Wednesday 5 July predictions: European U21 semi-finals, J2 League in Japan and friendlies are on the cards
The European Under-21 Championship, which was disappointing for Italy, who had already exited at the group stage, is now drawing to a close. Tonight the two surprising semi-finals will be played: Israel-England and Spain-Ukraine. Surprising of course for the absences, apart from the Azzurrini, of France who were among the main candidates for the final victory.
At this point the most likely final appears to be England-Spain, but never say never given the path this tournament has taken so far. Israel achieved a feat destined to remain in history. Before this edition, in fact, the Israeli selection had never made it past the group stage in their only two appearances at the final stage of a European Championship. However, it will be difficult to go any further against this solid England team.
Other match predictions
More balanced probably is the match between Spain and Ukraine, who have already faced each other in the group stage. After knocking out France, Ukraine wants to continue to impress in a match that promises goals.
Speaking of goals, watch out for friendlies: Rakow Czestochowa-Universitatea Cluj, Slovan Liberec-Varnsdorf, LKS Lodz-GKS Katowice, Copenhagen-Silkeborg and Galatasaray-Hull City.
The Japanese J2 League is also being played: goals coming in Vegalta Sendai-Shimizu S-Pulse, Jubilo Iwata-Zwiegen Kanazawa and Pheasant Okayama-Fujieda.
Predictions: The Seer’s Choice
- At least one goal per team in Spain v Ukraine, European Under-21 Championship, 8.45pm
Winners
- Jubilo Iwata (in Jubilo Iwata-Zwiegen Kanazawa, J2 League Japan, 12:00)
- Shimizu S-Pulse (in Vegalta Sendai-Shimizu S-Pulse, J2 League Japan, 12:00)
- England (in Israel v England, European Under-21 Championship, 20:45)