19:45 Thursday

Italy to win and over 2.5 goals

An unexpected dip in form since winning the Euros at Wembley sees the Azzurri on the brink of failing to qualify for successive World Cups. Roberto Mancini’s side begin their play-off campaign against North Macedonia in what should be a formality for the European Champions.

While North Macedonia were able to secure a number of positive results against the weaker sides in Group J, they were comprehensively beaten by Germany 4-0 back in October. We expect Italy’s superiority to show here as they bid to secure qualification.

19:45 Thursday

Portugal vs Turkey - Both Teams to Score

Portugal are another side who will be disappointed not to have secured automatic qualification for the Qatar World Cup. They come into the play-offs off the back of a disappointing defeat to Serbia and will face a Turkish side that have won their last three matches.

Turkey have managed to find the back of the net in all 10 of their World Cup Qualifying matches while Portugal have scored in nine. With both teams seemingly well matched on form and both possessing significant attacking threats we expect both to get on the scoresheet.

19:45 Thursday

Wales vs Austria - Half Time Draw

On the other side of the play-off draw, Wales face Austria who are looking to make it three straight wins in all competitions. Wales captain, Gareth Bale, is expected to return to fitness after recovering from an illness that ruled him out of Real Madrid’s El Clasico squad at the weekend.

Just 10 places separate these two sides in the FIFA World Rankings and both teams will feel they have a good chance of progressing here. With so much on the line, we expect a cagey first half with nothing separating the teams after 45 minutes.