Monday evening's UEFA Nations League fixture between Serbia and Denmark holds significant importance, with both teams competing for a place in the competition's quarter-finals.
Serbia, currently third in Group A4, must secure a win to overtake Denmark and claim second place, while Denmark can advance with just a draw. The match will take place at Gradski Stadion Dubocica in Leskovac, Serbia tonight.
Serbia Recent Form
Serbia come into this match after a 1-1 draw with Switzerland, a game that saw them conceding an equaliser late in the game. Despite having goal-scoring talents like Dusan Vlahovic and Aleksandar Mitrovic, Serbia have only managed to score three goals in five games.
Their Nations League campaign has been inconsistent, with a record of one win, two draws, and two losses. To make history by reaching the knockout stage, Serbia will need to bring greater intensity and precision against the Danes tonight.
Injury and Team News
Serbia may be without some key players. Luka Jovic is expected to remain sidelined with a hernia, and midfielder Ivan Ilic is also out due to a knee injury.
Meanwhile, influential midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has been excluded from this month’s squad, with his brother, Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, also unavailable after he chose to be withdrawn from the squad.
Head coach Dragan Stojkovic will likely rely on Nemanja Gudelj and Nemanja Maksimovic in midfield to bolster the team's chances.
Denmark Recent Form
Denmark currently sit second in Group A4, with seven points from five matches. Despite a recent loss to Spain (1-2), they remain in contention for the Nations League quarter-finals.
Denmark has shown more attacking efficiency than Serbia, having scored double the goals of their opponents. Their history against Serbia gives them a slight psychological advantage, as they have won three of their last four encounters without conceding a goal.
Injury and Team News
New head coach Brian Riemer has some key decisions to make, particularly in attack. Manchester United's Rasmus Hojlund has not yet found consistent form, and the starting striker role may go to either Kasper Dolberg or Yussuf Poulsen.
Gustav Isaksen, who scored in the match against Spain, and Christian Eriksen are likely to support the forward line. Captain Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is expected to control the midfield alongside Morten Hjulmand.
Serbia Player to Watch
Aleksandar Mitrovic: With his strength and aerial ability, Serbia’s all-time top scorer remains pivotal for the side. The Fulham striker is known for his relentless pressing and holds 59 international goals. His partnership with Vlahovic will be essential in breaking down Denmark’s defence.
Denmark Player to Watch
Christian Eriksen: The Manchester United midfielder continues to orchestrate Denmark's attacks with his experience and vision. In Riemer’s setup, Eriksen often takes a more advanced role, making him a constant threat in the final third.
Prediction
A tight game is expected, with Denmark likely to hold Serbia to a 1-1 draw. The hosts may struggle against Denmark's well-organised defence, especially with their inconsistent scoring form.
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Both Teams to Score
Serbia’s reliance on counter-attacks and Denmark’s balanced approach suggest both sides will find the net.
Tip 2: Under 2.5 Goals
Given Serbia’s goal struggles and Denmark’s solid defence, a low-scoring game seems likely.
Tip 3: Draw as a Result
With Denmark only needing a draw to advance, they may aim to control the tempo and settle for a point.
