England to stand firm in Group 3
England travel to Hungary for their first match of the Nations League.
They are competing in Group 3, with Italy and Germany making up a very spicy four team group.
Gareth Southgate may well rotate his squad after such a long season for many of his players, but if they are to progress in the competition, the Three Lions will need to take six points off of Hungary.
The Hungarians performed admirably in a group with France, Germany and Portugal at the Euros and it will be a similar scenario and mentality in this fixture.
Background
Hungary are definitely stronger defensively than they are going forward.
Attila Szalai and Willi Orban are very capable of staying strong if England are not firing going forward.
Callum Styles and Dominik Szoboszlai could spring some surprises in the attacking third, however, it is not a challenge that England will expect to struggle in.
The Three Lions did not concede from open play in the entirety of the Euros and that solidity should stand them in good stead to make a deep run in the Nations League.
Jarrod Bowen is an exciting inclusion and someone who could ask Hungary questions with his energy either side of the backline, the former Hull City man has earned his call-up after an outstanding season with West Ham United.
One thing, not the most pressing issue, is how Southgate will distribute minutes across five right backs that he has selected in the squad.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, Reece James and James Justin are all vying for a spot, Southgate may be most obliged to rest the former after a heavy campaign with Liverpool.
Goals?
Hungary have the defensive capabilities, therefore I will stay away from a goals angle and double up for value instead.
Hungary have scored in six of ten.
Hungary have conceded in eight of ten.
Hungary have seen both teams score in four of ten.
Hungary have seen over 2.5 goals in five of ten.
England have scored in all of their last 14.
England have conceded in four of ten.
England have seen both teams score in four of ten.
England have seen over 2.5 goals in seven of ten.
England are heavy favourites for a reason and with a strong defensive display onside we can get on an odds against price.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
1-0 Hungary, Szoboszlai.