Euro 2016 preview and odds: Belgium vs Republic of Ireland

Published on: 18/06/2016

Euro 2016 preview and odds: Belgium vs Republic of Ireland

Stade de Bordeaux, Bordeaux - June 15, 2016

Group stage - Group E

Second-ranked Republic of Ireland can move three points clear of their nearest rivals in Group E by securing their first ever competitive win over Belgium.

Make or break for Belgium

Ireland have never beaten Belgium in a competitive match and have not beaten them in a friendly match for 50 years. However, they have drawn five of their seven previous meetings at competition level.

Belgium coach Marc Wilmots has come under increasing criticism following his sides lack lustre display in their opening defeat to Italy. Despite having one of the most talented squads in the competition at their disposal, the Red Devils - who were amongst the pre-tournament favourites - looked distinctly average against the Italians.

With zero points on the board, the Belgians will need to take the initiative in this game as they seek to overhaul their rivals to claim second place in Group E.

Ireland manager Martin O`Neill is well aware of the quality of the opposition and has alreday played down their chances ahead of this match. However, as they showed against Sweden, they are a competitive side who can be dangerous on the break. If they can put on a similar performance on Saturday, they will make life very difficult for their star-studded opponents.

It is likely that Ireland will need a total of four points to progress to the knockout stages and with a game against Italy still to come, they may view this match as their best chance to grab the additional three points they need. If they do, it will represent one of the greatest achievements in the history of Irish football.

Form (all competitions):

Belgium: LWDWLWWWWW

Ireland: DLDDWWDLWW

Betting predictions

All the pressure will be on Belgium in what is a must win game for Wilmots` men. That could play into the hands of the Irish who will bide their time and look for the opportune moment to strike.

Are you feeling brave?

You can back Ireland to win at 17/4 with Bet365.

By Neil Morris

Published on: 18/06/2016

Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (18/06/2016 12:08:55) but are subject to change.