Finland vs Northern Ireland Predictions

• Five of Northern Ireland’s last seven losses have been by a 1-0 score line
• Finland have scored just twice in their last four matches

Scoring woes set to continue in Helsinki

Both of these sides arrive in Helsinki knowing their fates are sealed, with Northern Ireland unable to reach the finals after a dismal qualification campaign and Finland assured of a playoff spot following their Nations League performance.

Those factors could lead to a relatively low-profile affair, with goals likely to be at a premium as two the two sides have had struggles in finding the net of late.

Finland have failed to score in two of their last three fixtures, whilst Northern Ireland’s only goals in their last three matches came against San Marino.

The two sides have been resolute at the back however, both conceding just nine times in their eight group games to date, which is impressive given the attacking quality the top two in Group H possess, with Denmark being able to call upon Manchester United star Rasmus Hojlund and Slovenia having the services of wonderkid Benjamin Sesko available to them.

Given the strong defences and misfiring attacks on both sides, plus the fact the reverse fixture finished 1-0, under 2.5 goals looks a likely outcome.

Finland can find their form

A repeat of that 1-0 score line looks possible in Helsinki, with Northern Ireland unlikely to add to the goal total and Finland’s attack struggling lately.

Teemu Pukki is usually a reliable source of goals but the former Norwich forward has managed just one goal in qualifying, against San Marino, and has failed to score in his last four internationals.

Two of Finland’s last three wins have been by a 1-0 score line and the same is true for five of Northern Ireland’s last seven losses.

A 1-0 home win could certainly be on the cards on Friday.