Against All Odds: Ireland to prove the doubters wrong in Sweden

 

The Republic Of Ireland travel to Sweden tonight for a World Cup qualifier and despite being written off by just about everyone, Paul Robinson thinks that the under-fire Giovanni Trapattoni can deliver a result.

 

Sweden are second in Group C after picking up seven points from their opening three matches. Straightforward wins over Kazakhstan and Faroe Islands were to be expected, however the comeback from 4-0 down in Germany was not. Erik Hamrén's side were seven unbeaten before their last friendly but they were put in their place by Argentina, losing 3-2 at home, scoring their second in injury time.

 

It's no secret that the Swedes are a bit of a one-man team, although that man is pretty good. Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been one of the best strikers in European football this season and the PSG player seems to be relishing the responsibility of carrying the national side. He is prone to the odd bad performance though - and red cards - so if the Irish can stop him, they have a great chance of avoiding defeat.

 

Ireland have come under a bit of pressure from the media recently but I think they are being a touch harsh. Giovanni Trapattoni's men disappointed in Euro 2012 but they did at least qualify for a major tournament - the first time they had done since the World Cup in 2002.

 

The Irish have even won two of their opening three matches in Group C and while they were hammered by the Germans, everyone is entitled to a bad night. Trapattoni has come in for criticism for leaving out James McCarthy for this evening's game and instead opting for grafters Glenn Whelan and Paul Green.

 

I don't think that's necessarily a bad decision from the Italian though and he has to be trusted given his record as boss, especially on the road. Away from the Emerald Isle, The Boys in Green haven't lost a qualifier since September 2007 - a run of 15 matches.

 

The Swedes are over reliant on Zlatan Ibrahimovic for my money and the Irish certainly know how to nullify their opponents away from home. Sweden's odds of 1.53 are just too short and have to be taken on, which is why I'm making them my lay of the day.

 

Recommended Bet

Lay Sweden v Republic Of Ireland @ 1.53

 

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