The battle for the top spot in Nations League Group C1 heats up this week as Slovakia hosts Sweden in a highly anticipated matchup. Both teams boast a 100% record in the group, making this clash pivotal in determining the group’s leader. Slovakia, known as The Falcons, have continued their excellent form from the summer’s European Championships, while The Blue and Yellow of Sweden have started their Nations League campaign superbly. What can we expect from this ultra-competitive match?
Slovakia’s impressive performance at the European Championships, where they narrowly lost 2-1 to England in extra time during the Round of 16, has set the tone for their current form. They secured a 1-0 win over Estonia in Tallinn and followed up with a 2-0 home victory against Azerbaijan in the Nations League. Under the guidance of manager Francesco Calzona, Slovakia has yet to concede a goal in this competition, highlighting their strong defensive record. However, they will be without their in-form striker Ivan Schranz due to injury, a loss that could impact their attacking options.
Sweden enters the match with notable goal-scoring prowess in the tournament. On Matchday One, head coach Jon-Dahl Tomasson led his team to a 3-1 victory over Azerbaijan in Baku, followed by a comfortable 3-0 home win against Estonia. Strikers Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres have been in excellent form, each scoring three goals. However, Sweden will also face a setback as Alexander Isak is set to miss the game due to a toe injury. Historically, Sweden has the upper hand against Slovakia, having never lost to them—winning two and drawing two of their four encounters.
This matchup not only pits two in-form teams against each other but also carries significant implications for their Nations League aspirations. Both sides will be eager to maintain their perfect records and take a decisive step toward winning the group. Fans can anticipate a thrilling contest filled with tactical battles and standout performances as Slovakia and Sweden vie for supremacy in Group C1.
Slovakia vs Sweden Important H2H Stats
We preview the game at Štadión Antona Malatinského, where Slovakia will host Sweden in a crucial Nations League Group C1 match. After analyzing past head-to-head stats between the two teams, as well as their performances against other opponents, the mustwinteams.com supercomputer has made its predictions about the game, which we will indicate below.
Recent Meetings
- Last Match: The last time these two teams played was on June 18, 2021, with Sweden at home, securing a 1-0 victory over Slovakia.
Head-to-Head Record
- Total Matches: In recent history, the teams have faced each other multiple times.
- Sweden Wins: Sweden has a positive record, including the latest win.
- Draws: There have been draws between the teams, indicating closely contested matches.
- Slovakia Wins: [Data not specified; historically, Slovakia may have fewer or no wins against Sweden.]
Key Players to Watch
- Slovakia:
- Top Assist Provider: Dávid Hancko leads the team with 1 assist this season. Sweden will need to keep him well-marked to prevent him from creating goal-scoring opportunities.
- Disciplinary Record: Dávid Hancko also has the most cards for Slovakia with 1 yellow card. His discipline will be crucial to avoid putting his team at a disadvantage through suspensions or conceding dangerous set-pieces.
- Sweden:
- Top Scorer: Alexander Isak is Sweden’s top scorer this season with 3 goals. Slovakia’s defense will need to keep him under control to prevent any breakthroughs.
- Disciplinary Record: Anton Salétros has received 1 yellow card, making him a player to watch regarding disciplinary action.
Scoring and Conceding Patterns
- Slovakia:
- Most Likely to Score: Between the 15th and 30th minutes, having scored 66.7% of their goals during this period. This suggests that Slovakia tends to find their attacking rhythm early in the match.
- Sweden:
- Most Likely to Concede: Between the 30th and 45th minutes, with 33.3% of goals against occurring in this timeframe. Slovakia may look to capitalize on this potential vulnerability just before halftime.
Possession Statistics
- Slovakia: Averages 56.50% possession per match, indicating a preference for controlling the game and building attacks through ball retention.
- Sweden: Averages 66.50% possession per match, showcasing their strong ability to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the game.
