In a crucial Group G showdown, Serbia faces Bulgaria at Stadion Dubocica, aiming for Euro 2024 qualification. Meanwhile, Bulgaria seeks a victory against Serbia to boost their chances for a top-two finish.
Match Preview:
Serbia, vying for their first European Championship finals appearance since parting ways with Montenegro, holds the edge in Group G.
With 13 points from seven games, they aim to seal qualification and secure a top-two spot.
The Eagles’ 3-1 win against Montenegro showcased their dominance, positioning them ahead of their rivals in the group standings. With a better head-to-head record, Serbia eyes a comfortable finish against Bulgaria.
Bulgaria, on the other hand, seeks redemption after a 1-1 draw against Hungary.
Despite Spas Delev’s equalizer, Hungary’s late goal forced a draw, leaving Bulgaria with just three points in their Euro 2024 campaign.
Under coach Ilian Iliev’s guidance, Bulgaria aims to end their winless streak and qualify for a major tournament for the first time since 2004. However, they face an uphill battle against a resolute Serbian side.
Team News:
Serbia, looking for direct qualification, will field a strong lineup, missing midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic due to injury.
Key players like Aleksandar Mitrovic, Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, and captain Dusan Tadic are expected to lead the attack.
Bulgaria faces a defensive setback with Valentin Antov’s suspension following his dismissal against Hungary.
Cherno More’s Zhivko Atanasov is likely to step in, while captain Kiril Despodov will lead the attacking front.
Predicted Lineups:(3-4-2-1)
Serbia Possible Starting Lineup:
V. Milinkovic-Savic;
Milenkovic, Veljkovic, Pavlovic;
Zivkovic, Gudelj, Lukic, Kostic;
Djuricic, Tadic;
Mitrovic
Bulgaria Possible Starting Lineup:(4-3-3)
Naumov;
Popov, Atanasov, Petkov, Nedyalkov;
Gruev, Chochev, Krastev;
Despodov, Delev, Ivanov
Prediction:
Serbia is poised for a comfortable win with a 3-1 victory over Bulgaria. Despite their previous draw, Serbia’s attacking prowess should prevail, securing their place in Euro 2024.
