Slovenia vs Sweden Prediction, Preview & Betting Tips | World Cup Qualifier 2026

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🇸🇮 Slovenia vs 🇸🇪 Sweden Prediction, Preview & Betting Tips | World Cup Qualifier 2026

Match Preview ⚽

A crucial Group C clash awaits on Friday, 5 September 2025, as Slovenia host Sweden in Ljubljana in the race for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Kick-off is set for 19:45 UK time (20:45 CET) at the Stožice Stadium, with both sides eager to start strongly in a group that promises tight competition.

Slovenia, buoyed by a new wave of talent, are looking to make their first World Cup appearance since 2010, while Sweden, a nation with a proud tournament pedigree, arrive determined to bounce back after missing out on Euro 2024. This is a fixture with plenty at stake and could be pivotal in shaping the group standings.

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Form Guides

Slovenia Form Guide

Slovenia have grown in confidence in recent years, developing a balanced squad built around youthful energy and solid defensive organisation. Their Nations League performances have shown flashes of quality, while in qualifying campaigns they’ve been difficult to beat, especially at home.

Much of Slovenia’s optimism centres on goalkeeper Jan Oblak, one of the world’s best in his position. His leadership and shot-stopping ability give Slovenia a strong foundation. Going forward, striker Benjamin Šeško is the standout talent — quick, powerful, and clinical, the RB Leipzig forward is already being tipped as one of Europe’s brightest young stars.

Slovenia’s home form has been particularly encouraging, with recent wins over established nations boosting belief. Their challenge here will be to turn defensive resilience into a cutting edge against top-tier opposition like Sweden.


Sweden Form Guide

Sweden arrive in Ljubljana knowing the pressure is firmly on them to secure three points. After the disappointment of missing out on Euro 2024, this World Cup qualifying campaign is seen as a redemption mission.

Manager Janne Andersson has leaned on experienced players like Victor Lindelöf and Emil Forsberg, but the emergence of younger stars such as Anthony Elanga and Dejan Kulusevski provides attacking flair and unpredictability. Sweden’s attacking balance has improved, but questions remain about their ability to consistently break down disciplined defensive setups.

Defensively, Sweden are usually solid, but lapses in recent games have cost them points. Their away record is mixed, which adds intrigue to this trip to Ljubljana, where the home crowd will make things uncomfortable. A strong start to the group is vital if they’re to avoid another qualification disappointment.

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Head-to-Head & Stats to Know 

  • Sweden have won three of their last five meetings with Slovenia, but Slovenia remain unbeaten in the last two fixtures.

  • Slovenia’s last World Cup appearance came in 2010, while Sweden last featured at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, reaching the quarter-finals.

  • Slovenia have scored in seven of their last eight home qualifiers, showcasing their growing attacking threat.

  • Sweden have lost four of their last six away qualifiers, underlining vulnerability on the road.

  • Benjamin Šeško has scored five goals in his last seven international appearances, underlining his importance to Slovenia.

  • Emil Forsberg has been directly involved in 10 goals across Sweden’s last 15 qualifiers, making him their creative heartbeat.

Team News & Predicted Line-Ups 📋

Slovenia

Coach Matjaž Kek will rely on the spine of his team: Oblak in goal, Zajc and Kurtic in midfield, and Šeško leading the line. Expect Slovenia to sit compact and look to counter-attack with pace down the flanks.

Predicted XI: Oblak; Karnicnik, Bijol, Mevlja, Balkovec; Zajc, Kurtic, Stojanovic; Mlakar, Celar; Šeško

Sweden

Sweden will travel with a strong squad featuring both experienced heads and youthful energy. Lindelöf marshals the defence, Forsberg provides guile in midfield, and Kulusevski and Elanga add pace and trickery in attack. Striker Isak is expected to lead the line.

Predicted XI: Olsen; Krafth, Lindelöf, Ekdal, Augustinsson; Forsberg, Olsson, Claesson; Kulusevski, Elanga; Isak


Key Battles to Watch ⭐

  • Šeško vs Lindelöf – A battle between one of Europe’s top young strikers and Sweden’s experienced defensive leader.

  • Oblak vs Isak – Both match-winners in their own right, this duel could define the game’s outcome.

