Republic of Ireland to seal trophy with win
After winning their first two games by an aggregate score of 8-0, all Republic of Ireland need to be crowned champions in the inaugural Carling Nations Cup is a draw in the decider against Scotland, however there is plenty of justification for backing them to sign off with a perfect record at [2.04].
They are the only team yet to concede a goal and they've had no trouble whatsoever scoring them, and should continue to do so with Robbie Keane one away from equalling Bobby Charlton's record as the region's all-time top international scorer and Simon Cox eager to take his chances to impress.
Giovanni Trapattoni's side have won three in a row against European opposition and with several players eager to show their worth before additions to the squad are made ahead of next month's absolutely vital Euro 2012 qualifier in Macedonia, they will have plenty of motivation.
Scotland's only victories over the last year have come against Liechtenstein, Faroe Islands, Northern Ireland and Wales - no top 50 nations - and they have failed to score in three of their last four meetings with the Boys in Green, indicating that they have a daunting task.
Republic of Ireland are an intriguing [3.25] to win to nil, though if you disagree with our assertions and anticipate Craig Levein's men claiming the trophy then odds of [3.75] are offered on them triumphing.
Prior to Sunday's finale, Wales and Northern Ireland battle to avoid the wooden spoon position on Friday night having both lost their encounters against the top two. Wales have the better goal difference and rested several key players against Scotland for this match, so they have to be fancied at [1.69].
Wales v Northern Ireland (7.45pm, Friday, Sky Sports 1)
Republic of Ireland v Scotland (6.30pm, Sunday, Sky Sports 1)
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Published: 28 May 2011
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