Gibraltar vs Republic of Ireland tips and predictions: Stephen Kenny fighting for his job in Faro
- Seb Sternik
- 15 October 2023
Ireland’s hopes of qualifying for Euro 2024 are hanging by a thread, though that isn’t the only concern for the out-of-form side as they prepare for their group clash with Gibraltar on Monday night.
While Stephen Kenny’s men still have a shot at making qualifying play-offs, their current form doesn’t fill anyone with a hint of confidence.
A dominant victory in Gibraltar is certainly needed as Kenny looks to improve his chances of keeping his job.
Anything other than a commanding display would surely mark the end of his time with the national side.
Date, KO time and TV coverage
Euro 2024 Qualifier, Monday, October 16, Kick-off 7.45pm, live on Viaplay
Predicted score
Gibraltar 0-3 Republic of Ireland
Verdict
With the likes of France, Netherlands and Greece in their group, qualification for Euro 2024 was always going to be an uphill battle for Ireland.
However, one win and five defeats is far below expectations for Stephen Kenny’s men whose sole success came at home against Gibraltar.
The Irish are preparing for the reverse fixture against the international minnows, knowing that a defeat would spell the end of Kenny’s time in the dugout.
Ireland head into the fixture having won two of their last nine competitive outings. Their last three matches have all ended with defeats, including Friday’s bitterly disappointing 2-0 home defeat against Greece.
Kenny’s men have scored just one goal across their last three matches, conceding six along the way.
Gibraltar’s numbers are similarly distressing, with the side losing seven internationals on the bounce.
Julio Cesar Ribas’ side are yet to score a goal in qualifying, though they will feel like a home game against Ireland is the perfect chance to end that wait.
Gibraltar’s last goal came in a 1-0 friendly victory over Andorra in November 2022. Since then, they have played 630 minutes without finding the back of the net.
Ireland’s last away fixture with Gibraltar ended in a slender 1-0 win back in 2019. We’re expecting a couple extra goals on this occasion.
With that in mind, our recommendation is to go with the Irish in the handicap market.
