Match Ends in Stalemate
Favorable Odds: 12/5
Bookmaker: Betfair
In a crucial Group C clash at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Slovenia and Serbia, both vying for a spot in the last 16 of Euro 2024, settled for a draw on Thursday afternoon.
With just one point separating the two teams in the standings, a victory in this match would have significantly boosted their chances of advancing to the knockout rounds.
Slovenia
Slovenia, competing in their first European Championship since 2000, kicked off their Group C campaign with a 1-1 draw against Denmark. Erik Janza’s late equalizer salvaged a point for Slovenia after Christian Eriksen had given Denmark the lead. Head coach Matjaz Kek described the result as fair, highlighting his team’s strong finish to the match. Ranked 57th by FIFA, Slovenia is still searching for their first-ever win at the European Championship as an independent nation.
Slovenia is currently unbeaten in their last seven international matches but has only managed to win one of their previous four encounters with Serbia. Their most recent meeting ended in a 2-2 draw in the UEFA Nations League in June 2022, following a 4-1 defeat to the same opponents.
Team News
Coach Kek is likely to stick with the same starting lineup, including goalscorer Erik Janza at left-back. Benjamin Sesko and Andraz Sporar are expected to lead the attack.
Serbia
Serbia, making their debut as an independent nation at the European Championship, suffered a 1-0 defeat to England in their opening Group C match. Despite an improved performance in the second half, Serbia failed to find the back of the net. Manager Dragan Stojkovic praised his players’ bravery and believed they deserved a better result against a higher-ranked team.
Historically, Serbia has struggled in the European Championship, winning just once in their last 12 games. The defeat to England leaves them at the bottom of Group C, making a win in their remaining matches crucial for their chances of advancing.
Team News
Filip Kostic’s injury rules him out for the rest of Euro 2024, with Filip Mladenovic set to replace him at left wing-back. Sasa Lukic and Nemanja Gudelj are expected to continue in central midfield, while Dusan Tadic could return to the starting lineup after starting on the bench against England.
Conclusion
Considering the history between these two teams, a draw was a likely outcome. Both Slovenia and Serbia have talented strikers who can pose a threat, but it remains to be seen if they can make a significant impact to secure a victory.
Match Ends in Stalemate
Favorable Odds: 12/5
Bookmaker: Betfair
