There’s something worryingly familiar about the draw handed to Ireland. Last time around, the opening game was must-win, with Europe’s top-ranked side Spain, and an excellent Italian team lying in wait. It’s the same story on this occasion. So, should we prepare for the worst?
Certainly, Ireland’s central defence will be gearing up for war, knowing that shackling Zlatan Ibrahimovic is the top priority if Sweden are to be toppled – awhich would represent a giant step towards the knockout stages. Conceding a mere seven goals in qualifying is a fine record, and ample proof that Martin O’Neill’s men are more than capable of shutting up shop, although simultaneously threatening at the other end is a different matter. Much, then, may come down to our ability to hit people quickly on the break – Seamus Coleman and Robbie Brady can certainly hurt people out wide – and how well our midfield can distribute the ball, particularly when we’re set up in a more ambitious diamond formation.
Belgium, for reasons that are hard to figure, aren’t as fancied as a side so highly ranked should be; their lack of big tournament experience, for one, might be a factor. But if there’s to be a coming out party, then there’s no time like the present. With the likes of Thibaut Courtois, Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne, Toby Alderweireld, Thomas Vermaelen and Romelu Lukaku on board – the list of star men extends ominously – they should be about ready to peak...
Offensive headaches could also be the Achilles’ Heel for Italy. The evergreen Gianluigi Buffon and the ‘BBC’ back three of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonnucci and Giorgio Chiellini supply a rock-solid base, but a spate of midfield injuries and a scarcity of attacking options means a return trip to the final seems highly unlikely this time round. Through green-tinted glasses, an opening win against the Swedes would open the door for Ireland in a major way, and nicking points, against the Italians in particular, is doable. We’ve been burned before, but we dare to dream: once more unto the breach...