Spirited NI to get on the board in Group C
Ian Baraclough’s quest to outperform his former boss in Michael O’Neill really begins this Wednesday as Northern Ireland play their second match of World Cup qualifying, they reached Euro 2016 under the Stoke gaffer and in looking to go one step further they must get the better of an inferior Bulgaria side. NI were respectfully beaten 2-0 in Italy last time out in Group C but a win here would make for an overall successful international break as they look to remould the squad having lost a few crucial, experienced cult figures in recent years. Newly crowned Scottish Premiership champions Rangers’ Steven Davis captains the side and even at 36 has the nous to unlock the Bulgarian backline.
Group C
It is going to be an uphill task for the hosts to put together a challenge for the playoff spot with Italy and Switzerland both well established nations at tournament level. The latter of which narrowly got the better of Northern Ireland in the playoffs for World Cup 2018. Taking 12 points from their two matches against Bulgaria and Lithuania is essential if Baraclough’s men are to make the group competitive. The key players in Jonny Evans, Paddy McNair and Stuart Dallas are as good as any in Great Britain outside England but the players that join them make NI constant underdogs, but with their spirit and never say die attitude particularly at Windsor Park, they always overperform.
The visitors
Bulgaria have actually won the last three meetings between these nations albeit a long time ago, they have not been able to produce any seriously notable players, they will find it tough to avoid propping up the group. Containing Northern Ireland is there most likely approach, not a team full of goals but a resilient one that can pounce on any defensive lapse in concentration. Hull City’s Josh Magennis is sure to ruffle some feathers up top with his powerful frame and pace in behind.
Goals?
There is no value in the goal line, should the hosts break the deadlock early they could go on to make the scoreline comfortable.
- NI have scored in seven of 10.
- NI have conceded in all of their last 11.
- NI have seen both teams score in seven of 10.
- NI have seen over 2.5 goals in five of 10.
- Bulgaria have scored in five of 10.
- Bulgaria have conceded in eight of 10.
- Bulgaria have seen both teams score in four of 10.
- Bulgaria have seen over 2.5 goals in four of 10.
In recent years Northern Ireland have a decent record over the smaller European nations, they should keep things tight and get over the line here.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
NI won the shot count 14 to 3 but could not find a way through. An international break to forget. 0-0.