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The Republic of Ireland play host to England at Dublin's Aviva Stadium in a UEFA Nations League game this Saturday. The rivalry between the Republic of Ireland and England dates back decades now, although games between the two have been few and far between in recent years.
So with the home side looking to prove a point and England looking to start afresh following their heartbreaking defeat in the final of Euro 2024, this could be an entertaining match. So who will win?
Republic of Ireland vs England Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
- The last time these sides played was in a friendly game during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. England ran out 3-0 winners in that match, and remarkably, it was their first victory over Ireland since 1985.
- In competitive games, however, the Republic of Ireland hold an edge. They have not lost to England in a competitive game since 1980, famously beat them at Euro 1988, and have secured draws in their last three competitive fixtures with the Three Lions.
- Worryingly for the Republic of Ireland, their recent form has been appalling. They have won just two of their last ten international games, and their last match saw them swept aside by Portugal with ease.
- While England's Euro 2024 campaign saw them reach the final, their last UEFA Nations League campaign was a disaster. They were relegated to League B after finishing bottom of a group that also contained Germany, Hungary and Italy, only collecting three points in total.
- This game will be England's first under interim boss Lee Carsley, and unsurprisingly, the U21 manager has called up a number of the players who helped to win the U21 European Championship in 2023, including the uncapped Morgan Gibbs-White and Angel Gomes.
Republic of Ireland vs England Prediction
While the rivalry between these two sides was once a fierce and competitive one, these days it feels a little more one-sided.
Lacking the world-class players that helped previous generations reach major tournaments, the Republic of Ireland are very likely to struggle here.
Assuming England aren't suffering from a hangover following their Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain, this should be a good match for them to bounce back with.
Despite heading to hostile territory, we expect Lee Carsley's side to look to send a message to the rest of their Nations League group, resulting in a one-sided victory.
Prediction: Republic of Ireland 1-3 England
Republic of Ireland vs England Betting Tips
Tip 1: Result - England to win.
Tip 2: Harry Kane to score for England - Yes (After a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign, Kane will want to get back on track right away and continue to extend his record number of goals with his country).
Tip 3: Both teams to score - Yes (England's defense was breached on numerous occasions during Euro 2024 and Ireland's home advantage should allow them to score at least once).
