Estonia vs Sweden Prediction: 15/10/2024

Estonia is not regarded as a top footballing nation, even within League C, and they have found themselves in a tough group alongside Sweden and Slovakia. In September, Estonia managed an impressive 3-0 win over Sweden but narrowly lost 1-0 to Slovakia at home. Last Thursday, Estonia faced Azerbaijan, with the focus on staying competitive in the group. Much like Slovakia, Sweden is expected to dominate the group, with the two teams likely competing for the top spot.

Last Thursday, the first showdown between these leading contenders took place. Back in September, Sweden, led by Viktor Gyökeres, secured two important victories—3-0 against Estonia and 3-1 against Azerbaijan. These wins were crucial for the team, especially after suffering back-to-back friendly losses to Serbia (0-3) and Denmark (1-2).

Estonia is dealing with several injuries. Striker Sappinen (12 goals in 55 caps) and his club teammate Lepik (10 caps) are both sidelined, while experienced players Klavan (130 caps) and Vassiljev (26 goals in 158 caps) have retired from international football. However, the squad still includes notable players like Real Valladolid goalkeeper Hein (32 caps), Mets (St. Pauli, 96 caps) from the Bundesliga, and Käit (Rapid Bucharest), who has scored 8 goals for the national team. Additionally, veterans Zenjov (113 caps, 17 goals) and Anier (23 goals in 96 caps) will also feature.

For Sweden, there are some significant absences, including Wahlqvist (16 caps), Kurtulus (8 caps), Svanberg (Wolfsburg, 35 caps), and Jean Cajuste (Ipswich), along with forwards Nilsson (Club Bruges) and Isak (Newcastle), who are either injured or not selected. However, Viktor Gyökeres (Sporting), who has been scoring more than Erling Haaland this season, is available for the October fixtures. Other key players like Nanasi (Strasbourg), Kulusevski (Tottenham), and Elanga (Nottingham Forest) are also set to play.

 

Prediction

Sweden looks poised to secure promotion in this UEFA Nations League campaign, supported by an unbeaten run in their last seven away matches, with five wins in their last six games. Estonia, on the other hand, is struggling, having earned just two points from a possible 15, with their campaign nearing its end.

Prediction: Estonia 0-2 Sweden.