In an upcoming World Cup Qualifying clash, Sweden faces Slovenia on Tuesday. Both teams have struggled in their efforts to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup through Group B.
Current Standings and Form
Sweden currently sits at the bottom of Group B, having earned just one point from five matches. They began their qualifying campaign with a hopeful 2-2 draw against Slovenia but have since suffered three consecutive defeats. Their losses include two matches to Kosovo and another to Switzerland, which ultimately led to the dismissal of head coach Jon Dahl Tomasson.
- Sweden’s Qualifying Record: 1 Draw, 4 Losses
- Recent Matches: L L L L D
New manager Graham Potter was brought in to revitalize the team. Unfortunately, his debut resulted in a 4-1 defeat to Switzerland, adding to the pressure as Sweden looks for a win in this final group match.
Slovenia’s Struggles
On the other hand, Slovenia occupies third place in the group, accumulating three points from their five matches. Their campaign has been equally disappointing, featuring three draws, including two scoreless ties, and two losses. They also drew their first match against Sweden but failed to capitalize on that performance.
- Slovenia’s Qualifying Record: 3 Draws, 2 Losses
- Goal Scoring: 2 Goals in 5 Matches
Team News and Potential Lineups
For Sweden, forward Alexander Isak may return to the starting lineup after coming off the bench in the last match. He could be joined by Benjamin Nygren in the attack. The midfield may see Emil Forsberg pairing with Anthony Elanga, Yasin Ayari, and Alexander Bernhardsson. In defense, Gabriel Gudmundsson could replace Emil Holm.
Slovenia will have to cope without Petar Stojanovic, who received a red card in their last game. Manager Matjaz Kek may opt for a revised lineup, bringing in players like Benjamin Verbic, Dejan Petrovic, and Nejc Grandisar to address their recent form.
Expected Lineups
| Sweden | Slovenia |
|---|---|
| Johansson | Oblak |
| Gudmundsson | Brekalo |
| Lagerbielke | Bijol |
| Hien | Drkusic |
| Svensson | Karnicnik |
| Bernhardsson | Petrovic |
| Forsberg | Elsnik |
| Ayari | Janza |
| Elanga | Verbic |
| Nygren | Gradisar |
| Isak | Vipotnik |
Match Prediction
With both teams struggling to find their scoring touch, a draw seems likely. Sweden and Slovenia have faced each other four times recently without a clear winner, ending in three draws and one defeat for Slovenia. This match could very well follow that trend, potentially concluding in a stalemate.
As they prepare for this final group fixture, both sides will be eager to end their qualifying campaign on a high note, making for a compelling encounter.
