Euro 2016 Group E: O’Neill’s Ireland can enjoy further heroics in Belgium battle

Boys in Green to face Belgian backlash?

Despite possessing one of the strongest squads on paper, Belgium failed to live up to hype and expectations in their opener against an Italian side guided by future Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, enduring an uninspiring showing.

Everton frontman Romelu Lukaku was unable to transfer his past club form onto the international stage, as the Toffees striker suffered a poor outing against Italy’s three dominant centre backs. Although, Lukaku is 5/1 to bounce back and open proceedings this time out against the Irish.

Liverpool forward Divock Origi also had an evening to forget in his maiden outing, missing a host of chances to get his nation back in the game against Italy, and he is 6/4 to dispatch anytime here, while Christian Benteke is the same price to tuck home.

Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne was one bright spark for his side last time around and is 7/4 to strike, with Chelsea attacker and Belgian skipper Eden Hazard 6/1 to net the game’s final goal.

Hoolahan can continue rich form

With Belgium having struggled first time out, Ireland enjoyed quite a contrasting performance, looking likely of toppling Sweden before a Ciaran Clark own-goal saw them held to a frustrating stalemate.

Norwich City maestro Wes Hoolahan opened the scoring with a superb half-volley and he is 5/1 to find the target once more, while fellow Canaries star and Irish wideman Robert Brady is 6/1 to dispatch after a great opening performance.

Southampton striker Shane Long is set to lead the line once again here and he is 2/1 to open his Euro 2016 account anytime, while veteran marksman Robbie Keane is 8/1 to score the last goal and Jeff Hendrick is 7/1 to get on the scoresheet after coming close on several occasions against Sweden.

The stakes are high for both nations as they prepare for their Bordeaux battle on Saturday afternoon, with Belgium aiming to get off the mark in Group E and Ireland hoping to enhance their chances of edging into the knockout stages on French soil.

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What does Coral football ambassador Alan Shearer think ahead of Ireland’s chances against Belgium? Listen to his thoughts below.

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Coral’s top tip: Back Ireland frontman Shane Long to get on the scoresheet anytime at 2/1.