The Republic of Ireland will host Finland in a crucial UEFA Nations League fixture at Aviva Stadium, Dublin, on Thursday, 14 November. Both teams are looking to avoid relegation from League B, with Ireland currently sitting third in the group standings and Finland last, needing a win to keep their hopes alive.
Republic of Ireland Recent Form
Ireland have struggled to find consistency, winning just one of their four Nations League matches under head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson, with their sole victory a narrow 2-1 win against Finland in Helsinki.
Despite some solid defensive efforts, Ireland have been weak going forward, scoring in only two of their last five games and failing to net in eight of their last 10 home Nations League fixtures.
Currently third in their group, the side must secure at least a point in this match to avoid automatic relegation.
Injury and Team News
Ireland face several key absences, including captain Seamus Coleman, defenders Shane Duffy and Adam Idah, and attackers Robbie Brady and Chiedozie Ogbene.
In their absence, Premier League players Matt Doherty, Jake O'Brien, and Ryan Manning have been called up, providing options across the backline.
Midfielders Josh Cullen and Jason Knight are expected to continue their partnership, while forwards Troy Parrott and Evan Ferguson will likely start up front to boost Ireland's attacking threat.
Finland Recent Form
Finland’s 2024 campaign has been disappointing, with just one win in their last eight fixtures across all competitions.
Currently on a four-game losing streak in the Nations League, they have struggled defensively, conceding at least two goals in seven of those matches.
Ranked close to Ireland in the FIFA standings, the Eagle-Owls will be hoping to end their poor run and avoid a fifth consecutive defeat, which would be their worst since 1994.
Injury and Team News
Several Finnish regulars, including Fredrik Jensen, Adam Stahl, and Leo Vaisanen, have been omitted from the squad. Veteran goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky is set to start in goal, with Teemu Pukki likely pushing for a spot in the starting XI.
Strikers Joel Pohjanpalo or Benjamin Kallman are expected to lead the line, with Glen Kamara and Rasmus Schuller anchoring the midfield.
Republic of Ireland Player to Watch
Evan Ferguson – The Brighton striker has shown flashes of his potential this season and will be essential in an Ireland side that has struggled for goals.
Finland Player to Watch
Joel Pohjanpalo – The experienced forward scored against Ireland in their previous clash and will look to exploit any defensive gaps.
Prediction
With both teams striving to avoid relegation and neither side showing strong attacking form, this game could be a low-scoring encounter.
Ireland’s home advantage and recent win over Finland make them slight favourites.
Our Prediction: Republic of Ireland 1-0 Finland
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Under 2.5 Goals
Both teams have had difficulty scoring in recent fixtures, and this is likely to be a tight, defensive affair.
Tip 2: Ireland to Win
With the home advantage and slightly better recent form, Ireland are favoured to edge out Finland.
Tip 3: First Half Draw
Given the high stakes, expect a cautious start, with a likely draw at halftime.
