Tip: Scotland to win
Belarus enter the match against Scotland under huge pressure after their poor showing against Greece. The 1-5 defeat revealed massive gaps in their defense, with four goals conceded already in the first half. Nevertheless, Carlos Alós can still point to the fact that his team recorded three consecutive wins earlier this year, scoring 11 goals in the process. Barkovskiy, who came on to score the consolation against Greece, is expected to be given a chance from the start. Scotland, on the other hand, played out a 0-0 draw with Denmark and confirmed their discipline and commitment in defense. Steve Clarke has quality midfielders like McTominay and McGinn, while Dykes and Adams lead the line up front. Historically, Scotland have the upper hand as they aim to qualify for their first World Cup since 1998. This encounter promises a balanced opening phase, but the visitors’ quality and organization should be decisive.
Tip: Croatia to win
Croatia have shown that even after a generational change, they remain among the elite in Europe. Zlatko Dalic’s team have won all three of their qualifiers so far with an impressive scoreline of 13-1. Still, the narrow 1-0 win against the Faroe Islands highlighted that they can struggle to break down a deep defensive block. Luka Modric and Josko Gvardiol are expected to return, which will add experience and composure to the side. Montenegro, after a strong start, suffered back-to-back defeats to the Czech Republic and dropped in the table. Coach Robert Prosinecki cannot count on striker Osmajic, a major blow, and relies almost exclusively on veteran Jovetic. Away form has also been an issue, as Montenegro have not won on the road since 2023 against Bulgaria. Croatia are extremely difficult to beat at home and are determined to control Group L. Everything points towards a clear win for the hosts.
Tip: Faroe Islands to win
Gibraltar continue their struggles and sit bottom of the group without a point. They have lost all four of their qualifiers so far and possess the weakest defense, with 16 goals conceded. Even at home at Europa Point Stadium, results have been dismal, with three consecutive defeats and a combined scoreline of 0-12. Scott Wiseman’s side depend heavily on striker Tjay De Barr, but their attack remains extremely limited. The Faroe Islands are also having difficulties, yet they managed to beat Gibraltar 2-1 back in June and have three points on the board. Against Croatia, they defended well despite eventually conceding one goal. Coach Eydun Klakstein has built a disciplined side that can play organized and stubborn football. Head-to-head history favors the visitors, who have two wins and are unbeaten in three meetings. The game may not be of the highest quality, but the Faroe Islands have the stronger chance of winning.
Tip: Greece to win or draw
Greece started their qualification campaign in spectacular fashion with a 5-1 demolition of Belarus. Leading 4-0 at half-time, they showcased the attacking power of Pavlidis and Tzolis. Coach Ivan Jovanovic has guided his side to four wins from their last five matches, creating a positive atmosphere in the camp. Denmark, on the other hand, began with a 0-0 draw against Scotland, highlighting problems in their attacking setup. Riemer’s team still boasts quality in midfield with Hjulmand and Damsgaard, but their forwards have failed to impress. Historically, Denmark hold the advantage in direct encounters, but their most recent clash ended 1-1. Greece are traditionally strong at home and have the chance to establish themselves as serious qualification contenders. For Denmark, this will be a key test to prove they can return to winning form after their disappointing 2022 World Cup. The hosts are slight favorites, but a draw is also a realistic outcome.
Tip: Italy to win
Israel continue their push for a first World Cup appearance in 55 years. Their 4-0 win over Moldova demonstrated their quality and attacking power, with Peretz and Gloukh shining in midfield and attack. They currently hold a three-point lead over Italy in Group I, though the Italians still have a game in hand. Italy, now under Gennaro Gattuso, began a new era by crushing Estonia 5-0 on Friday. Retegui and Kean combined well up front, while Raspadori made a decisive impact from the bench. However, Italy cannot afford to drop points if they want to keep their qualification hopes alive. The historical record is fully in their favor, with Israel losing all six previous meetings. Still, the hosts believe they have a chance to finally break that streak. For Gattuso, this is the first major away test, and Italy must avoid underestimating their opponents.
Tip: Sweden to win
Kosovo suffered a heavy 0-4 defeat away to Switzerland, which exposed serious defensive flaws. Franco Foda’s side, however, take confidence from their strong home record, having won five straight matches in Pristina. The key will be defensive leader Rrahmani and winger Krasniqi, though the absence of injured Rashica is a major blow. Sweden began their campaign with a 2-2 draw in Slovenia but twice surrendered the lead, something coach Jon Dahl Tomasson will not be pleased about. Alexander Isak is not fully fit and is likely to start on the bench, leaving Gyökeres and Elanga to lead the attack. Sweden remain a consistent European team, though they failed to qualify for the last World Cup. Kosovo could cause problems with their fighting spirit, but their lack of leaders and shaky defense weigh heavily against them. If the visitors stay focused, they should emerge victorious.
Tip: Switzerland to win
Switzerland made a superb start to qualification with a commanding 4-0 victory over Kosovo. Breel Embolo confirmed his excellent form with a brace and continues to be the team’s main offensive weapon under Murat Yakin. Switzerland also won all three of their pre-qualification friendlies, scoring 11 goals in the process. Their goal is clear: a sixth consecutive World Cup appearance. Slovenia, meanwhile, began with a valuable 2-2 home draw against Sweden, with Vipotnik scoring a dramatic equalizer in the 90th minute. This showed the fighting spirit of Matjaz Kek’s side, who also qualified for Euro 2024 and reached the last 16. However, Slovenia face a tough test, as they rarely win away in Switzerland. That said, they possess promising talents such as Sesko and Vipotnik, who can make an impact. The home side remain clear favorites, with consistency and experience on their side, and should consolidate their position at the top of the group.