Ireland vs. Ukraine Predictions: Expect a low scoring, drab affair in Dublin

There are four more Nations League games being played on Wednesday night and we've tasked Adam Roberts with previewing the game between Republic of Ireland and Ukraine and giving us his best two bets for the occasion.

This is a game that no one wants to play; Ukraine have just had their heart broken by Wales in Cardiff, in their unbelievably spirited fight for World Cup qualification. Now, just three days later, they head over the Irish Sea to Dublin for a League B, Group 1 tie against the Republic of Ireland. 

Ireland loathe this competition - in the 11 games they've placed since it's inception, they are winless, losing six, drawing five and scoring just two goals. A phenomenally abysmal record. Stephen Kenny's men would surely defeat Armenia, who lost last time out 9-0 against Norway? Apparently not, as they were defeated 1-0 by a Eduard Spertsyan strike on 70 minutes. Kenny looked drawn after the final whistle and must now surely be fearing for his position... One good way of avoiding the chop would be three points at home in front of a Dubliner crowd. 

The Boys in Green are missing Seamus Coleman due to a groin issue but other than that won't be making large scale changes. Ukraine may make some personnel changes after their devastating loss in Cardiff on Sunday. 

We start with the game to have one goal or less across the 90 minutes. As previously mentioned Ireland have a dire record in this tournament and lost last time out to Armenia. At home, against a Ukraine side that may well be flat, after a devastating loss just three days ago and I can see this being a torrid, dour affair. Neither side is particularly prolific in front of goal and if there is a winner here, it may well be by a solitary goal. 

Last up, I'm doubling down on my first pick. I am predicting this one to end goalless and I've boosted the odds with a card for Ukraine midfielder Mykola Shaparenko, which brings the bet to a very tasty 27/1 with bet365. Shaparenko has picked up two yellows for his country in four starts this season and also gained eight yellow cards in just 11 starts for Dynamo Kyiv before the season was abruptly ended.

Good luck if you are following and remember to gamble responsibly.