Irish Pitch For Euro 2012

The Irish are taking to the soccer pitch on both sides of the border tonight as the Republic of Ireland plays Russia in the third round of Group B's Euro 2012 qualifying action and NI plays Italy.

The Republic of Ireland are leaders in the Group, level on points with Slovakia, but ahead on goal difference.

They are going head-to-head with Russia, who were the favourites in Group B at the start of the competition, but were dealt a blow when they lost their last fixture at home to Slovakia.

The teams are closely matched as Russia finished second in their World Cup qualifying group behind Germany, while the Republic of Ireland only saw their World Cup hopes slip away in the play-offs when a controversial goal by the French was allowed.

In Belfast, while this morning's rain won't stop play in the NI Euro 2012 qualifier international - it may help the home side battle their Mediterranean opponents.

Already, Italy faces a tough match against Northern Ireland with Manchester United defender Jonny Evans likely to return to the team for Friday's qualifier.

The Northern Ireland squad started their qualifying campaign with a 1-0 win over Slovenia in Maribor at the start of September but they trail Group C leaders Italy by three points, but have a game in hand.

But, giant-killers NI have a good track record at Windsor Park - beating the likes of Spain and England in the past and are viewed as "more dangerous when playing at home" thanks to Northern Ireland making a habit of producing the goods in front of their home fans.

Wet conditions may favour the boys in Green even though Italy, coached by Cesare Prandelli, head into the encounter on the back of victories over Estonia and the Faroe Islands.

Italy's resounding 5-0 defeat of the Faroe Islands in the last Euro2012 qualifier was welcomed, but the real test for Italy begins now, as they play Northern Ireland and Serbia on Tuesday at the same time as the Faroe Islands v Northern Ireland game - away this time.

(BMcC/GK)