Wednesday's Euro Qualifying Matches: Group F
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by Foolsgold
Iceland vs. Northern Ireland, Laugardalsvöllur - Reykjavik
Well, finally we have a group that doesn't have a guaranteed intense match, but that doesn't mean there isn't any drama. In fact, if you look down the road, the top three teams in this group: Sweden, Northern Ireland, and Spain, could all be tied with 19 points at the end of the day, and all meet each other in future fixtures.
Northern Ireland owes Iceland a debt of gratitude for drawing with the Spaniards on Saturday. They should also send a thank you card to Xabi Alonso for getting sent off in that match as well. David Healy is expected to play for the Green and White Army, and they'll probably need his knack to find the back of the net, as I'm sure Iceland gained a little confidence from their last match.
Stick a fork in the Strákarnir okkar, because they're pretty much done. They will need more miracles than Moses to advance out of this group, but it doesn't mean they'll just roll over and die. Expect them to use a youthful side who'll look to impress their coach for more playing time.
The end is nigh, Norn Ironers, your tendency to underestimate opponents will probably come back to haunt you again in this one. I'll say a draw, 2-2.
Spain vs. Latvia, Nuevo Carlos Tartiere - Oviedo
The Spanish should be licking their chops a point back of Sweden and looking to take control of this group. Unfortunately they're not after drawing with Iceland. This is an easy three points if they come out motivated and they better be, because if they lose or draw this match, they have arguably the toughest road of any team in the tournament ahead of them. They have to go to Denmark and then have Spain and Northern Ireland at home, all losable ties.
Latvia might have gained a little confidence with their win over the Norn Iron, but their form on the road especially early in matches, has cost them any chance of advancing to the final. Spain, 2-0.
Denmark vs. Liechtenstein, Atletion - Aarhus
It's crunch time for the Danes. They may have a game-in-hand, but anything other than a win here, puts a severe dent in their qualifying chances. It's Liechtenstein though so it shouldn't be that much of an obstacle, Denmark 3-1.
Originally posted here
