Republic of Ireland v Netherlands

Sunday night’s action in the UEFA Nations League Qualifiers takes us to The Aviva Stadium, where Ireland will be hoping for a stronger performance than their away game in France this week. The Boys in Green lost 2-0, conceding six corners and five shots on target. On the other hand, the Dutch are coming off the back of a 3-0 home victory against Greece, where they dominated in all areas of the game, including corners, shots, and possession. 

Currently, Ireland are fourth in the group, winning just one game in four matches. The Netherlands sit in second place, with a game in hand, having won two games from three. Only the top two teams in the group qualify for the next round, and although there are still three more games to be played after Sunday night’s clash, both teams will be seeking the three points in this game, particularly Ireland. This is because the Netherlands have, in the worst case, guaranteed themselves a spot in the play-offs based on their Nations League ranking.

This narrative makes this game particularly exciting as both a neutral spectator and a punter, as it is predicted to be a lively affair, with lots of different betting angles. This article aims to break down the key matchups and stats ahead of this game, also selecting two Ireland v Netherlands bet builders.

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Ireland’s strong home record could challenge the Dutch

When playing at the Aviva Stadium in the last calendar year, the average goals scored by Ireland rises from 0.75 to 2 per match. Not only this, but their expected goals increases from 0.72 xG to 2.19 xG, and corners taken increases from 4 to a staggering 9.2. It is clear to see that the luck of the Irish is present when the Boys in Green play at their home ground.

The last game Ireland played at home they dominated, comparatively to the Netherlands, a weak side hailing from Gibraltar. Ireland won this game 3-0, leading in corners 14-2 and shots on target 13-1. Evidently, they will have a much harder challenge on Sunday evening, but their strong home form is not something to pass up on when analysing this game for betting angles.

Ireland team news

Ireland can be expected to line up in an identical format to their midweek game against France, playing their usual 3-4-3 formation. This formation allows for both defensive solidarity, with three centre halves and midfielders Josh Cullen and Jayson Molumby encouraged to play deeper, as well as threat in attack with talented wingers Jason Knight and Chiedozie Ogbene given the freedom to attack.  

The latter of the two managed three shots against France in the Parc des Princes, the most of any Ireland player, and the second-highest amount in the match, only just behind Kylian Mbappe. Ogbene is expected to start on Sunday and could create some defensive issues for the Netherlands.

Denzel led his team to victory in midweek

Earning a man-of-the-match performance against Greece during the week was none other than Denzel Dumfries, the Netherlands’ right wing back, coming up with two assists. In the only other Euro qualification game he has played this season he also assisted two goals in a 3-0 victory over Gibraltar. 

Dumfries is not afraid to get stuck in either, with a career average of 1.87 fouls per match. For the Netherlands, this average rises to 2.28 fouls per match. Lots of these fouls come from bringing down his opponents on the break, preventing a counter-attack.

Netherlands team news

The only change that is expected for the Dutch to make after their midweek victory is that of Nathan Ake. Providing concern to Manchester City, Ake was substituted at half time against Greece for Stefan de Vrij (who is expected to start on Sunday).

Ake went off as a precautionary measure, but seemed concerned about his hamstring. Despite this concern, the Netherlands are expected to also play the 3-4-3 formation on Sunday.

Republic of Ireland v Netherlands Cheat Sheet

Here it is. The Ireland v Netherlands Cheat Sheet. All the previously mentioned stats can be found on the Cheat Sheet, as well as many more. Everything you could want to help pick out your bets is included.

The two levels of bet builders below have also been carefully selected from the Cheat Sheet. They have been chosen from a combination of player form, historical averages, and the perceived value of the selection. Again, should any of the levels pique your interest, take advantage of Paddy Power’s incredible signup offer by placing £10 on level 1 or 2, and you'll see the £50 in free bet builders roll into your account.

ABC's 4/1 Republic of Ireland v Netherlands bet builder

🎯 Cody Gakpo to have 1+ shots on target

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🎯 Chiedozie Ogbene to have 1+ shots on target

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🛑 John Egan to commit 1+ fouls

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🚩 Over 2.5 Ireland corners

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ABC's 21/1 Republic of Ireland v Netherlands bet builder

🎯 Cody Gakpo to have 1+ shots on target

*Click the drop-down arrow to view full bet research

🎯 Chiedozie Ogbene to have 1+ shots on target

*Click the drop-down arrow to view full bet research

🛑 John Egan to commit 1+ fouls

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🚩 Over 3.5 Ireland corners

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🛑 Lutsharel Geertruida to commit 2+ fouls

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* I recommend waiting for confirmed team line-ups before placing any bets *

* All odds displayed correct at the time of publishing

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