Tentative Switzerland play in potential thriller
Serbia take on Switzerland as the group stage reaches its crescendo.
Switzerland are two points clear of Serbia and Cameroon in Group G, with a stronger goal difference, having lost 1-0 to Brazil and beaten Cameroon by the same scorelines, where the Serbians lost 2-0 and fluffed their lines to draw 3-3 with Cameroon in their last match.
Dragan Stojkovic’s men were very impressive until their collapse against Cameroon, and should take the positives from elements of that performance, but in the end they have given themselves an uphill task.
In Aleksandar Mitrovic and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Serbia arguably have the most dangerous attacking players of the two nations, but the experience on the Swiss side may pull through.
Background
Nico Elvedi and Manuel Akanji’s central defensive partnership will be crucial, and the protection that they get in front of them from Remo Freuler and Granit Xhaka.
It feels like if both teams play to their best level, Serbia will come out on top, but tournament and big game experience has to come into play here, Switzerland have more of it and only have to draw the game to qualify, unless Cameroon beat Brazil.
The likes of Breel Embolo and Ruben Vargas could hurt Serbia in transition, especially if the Swiss are content dropping off and absorbing pressure, given their position in the group.
This really is set up to be a hugely entertaining fixture, and there could be a large amount of cards in the match, as Serbia throw everything they have at the Red Crosses.
Yann Sommer is also someone that has to receive a mention in considering an angle for this match, the Borussia Monchengladbach glovesman is amongst the most capable in the competition and could have a part to play if Murat Yakin’s men are hanging in there.
Goals?
Depends on when the first goal comes, a goalless draw played out Croatia v Belgium in a similar scenario, so instead I am looking to keep two outcomes onside.
Serbia have scored in seven of ten.
Serbia have conceded in eight of ten.
Serbia have seen both teams score in five of ten.
Serbia have seen over 2.5 goals in six of ten.
Switzerland have scored in six of ten.
Switzerland have conceded in eight of ten.
Switzerland have seen both teams score in four of ten.
Switzerland have seen over 2.5 goals in four of ten.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
3-2 Switzerland, the more organised side in the end.