Euro 2016 Qualifiers: preview and predictions

Euro 2016 Group Stage Qualifiers: preview and predictions

More from Euros

Euro 2016 Group Stage Qualifiers may not pit European heavyweights against each other, but they still provide a level of intrigue as to how International sides are faring in terms of form and team morale. There is always the chance for a minnow to upset one of the big boys and through their qualification into jeopardy. Take a look at what is coming up this Thursday afternoon in Europe.

Key Fixtures:

England v San Marino

If you like goals, then this England game is a must watch. It is one of the biggest David versus Goliath encounters you will ever see in International soccer. The San Marino team are made up of amateurs, with goalkeeper Aldo Simoncini an accountant for his day job.

In 39 appearances he has conceded 171 goals and will be hoping that he can help San Marino avoid a humiliation against an England side that will be looking to rack up the goals and entertain a home crowd. Group E should be easy for England to progress through, having already played arguably their toughest match en route to Euro 2016 away to Switzerland, coming away with a 2-0 win courtesy of two Danny Welbeck goals.

Prediction: England 6-0

Slovakia v Spain

A clash at the top of Group C that may well represent Spain’s biggest test in their road to qualification to Euro 2016. They will be keen to continue to rebuild their confidence after a World Cup which did not meet expectations.

Diego Costa’s fitness will be assessed nearer kick-off, with Chelsea fans hoping he is not risked given the hamstring problem that is waiting to happen. Marek Hamsik is Slovakia’s key man, having had a wonderful few seasons with Italian side Napoli.

Prediction: Spain 3-1

Sweden v Russia

A classic European clash and an important one in the context of Group G. Sweden started their campaign with a disappointing draw to Austria and are already playing catch-up with Montenegro and Russia in one of the most fiercely contest groups.

Sweden look set to be without talismanic leader Zlatan Ibrahimović for the tie and will look to their other attacking options to break down a Russian side who are normally compact and well drilled. Ibrahimović has scored 50 goals in 100 appearances for his national side, and he will be a big miss.

Prediction: 1-1

Other Euro 2016 Qualifying Fixtures :

Belarus v Ukraine

Macedonia v Luxembourg

Lithuania v Estonia

Slovenia v Switzerland

Liechtenstein v Montenegro

Moldova v Austria

All kick-offs 2.45pm ET

More from FanSided

Home/Euros