Prediction: Kosovo vs England

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 15/4

Bookmaker: bet365

We now know the identity of half of the teams that will compete at UEFA Euro 2020 which is a pretty exciting prospect. There are so many interesting possibilities that stem from a major international tournament, and the best part is that we’re only just getting started. Today we’re going to be taking a look at a pretty intriguing clash between two nations who are in very different positions: Kosovo, the ultimate underdogs, and England, one of the favourites to become Champions of Europe next year.

Kosovo

The story of Kosovo as a nation has been well documented over the years, and as tragic as it may be, there always seems to be some hope that springs out of that tragedy. Sometimes that comes in the way of sports, and in particular, football. During this qualification campaign we’ve seen a Kosovo side that is miles above what they showcased during their World Cup qualifying campaign just a few years ago. Regardless of what happens in the next few months, their future is incredibly bright, even after the loss to Czech Republic.

Team News

Nuhiu is tipped to start this one for Kosovo with some changes expected to be made as they look ahead towards the playoffs.

England

The Three Lions have shot right out of the blocks with an emphatic win over Montenegro, confirming that they could well be in with a great shout of winning the Euros next year. Gareth Southgate is enjoying an era in which the national team is flourishing with a string of youthful stars, and it really does seem as if this is only the beginning. Whether or not they can take that next step beyond the semi-finals, however, is a different matter altogether.

Team News

Gomez and Henderson are both set to miss the game against Kosovo next week, whereas Raheem Sterling will return to the team after he was dropped following the now infamous incident between himself and Gomez.

Factors to Consider

• