France vs Ireland Preview: Les Blues to grind out victory against stubborn visitors
France play host to Ireland at Parc des Princes on Thursday in a European Championship Qualifier and we’re anticipating a tight tussle.
France vs Ireland: Predicted score
France 1-0 Ireland
France vs Ireland: Suggested bets
France vs Ireland: Lineup
There isn’t an Irish football fan alive that will ever forgive Thierry Henry for the handball that may have robbed their nation of the most improbable of World Cup qualifications.
Four years later, the men in green stood firm again, that is until a William Gallas goal in the 103rd minute of the match set the two-time World Cup winners to South Africa.
There have been several, narrow heart-breaking defeats since then. You have to go back to 1981 for Ireland’s last victory against their illustrious opponents.
Thursday’s meeting at Stade de France is another huge test for Stephen Kenny’s men and regardless of the gap on paper, we suspect it will follow a similar pattern.Ireland are as stubborn as they come at this level, losing by two clear goals in just two of their previous 45 qualifiers.
They’ve left Denmark, Germany, Wales, Russia and Bosnia among others with at least a point during that time and even beat Germany 1-0 at home.
Regardless of who plays, it’s a defence-first approach that should be able to frustrate Deschamp’s men at times.
France have a perfect record in the group so far, winning their opening four matches and thumping the Netherlands 4-0.
However, they also had to grind out 1-0 wins against Greece and Ireland in the reverse fixture, and beating Gibraltar 3-0 is not a flattering result for an elite side.
It’s impossible to bet against the embarrassment of riches on show, but we think that the visitors will stand firm for large parts and may even keep them honest on the break.
