Rooney and England to win big

22Mar 2013

World Cup Brazil 2014

World Cup qualifiers take centre stage on Friday night. Christian Crowther offers his usual Opta-infused insight for some of the big clashes...

Sweden v Republic of Ireland (Friday, 19:45)

Ireland have only lost two of their last 21 away internationals, winning nine and drawing 10

Ireland's trip to Sweden represents a huge clash in the power struggle for Group C's second spot behind likely table toppers Germany. Under Giovanni Trapattoni, the Republic have been accused of negative tactics in some away matches, but when the result is not getting beaten very often, then why change? Being a point behind Sweden means that the Italian will no doubt set his side up for the draw, as a loss would be catastrophic at this critical stage.

Recommended Bet: Back the draw @ 4.2

Northern Ireland v Russia (Friday, 19:45, Sky Sports 3)

Russia have only lost one of their last 24 internationals in all competitions, winning 13 and drawing 10

Alongside the Netherlands, Fabio Capello's Russia side are the only team in the European qualification section to have won all four qualifiers so far. Perhaps even more impressively than the Dutch though, and making ominous reading for Northern Ireland, is the fact that the steadfast Russians are yet to concede either. The visitors won the reverse fixture 2-0 in Moscow and, given that Michael O'Neill's side have scored just three other times in qualification thus far, Capello's side could well be clinical once more.

Recommended Bet: Back Russia to win 2-0 @ 6.2

Scotland v Wales (Friday, 20:00, Sky Sports 2)

Wales have lost seven of their last eight away games in all competitions, winning the other against Bulgaria

Despite having a far more favourable recent record against Scotland - October's Group A win in Cardiff was Wales' fourth in the last five meetings - three of those wins arrived on Welsh soil. Away from home, Wales struggle hugely, whereas Scotland are unbeaten in eight games on home soil in all competitions, winning five and drawing three. Scotland's players will be out to impress new boss Gordon Strachan, making his competitive debut in the dugout, so you'd expect a massive performance from them at Hampden Park.

Recommended Bet: Back Scotland to win @ 1.87

San Marino v England (Friday 20:00, ITV)

An England player has netted four goals in two of the Three Lions' three previous clashes with the European minnows (David Platt and Ian Wright)

Barring a miracle, England will win this game without conceding and, furthermore, they should rack up a pretty sizeable scoreline en route to victory. After all, in the three previous qualifiers against the minute state, the Three Lions have averaged six goals per game. In-form Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney should get the nod up front, especially given his return of four goals from his last three internationals, and should help himself.