England (Photo credit: Reuters)
England will face Ireland in an international friendly as they face eight teams to decide the last four places in the European Championship.
A look at what is happening around European football on Thursday:
Euro playoffs
The four playoff games will decide who completes the 24-nation lineup for next year’s epidemic-delayed European Championships. All will have to be resolved on Thursday in extra time or penalty shootouts if needed. The winner of at least one World Cup will be the first tournament to be ranked out of the 50 national teams.
Georgia hosts Northern Macedonia in the playoff finals for fourth tier teams.
Hungary hosts Iceland in a match of teams that also met in Euro 2016.
Northern Ireland allowed Slovakia to host fans in the stadium – only under 1000 – by local playoff rules.
Serbia hosts Scotland.
At stake, obviously, is Hungary and Scotland. They are among the 12 host countries of the Peninsula’s Euro 2020. If they advance, their prize will be two home games in the group stage next June.
England vs Ireland
England manager Gareth Saw South Thaget’s priority is the National League games against Belgium and Iceland. So Reese James, who has been suspended for those matches, is ready to make a right start back in the friendly against Ireland. Jordan Pickford could have been replaced by Nick Pope. Former young Ireland internationals Michael Keane and Jack Graylish could also join Wembley Stadium, as Declan Rice could represent him at the senior level on three occasions. The biggest moment was Debbie for 17-year-old Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham. Maybe, who is in line to become the third youngest player in England.
Walia vs. United States
Americans return to work for the first time since February due to the epidemic. Mainly Europe-based players traveled to Wales for the upcoming Major League Soccer playoffs. Midfielder Giovanni Reina, the 17-year-old son of former Manchester City player Claudio Riyana, could make his international debut against Borussia Dortmund. Ryan Giggs will not lead Wales for this friendly after his arrest, although he will be consulted by coach Robert Page. Giggs will also be missing from upcoming National League matches after he was arrested by police for an alleged incident with his girlfriend earlier this month. The 46-year-old former Manchester United star has been released on police bail and denies any wrongdoing. Gareth Bale is back in contention for Wales after missing last month’s game due to a Tottenham forward injury.
