Ireland vs Bulgaria Prediction & Betting Tips - UEFA Nations League

Prediction published on 16/11/2020, 15:08  by James | Modified on 16/11/2020 at 16:08 in UEFA Nations League Predictions

Ireland welcome Bulgaria to the Aviva Stadium on Wednesday night for the final game of their Nations League campaign. The Boys in Green have had a dismal campaign and currently sit third in Group 4 (of League B) with two points from five games. Their opponents travel from Bulgaria in fourth place with only one point. This is essentially a relegation play-off with the winner avoiding League C. The Irish knew that Stephen Kenny would need time to work his magic when he was appointed as manager, yet even this disclaimer could not have prepared them for such a disastrous opening to his reign. Ireland failed to win any of his opening seven matches, losing five. There is a glaring problem in the squad when it comes to creating and converting chances as Ireland are on a six-game goal drought. They also suffered the blow of striker David McGoldrick retiring from international football in recent weeks. The last time Ireland scored was in the reverse fixture versus Bulgaria, a 1-1 draw in September.

Bulgaria have lost seven of their last nine matches in all competitions. They have failed to score in four of those games. Winning on the road has been particularly tough with victory avoiding them on their last nine away outings. One of their more recent away defeats was on their last visit to Dublin, going down 3-1 to their upcoming opponents in a friendly. Ireland are unbeaten in their last six matches against Bulgaria, five of which have featured exactly two goals. Despite their recent problems, Ireland maintain a solid home record, only losing one of their last nine games on home turf. If a win is to come, it will be on their patch. Back under 1.5 goals.