Serbia vs Spain Prediction & Betting Tips (5 September)

Present in the Nations League B during the last edition, Serbia secured its rise within the elite by dominating its group which included Norway, Slovenia and Sweden. After this performance, the selection based in the Balkans fared poorly during the 2022 World Cup with elimination in the group stage. Aleksandar Mitrovic's partners have since reacted by qualifying for Euro 2024 thanks to their 2nd place in Group G behind Hungary. They unfortunately disappointed in Germany this summer. Indeed, Serbia finished last in its group, ahead of England, Denmark and Slovenia. After a delicate period in terms of results, Spain has returned to the forefront recently. During the last Nations League, La Roja managed to seize 1st place in its group ahead of Portugal, Switzerland and the Czech Republic. Unfortunately, she disappointed during the 2022 World Cup by being surprised by Morocco in the round of 16.

This poor performance led to the departure of Luis Enrique. Under the orders of Luis de la Fuente, Rodri's teammates, on the other hand, seem unsinkable. They notably beat Italy in the semi-finals 2-1 and Croatia in the final 0-0, a victory following penalties in the Final 4 of the Nations League played last June. Subsequently, they validated their ticket for Euro 2024. In Germany, Spain dazzled all the supporters this summer. Leader of its group ahead of Italy, Croatia and Albania, the Iberian selection then triumphed thanks to its successes against Georgia in the 8th 4-1, Germany in the quarter 2-1 after extra time, France in semi 2-1 and England in the final 2-1. After its hegemony from 2008 to 2012, Spain is once again positioning itself as one of the main leaders in world football.

For this gathering, Serbia is very weakened in the offensive sector with the absences of the essential Mitrovic (Al Hilal) and Vlahovic (Juventus). In addition, midfielder Milinkovic-Savic (Al Hilal) is injured while playmaker Tadic (Fenerbahce) has retired internationally. Finally, defender Gudelj (Sevilla FC) and piston Kostic (Juventus) were not called up. In the absence of Mitrovic and Vlahovic, it is Luka Jovic (AC Milan) who should occupy the forefront of the attack. Defenders Milenkovic (Nottingham Forest) and Pavlovic (AC Milan) offer good guarantees, as does midfielder Jukic (Fulham). The promising Ilic (Torino) and Samardzic (Atalanta) should have more responsibilities in the selection. Spain must win and do without goalkeeper Unai Simon (Bilbao), midfielder Gavi (Barcelona) and captain Morata (AC Milan), injured.

In addition, young defender Cubarsi (Barcelona) was not called up, nor were midfielders Merino (Arsenal), Baena (Villarreal), Fermin Lopez (Barcelona) and Llorente (Atlético Madrid). Finally, the experienced Jesus Navas (Sevilla FC) and Nacho (Al Qadsiah) announced their international retirement. Particularly in view during Euro 2024, wingers Yamal (Barcelona) and Nico Williams (Bilbao) are now essential with La Roja. This is also the case for full-back Carvajal (Real Madrid) as well as midfielders Rodri (Man City), Fabian Ruiz (PSG), Pedri (Barcelona) and Dani Olmo (Barcelona). Behind, take place the “French” Laporte (Al Nassr) and Le Normand (Atlético Madrid). In the absence of Unai Simon, Arsenal goalkeeper Raya could be favored by De la Fuente.