Tips of the day

FriendliesWon3:1

NorwaySweden

Why this pick: I don’t think the head coaches will resort to any radical experiments in the remaining friendly matches. At this stage, the goal is more defined: to build fitness, refine established combinations, and finalize preparations with the World Cup not too far away. Most key decisions should already have been made. At the same time, light squad rotation is still expected, so the match could realistically swing either way. I suggest focusing on the most straightforward scenario: both teams to score. Both sides have strong attacking players capable of making an impact in the final third.

FriendliesLost2:1

SlovakiaMalta

Why this pick: Slovakia are clear favourites but their recent matches have not been highly productive in attack, often producing low-scoring outcomes. Malta have improved defensively compared to earlier heavy defeats and tend to avoid large losses, but their attacking output remains very limited. Given the gap in quality and Malta’s cautious approach, Slovakia should control possession and chances, while Malta will focus on defending deep. Overall, this looks like a low-scoring match with limited goal opportunities.

FriendliesWon0:1

BulgariaMontenegro

Why this pick: This is where it makes sense to focus on head-to-head meetings. Both teams individually create few chances and rarely score. The H2H record speaks for itself: since 2010, the teams have played six matches, and only one of them finished with more than two goals. Despite changes in coaches and squads over the years, the under 2.5 line has almost always been respected. The only exception was Montenegro’s home win, where a late goal in the 97th minute pushed the match over the line — more of a situational event than a reflection of open play.