Bulgaria v Republic of Ireland Match Preview & Best Odds

The Republic of Ireland face Bulgaria on Thursday evening in the first of two play-off legs and as such, now is an excellent time to register with any of our featured Irish betting sites whereupon you can take advantage of some excellent Republic of Ireland free bets and other offers aheads of this match. 

 

Bulgaria v Republic of Ireland Match Preview & Best Odds

 

As the UEFA Nations League promotion-relegation play-off looms, the Boys in Green travel to Bulgaria in the first of two legs on Thursday, 20th March 2025, at the Stadion Hristo Botev in Plovdiv. Both teams are eager to secure their positions in League B, making this encounter a high-stakes affair. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this match, from team form and key players to betting odds and predictions.

 

Team Form and Recent Performances

 

Bulgaria’s Recent Form:

Bulgaria has exhibited a mixed bag of results in their recent outings. Over their last six matches, they have secured two victories, drawn three times, and suffered one significant defeat:

• Bulgaria 1-1 Belarus (18th November 2024): A tightly contested match where both teams shared the spoils. 
• Luxembourg 0-1 Bulgaria (15th November 2024): A narrow victory showcasing Bulgaria’s defensive resilience. 
• Northern Ireland 5-0 Bulgaria (15th October 2024): A heavy loss that highlighted defensive frailties. 
• Bulgaria 0-0 Luxembourg (12th October 2024): A goalless draw indicating challenges in breaking down defences. 
• Bulgaria 1-0 Northern Ireland (8th September 2024): A solid home win demonstrating tactical discipline. 

This sequence underscores Bulgaria’s defensive approach, with a propensity for low-scoring games. The anomalous defeat to Northern Ireland remains a blemish in an otherwise steady run. 

 

Republic of Ireland’s Recent Form:

The Republic of Ireland’s form has been inconsistent, reflecting a team in transition:

• England 5-0 Republic of Ireland (17th November 2024): A humbling defeat against a superior opponent. 
• Republic of Ireland 1-0 Finland (14th November 2024): A hard-fought win, showcasing defensive solidity.
• Greece 2-0 Republic of Ireland (13th October 2024): A setback highlighting struggles against well-organised teams. 
• Finland 1-2 Republic of Ireland (10th October 2024): An away victory demonstrating attacking potential. 
• Republic of Ireland 0-2 Greece (10th September 2024): A home defeat raising questions about tactical approaches. 

The team’s inconsistency is evident, with notable victories overshadowed by significant losses. The recent thrashing by England has been a focal point in their preparations.  

 

Key Players to Watch

Republic of Ireland:

• Evan Ferguson (Forward, Brighton & Hove Albion on loan to West Ham United): At 20, Ferguson has emerged as a beacon of hope for Irish football. His Premier League experience, physicality, and keen eye for goal make him a pivotal figure in Ireland’s attacking setup. 
• Troy Parrott (Forward, AZ Alkmaar): Known for his versatility and technical prowess, Parrott offers creativity in the final third. His ability to link play and exploit defensive gaps will be crucial. 
• Adam Idah (Forward, Celtic): Idah’s pace and strength provide a direct threat. His knack for pressing defenders and creating opportunities adds dynamism to Ireland’s forward line. 
• Sinclair Armstrong (Forward, Bristol City): A rising star, Armstrong’s agility and dribbling skills can unsettle defences. His unpredictability adds an exciting dimension to Ireland’s attack. 
• Rocco Vata (Midfielder, Watford): Despite his youth, Vata has shown maturity beyond his years. His vision and passing range can dictate the tempo of the game.  

Bulgaria:

• Kiril Despodov (Forward, PAOK): Despodov’s flair and goal-scoring ability make him Bulgaria’s main attacking threat. His proficiency in set-pieces adds another layer to his game. 
• Bozhidar Kraev (Midfielder, Western Sydney): Kraev’s creativity and vision are central to Bulgaria’s midfield operations. His ability to find pockets of space can disrupt opposition defences. 

 

Betting Odds and Markets

Odds correct as of Tuesday, 18th March 2025.

 

 

For those considering a flutter on the upcoming match, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the betting markets, from leading bookmaker Boylesports:

 

Outright Winner:

• Bulgaria Win: 5/2 
• Draw: 11/5
• Republic of Ireland Win: 7/5

These odds suggest a marginal favouritism towards the Republic of Ireland, though the tight margins indicate an evenly poised contest.

 

Both Teams to Score (BTTS):

• Yes: 23/20 
• No: 3/4

Considering both teams’ recent scoring patterns, the odds lean towards at least one team failing to score.

 

Win to Nil:

• Bulgaria: 4/1 
• Republic of Ireland: 13/5 

Given the defensive approaches of both sides, a win without conceding is a plausible outcome.

 

Correct Score:

• 1-0 to Bulgaria: 7/1 
• 1-1 Draw: 21/4
• 0-1 to Republic of Ireland: 6/1 

Predicting the exact score is always a tough assignment but we envisage this being a closely fought affair with neither side managing more than a single goal during this first leg.

 

Handicap Betting:

For those who fancy a team to dominate, handicap betting offers some interesting angles:

• Bulgaria -1: 4/1 – A two-goal margin might be optimistic, but if Ireland’s defence replicates their England performance, it’s not impossible.
• Republic of Ireland -1: 4/1 – If the Irish attack clicks, they could grind out a comfortable win.
• Bulgaria +1: 8/13 – A safer bet for those expecting a close contest with Bulgaria at least forcing extra time or a narrow loss.

 

Over/Under Goals Market

Given both teams’ somewhat inconsistent scoring form, the over/under markets present an intriguing opportunity:

• Over 2.5 Goals: 13/8 – If Ferguson, Parrott, and Despodov deliver, this could end up more open than expected.
• Under 2.5 Goals: 8/15 – The safer choice based on both teams’ defensive tendencies in recent matches.
• Over 3.5 Goals: 19/4 – For those who believe we’re in for an unexpected thriller.

 

Final Prediction 

Let’s be honest, neither of these teams are exactly in the form of their lives. Bulgaria have been solid but uninspiring, while Ireland’s recent results range from competent (Finland) to catastrophic (England).

 

🔮 Predicted Score: Bulgaria 1-1 Republic of Ireland (21/4 odds)

• Ferguson finds a first-half goal.
• Bulgaria equalise via a Despodov screamer.
• A nervy final 15 minutes ensues, filled with hopeful long balls and heart-in-mouth defending.

What to Expect:

• Expect a tight, nervy affair rather than a goal-fest.
• Ferguson Anytime Scorer (3/1) remains a strong bet.
• A 1-1 draw (best odds of 21/4) offers decent value.

 

Whether you’re tuning in to shout for the Boys in Green, placing a cheeky accumulator, or simply enjoying the chaos of it all, this match is set to be a rollercoaster ride. Strap in, grab a Guinness (or Rakia if you’re siding with Bulgaria), and let the footballing drama unfold!

⚽ Remember: Bet responsibly – and enjoy the match! 🍀