Marquee Matchup Predictions - Week Two

This week we see a break from the typical domestic matches and in their place, we are greeted with a bunch of FIFA World Cup qualifying games. Finding derbies or even standout matches amongst these can be difficult, so here we are attempting to find the most important games, in terms of the points available when other options aren’t available. Keep in mind that there are domestic games taking place across the lower divisions and smaller leagues, however last year it became routine for EA to bundle international games together, which is the pattern we will follow within these suggestions.

Prior to investing, ensure you do your own research, believe in the investment and are prepared for it to backfire. It is also important we consider formations, number of cards required, rarity of cards, team rating and chemistry when picking up players.

Remember, these are only possible outcomes and may not include every possibility. Only ever make investments if you personally believe them to be solid.
 

Cyprus vs Greece

The first game on our shortlist sees two neighbouring countries go head to head. The lack of players available for Cyprus on the FIFA market suggests that if included, requirements would remain modest. While Greece has plenty of players across the board, Cyprus has no gold players available, hence the safest investment here would be discard silver players, followed closely by discard bronzes.
 

Ukraine vs Croatia

Next up we have a big match in a tightly contested group. With Ukraine, currently 4th in the table, a win at home to Croatia would see the two teams switch places, rekindling Ukraine’s hopes of qualification. On the other hand, a win for Croatia would cement their position at the top of the table, all but ensuring qualification for themselves. While they may not be the biggest footballing nations, luckily, we are still spoilt for choice when it comes to cards available within FIFA.
 

Wales vs Republic of Ireland

This match has it all! The Republic of Ireland were previously part of the UK, alongside Wales, Scotland and England, which instantly adds fuel to this fire. However, this match does more than simply dig through history, with just a point separating the two teams and a qualification spot up for grabs, this match could dictate who finishes second and who is left fighting for scraps. With the inclusion of most English leagues on FIFA, there are plenty of players from both nationalities. If you are after the gold players though, think fast as there are only a handful available.
 

Netherlands vs Sweden

This is probably one of the largest matches taking place over the next week in terms of the quality on show, and we all know how EA love to simply include a couple of big name teams. You may think that this is the sole reason for inclusion, however there is much more at stake. Three points currently separate the two teams, with Sweden being the ones ahead. A victory here and a 4 or more-goal swing, will see Netherlands overtake Sweden and hold that crucial qualification spot. As for investments, we obviously have more than enough to go around so take your time on this one!
 

Portugal vs Switzerland

Not a lot at stake in this game with both teams already having comfortably qualified. What we do have though is a winner takes all match with Switzerland currently leading the group by 3 points. If Portugal can pull off a win by 3 goals or more, they will steal that all important top spot. Just like before, investments here are plentiful and there is more than enough to go around.
 

Brazil vs Chile

Finally, we have a match from the South America, and it’s a big one. Brazil currently lead the group by a comfortable 10-point margin, and while that can’t be changed Chile sit in 6th place with a small mountain to climb. Ignoring Brazil, 4 points is all that separates second and sixth place in this group, nothing is set in stone yet. A win against Ecuador on Friday could revitalise the team, leaving them with everything to gain in the final match against Brazil. For the final time today as well, availability of cards on the market should be more than sufficient for the early investors.