England vs Wales Predictions

• England’s games in 2019 averaged a huge 4.7 goals per 90 minutes.
• Over 2.5 goals were scored in 12 of England’s last 15 fixtures.
• Wales won just three of their last nine away games.

Familiar foes clash at Wembley Stadium

England’s friendly clash with Wales on Thursday is chance for both Gareth Southgate and Ryan Giggs to experiment and run the rule over new faces and formations ahead of competitive fixtures next week, though both managers will be keen to establish some momentum ahead of more important endeavours.

The Three Lions’ squad contains 12 players that have won two or fewer international caps, while the average age of Wales’ roster under Giggs continues to be one of the lowest around, and with both teams heavily dusted with eager to impress youngsters, Thursday’s game has the makings of an exciting tussle.

England scored just one goal in total in their last two run-outs against Iceland and Denmark in September, though the Three Lions have generally been a free-scoring side over the past 12 months, and their matches in 2019 averaged a staggering 4.7 goals per 90 minutes.

We expect England’s encounter with their old enemy and neighbours Wales to have a similarly open feel, with numerous players hoping to shine ahead of the return of serious business next week, and with that considered, the over 2.5 goals market looks well priced for Thursday’s friendly, while our correct score prediction backs the hosts to eventually win 3-2.

At club level this season, the quality of defending has been alarmingly poor, and the vast majority of the combatants on show this week have played their part in what has been a goal-filled opening salvo to the 2020/21 season. We think there is every chance that their defensive deficiencies will be carried on to the international stage on Thursday, and a high-scoring skirmish should follow.