Corner Averages
- Slovakia: Averages 5.50 corners per match, reflecting their ability to create offensive opportunities, especially from wide areas.
- Sweden: Averages 10.50 corners per match, indicating a high level of attacking activity and pressure on the opponent’s defense.
Both Teams to Score (BTTS) Statistics
- Slovakia: BTTS has occurred in 0% of their matches this season, suggesting strong defensive performances or challenges in scoring.
- Sweden: BTTS rate is 50%, indicating that both they and their opponents have scored in half of their matches this season.
Betting Insights
If you are confident in your analysis and wish to place a bet, consider the following factors:
- Goal Timings:
- Slovakia’s Scoring Trend: With the majority of their goals scored between the 15th and 30th minutes, consider betting on Slovakia to score in the first half.
- Sweden’s Conceding Pattern: Sweden is most vulnerable just before halftime, which aligns with Slovakia’s scoring trend.
- Possession and Corners:
- Both teams have high average possession percentages, but Sweden has a slight edge. This could lead to a competitive midfield battle.
- Sweden’s high average of 10.50 corners per match suggests they generate numerous attacking opportunities. Betting on over 9.5 corners in the match might be worthwhile.
- Both Teams to Score (BTTS):
- With Slovakia’s BTTS rate at 0% and Sweden’s at 50%, consider that Slovakia has been strong defensively. Betting on “Both Teams to Score – No” might be an option.
- Key Players:
- Keep an eye on Alexander Isak, Sweden’s top scorer, who poses a significant threat upfront.
- Dávid Hancko is pivotal for Slovakia in both creating chances and maintaining defensive stability.
This match is set to be a tightly contested encounter, with both teams aiming to maintain their perfect records in Group C1. Slovakia’s strong defensive record suggests they can hold off Sweden’s attacks, while Sweden’s high possession and corner statistics indicate they will apply significant pressure.
- Slovakia’s Strengths:
- Solid defense with no goals conceded in the competition.
- Effective in scoring during the first half, particularly between the 15th and 30th minutes.
- Sweden’s Strengths:
- Dominant possession play, controlling the tempo of matches.
- High offensive output, generating many corners and scoring opportunities.
Analyzing these statistical trends can provide valuable insights for fans and bettors alike. Remember to check the latest team news and updates before placing any bets.
Slovakia Vs Sweden Last Match Result and Stats
| Performance Summary | Sweden | Slovakia |
|---|---|---|
| Shots Total | 12 | 9 |
| Shots Blocked | 3 | 3 |
| Shots Inside Box | 8 | 7 |
| Shots Outside Box | 5 | 3 |
| Passes Total | 431 | 609 |
| Accurate Passes | 359 | 537 |
| Pass Accuracy % | 83.29 | 88.18 |
| Total Attacks | 117 | 96 |
| Dangerous Attacks | 50 | 42 |
| Fouls | 16 | 7 |
| Corners | 7 | 6 |
| Offsides | 1 | 3 |
| Possession Time | 42 | 58 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 3 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Yellow Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Saves | 0 | 3 |
| Substitutions | 5 | 5 |
| Goal Kicks | 8 | 4 |
| Goal Attampts | 10 | 5 |
| Free Kicks | 9 | 17 |
| Throw Ins | 16 | 14 |
| Ball Safe | 74 | 90 |
| Goals | 1 | 0 |
| Penalties | 1 | 0 |
| Injuries | N/A | N/A |
Slovakia Vs Sweden Season Stats
| Performance Summary | Slovakia | Sweden |
|---|---|---|
| Total Wins | 2 | 2 |
| Home Wins | 1 | 1 |
| Away Wins | 1 | 1 |
| Total Draws | 0 | 0 |
| Home Draws | 0 | 0 |
