and easily the next three after, but then have to go to Germany on the final day of qualifying. Even if Germany has qualified by then, which they probably will have, they could put out a B squad that could easily take care of the Welsh.
Despite having two matches left against San Marino, the Slovaks still have to go to the Czech Republic on November 17th and if the Czechs have qualified by then, then that probably means both advancing spots are taken. I'll take the Slovaks for kicks, 1-0.
Cyprus vs. San Marino, GSP - Nicosia
Rhode Island has a larger population than both of these countries combined, yet neither have a Dunkin' Donuts. What a shame. Cyprus, 3-1.
Originally posted here
