Italy vs. Ireland Tips and Predictions

Match #22: Italy vs. Ireland Predictions

Ireland has already been eliminated from Euro 2012, but they could play spoiler in the group still with a win. Ireland has been in terrible form throughout Euro 2012 and once they lost against Croatia it was basically over. Italy needs to win this match in order to have a good chance at qualifying through to the knockout phase of the tournament.

Italy Tournament Recap (0-2-0)

The Italians have earned 2 points with 2 draws during group stage. Italy has to be a bit disappointed with the Croatian draw, as they conceded a late goal. Pirlo opened the scoring for Italy in their 2nd match in the 39th minute and they had other chances to try and put away the Croatians, but they couldn’t get it done and once Croatia drew even the momentum swayed to their side.

Ireland Tournament Recap (0-0-2)

Ireland came into this tournament with lots of hope, but those hopes have been diminished. Ireland is eliminated already, but the team will still want to try and win or draw in their last match. Ireland has conceded 7 goals while scoring only 1 goal, which ranks them at the bottom of the tournament in both categories. Keane has been ineffective as well although he hasn’t had help.

Italy vs. Ireland Match Odds

Italy: 1.33 Best Odds at Paddy Power
Ireland: 12.00 Best Odds at BetFred
Draw: 6.00 Best Odds at Will Hill

Italy vs. Ireland Betting Tips

Italy to win at 1.33 (Paddy Power)

Italy has done well to draw in both of their matches thus far, but they need to find a way beat Ireland. Italy will have a great shot at qualifying for the knockout phase with a win over Ireland although it still may come down to goal differential. Italy is paying a mere 1.33 right now, so I don’t recommend betting the Italians in the 1X2 market because there is no value.

The problem with Italy up to this point has been their offence. Italy has only scored 2 goals, but they’ve also only conceded 2 goals during their group stage matches. Italy should be able to score 1-2 goals against Ireland tomorrow at the minimum and I don’t think the Irish will be able to figure out the tough Italian defence.

Italy vs. Ireland Best Bets

Italian has an edge in the H2H series, but in competitive matches Ireland has fared well in recent years against Italy. Ireland has two draws against Italy during the qualification for the 2010 World Cup. Italy can’t afford another draw and they need to come out firing on offence in order to pick-up 3-points.

While Italy needs to win this match to have a chance to qualify I don’t think they’ll play too wide open of a game. I expect Italy to continue playing like they have and therefore I’m betting the U2.5. Italy doesn’t have the same scoring touch as Spain or the Croatians for that matter and I think Ireland will hold strong enough to keep this match close. You can bet on the U2.5 goals at 2.25 odds right now at Ladbrokes.

Paddies is running a promotion if you think there will be a lot of goals in the match. Paddies will refund bets in various markets (1st Goalscorer, Last Goalscorer, Correct Score & Scorecast) if 4 or more goals are scored during the match.