Switzerland hosts Serbia in a do-or-die UEFA Nations League match on Friday, with the Swiss desperately needing a victory to avoid relegation from League A.
After a lackluster campaign that has left them at the bottom of Group 4, Switzerland’s hopes of survival hinge on this game at the Stadion Letzigrund in Zurich.
Meanwhile, Serbia arrives with their own ambitions, aiming to stay in contention for the knockout stages.
For fans looking to make informed betting decisions, JamboBet remains the most reliable site for UEFA Nations League predictions.
Swiss’ Nations League campaign has been anything but smooth. With just one point from four matches, Murat Yakin’s side finds itself on the brink of relegation. Their most recent game—a 2-2 draw against Denmark—saw them squander leads twice, highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities.
This match is a must-win for the Swiss, as anything less than three points will seal their demotion to League B. Even if they manage to win, they’ll face the daunting task of taking on reigning champions Spain in their final group game.
Swiss’ performances since Euro 2024, where they reached the quarterfinals, have been underwhelming, with injuries and retirements further compounding their woes.
Serbia’s Push for the Knockouts
Serbia has had a mixed campaign in Group 4, picking up four points from four matches. Their highlight was a 1-0 home victory over Switzerland last month, courtesy of Aleksandar Mitrovic’s decisive goal. However, their campaign has also been marked by inconsistency, including a heavy 3-0 loss to Spain.
Despite their struggles, Serbia still has a chance to make it to the knockout stages. A win in Zurich would keep their hopes alive, but they’ll also need to rely on Denmark dropping points. Serbia’s front line, featuring Mitrovic and Dusan Vlahovic, gives them the firepower to challenge any defense, though their away form remains a concern.
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Key Players to Watch
Granit Xhaka (Switzerland)
The Swiss captain will be the linchpin in midfield, tasked with both shielding the makeshift defense and creating opportunities for his attackers. Xhaka’s leadership and composure will be vital if Switzerland is to overcome their current struggles.
Aleksandar Mitrovic (Serbia)
Serbia’s all-time leading scorer continues to shine for his country, boasting 59 goals in 96 appearances. Mitrovic’s physical presence and finishing ability will pose a significant threat to Switzerland’s injury-hit defense.
Breel Embolo (Switzerland)
With his pace and clinical finishing, Embolo will be Switzerland’s main attacking outlet. He’ll need to capitalize on any opportunities that come his way if the hosts are to secure the crucial three points.
Dusan Vlahovic (Serbia)
Returning from injury, the Juventus striker adds another dimension to Serbia’s attack. His partnership with Mitrovic could be pivotal in unlocking Switzerland’s defense.
News and Predicted Lineups
Switzerland:
The club is dealing with a defensive crisis, with Manuel Akanji, Nico Elvedi, and Fabian Schar all unavailable. Murat Yakin may have to field an untested backline, with Eray Comert dropping into defense alongside Albian Hajdari. Upfront, Breel Embolo will lead the attack, supported by Zeki Amdouni and Fabian Rieder.
Predicted Switzerland Lineup:
Kobel; Widmer, Hajdari, Comert, Rodriguez; Freuler, Xhaka; Amdouni, Rieder, Aebischer; Embolo
Serbia:
Serbia will be without Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, while goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic is also unavailable. However, the return of Dusan Vlahovic strengthens their attack. Expect a front two of Mitrovic and Vlahovic, with Lazar Samardzic providing creative support.
Predicted Serbia Lineup:
Petrovic; Erakovic, Milenkovic, Pavlovic; Nedeljkovic, Maksimovic, Grujic, Terzic; Samardzic; Vlahovic, Mitrovic
Match Facts
- Switzerland has yet to win a match in this Nations League campaign.
- Serbia defeated Switzerland 1-0 in their most recent meeting last month.
- Switzerland defeated Serbia in both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
- Serbia has struggled on the road, with inconsistent away performances.
Betting Tips and Odds
1. Aleksandar Mitrovic to Score Anytime (6/4):
Mitrovic is Serbia’s talisman and a consistent goal threat. Backing him to score is a solid bet.
2. Both Teams to Score (8/11):
Given Switzerland’s defensive issues and Serbia’s attacking prowess, this is a likely outcome.
3. Match to End in a Draw (9/4):
With both teams under pressure, a draw seems a plausible result.
jambobet Prediction: Switzerland vs Serbia
This clash promises to be a tense and closely contested affair, with high stakes for both sides. Swiss’ injury crisis and defensive frailties make them vulnerable, but their desperation to avoid relegation could inspire a spirited performance.
Serbia, meanwhile, has the attacking talent to exploit Switzerland’s weaknesses, but their inconsistency on the road raises questions.
Final Score Prediction: Switzerland 2-2 Serbia
