In my previous article I alluded to the potential of more shock results occurring. To the dismay of my actual confirmed Perfect Picks, that’s exactly what happened in the last contest. A lacklustre England could only just about draw against a revitalised Scotland. And then we had the World Cup champions failing to defeat Hungary – in my star pick match for good measure. But despite all of that, I somehow managed to reclaim the Perfect Picks world number one spot back. Can I maintain my lead? Here are my confirmed selections for Perfect Picks’ Euro 2020 Contest #5.
Perfect Picks Euro 2020 Contest #5
Italy v Wales
With six goals and two wins from two, Italy have demonstrated their prowess at Euro 2020. Mancini has created a winning machine that is making Italy seem almost invincible at the moment. On the other hand, Wales are showing that they’re no pushovers with their positive results. Barring unlikely permutations, 4 points should be sufficient for them to progress to the round of 16. Their final group match is far from being a dead rubber, but both teams won’t exactly have undue pressure on them either. I think Italy will win this game albeit with a smaller margin than their previous two victories.
Prediction: Italy to win by 1
Switzerland v Turkey
With a 3rd place qualification spot still mathematically up for grabs, Switzerland will be aiming for a substantial win in their final game. Their opponents Turkey are all but out in large part due to their sizeable negative goal difference. This tournament has certainly been a backs to the wall learning experience for their youthful team. It will be interesting to see how they now respond. But in all likelihood Switzerland should have enough incentive and capability to win this encounter. Prediction: Switzerland to win by 1 Macedonia v Netherlands
Like Italy, the Oranje have accumulated a 100% record to date at Euro 2020. Even if Austria had more possession in their last game, the Netherlands’ superiority with shots on goal (14) and on target (4) was more than sufficient to secure three points. Based on form, North Macedonia in theory should be an even easier challenge. But then again, Pandev could have the final say in what is his first major tournament – and most likely his last. North Macedonia will certainly give it a go. However, over 90 minutes, I can’t see them troubling the Netherlands too much.
Prediction: Netherlands to win by 2 (Star Pick)
Ukraine v Austria
If ever a fixture had draw written all over it at Euro 2020, then surely this is it? Both teams currently have 3 points each and will know that 4 points without a negative goal difference would be sufficient not only for 2nd place but also for one of the best 3rd place slot. Neither team can realistically top the group now and it’s certainly not the time for them to take risks. Of course, the likes of Yarmolenko or Alaba will not exactly make things easy – but neither team will want to lose and I think we will generally see a safety first approach.
Prediction: Draw
Finland v Belgium
The Red Devils may have been trailing for the majority of their game against Denmark, but they showed their class and patience in ultimately winning. Kevin de Bruyne was the difference last time out. However, Belgium have an abundance of match winners in their ranks to stoke fear in the midst of any opponent at Euro 2020. Finland will know that a draw could be enough for them in their final group game – just like Ukraine and Austria. Having said that, Belgium are a force to be reckoned with and will want positive momentum before the Round of 16 starts.
Prediction: Belgium to win by 2
Russia v Denmark
Denmark put up a valiant effort against Belgium during an emotional encounter. Unfortunately for them they have no points from their first two games. But it’s far from over. Mathematically speaking a large win against Russia and Finland losing to Belgium could see them qualify from a 3rd best place berth. It all depends on what type of Russia turns up on Monday. As it stands, they are in almost a better place to reach the knockouts than Denmark. But I think it’s not too late for The Red and White to turn things around.
Prediction: Denmark to win by 2