Rep. Ireland v Germany: Visitors to humble hosts in Aviva clash

Germany’s Aviva Stadium visit represents Republic of Ireland’s first real test in World Cup qualifying, and as such the hosts are a hefty 7/1 to triumph.

Giovanni Trapattoni’s men won their opening group game, but against opposition as sub-standard as Kazakhstan, they arguably should have done so more comfortably than by the 2-1 scoreline they achieved.

Their opponents too were expected to succeed in each of their opening two matches, but a trip to Austria was a potential banana skin for Joachim Low’s outfit.

However, a 2-1 win in that game followed a 3-0 disposal of the Faroe Islands, and the visitors look good to make it three wins from three at 2/5.

With that in mind, Ireland would be delighted to emerge from this game with a point, and those believing they can achieve that can back the stalemate at 7/2.

The star-studded nature of the German side makes even a draw look unlikely however, with players such as Mesut Ozil and Miroslav Klose at the disposal of Low.

Indeed, Klose is just four goals away from matching German legend Gerd Muller’s international scoring record, and he could edge closer with the first goal here, as 9/2 favourite.

Meanwhile, the hosts will be without their all-time record goalscorer and captain, as Robbie Keane misses out through injury.

That considered, some punters may be interested in the 11/10 odds about a German clean sheet at the Aviva Stadium.

Alternatively, the travelling side, who have never lost a World Cup qualifier away from home, are available at an attractive 11/8 to win without conceding.

And those fancying an emphatic German success may also find appeal in handicap markets, with Low’s side 6/5 to win giving up a goal start to their opponents.

Germany have found the net in each half of their opening two qualifiers too, so the 8/13 about a goal occurring before and after the break in this tie looks unmissable.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.