Euro 2012 playoff – Estonia vs Ireland

The Republic of Ireland will certainly have been the happiest of the seeded nations when they saw the draw for the playoffs. For Estonia, the nation is at new heights in terms of football, with this week’s playoff fixtures being by far the biggest games in the country’s history. Will Ireland be able to get a crucial result in Tallinn or will the minnow hosts be able to cause more shocks through their amazing Euro 2012 campaign?

Estonia

Estonia’s home form during the qualifying campaign saw them gain victories against Northern Ireland and the Faroe Islands, a draw against Serbia and close defeats against Italy and Slovenia. Their results towards the end of the campaign saw them climb Group C, which was wide open for four teams to take the runners-up spot.

Estonia’s inconsistent home form and with them being at unknown heights has seen bookmakers leaning towards and away victory.

Estonia’s top scorer throughout the group stages was Konstantin Vassiljev, who helped them reach the playoffs with four goals.

Rep. of Ireland

Ireland’s away form during qualifying saw them maintain an unbeaten record, securing crucial draws at Russia and Slovakia whilst defeating Macedonia, Armenia and minnows Andorra.

Clean sheets were a key part to Ireland’s successes away from home in qualifying with only one goal being conceded from their five away games (against Slovakia).

Ireland’s all-time record top scorer, Robbie Keane should be fit after playing and scoring in a match for LA Galaxy. Should he start, Keane will be the most likely to be the first goal scorer.

Match Prediction: Rep. of Ireland to win 

Ireland’s experience through players such as Shay Given, Richard Dunne and Robbie Keane should be enough to ensure what would normally be expected of being a routine victory against Estonia. However, with the added pressure of the match being a playoff and the excitement from the home fans will add pressure on the Irish. However, if Ireland manage to continue their excellent away form in this year’s qualification then a victory should surely be on the cards.