Greece vs England Prediction 14.11.2024 | Nations League

• Competition: UEFA Nations League
• Date: 14.11.2024
• Kickoff: 19:45 UK / 20:45 CET
• Venue: Olympic Stadium of Athens (Athens)

After the Nations League Group B draw, England was expected to cruise to the top spot and secure a quick promotion to League A. However, one national team is doing everything in its power to complicate matters for the favorites.

Since their shocking victory at EURO 2004, Greece has been in a steady decline, failing to achieve any notable success. They missed out on the last five major tournaments, including two World Cups and three European Championships, which forced the Greek Football Federation to make another change. They appointed experienced Serbian coach Ivan Jovanović, who previously worked wonders in the Champions League with Cypriot club APOEL. Under his leadership, Greece has immediately seen an impressive turnaround, playing their best football in two decades. Currently, they lead their group with a perfect 12 points, and a positive result in the upcoming match would likely secure them the top spot and promotion to League A.

On the other hand, England is going through a turbulent period. Gareth Southgate, long criticized, stepped down as manager after losing the EURO final. Lee Carsley has taken over as caretaker manager until the end of the year, at which point German coach Thomas Tuchel will take the reins. The goal remains the same, winning a major tournament. However, Tuchel faces a huge challenge and the immense pressure that comes with managing the Three Lions.

Greece vs England pick: UNDER 2.5 GOALS

Despite the home team's excellent form and England's significant squad issues, England remains the favorite in this match. It's no surprise when you consider they have a squad valued at over 1.5 billion euros. This match represents perhaps the biggest challenge in Lee Carsley's coaching career: how to break down a strong opponent on their turf and secure a much-needed win. His job is made harder by the absence of several key players, with Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, Phil Foden, Levi Colwill, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all unavailable.

Even with these absences, England still boasts a squad packed with talent, including individuals capable of turning the game in an instant. Since the hosts would be content with a draw, it’s likely they will allow England more possession in the first half and adjust their approach based on the score in the second half. This won't be a free flowing match with plenty of goals, but rather a gritty contest full of running, tough tackles, set pieces, and tight battles. Betting on UNDER 2.5 GOALS seems like the logical choice.