Slovenia vs Norway Prediction: 14/11/2024

Slovenia currently sits in third place in Group 3, tied in points with the top two teams. Benjamin Sesko and his teammates are still in contention for either direct promotion to League A or a spot in the play-offs but could also face a relegation play-off. They began the campaign strong, drawing 1-1 with Austria and defeating Kazakhstan 3-0 but suffered a 3-0 loss to Norway. Slovenia bounced back in their latest game with a 1-0 win over Kazakhstan.

Norway, meanwhile, is aiming to reach the elite level in the Nations League. With arguably one of its most talented generations, Norway has yet to secure a major tournament qualification. Erling Haaland’s team currently leads Group 3, tied on points with Slovenia. Norway’s campaign began with a 0-0 draw in Kazakhstan, followed by a 2-1 win over Austria and a 3-0 victory against Slovenia. However, they stumbled in a 5-1 defeat against Austria in their most recent match.

Several key players are absent for Slovenia, including defenders Karic and Zec, midfielders Repas and Jovanovic, and forward Kramer. Defender Gorenc Stankovic also remains out since October. Key players like captain and goalkeeper Oblak (Atlético Madrid), central defenders Drkusic and Bijol, and forwards Sesko and Sporar are expected to play, with Vipotnik likely available as a substitute.

For Norway, goalkeeper Nyland, defenders Hanche-Olsen and Ajer, as well as wingers Sahraoui and Bobb, are missing. Captain Odegaard, recently returned from injury, has not been called up. However, Norway’s attack remains strong with Haaland and Sorloth leading the forward line, supported by defenders Ostigard and Ryerson and midfielders Berge and Thorsby.

 

Prediction

Both teams have tended to see low-scoring games, with Norway’s last 17 of 19 matches and Slovenia’s previous 17 of 19 home games in this competition featuring three goals or fewer.

Prediction: Slovenia 1 : 1 Norway