Estonia believe they have what it takes to upset the Three Lions…
Former Estonian international Andrei Stepanov believes his country’s current crop of stars have the ability to upset England, and prevent them from winning all ten of their Euro 2016 qualifying matches.
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Reports in the Daily Star explain that England boss Roy Hodgson has challenged his men to complete an amazing clean sweep in Group E, after opening victories in Switzerland last month and at home to minnows San Marino on Thursday.
At 81, Estonia might be ranked 63 places below England in the FIFA rankings, but they have made a habit of upsetting Europe’s bigger teams – having recently ruined Holland’s chances of a perfect World Cup qualifying campaign.
Former defender Stepanov, who played 89 times for the Baltic nation, says the Three Lions will be in for a massive shock if they think they are in for an easy ride in Talinn tomorrow evening.
“Estonia, especially at home, have shown they are capable of a surprise against big teams and big opponents,” said the former Watford man.
“Holland can tell you more and so can Belgium after they lost 2-0 in Tallinn back in 2010. As for England wanting to win the group with a 100 per cent record, that is what Holland were talking about doing when they came to us last year.
“They expected to have a perfect group stage but I can tell you honestly they were pushed really hard. They were lucky to escape with a 2-2 draw after Robin Van Persie scored a penalty in injury time.”
Estonia are currently third in the race for qualification, with three points from their first two matches. They won their opening game 1-0 against Slovenia, but lost last time out against Lithuania by the same scoreline.
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