The goals have come thick and fast during Euro 2024 qualifying, and some standout teams have played on the front foot, hitting the net regularly and putting their opponents to the sword.
With just one more round of Euro qualification fixtures to play, we look at some of the most likely first goal methods for these attacking sides.
Euro 2024 First Goal Method betting prediction – games in focus
North Macedonia vs England – Penalty
England’s wealth of attacking quality has been a focal point that has led to exactly three goals scored per game.
The Group C toppers have been deadly in front of goal but the Three Lions have also led the way in penalty goals scored. So far, England has notched five penalty goals, more than any other nation in Euro qualifying.
Moreover, Gareth Southgate’s side like to attack more directly away from home, which puts pressure on their opponents. So far, the Three Lions have attempted around 13 dribbles per game and have drawn 11 on average when playing away.
England’s dribbling quality has drawn plenty of fouls in the box and the finishing quality of Harry Kane, who has scored four of his side’s five penalties, has led to plenty of spot-kicks being dispatched.
Against a North Macedonia side that commits nearly 15 fouls per game, another Three Lions spot-kick conversion could be on the cards.
Portugal vs Iceland – Shot
Portugal have flexed their goal scoring prowess regularly during their empathic Euro qualifying campaign. The Seleção top the charts for goals scored across the qualifying rounds and they have hit the net 34 times in just nine matches.
Moreover, Roberto Martínez’s side has attempted the most shots in the competition so far. In nine fixtures, Portugal have had 169 shots and had a Euros high of 69 on target.
In addition, Portugal has been particularly prolific early on when playing at home during qualifying. Even in their last two home matches, Martinez’s side has scored five goals before the half time interval.
Up next for the Seleção is an Iceland side that allows an average of 12 shots per game on the road, so there’s a good chance the hosts can strike first with a shot at Estádio José Alvalade.
Slovenia vs Kazakhstan – Set Piece Goal
Slovenia and Kazakhstan face off in a second-place decider in Group H on Monday and the hosts come into the match as the highest scorers from set-piece situations in Euro qualifying.
Across nine matches, Slovenia have notched six goals from set pieces. Left-back Erik Janza has been particularly deadly from set pieces recently, curling in a direct free-kick in the 2-1 loss to Denmark on Friday and scoring from a corner against Finland at home in October.
Matjaž Kek’s side should get plenty of opportunities to strike from a dead ball situation against Kazakhstan too. The Hawks have committed the second most fouls per game (14.1) throughout the qualification stages and Slovenia could get further joy in and around the box at Stožice Stadium in this crucial Group H clash.
