iSporter Karan Mundul previews the games from the Euro 2012 play-offs involving Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Portugal, Turkey vs Croatia, Czech Republic vs Montenegro, Estonia vs Republic of Ireland.
“We should get through. It was probably the easiest of the four (seeded teams to draw). We travel better than we play at home - we've had better results away than we have had at home.”
These were the words of Former Republic of Ireland striker John Aldridge after his country drew Estonia in the play-off for Euro 2012. Ten nations have already qualified to join hosts Poland and Ukraine. Eight nations are left fighting it out for the remaining four places. The play-off draw has set up some intriguing ties including a rematch of the FIFA 2010 play-off between Bosnia and Portugal which Portugal won 2-0. Here is a preview to each of the fixtures.
Bosnia and Herzegovina v/s Portugal
On paper Portugal appear the stronger side. Their lack of a quality striker is covered by a star studded midfield of Ronaldo, Nani, Danny, Meireles, Moutinho and Quaresma. Their abundant talent in the attacking third has seen them score 21 goals in 8 qualifying games. Their problem is in defence where they have conceded an average of 1.5 goals per game.
Their opponents Bosnia are more than capable of scoring goals. In form striker Dzeko will lead the line with key midfielders Pjanic and Misimovic behind him. The Bosnian defence has done well so far conceding just 8 goals in 10 games. However with two defenders suspended for the 1st leg and defensive midfielder Mujdza out injured, this game should be an open contest. Expect a high scoring first leg.
Turkey v/s Croatia
My favourite tie simply because it could go either way. Turkey scrapped their way through and Croatia should have topped what was the weakest group in the qualifying stage. Turkish playmaker Nuri Sahin misses both legs due to injury. Olic and Pranjic have been recalled to the Croatian squad to replace the injured Kranjcar and Petric. Bolton Wanderers forward Ivan Klasnic has been dropped with the manager pinning his hopes on ex Premier League strikers Eduardo and Kalinic. At home Turkey are a formidable side. Barring the loss to Germany they have won all their home fixtures. If Croatia can come away from Turkey with a draw or at worst trail by a goal, they will be favourites to win the tie.
Czech Republic v/s Montenegro
Before plotting the downfall of Montenegro, Michal Bilek has to decide his starting XI. In the 8 qualifying games, Czech Republic have fielded 35 different players. Their most prolific goal scorer is defender Michal Kadlec. Montenegro are the surprise package in the play-offs. Thanks to their resolute defence they have managed to see off the likes of Switzerland. With Vucinic as the only proven star player in the ranks, it has truly been a team effort by Montenegro. In Milan Jovetic they have a player capable of changing a game. Given the discipline at the back shown by both teams, a goalless draw is the most likely outcome in the first leg.
Estonia v/s Republic of Ireland
Having beaten Slovenia and Serbia to the play-off spot, Estonia should be confident of beating Ireland. However the confidence is extremely high in the Irish camp. Unbeaten in their last 9 games, Republic of Ireland has a fantastic mix of youth and experience.
In 2009 they almost beat France to make it to the World Cup. The problem lies with the fitness of the forwards. Keane and Long are both doubts ahead of the game whereas Doyle is suspended for the 1st leg. These three account for over half the teams goals. However in Walters, Coleman, Duff and Hunt the Irish should have enough firepower to ensure they go one step ahead of their FIFA result.
Subscribe to this comment's feed
Show/hide comments
Show/hide comment form
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
