The final games from Euro 2024 Group E take place on Wednesday, and all teams are tied on three points as we go into the last games, which should set this up perfectly for a big night. There's been a lot of people looking at this game between Slovakia and Romania, because if both teams draw, then they will both make it into the knockout round, which was the aim for them at the start. Will that happen or will we get a winner?
Slovakia Form GuideI think we've seen two sides to Slovakia so far in the tournament, but for most of it, we've seen the positive side. Yes, they're lacking in quality, but they work hard, take chances and are incredibly difficult to play against, as Belgium found out when Slovakia beat them in the opening game. They played well in parts in game two against Ukraine, where they were leading 1-0 but would eventually lose 2-1.
That collapse means they need something here. I'm expecting them to once again be really tough to beat, and it would be no surprise if they played for a draw more than Romania, given the situation they are in, where it would see them through to the next round.
Romania Form GuideI was very impressed by Romania in their opener, beating Ukraine 3-0 with a wonderful performance that was complete from back to front. They looked strong at the back, and took their chances in attack, putting together a display that got people talking, although in their second game, they were unable to fulfil that promise.
A 2-0 loss against Belgium brought them back down to earth, and they now need to pick themselves up from that. Sitting top of the group on goal difference, that could be important depending on the result here, and what happens elsewhere, so it's always nice to have that on your side, which Romania have.
Match PredictionMany people are pointing to the draw here, as both teams would be happy, but the odds on offer are very poor, and I'm prepared to take a chance on value elsewhere. I haven't forgotten how good Romania were in game one, and at odds of 4.10 they are just too big to turn down. They don't need a win, but if they get one, they're likely to win the group and get an easier passage, so I will go with Romania at a big price to win this.
