Kazakhstan is set to face San Marino in a crucial Euro 2024 qualification match as they aim to secure a top-two spot in Group H. Currently trailing behind Slovenia and Denmark by four points, Kazakhstan needs a victory to stay in contention.
Match Preview
Despite suffering a 1-0 home defeat against Finland and a 3-1 loss to Denmark, Kazakhstan has shown resilience and determination in their previous games.
In a thrilling encounter with Finland, Bakhtiyor Zaynutdinov scored two goals in the final minutes, leading his team to a dramatic 2-1 victory.
With 15 points from eight matches, Kazakhstan is confident about adding to their tally.
The upcoming match against San Marino presents an opportunity for Kazakhstan to strengthen their chances of automatic qualification.
If they secure a win and Slovenia fails to overcome Denmark, Kazakhstan will have a chance to secure an automatic berth on the final matchday.
San Marino, one of the underdogs in international football, will be looking to upset Kazakhstan’s plans.
Despite their status, San Marino recently made headlines by scoring a goal against Denmark.
Alessandro Golinucci’s equalizer in their previous match gave them a moment of glory, even though they ultimately lost 2-1. This goal was significant for San Marino, as they had only scored once in their last 16 matches.
Fabrizio Costantini, the manager of San Marino, hopes that his players will show fearlessness and determination in their clash against Kazakhstan.
The reverse fixture earlier this year saw Kazakhstan emerge victorious with a 3-0 scoreline, thanks to a second-half penalty and a last-minute goal.
Team news
Kazakhstan is dealing with several injuries and suspensions, including the absence of captain Askhat Tagybergen, Bakhtiyor Zaynutdinov, and Maksim Samorodov.
Aslan Darabayev is expected to feature in the midfield, while Islam Chesnokov and Abat Aymbetov will lead the attack.
San Marino will also face a forced change, with defender Michele Cevoli not being selected.
Roberto Di Maio is likely to replace him in the back three, maintaining the formation from their valiant effort against Denmark.
Predicted Lineups:
Kazakhstan:(3-4-2-1)
Shatskiy;
Bystrov, Alip, Marochkin;
Kairov, Darabayev, Beysebekov, Vorogovskiy;
Chesnokov, Orazov;
Aymbetov
San Marino:(5-3-2)
Benedettini;
D’Addario, Di Maio, Rossi, Fabbri, Tosi;
Golinucci, Mularoni, Battistini;
Lazzari, Nanni
Prediction
Our prediction for the match is a comfortable 4-0 victory for Kazakhstan. Although San Marino has found the back of the net recently, Kazakhstan’s superior strength and goal difference make them the favorites in this encounter.