Greece vs Finland Prediction: 7/9/2024

Greece, who famously defeated Portugal during the 2004 European Championship, will not be returning to the tournament 20 years later, as they failed to qualify for the 2024 campaign in Germany.

Grouped with powerhouses like France and the Netherlands in Group B, Greece faced a challenging path that proved too difficult. Their last appearance was during the June international window, where they narrowly lost to Germany 2-1 and secured a 2-0 win against Malta. Despite their efforts, Greece could not overcome the tough competition.

On the other hand, Finland, not traditionally a strong presence in European football, qualified for their first international tournament at Euro 2020. However, compared to other Scandinavian nations, Finland remains the weakest footballing team. After a lackluster qualification campaign, Finland was eliminated by Wales in the play-offs, losing 4-1. Most recently, they participated in the June international window, losing 4-2 to Portugal and drawing 2-2 against Scotland.

Greece’s current squad is deeper compared to recent years, with reliable players across all positions. In goal, they have Odysseas Vlachodimos (42 caps, Newcastle). Defensively, Premier League players Kostas Tsimikas (34 caps, Liverpool) and Konstantinos Mavropanos (27 caps, West Ham United) add strength. However, the midfield lacks dynamism, though they rely on experienced leaders like captain Tasos Bakasetas (67 caps, 15 goals) and Petros Mantalos (62 caps, 6 goals), both playing in Greece. Up front, rising star Ioannidis, who scored 15 goals last season for Panathinaikos, will lead the attack.

Finland, by contrast, struggles with an aging squad. Their key players, such as Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky (92 caps) and MLS defenders Jukka Raitala (Charlotte FC, 67 caps) and Robin Lod (Minnesota United, 68 caps, 6 goals), are all over 30. The only exception is midfielder Glen Kamara of Rennes, who is 28 years old. Leading the attack is veteran striker Teemu Pukki (122 caps, 42 goals), Finland’s all-time top scorer, who is closing in on the legendary Jari Litmanen’s record of 137 caps.

 

Prediction

Greece has enjoyed strong form at home, winning 10 of their last 13 matches as they push for promotion in the UEFA Nations League. In contrast, Finland has struggled in away games, losing seven of their last 13 matches in similar competitions. Given these factors, Greece is expected to come out on top in this encounter.

Prediction: Greece 2-1 Finland