In a highly anticipated UEFA Nations League clash, Greece and England face off in Athens. Greece leads the group after a victory over England at Wembley last month. With both teams seeking promotion to League A, this promises to be an intense showdown.
Greece Recent Form
Greece has dominated their Nations League matches under manager Ivan Jovanovic, winning all four games in their maiden League B campaign. The team has scored nine goals and conceded just once, showcasing a disciplined defence and a balanced attack.
With eight wins and two draws in their last 11 Nations League home matches, Greece have proven formidable on home turf.
Injury and Team News
Greece will be without midfielder Dimitrios Kourbelis, who is serving a suspension for yellow card accumulation. Options to replace him include Petros Mantalos, Christos Zafeiris, or Sotiris Alexandropoulos.
Key players like Kostas Tsimikas and Konstantinos Mavropanos are expected to anchor the defence, while Vangelis Pavlidis, who scored twice in the reverse fixture, may lead the attack once again.
England Recent Form
England have rebounded since their loss to Greece, winning their last two away matches in the Nations League, including a 3-1 win over Finland.
Currently ranked fourth in the world, they must secure a two-goal margin victory in Athens to top the group. Interim manager Lee Carsley has been cautious after experimenting in previous fixtures, and will likely field a more experienced squad.
With Thomas Tuchel set to take the managerial position on January 1st, Carsley may well look to play some younger names in subsequent fixtures, but he'll probably stick to experienced heads to try and get over the line here.
Injury and Team News
England faces a major injury crisis, with absences including Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Phil Foden, and Jack Grealish.
New call-ups include Morgan Rogers and Taylor Harwood-Bellis. Defensive mainstay Kyle Walker is still a fitness doubt, while captain Harry Kane is set to lead the attack with Jude Bellingham and Anthony Gordon supporting from the midfield.
Greece Player to Watch
Vangelis Pavlidis: After a stunning performance at Wembley, Pavlidis remains a key offensive threat for Greece. His positioning and finishing ability are essential for Greece’s hopes of securing top spot in the group.
England Player to Watch
Harry Kane: England’s captain and primary goal-scorer, Kane will be tasked with leading England’s attack. His experience and skill in finding the net will be pivotal in their efforts to break through Greece’s solid defence.
Prediction
Given the form and recent tactical adjustments of both sides, this match is expected to be closely contested. While Greece has the home advantage and a more cohesive squad, England's depth and want to get the win back from the reverse fixture could edge it for them.
Our Prediction: Greece 1-2 England.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
England to Win: Despite key injuries, England’s recent performance and their need for a win make them a likely candidate to pull ahead, albeit narrowly.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 Goals: Both teams are expected to be aggressive, as Greece aims to secure top place and England must win by two goals to lead the group. This sets up a high-scoring match.
Tip 3
Harry Kane to Score Anytime: As England’s leading striker, Kane is a dependable choice to score, especially with the pressure to deliver in this pivotal match.
