At the time of writing last night’s World Cup qualifier play-offs were in to the second half and Croatia had one foot in Russia after they were thrashing Greece 4-1 in Zagreb, while Northern Ireland were up against it after falling 1-0 behind against Switzerland at Windsor Park.

Tonight’s World Cup qualifier play-off match is between Sweden and Italy at the Friends Arena, Stockholm. Sweden have won six of their last ten international home matches, losing two, and seven of the matches ended with more than 2.5 goals scored. Italy have won six of their last ten international away matches, losing three, and eight of the matches ended with more than 2.5 goals. Sweden have won three of the four corresponding internationals against Italy between 1950 and 1987. From a betting perspective the safest play should be backing Over 2.5 Goals in the match or Both Teams to Score ‘Yes’ and Over 2.5 Goals match double.

There are also quite a few international friendlies today and tonight. Belgium face South American qualifiers Mexico at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels. Belgium have won seven of their last ten international home matches losing two and seven of the matches ended with more than 2.5 goals scored. Mexico have won four of their last ten international away matches, losing two, they’ve won one of their last six and five of the ten matches ended with more than 2.5 goals scored. From a betting perspective backing over 2.5 goals looks like the best bet given the number of Belgium’s home games that have ended with more than 2.5 goals scored. Poland are good value at home to beat Uruguay and Germany should beat England without too much trouble as the home side are missing a number of key first team players injured.