Friday’s Euro 2024 Qualifying Tips

The domestic season is over but there are still international fixtures to play before the summer break, so football expert Greg Lea is on hand to preview six of Friday’s Euro qualifiers.

Denmark v Northern Ireland

Kick-off: 7.45pm Friday

The Danes were one of the biggest disappointments at World Cup 2022 and they inflicted further misery on their supporters by suffering a shock 3-2 defeat by Kazakhstan back in March.

That loss came a few days after they had beaten Finland 3-1, but a record of one win and one defeat means they currently trail Slovenia at the summit of the Group H standings.

Northern Ireland have their work cut out to qualify for Euro 2024 but their fate will not be determined by this match, which should be pretty comfortable for the hosts.

Prediction: Denmark to win to nil @ 1.84

Gibraltar v France

Kick-off: 7.45pm Friday

France are flying high at the top of Group B after victories over the Netherlands and the Republic of Ireland, and it is only a matter of time before les Bleus book their spot in Germany.

Another win on Friday is inevitable given Gibraltar’s status as one of the continent’s minnows. For the home team, a two-goal defeat would be considered a success.

The mismatch between these two nations means there are few attractive options for bettors. Rather than predicting the outcome in the full-time result market, opt for France to come flying out of the traps before easing off after the break.

Prediction: First-half higher scoring @ 3.2

Greece v Republic of Ireland

Kick-off: 7.45pm Friday

With France set to top Group B and the Netherlands current favourites to finish second, only one of Greece or the Republic of Ireland is likely to mount a sustained challenge for qualification.

The draw did neither of these sides any favours and both will be realistic about their chances of progressing. Because this is such a crucial contest, we are unlikely to be treated to a free-flowing and end-to-end encounter.

Ireland have played one and lost one so they will likely be cautious, while Greece seldom give much away at home. Under 1.5 goals is the way to go.

Prediction: Under 1.5 goals @ 2.7

North Macedonia v Ukraine

Kick-off: 7.45pm Friday

There were bigger issues at stake when Germany and Ukraine faced off on Monday in a friendly to promote peace and solidarity. But the latter will be much more pleased with their performance than the Germans in the 3-3 draw.

With everything that is going on back home, Ukraine’s players will be desperate to lift spirits by qualifying for the European Championship. Being in the same group as England and Italy does not aid their chances, but a win here would keep them in contention for now.

Prediction: Ukraine to win @ 2.02

Wales v Armenia

Kick-off: 7.45pm Friday

Wales had a solid start to their qualification campaign in March, as they drew with Croatia and then beat Latvia. They will probably be battling Turkey for second place and a Euro 2024 berth, so this is a game Rob Page’s men really ought to be winning.

Gareth Bale: has retired from international football

Wales have only scored two goals despite collecting four points, but this could be the match where their post-Gareth Bale attack clicks.

Prediction: Wales to score in both halves @ 2.24