Germany v the Netherlands, Monday 19.45
Germany’s exit from Europe’s elite has been about 10 times more effective than The UK’s efforts, so fair play to them. Their fall from grace could hardly be more dramatic and it was inconceivable when the draw was made that they would be relegated with a game still to play from a group that included the Netherlands.
The Netherlands upturn in form since Ronald Koeman took over has been equally shocking, and they can top group A1 with a draw or better in Germany.
Germany have picked up just one point from their three Nations League games and were turned over by the Dutch when the sides met in Holland. Their opponents have gotten results against high-calibre opposition including France, Belgium as well as the Germans.
Things have gone completely stale for Germany under Joachim Low and they have ambled from fiasco to fiasco since they were beaten by Mexico in their World Cup opener in June. They are very much in rebuilding mode at the moment and it is likely that Low will give a number of young players a chance against the Dutch. Whether they will be able to deal with a Dutch side that seem to have a winning formula at present is a different matter altogether.
We think the Dutch are a good bet to at least draw, which would see them top the group and qualify for next summer’s finals.
Verdict: Netherlands and draw @ 10/11
Denmark v Ireland, Monday, 19.45
This game is now even less meaningful than Thursday night’s draw with Northern Ireland – and that’s saying something.
Denmark have already topped the group and Ireland have already been relegated to League C.
Denmark to win by more than one goal represents serious value for money at 17/10 as Martin O’Neill’s side are in turmoil. A return of one win from eight games this calendar year speaks volumes about their shortfalls.
There is little cause for optimism in the Irish camp at present.
Ireland’s one goal in the Nations League was a consolation effort in the 4-1 defeat to Wales last September and they managed just one shot on target when they faced the Danes in Dublin.
With just one of the six strikers in the Ireland squad scoring an international goal of any description, it is difficult to see where the goals will come from for the visitors.
Verdict: Denmark -1 @ 17/10
Bulgaria v Slovenia, Monday, 19.45
This is what international football is all about, it really doesn’t come much bigger than this. Not!
Bulgaria have to better Norway’s result if they are to top Group C3 of the Nations League and secure promotion. Playing at home to already relegated Slovenia, the Bulgarians could hardly ask for a better fixture and, as they need to outscore Norway, expect them to come flying out of the traps.
The home side won the reverse fixture in Ljubljana and it is hard to see a different result on Monday with Slovenia having nothing to play for. Slovenia’s two points in Group C3 have come at home and they have offered little resistance on the road.
As Bulgaria’s goal difference is one goal inferior to Norway’s, they will want to get off to a good start and steal a march on the Scandinavians. For that reason, we think they’re a good bet to be leading at half time and full time.
Verdict: Bulgaria to be winning half time/full time @ 15/8
*This treble pays 14/1 with Paddy Power. Prices correct at time of publishing.
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