All to play for in Istanbul
A Vital Euro 2020 qualifier this week takes place between Turkey and Iceland in Group H. Can Şenol Güneş’ side seal qualification against the impressive island nation? Have a read of our preview here:
Turkey’s quiet revival
Turkey are a nation that have underachieved on the national stage of late. They had a wonderful World Cup in 2002 and then smashed it at the Euros in 2008 but have had little joy since then and there has not even been much to write home about but things have certainly taken a positive turn in the Euro 2020 qualifiers.
They currently sit above World Champions France at the top of Group H with just one defeat in the campaign so far including a win against the French at home and a point in the away game.
Only Iceland stand in between them and qualification but that single defeat did come against Strákarnir okkar back in June so there will be no celebrations just yet.
In fact, with only four points separating the two sides this is arguably one of the most exciting games left to be played and Turkey’s hard work could yet be undone should they fail to win either of their last two games.
The key men will be familiar to those who follow the English Premier League with Leicester centre-back Caglar Soyuncu a big presence in defence and Everton striker Cenk Tosun netting some vital goals during the qualifiers so far.
The striker is joint top scorer in Group H along with Olivier Giroud (both on five) and along with Istanbul Basaksehir midfielder pair Mahmut Tekdemir and Irfan Kahveci, will play an important role in secure passage into Euro 2020 for Turkey.
They never give up
Iceland know they simply have to win this game and will be putting a lot of emphasis on attacking. There is no use sitting back as a point would not be enough to give them a chance at overtaking either Turkey or France.
Two defeats to France and a shock 4-2 loss in Albania has severely damaged their likelihood of making through to next summer’s tournament but they will not be giving up.
They know they can beat Turkey having won 2-1 in June on home soil and will head into this one full of belief.
Finnbogason and Sigporsson are still vital for their goals while Gylfi Sigurdsson pulls the strings in midfield but they know the odds will be against them even if they pick up maximum points in this one.
Turkey vs. Iceland betting tip
This should be an open game, especially in the latter stages if Iceland still require a goal so backing both teams to score at odds of 10/11 with William Hill is a good bet here.
Post bet chat James's Tips:
This one finished 0-0, typical!