Saturday's Nations League tips: Germany aiming to rub salt into Italy's wounds

Saturdays would not feel right without football, so thankfully the Nations League has stepped into the breach following the end of the domestic season. Here’s how we see the action unfolding.

Armenia vs Republic of Ireland

2pm, Premier Sports 1

Ireland fell well short in World Cup qualification, and their defeat by Luxembourg in March 2021 ranks among the most ignominious in the national team’s modern history. Yet a few bright spots did begin to emerge towards the end of the campaign, not least when Stephen Kenny’s side held Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal to a 0-0 draw in Dublin.

Kenny retains the support of many Irish fans who appreciate he is trying to enact long-term changes. Short-term results are still important, however, and Armenia’s recent record of one win in their last 11 matches (the most recent of which was a 9-0 loss to Norway) bodes well for Ireland.

Recommended bet: Ireland to win @ 2.02

Germany's Toni Kroos will be hoping to help his side inflict more pain on European champions Italy

Italy vs Germany

7.45pm, Premier Sports 1

For different reasons, we can expect both Italy and Germany to go all-out for victory on Saturday – and that is without even considering their historic footballing rivalry.

The Azzurri will still be smarting from their astonishing defeat by North Macedonia in the World Cup qualification playoffs, and being soundly beaten by Argentina at Wembley on Wednesday. Roberto Mancini will no doubt instruct his players to go out and remind Germany why they are European champions.

Germany will be at Qatar. They are not among the leading favourites although you cannot help but feel that Hansi Flick will not mind that. Two front-footed teams could produce an entertaining encounter here.

Recommended bet: Both teams to score and over 2.5 goals @ 2.2

Turkey vs Faroe Islands

7.45pm, Premier Extra

Given the size of the population and their passion for football, Turkey are one of Europe’s biggest underachievers. They certainly should not be competing in Nations League C, a division below the likes of Slovenia, Armenia and Israel.

Anything other than promotion from a group containing Luxembourg, Lithuania and the Faroe Islands would be a major disappointment. This fixture, at least, should not cause Turkey too many problems.

Recommended bet: Turkey to win both halves @ 1.84

Recommended bets

Ireland @ 2.02

Italy/Germany BTTS/over 2.5 @ 2.2

Turkey both halves @ 1.84