Both Sweden and Slovakia have performed strongly in their Nations League League C group this season and are tied at the top, each seeking promotion.
This highly anticipated clash at Friends Arena promises to determine the group leader and is set to be an exciting, closely matched encounter.
Sweden Recent Form
Sweden have shown formidable form in this Nations League campaign, with three wins and one draw, averaging nearly three goals per game.
Notably, their attacking abilities were on full display in wins over Azerbaijan (3-1) and Estonia (3-0), led by the talented Viktor Gyökeres and Alexander Isak. In their previous match against Slovakia, they led 2-0 before being held to a 2-2 draw in Bratislava.
Sweden Injury and Team News
Sweden manager Jon Dahl Tomasson has a potent front line with Isak, Gyökeres, and Dejan Kulusevski. However, the squad faces some absences:
Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga has opted out, and Hugo Larsson, Emil Krafth, and Hugo Bolin are out due to injuries. Isac Lidberg has been called up, bringing ten goals from his recent club form.
Slovakia Recent Form
Slovakia have been similarly impressive, winning two games against Azerbaijan, defeating Estonia, and drawing with Sweden. Coming off a notable year where they reached the Euro 2024 Round of 16, Slovakia are well-prepared and will look to end Sweden’s unbeaten streak.
The Falcons are led by Francesco Calzona, whose squad includes several players with European league experience.
Injury and Team News
Slovakia’s Stanislav Lobotka, who recently recovered from a thigh injury, returns to the lineup. Ivan Schranz is also back but remains underplayed due to fitness concerns.
However, key players Lukas Haraslin and Juraj Kucka are unavailable. Dominik Greif joins the squad for the first time in three years as a backup keeper to Martin Dúbravka and Marek Rodák.
Sweden Player to Watch
Viktor Gyökeres has been pivotal in Sweden’s attack, scoring consistently throughout the tournament. His goal-scoring ability and partnership with Isak will likely be key to breaking through Slovakia’s defence.
Slovakia Player to Watch
David Strelec, who scored a brace in the previous draw against Sweden, remains Slovakia’s primary offensive threat. His precision and ability to exploit defensive gaps will be essential if Slovakia are to challenge the Swedes.
Prediction
Both sides have strong attacking capabilities, but Sweden’s front line may prove too much for Slovakia’s defence. Expect a high-scoring match with Sweden narrowly clinching victory.
Our Prediction: Sweden 3 - 2 Slovakia
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both teams to score – Both teams have consistently found the net in recent games and have dynamic attacking players.
Tip 2
Over 2.5 goals – Given their recent high-scoring encounters and strong forward lines, this outcome appears likely.
Tip 3
Sweden to win – With home advantage and offensive firepower, Sweden are favoured to edge out Slovakia.
