Spain will host Serbia for an essential UEFA Nations League A clash at Estadio El Arcángel on October 16, 2024. Spain leads Group 4 with 7 points and aims to secure their spot in the quarterfinals, while Serbia, currently in third place with 4 points, needs a b result to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Spain comes into this match as the clear favorite. They are unbeaten in their last 13 games and displayed their defensive prowess with a recent 1-0 victory over Denmark. Despite key injuries, including rising star Lamine Yamal, they boast a formidable home record.
Serbia, on the other hand, has shown their struggles offensively, especially in away fixtures where they lost 2-0 to Denmark. Their only win in the last five games came against Switzerland.
With a weather forecast of overcast clouds, a temperature of 13°C, and light wind, conditions are set for a competitive game officiated by Daniel Stefanski. Recommended bet: Spain to win with odds of 1.38, with potential worth considering on a handicap market for better returns.
Spain vs Serbia Prediction & Betting Tip
The recommended betting tip for this UEFA Nations League clash between Spain and Serbia is for Spain to win. Spain comes into this match as the clear bookmakers’ favorite, thanks to their impressive form and home advantage. Their unbeaten run of 13 matches and recent defensive strength further reinforces their chances against a struggling Serbian side.
| Spain vs Serbia Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting Tip | Odds |
| Spain to win | 1.43 |
- Spain tops Group 4 with 7 points and an unbeaten streak, while Serbia sits third with 4 points.
- Spain showcased their home strength with a 1-0 victory over Denmark.
- Serbia’s struggles in away fixtures are evident from their 2-0 loss to Denmark.
This prediction aims to capitalize on Spain’s superior form and home advantage.
Spain vs Serbia Odds
This UEFA Nations League match sees Spain as the clear favorite against Serbia. Spain’s b form and home advantage have impressed bookmakers, with odds significantly favoring the hosts. A win for Spain seems the most likely outcome, especially given their current top-of-the-table position and unbeaten record in this competition. Here’s a breakdown of the betting odds:
| Spain vs. Serbia Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Spain | 1.38 |
| Draw | 4.83 |
| Serbia | 8.29 |
These odds reflect Spain’s consistent performance and successful home games, making them the predicted victors.
Spain vs Serbia Live Streaming
- The UEFA Nations League live broadcast is present in India with the Sony Sports Network. The Live streaming of the matches is available on the SonyLiv website and app. Fans can watch Spain vs Serbia live streaming on SonyLiv at 12:15 AM on Wednesday.
Spain Team Analysis
Spain Recent Performance WWDWW
Spain has been in remarkable form recently, maintaining an unbeaten streak in their last five matches. They topped the standings in Group 4 of the UEFA Nations League A with 7 points. Additionally, their exceptional defensive performance is highlighted by keeping 2 clean sheets in their last 5 games. On average, Spain has scored 1.80 goals per game, showcasing their offensive capabilities. Here are their last five results:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | Denmark | 1-0 (Win) |
| Switzerland | Spain | 1-4 (Win) |
| Serbia | Spain | 0-0 (Draw) |
| Spain | England | 2-1 (Win) |
| Spain | France | 2-1 (Win) |
Spain’s recent victories, particularly against Denmark and Switzerland, demonstrate their b position going into this match against Serbia.
Spain Key Players
Spain’s squad, under the guidance of coach Luis de la Fuente, features several standout players who have been crucial to their recent success.
The top scorer, Fabian Ruiz, with 2 goals, is an essential playmaker in the midfield. His ability to control the game and provide key passes makes him a significant threat to Serbia’s defense.
Alvaro Morata, expected to lead the attack, has shown consistency in finding the net. He will be looking to exploit Serbia’s defensive frailties, potentially facing off against Serbia’s central defender Nikola Milenkovic.
In defense, Aymeric Laporte’s presence and experience will be vital in keeping Serbia’s forward Aleksandar Mitrovic at bay.
Expected lineup for Spain:
- Goalkeeper: David Raya
- Defenders: Oscar Mingueza, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella
- Midfielders: Pedri, Martín Zubimendi, Mikel Merino
- Forwards: Bryan Zaragoza, Álvaro Morata, Alejandro Baena
Spain Suspensions & Injuries
Spain is facing several injury challenges ahead of their important match against Serbia. Here’s a rundown of the injured players and their expected return dates:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Alfonso Pedraza | Ligament injury | Doubtful |
| Unai Simón | Wrist injury | Late October 2024 |
| Jose Gaya | Thigh injury | Doubtful |
| Dani Olmo | Hamstring injury | Back in training |
| Rodri | Cruciate ligament injury | Out for the season |
| Cesar Azpilicueta | Thigh injury | Late October 2024 |
| Robin Le Normand | Head injury | Late October 2024 |
| Ayoze Perez | Muscle injury | Doubtful |
| Daniel Carvajal | Cruciate ligament injury | Early September 2025 |
| Ferrán Torres | Hamstring injury | Late October 2024 |
| Nico Williams | Physical discomfort | Doubtful |
| Lamine Yamal | Hamstring injury | Late October 2024 |
| Marcos Llorente | Muscle injury | Late October 2024 |
The absence of key players like Rodri and Lamine Yamal due to long-term injuries, and doubts over several others, could weaken Spain’s bench strength. Coach Luis de la Fuente will need to rely heavily on his available stars and tactical adjustments to maintain their top position in the group against a determined Serbian side.
