The UEFA Nations League match between Azerbaijan and Sweden promises to be an exciting encounter at the Tofiq Bahramov Stadium. Both teams have experienced mixed fortunes in their recent games and will be looking to secure a win to boost their standings in the competition.
Sweden are eager to make amends for their previous defeat to Azerbaijan and reclaim their form. Let's dive into the match preview, team news, and predictions.
Match Preview
The upcoming match between Azerbaijan and Sweden will be crucial for both teams as they aim to improve their positions in the Nations League standings.
Azerbaijan comes into this game after a narrow victory in their last friendly, whereas Sweden is motivated to bounce back from their recent disappointing results. Both teams will be keen to prove their worth in this competitive fixture.
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan Recent Form
Azerbaijan enters this match on the back of a 3-2 victory over Kazakhstan in a friendly. However, their recent form in competitive fixtures has been inconsistent, and they will be eager to show their strength on home soil.
The team's defines has been a concern, conceding goals in multiple games, and they will need to tighten up to have any chance against a decent Swedish side.
Azerbaijan Injury News
Azerbaijan has no significant injury concerns ahead of this match, allowing them to field a strong lineup. Captain Emin Mahmudov, a key player with 14 goals in 49 appearances, will be vital to their attack and is expected to lead the team with his experience and skill.
Sweden
Sweden Recent Form
Sweden are coming off a 3-0 defeat to Azerbaijan in their last meeting, which will undoubtedly be fresh in their minds. The Swedish team has struggled in recent matches, particularly in their EURO 2024 qualifying campaign, and will be keen to restore their reputation with a strong performance in this fixture.
Sweden Injury News
Sweden will be without New York Red Bulls midfielder Emil Forsberg, who has been ruled out with an injury.
Despite this setback, key players like Dejan Kulusevski and Alexander Isak are available and expected to play crucial roles in Sweden's quest for revenge and victory.
Players To Watch
Azerbaijan Player To Watch
Emin Mahmudov, the captain of Azerbaijan, is the player to watch for the home side. With his goal-scoring ability and leadership on the pitch, Mahmudov will be central to Azerbaijan's efforts to secure a positive result against Sweden.
Sweden Player To Watch
Alexander Isak, the dynamic forward, will be the key player for Sweden. His pace, technical skills, and ability to score from different positions make him a constant threat to the opposition's defence. Sweden will rely on Isak to break down Azerbaijan's backline and lead them to victory.
Prediction
Considering the recent form and motivation of both teams, this match is likely to be closely contested. However, Sweden's desire for avenge their previous loss and the quality of players like Kulusevski and Isak may give them the edge.
Azerbaijan, while solid at home, may struggle against the pace and attacking prowess of the Swedish side.
A 1-3 victory for Sweden seems a plausible outcome, with betting on an away win providing good value given the circumstances.