International Weekend

Posted: Sep 1 2008, 03:30 PM This weekend the domestic leagues take a break while the home nations start their international campaigns, with the ultimate aim of qualification for South Africa 2010. With the disappointment of No Home Nation qualifying for the recent European Championship all the sides will be out to prove something come Saturday. They say there are no easy games in International football however the England side must fancy some easy points against the European minnows Andorra. After a few not to flattering friendly performances Capello and Co will be looking to restore the nations faith with a solid away win. The major talking point thus far has been Capello's exclusion of fans favorite Michael Owen and the inclusion of yet-to-be capped Jimmy Bullard. (Kick off 7pm GMT) Meanwhile Scotland face a slightly more tricky tie away to FYR Macedonia. Having only been pipped to European Qualification last time around Burley will be looking for his men to pick up something from their trip to Eastern Europe. With two goals to his name in Sunday's Old Firm Kenny Miller must fancy his chances to start this Saturday. (Kick off 2pm GMT) Wales are the only Home Nation to start their campaign at home, they will be taking on Azerbaijan at the Millennium stadium. Toshack will expect more from his players after a disappointing campaign past, a win against this rather unknown quantity would set the Welsh on their way. They will have to do so without influential West Ham Striker Craig Bellamy(Kick off 3pm GMT) Northern Ireland enjoyed one of their best campaigns in recent years, beating a number of the 'big boys', most notably the now European Champions. Nigel Worthington will be looking for his side to build on this, lead from the front by Sunderland Striker David Healy. Worthington will need his side to improve their away form considerably if they are to be serious contenders for qualification. (Kick off 4.30pm GMT) The Republic of Ireland will also be looking to get their campaign underway with a win under new boss Trappatoni. The Irish will be taking on Georgia, with the game having been moved due to the conflict with Russia. The boss will look to leading goal scorer and captain Robbie Keane to fire them into contention, his goals having done it before. (Kick off 8pm GMT) Fancy a punt on one of the games? Check out our site sponsor PaddyPower