Spain Tactics and Formation
Spain Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Key Forward: Alvaro Morata
- Midfield Trio: Pedri, Martín Zubimendi, Mikel Merino
- Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games.
- Notable Strategy: Strong ball control to limit opponents’ opportunities. Spain is expected to deploy a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on maintaining possession and controlling the game tempo. The attacking trio led by Alvaro Morata, with support from Bryan Zaragoza and Alejandro Baena, will look to break down Serbia’s defense.
- In midfield, Pedri, Zubimendi, and Merino will aim to dominate ball possession while providing defensive support. Defensively, Oscar Mingueza, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, and Marc Cucurella will strive to maintain Spain’s solid backline, which has contributed to two clean sheets in their recent matches. The strategy hinges on ball control to stifle Serbia’s chances.
Serbia Team Analysis
Serbia Recent Performance WLDDD
Serbia’s recent run has been a mixed bag, with one win, one loss, and three draws in their last five matches. They have managed to keep three clean sheets during this period, showcasing defensive resilience. However, their offense has struggled, averaging just 0.60 goals per game. Their recent form is depicted below:
| Home team | Away team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Serbia | Switzerland | 2-0 (Win) |
| Denmark | Serbia | 2-0 (Loss) |
| Serbia | Spain | 0-0 (Draw) |
| Denmark | Serbia | 0-0 (Draw) |
| Slovenia | Serbia | 1-1 (Draw) |
Despite the challenges, Serbia’s solid defense will be crucial against Spain.
Serbia Key Players
Expected lineup for Serbia:
- Goalkeeper: Predrag Rajković
- Defenders: Strahinja Eraković, Nikola Milenković, Strahinja Pavlović
- Midfielders: Kosta Nedeljković, Nemanja Maksimović, Saša Zdjelar, Marko Grujić, Veljko Birmančević, Lazar Samardžić
- Forward: Aleksandar Mitrović
Key players for Serbia include Aleksandar Mitrović, who is their top scorer with one goal. He will be a crucial figure in the attack, battling Spain’s stalwart defender Aymeric Laporte.
In midfield, Marko Grujić and Lazar Samardžić will need to outmaneuver Spain’s Pedri and Martín Zubimendi. Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajković, with a string of clean sheets, will be vital in stopping Spain’s top scorer, Fabián Ruiz.
This match will be a tactical battle, focusing on Serbia’s defensive solidity against Spain’s offensive prowess.
Serbia Suspensions & Injuries
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Milos Veljkovic | Foot injury | Early November 2024 |
| Aleksa Terzic | Hip injury | A few weeks |
| Petar Ratkov | Hip injury | A few weeks |
| Andrija Zivkovic | Knee injury | A few weeks |
| Sasa Lukic | Collarbone injury | Unknown |
Serbia is grappling with several injuries that could impact their performance. Milos Veljkovic’s absence in defense is a notable setback, reducing their defensive stability. The injuries to Aleksa Terzic and Petar Ratkov also limit their midfield options. Sasa Lukic’s collarbone injury leaves a significant void in their midfield, which could affect their ball control against a b Spanish side. The team will need to rely on depth and resilience to compensate for these key losses.
Serbia Tactics and Formation
Serbia Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-4-2-1
- Key Forward: Aleksandar Mitrovic
- Midfield Engine: Marko Grujic and Nemanja Maksimovic
- Defensive Stability: Secured three clean sheets in the last five games.
- Notable Strategy: Emphasis on solid defensive lines and quick counter-attacks.
Dragan Stojkovic has opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation, relying on a robust defense anchored by Nikola Milenkovic, Strahinja Erakovic, and Strahinja Pavlovic. The midfield, featuring Nemanja Maksimovic and Marko Grujic, focuses on both ball retention and distributing play to the flanks. With Kosta Nedeljkovic and Veljko Birmancevic operating as wide midfielders, Serbia will look to launch quick counter-attacks.
Expect Mitrovic to be the focal point upfront, aiming to exploit any gaps in Spain’s backline. Despite their defensive injuries, Serbia’s recent record suggests a b and disciplined approach to disrupt Spain’s rhythm.
Spain vs Serbia Head-to-Head Statistics
These teams have faced each other in recent matchups, with Spain generally having the upper hand.
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Serbia | Spain | 0-0 |
| Spain | Serbia | 2-0 |
| Spain | Serbia | 1-1 |
| Serbia | Spain | 0-0 |
Spain dominated the previous encounters, which included a goalless draw, demonstrating their b defensive and offensive capabilities. Serbia, however, has managed to hold Spain to a draw twice, indicating their potential to challenge the UEFA Nations League A leaders.
Venue and Weather
Estadio El Arcángel in Córdoba, Spain, will host this UEFA Nations League clash. Known for its intense atmosphere, the stadium has a capacity of around 21,500, making it an intimate but formidable fortress for the home team. Spain will look to leverage this home advantage against Serbia.
The weather forecast for match day includes overcast clouds with a temperature of 13°C. Humidity stands at 82%, while the wind speed is a breezy 3.48 m/s.
The overcast conditions and relatively cool temperature are ideal for football, potentially aiding both teams in maintaining high energy levels throughout the match. However, the high humidity might require players to stay well-hydrated and pace themselves accordingly.
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