Group B - Republic of Ireland's big chance
Lumped in a group with holders Italy then forced to face finalists France in the play-offs, Republic of Ireland appeared destined not to qualify for the World Cup long before Thierry Henry's handball in extra time at the Stade de France last November.
By contrast, the route to Poland and Ukraine looks far more manageable for Giovanni Trapattoni's men. Russia ([1.63]) were arguably the ideal top seed draw, even more so after Guus Hiddink's departure, and while Slovakia ([4.0]) reached the last 16 in South Africa, they shouldn't be feared.
The response of the Irish players to the cruel crushing of their World Cup dream in Paris has been impressive so far and the likes of Shay Given (34), Richard Dunne (30) and Robbie Keane (30) are no longer Boys in Green, and will recognise this as perhaps their last opportunity to play at the Euros.
Too many draws ultimately cost Ireland top spot in World Cup qualifying Group 8, so the presence of two minnows this time - Armenia ([120.0]) and Andorra ([200.0]) - rather than tricky customers like Montenegro, should prove advantageous, while Macedonia ([20.0]) have never reached the finals before.
Neither have Slovakia, who actually finished below Ireland in what the latter considered a disastrous Euro 2008 qualifying campaign. The argument against backing Trap's side to win the group at [4.6] is that they haven't done so since Euro 1988, however favourites Russia haven't since World Cup 2002 either.
Our prediction is that the Emerald Isle will beat Dick Advocaat's Russia, semi-finalists at Euro 2008 of course, to first place. Let us know if you agree below...
Published: 1 Sep 2010
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