| Away Draws | 0 | 0 |
| Total Lost | 0 | 0 |
| Home Losses | 0 | 0 |
| Away Losses | 0 | 0 |
| Total Goals For | 3 | 6 |
| Home Goals For | 2 | 3 |
| Away Goals For | 1 | 3 |
| Total Goals Against | 0 | 1 |
| Home Goals Against | 0 | 0 |
| Away Goals Against | 0 | 1 |
| Total Clean Sheet | 2 | 1 |
| Home Clean Sheet | 1 | 1 |
| Away Clean Sheet | 1 | 0 |
| Total Failed To Score | 0 | 0 |
| Home Failed To Score | 0 | 0 |
| Away Failed To Score | 0 | 0 |
| Total Av Goals Scored | 1.5 | 3 |
| Home Av Goals Scored | 2 | 3 |
| Away Av Goals Scored | 1 | 3 |
| Total Av Goals Conceded | 0 | 0.5 |
| Home Av Goals Conceded | 0 | 0 |
| Away Av Goals Conceded | 0 | 1 |
| Total 1st Goal Scored | 47m | 48m |
| Home 1st Goal Scored | 23m | 30m |
| Away 1st Goal Scored | 70m | 65m |
| Total 1st Goal Conceded | 0m | 82m |
| Home 1st Goal Conceded | 0m | 82m |
| Away 1st Goal Conceded | 0m | 0m |
| Goals Scoring Minutes | Slovakia | Sweden |
|---|---|---|
| 0-15 | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| 15-30 | 2 (66.7%) | 1 (16.7%) |
| 30-45 | 0 (0%) | 2 (33.3%) |
| 45-60 | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| 60-75 | 1 (33.3%) | 2 (33.3%) |
| 75-90 | 0 (0%) | 1 (16.7%) |
| Goals Conceded Minutes | Slovakia | Sweden |
|---|---|---|
| 0-15 | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| 15-30 | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| 30-45 | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| 45-60 | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| 60-75 | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| 75-90 | 0 (0%) | 1 (100%) |
| Combined Match Stats | Slovakia | Sweden |
|---|---|---|
| Attacks | 196 | 233 |
| Dangerous Attacks | 120 | 185 |
| Av Possession Percent | 56.50 | 66.50 |
| Fouls | 24 | 25 |
| Av Fouls Per Game | 12.00 | 12.50 |
| Offside | 2 | 3 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Yellow Cards | 5 | 2 |
| Shots Blocked | 12 | 9 |
| Shots Off Target | 18 | 36 |
| Av Shots Off Target | 9.00 | 18.00 |
| Shots On Target | 13 | 20 |
| Av Shots On Target | 6.50 | 10.00 |
| Total Corners | 11 | 21 |
| Av Corners | 5.50 | 10.50 |
| BTTS | 0 | 50 |
| Av Player Rating Per Match | 6.78 | 7.26 |
| Tackles | 25 | 31 |
| Total Match Goals Percentages | Slovakia | Sweden | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Home | Away | Home | Away | |
| Over 0.5 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 |
| Over 1.5 | 100 | 0 | 100 | 100 |
| Over 2.5 | 0 | 0 | 100 | 100 |
| Over 3.5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 100 |
| Over 4.5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Over 5.5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Under 0.5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Under 1.5 | 0 | 100 | 0 | 0 |
| Under 2.5 | 100 | 100 | 0 | 0 |
| Under 3.5 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 0 |
| Under 4.5 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 |
| Under 5.5 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 |
Slovakia vs Sweden Prediction
Our prediction for the Slovakia vs Sweden match is: Both Teams to Score – Yes.
Probability Breakdown
- Slovakia Win
- Probability: 47.35%
- Best Odds: 2.7 at Bet365
- Analysis: Slovakia holds a slight edge according to our algorithm, likely due to their home advantage and solid defensive performances so far in the competition.
- Draw
- Probability: 10.49%
- Best Odds: 3.67 at 1xbet
- Analysis: While the probability of a draw is lower, it’s not to be dismissed given the competitive nature of previous encounters between these teams.
