Israel vs Iceland Prediction, Odds and Betting Tips 21/03/2024

Odds via Tonybet

Israel vs Iceland	March 21, 2024, 2:45 PM ET
Israel odds	+125
Iceland odds	+235
Draw	+240
Over\Under	2.5 +110/ -130

Israel vs Iceland. Shape of the Teams

In a politically charged context, Israel will challenge Iceland. Although Israel will technically be the host nation, due to home conditions that do not allow a safe environment, the game will instead be played in Hungary as a neutral venue, in the Ferenc Szusza Stadium.

This shift might stir the political activism seen in stadiums, where pro-Palestine support has previously clashed with regulatory measures, leading to the confiscation of Palestinian flags. Whether history will repeat on Thursday is a question difficult to answer.

The situation in Gaza also explains why Israel did not play two fixtures – against Switzerland and Kosovo – back in the autumn of 2023.

Both teams failed to qualify through their regular group stages, landing in the middle of the pack as third and fourth. Now, they’re matched up to battle for a chance at the play-off qualification spot.

In theory, Iceland seems in better form. However, it has to be noted that their last two victories were in friendlies against minnows, and Iceland faced relatively weaker opposition in their qualifying group compared to Israel’s challengers.

Both of their previous encounters in the Nations League ended in a 2-2 draw, which mirrors their evenly matched capabilities. This historical parity suggests a tightly contested match ahead, with Iceland marginally tipped for confidence based on the group stages. However, Israel will be determined to overcome logistical and political hurdles.

Israel vs Iceland Main Match Info

Date and Kickoff Time: Wednesday, March 21, 2:45 PM ET
Stadium: Ferenc Szusza Stadium
Location: Budapest, Hungary
Last match: Iceland – Israel: 2-2 (June 13, 2022, Nations’ League)

Israel vs Iceland, Prediction, Odds

Pick: Israel to win
Odds: +125 (Tonybet)

While Israel’s track record against Iceland boasts a solitary win (3-2 in 2010) among a trio of encounters, with the other two matches in the Nations League concluding in 2-2 draws, I’m inclined to vote for an Israeli triumph looking at form and the diverse results they have shown in the past months.

Israel managed to keep Switzerland to a 1-1 draw, and despite the surprising 1-2 defeat against Romania (who later qualified for the Euros), I still think that the fact that Israel has faced higher opposition and maintained a mid-table presence likely favours Israel – despite the lack of home support.

Iceland however does not vary its usual XI like Israel does, which means that the Vikings will need to adapt to the possible changes; after all, football is about pragmatism.

Many will still remember Iceland’s deep run in 2016, but recent performances reflect a return to their traditional standing, which resulted in the downfall of the former underdogs.

However, the Icelanders tend to stand compact in their block, which forces the opponent to take risks. Their recent 1-0 win over Bosnia is a reminder for Israel not to underestimate their opponent, despite possessing players with superior technical skills.

Israel vs Iceland Betting Tip

Pick: Israel to win by a one-goal margin
Odds: +290 (Tonybet)

Israel and Iceland may not be football powerhouses or perennial dark horses – they are nations that require meticulous play for triumph.

However, what happens when both teams meet each other? The outcome remains uncertain until the final whistle.

Yet, based on recent forms, I would expect a slender victory for Israel despite potential distractions stemming from the tumultuous situation in Gaza. As many players still play for Israeli clubs, their mental fortitude will be tested.

📅 בעוד חודש מהיום אנחנו נעלה לחצי גמר הפלייאוף של היורו!⚽
🇮🇸🆚🇮🇱
🏟️בודפשט pic.twitter.com/byQmcJdQFl
— ISRAEL FA (@ISRAELFA) February 21, 2024

Nevertheless, there’s little to suggest Iceland will secure a significant tactical upper hand, given their traditional strategy of fortifying defence prior to launching attacks.

Disclaimer: Odds are accurate at the time of posting and subject to change. Please verify the latest odds on our platform before betting.