Poland U21 v England U21 Predictions, Betting Tips and Previews

Thursday 22 June – Kolporter Arena – Euro U21 Championships

England U1 play Poland U21 at the Kolporter Arena on Thursday, needing a victory to qualify for the semi-finals of the European Under 21 Championships. Failure to take three points could see them overtaken as group leaders, with only one team from each group certain to go through to the semi-finals.

Past Meetings

England U21 have won half of the 14 previous meetings to Poland’s four, while the Young Lions have scored 29 goals to Poland’s 17. England last lost at this level to Poland in 1999, and have won three of the last four meetings.

Team News

Aidy Boothroyd is likely to stick largely with the team who defeated Slovakia. Their response to a poor first half in their last match showed they have character as well as ability. With no new injuries reported, few changes are expected.

Poland have been weak defensively so far and may make changes in that department. With the hosts almost certainly going out of the competition even if they win well, there may also be a temptation to give games to squad members who are yet to have an opportunity.

Poland U21 v England U21 Preview and Predictions

After coming from behind to beat Slovakia, Boothroyd’s Young Lions have put themselves in pole position to progress to the semi-finals of the European Under 21 Championships. The winners of each of the three groups go through along with the best runners-up.

Hosts Poland have had a disappointing tournament, taking just one point from their first two games. They will be desperate for a win, but know that realistically they have no chance of qualifying. This will be their last chance to impress the home fans.

Both England and Poland have drawn with Sweden, while the Young Lions beat the Slovakia side which overcame Thursday’s opponents. In the run up to the tournament the Poles also lost to Italy, who England beat earlier in the season.

Following his goal in the win over Slovakia, Nathan Redmond needs just three more to equal Alan Shearer’s record of 13 England U21 goals. With Redmond and the in-demand Tammy Abraham, England are likely to have too much firepower for Poland. The betting has them at 8/11 for the win.

Penalty taker David Kownacki is the biggest threat to England’s £30m goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Kownacki missed the opening game through suspension but scored in his only game so far. Poland start as 23/4 underdogs in this one, while the draw’s priced at 10/3.

Recommended bets

Tammy Abraham to score anytime at 11/8

Yet to score in the tournament, Abraham has Swansea and Newcastle keen to take him on loan a goal would only further boost his reputation.

England to win 2-0 at 15/2

England have looked strong defensively, created eight chances last time out and have fire-power up front with Redmond and Abraham.