- Sweden Win
- Probability: 42.16%
- Best Odds: 2.81 at 1xbet
- Analysis: Sweden has a strong chance of winning, reflecting their excellent goal-scoring form and historical success against Slovakia.
Reasons Behind the Prediction
Strong Offensive Records
- Slovakia:
- Despite missing their in-form striker Ivan Schranz due to injury, Slovakia has shown the ability to score, particularly between the 15th and 30th minutes, accounting for 66.7% of their goals.
- Playing at home provides an added advantage, and other key players like Dávid Hancko can step up offensively.
- Sweden:
- Strikers Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres have each scored three goals in the tournament. Although Isak is out with a toe injury, Gyökeres remains a significant threat.
- Sweden averages 10.50 corners per match, indicating a high level of attacking activity and the creation of numerous goal-scoring opportunities.
Defensive Considerations
- Slovakia:
- They have yet to concede a goal in the Nations League, showcasing a robust defense.
- However, Sweden’s potent attack may challenge this record, especially with their high possession rate of 66.50%.
- Sweden:
- While they have been prolific in scoring, Sweden has a Both Teams to Score (BTTS) rate of 50%, indicating they are susceptible to conceding goals.
- Their most likely time to concede is between the 30th and 45th minutes, aligning with Slovakia’s peak scoring period.
Historical Encounters
- Sweden has never lost to Slovakia, with two wins and two draws in their last four meetings.
- The last encounter ended in a 1-0 victory for Sweden during the Euro 2020 group stages.
Betting Tips
- Both Teams to Score – Yes
- Recommendation: With both teams displaying strong offensive capabilities and the stakes high for securing the top spot in the group, it’s likely that both sides will find the back of the net.
- Rationale: Slovakia’s home advantage and Sweden’s attacking prowess suggest an open game with goal opportunities for both teams.
- Alternative Bets:
- Over 2.5 Goals: Considering the attacking talent on display and Sweden’s high average of corners and possession, there could be multiple goals in the match.
- First Half Goals: Given Slovakia’s tendency to score early and Sweden’s vulnerability before halftime, betting on goals in the first half might offer value.
Key Players to Watch
- Slovakia:
- Dávid Hancko: Leading in assists and crucial for set-pieces; his performance could influence Slovakia’s attacking success.
- Marek Hamšík: The veteran midfielder’s experience and creativity are vital in orchestrating play.
- Sweden:
- Viktor Gyökeres: With Isak absent, Gyökeres becomes the primary goal threat.
- Emil Forsberg: His ability to create chances and score from midfield adds an extra dimension to Sweden’s attack.
Betting Advice
- Compare Odds Across Bookmakers
- Slovakia Win: Best odds of 2.7 at Bet365.
- Draw: Best odds of 3.67 at 1xbet.
- Sweden Win: Best odds of 2.81 at 1xbet.
- Recommendation: Shopping around ensures you get the best value for your bets. Consider opening accounts with multiple bookmakers to maximize potential returns.
- Risk Management
- Set a Betting Budget: Always wager responsibly and only bet what you can afford to lose.
- Diversify Bets: Spreading your bets across different markets (e.g., match result, goalscorers, over/under goals) can help manage risk.
- Stay Informed
- Team News: Keep an eye on any last-minute injuries or lineup changes, as these can significantly impact the match dynamics.
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather could affect play styles and scoring opportunities.
This matchup between Slovakia and Sweden is poised to be a thrilling contest with both teams in excellent form. Slovakia’s strong defense will be tested by Sweden’s high-powered offense. Conversely, Sweden’s defense must be wary of Slovakia’s efficient scoring during their most prolific period.
Betting on Both Teams to Score – Yes aligns with the statistical trends and offers a balanced risk-reward scenario. With both teams eager to claim the top spot in Group C1, expect a competitive match that could see goals from both sides.
Note: All statistical data and probabilities are estimates based on available information. Always check the latest updates and consider seeking advice from betting professionals if necessary.