Iceland - France
When: 20:45
Where: World Cup Qualification Europe
Iceland
The Icelandic national team is in a difficult situation and currently stands in third place in the group. The team scored an average of three goals per game in the qualification competition and shows a strong offense that remained active even against strong opponents like France. However, the defense reveals weaknesses, as the 3-5 against Ukraine shows, where too many goals were conceded due to careless mistakes. At home, Iceland will nevertheless do everything to earn points in order to keep the chances for the playoffs alive.
France
France is close to qualifying for the World Cup and could secure their spot as early as October, provided there are slip-ups from their competitors. Despite an impressive three wins, the team didn’t always show a confident performance. Due to injuries, some key players like Mbappé and Dembélé are missing, which limits the attacking strength. Nevertheless, France has enough quality to defend the top of the table, even though away trips, especially to Iceland, are traditionally difficult.
Injuries
Iceland must do without Gunnarsson, Lundal, Oskarsson (all injured) as well as A. Gudjonssen (suspended). France is missing several important players due to injuries, including U. Fofana, Cherki, Duené, Dembélé, M. Türram, Mbappé, and Barcola.
Head-to-Head
The duel is balanced and contested; recently France narrowly won 2-1 against Iceland at home. On Icelandic soil, no French victory since 1957 has resulted in a margin greater than one goal. The matches between the two teams are often high-scoring: in five of seven direct encounters, at least four goals were scored.
Match Prediction
Considering the offensively strong teams and the defensive weaknesses, especially on the Icelandic side, a high-scoring game is expected. Despite the injury concerns, France will strive to secure the top spot in the table, while Iceland must fight to stay in the tournament. Historically, encounters between these two teams frequently have over 2.5 goals, which is supported by the current form of both teams. Therefore, the bet on Over 2.5 goals with odds of 1.40 is highly recommended.
My tip: Over 2.5 goals (1.40)
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