Markku Kanerva and his boys didn't get the start they were looking for but they have a great chance to make amends against Northern Ireland. This game is very vital to Finland's qualification and they must avoid defeat at all costs. I'm confident in Finland's abilities in the last few years and I think they should do just fine against Northern Ireland. Here's why you should bet on a Finland win or draw;

FIRST REASON

Finland has been on a more consistent path than Northern Ireland and one game doesn't change anything. Under Markku Kanerva, Finland has gotten respectable finishes in the group stages of the major tournaments. They ranked second in the UEFA Nations League Group 3B and they have moved a few spots above Northern Ireland on the FIFA World rankings. Finland is ranked 56th while Northern Ireland sits three spots behind on 59. Northern Ireland has never gotten out of the group stage of any big tournaments in more than a decade now and they are not as strong as Finland who had some memorable results recently like the 1-0 win over Denmark. Northern Ireland's recent wins were only against Kosovo and San Marino.

SECOND REASON

Northern Ireland and Finland were very much on par a few years ago and most of the games between the pair ended in ties. The emergence of Teemu Pukki for the Finland national team has been great for them and he has been in sensational form for the squad. Finland also has a better defense than Northern Ireland and Glen Kamara is a difference-maker for the visitors which should make it very hard for the Irishmen to compete. Overall, the Finland national team is a more balanced side and I think they're more than capable of beating Northern Ireland. Coupled with the need to get their first set of points, I'm confident Finland can grab a win or draw here.

This is the second game for both teams and they would be looking to round up this first stage on a high note before club football resumes. My recommended betting pick for this one is a Finland win or draw.