  • Forsberg vs Slovenia’s midfield – Forsberg’s creativity must be contained if Slovenia want to frustrate Sweden.

  • Set-pieces – Both nations have height and aerial power; corners and free-kicks could prove decisive in such a tight encounter.

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⭐ TipMan Smart Tip ⭐

Both Teams to Score (BTTS)

Slovenia have become reliable scorers at home, while Sweden’s attacking quality ensures they carry a threat. Both sides are capable of finding the net, making BTTS the value play in what could be a close contest.


Alternative Value Picks 🎯

  • Anytime Scorer: Benjamin Šeško – Slovenia’s star forward is their most likely match-winner.

  • Anytime Scorer: Alexander Isak – Sweden’s top striker has the quality to deliver even in tight games.

  • Correct Score: 1–1 Draw – Reflects both teams’ tendencies and offers solid odds.

Slovenia vs Sweden Article

5 Sep 19:45 - Slovenia vs Sweden - WC Qualification Europe
5 Sep 19:45
Slovenia vs Sweden - WC Qualification Europe

BTTS - Yes

Both Teams To Score
19/20

Reason for Tip

Both Slovenia and Sweden carry plenty of attacking quality but aren’t always watertight at the back. Slovenia will lean on the power and movement of Sesko to test Sweden’s defence, while the visitors have pace and creativity in forward areas to cause problems of their own. With both sides more comfortable going forward than sitting deep, goals at both ends look highly likely.

5 Sep 19:45 - Slovenia vs Sweden - WC Qualification Europe
5 Sep 19:45
Slovenia vs Sweden - WC Qualification Europe

Alexander Isak to Score

Anytime Goalscorer
8/5

Reason for Tip

Isak has been in excellent form for both club and country, combining sharp movement with clinical finishing. Slovenia’s defence can struggle against strikers who stretch the play, and Isak’s ability to drift into dangerous positions makes him a constant threat. If Sweden create the chances, Isak looks a strong candidate to get on the scoresheet.

5 Sep 19:45 - Slovenia vs Sweden - WC Qualification Europe
5 Sep 19:45
Slovenia vs Sweden - WC Qualification Europe

Benjamin Sesko to Score

Anytime Goalscorer
2/1

Reason for Tip

Sesko is Slovenia’s talisman in attack and will be their focal point against Sweden, using his strength and aerial presence to trouble defenders. His recent scoring form shows he’s capable of delivering on the international stage, and with Slovenia expected to create chances at home, Sesko has every chance of finding the net.

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TipMan’s Final Verdict 🏆

This has all the hallmarks of a tense, evenly fought qualifier. Slovenia’s home form and the brilliance of Jan Oblak give them a strong chance, but Sweden’s attacking options mean they can’t be ruled out. Expect a cagey affair where both sides get on the scoresheet but may struggle to find a winner.

Predicted Scoreline: Slovenia 1–1 Sweden
Best Bet: ⭐ Both Teams to Score (BTTS) ⭐

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Where to Watch Netherlands vs Poland 📺

Fans in the UK can watch the match live on Viaplay Sports, with full pre-match build-up and analysis. Across Europe, national broadcasters will show the game, ensuring wide coverage in both Slovenia and Sweden.

For punters, many top bookmakers will offer in-play live streaming, giving bettors the chance to watch and wager at the same time. Football apps will provide live commentary, real-time stats, and in-play updates.

For those unable to catch the game live, highlights, extended replays, and tactical breakdowns will be available later on sports channels and federation platforms.

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FAQs – Slovenia vs Sweden❓

Is Slovenia vs Sweden on TV in the UK?
Yes – the game is available live on Viaplay Sports.

What time does the game kick off?
Kick-off is scheduled for 19:45 UK time (20:45 CET) on Friday, 5 September 2025.

Where is the match being played?
At the Stožice Stadium in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s national stadium.

Who are the key players to watch?
For Slovenia, Jan Oblak and Benjamin Šeško are vital. For Sweden, Alexander Isak and Emil Forsberg will be key.

What’s at stake?
Both teams are aiming to start strongly in Group C, where every point will matter in the fight for qualification.

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