Slovenia vs Serbia Prediction: Expert Analysis and Match Preview
There will be plenty at stake in Munich on Thursday afternoon as Slovenia takes on Serbia in a highly anticipated Balkan derby from Group C.
High Stakes for Both Teams
Neither team can afford a loss, especially Serbia, who suffered a defeat in their first game against England. In Slovenia’s last five matches, both teams have consistently found the back of the net.
Serbia’s Recent Performance
Serbia delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden in their final match before the Euros. They have scored six goals in their last two UEFA Nations League matches against Slovenia. However, Serbia fell 1-0 to the tournament favorites on Sunday night. Despite a lackluster first half, Dragan Stojkovic’s team improved significantly after the break, with goals from Dusan Vlahovic, Luka Jovic, and Ivan Ilic.
Slovenia’s Form and Strategies
Slovenia also showed an improved second half in their opening match, scoring a late equalizer to draw 1-1 against Denmark. Left-back Erik Janza’s deflected shot caught Kasper Schmeichel off guard, securing the crucial point.
Slovenia vs Serbia Predicted Line-ups and Team Information
Serbia’s Strategy and Formation
Serbia started with a 3-5-2 formation against England, surprising many by substituting Dusan Tadic. Tadic expressed dissatisfaction, stating he was ready to play the full 90 minutes. Additionally, Filip Kostic suffered an injury early in the match and is expected to be replaced by Filip Mladenovic. Ivan Ilic might be preferred over Nemanja Gudelj in central defense.
Slovenia’s Approach
Slovenia’s head coach Matjaz Kek is unlikely to make significant changes to his team. Their predicted line-up in a 4-4-2 formation includes: Oblak – Karnicnik, Drkusic, Bijol, Janza – Stojanovic, Gnezda Cerin, Elsnik, Mlakar – Sporar, Sesko.
Serbia’s Need for Points
Serbia is eager to earn their first points of the tournament. Following a poor performance in the 2022 World Cup and disappointing Euro 2024 qualifiers, expectations from Serbian fans are low. However, the team has the potential to excel against any opponent, as demonstrated by their 3-0 win over Sweden.
Slovenia vs Serbia: A Tactical Battle
Serbia is considered the stronger team and the favorite to secure their first tournament points on Thursday. Slovenia, however, impressed with their 1-1 draw against Denmark, showcasing their offensive threats in Andraz Sporar and Benjamin Sesko. Sesko’s remarkable strike against Denmark highlighted his potential.
Slovenia vs Serbia Prediction: Goals and Outcomes
We expect Slovenia to aggressively pursue goals against a Serbian defense with vulnerabilities. Given these factors, we predict a Serbia victory with both teams scoring, with odds as high as 4.00.
Key Player Highlight: Dusan Vlahovic
Dusan Vlahovic is one of Europe’s top strikers. The Juventus forward showed his prowess against England with several clever attempts. On Thursday, against Slovenia, Vlahovic will likely find more opportunities. Historically, both teams have scored in four of their last five encounters. The odds of 3.20 for Vlahovic to score in Munich are highly attractive.
