REPUBLIC OF IRELAND must beat Italy to stay alive and on the evidence of the first two games they have no chance.
The Irish were unlucky to be held by Sweden but woeful in a 3-0 defeat against Belgium while Italy have won two without conceding.
One thing in Martin O'Neill's favour is Italy have already won the group so are likely to rotate. Ireland are 12-5 with most bookies.
Italy are 29-20 at boylesports to win their third game and it's that big because they don't need to. I'd check line-ups with this one before betting but under 2.5 goals looks the call at 4-9 with Ladbrokes.
It's Belgium who are in pole position to finish second as they should beat a Swedish side still waiting on Zlatan Ibrahmovic to join the party.
Belgium are 5-6 at Ladbrokes and McBookie and should get the job done after an impressive second-half show against Ireland.
Romelu Lukaku was the hero with a double last time out but I'm on Eden Hazard to net at 13-5 with betfair.
Bets to Consider
Italy v Ireland under 2.5 goals
Belgium
Hazard to score
Resident football tipster at Scotland's most read newspaper, the Daily Record, for over 20 years and proud host of one the best betting communities on the web with daily betting tips.
Italy have made 9 changes to their side. Which means Ireland is playing a weakened Italian team. C’mon you Boys Green!
paddy gooner, I think Italy would have played no keeper if they could have done anything to avoid top spot.
Hope the Irish can take advantage but it’s certainly a warning to steer clear of Italy.
Also I heard last night it’s possible Buffon may be rested. If so, maybe worth a punt on Ireland. Also I would check team news before betting total goals markets.
Still a strong Italian side..even with all the changes
swcfc1888, as you say still a decent Italy side – I think it’s about whether Ireland can step up.
It’s do or die for them and they need to play like they did in the first game.
I think irish cannot lose…
:-) You’ll Never Beat The Irish :-)