Northern Ireland vs Germany Preview

Germany have continued their poor post-World Cup form at the resumption of International matches.  The German Machines were beaten 4-2 at home by the Netherlands last weekend despite having taken the lead in that game.

That latest disappointment follows them being relegated from their Euro Nations League group, so the Germans are a nation in need of a lift and they will be facing a Northern Ireland side that has been on the up recently.

Michael O’Neill’s side has taken advantage of favourable fixtures to make themselves early frontrunners for a top-two spot.  However, as he has admitted, the real business starts now as they face both Germany and the Netherlands in their next two games and it is important for them to get a result in this game.

Germany’s loss to the Netherlands in their last game was their first defeat as well as dropped points in this qualifying series and their fans would be hopeful that they can get back to winning ways as soon as possible.

Northern Ireland come into this game having won all of their last five international matches.  One problem for the home side is that they seem to not have goals in them and the hope would be that their defence can withstand the might of the Germans here.

Germany knows how open their last result has made this group and they should come here for all the points.

Bookmakers have priced Germany up as strong odds-on favourites to come out on top in this game while Northern Ireland have an uphill task according to oddsmakers.

Goal markets point to a lively game as over 2.5 goals is trading odds-on prior to kick-off while in-form Timo Werner is favourite to score the opening goal of the game.