Goal.mu

In a crucial encounter in the Euro 2024 qualifying Group B, Greece is set to host Gibraltar at the Agia Sophia Stadium in Athens on the evening of 10th September 2023, kicking off at 7.45pm UK time. As Greece seeks to recover from recent setbacks and climb back up the rankings, Gibraltar is on a quest to secure their first points in the qualifiers. This match presents an opportunity for both teams to redefine their paths in the competition.

Analysis

Greece, under the helm of Gus Poyet, is at a pivotal juncture in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign. After a promising start with victories over Gibraltar and the Republic of Ireland, the team has faced consecutive defeats against powerhouse teams France and the Netherlands. The recent 3-0 loss to the Netherlands, where Denzel Dumfries played a significant role in their downfall, has been a bitter pill to swallow. Despite these setbacks, Greece holds a respectable third position in the group standings, separated only by goal difference from the second-placed Netherlands, albeit with a game in hand.

The Greek team has shown resilience, especially when playing on their home ground, boasting an unbeaten streak in their last four European Championship qualifiers. However, their inability to maintain a clean sheet since 2011 at home games might be a concerning factor. The return of Dinos Mavropanos, who missed the previous game due to a red card suspension, is expected to bolster the defence. Poyet might also consider giving Dimitris Giannoulis a chance to shine, considering Kostas Tsimikas is one booking away from a ban. The pressure is on for the home side to secure a victory, with Vangelis Pavlidis expected to lead the charge.

On the other side, Gibraltar, managed by Julio Cesar Ribas, has had a challenging journey in the qualifiers. Their inability to secure points or even find the back of the net has left them at the bottom of the Group B standings. The team has faced a series of 3-0 losses against formidable opponents, including Greece, and their recent 1-0 defeat to Malta in a friendly match adds to their woes. Despite their struggles, Gibraltar has shown moments of brilliance, notably in friendlies against Andorra and Liechtenstein in 2022. The team will be looking to veterans like Roy Chipolina and Liam Walker to inspire a spirited performance, possibly aiming to secure their first points in the qualifiers.

Prediction

Considering the current form and historical data, Goal.mu predicts a 4-0 victory for Greece. The Greek team, despite recent setbacks, has a significantly stronger lineup and home ground advantage. Gibraltar, although spirited, has struggled to find their footing in the competition, especially in terms of goal-scoring capabilities. This match presents an excellent opportunity for Greece to regain their momentum and solidify their position in the group standings. Gibraltar, on the other hand, will be aiming to put up a valiant fight and possibly surprise with a goal, breaking their dry spell in the qualifiers.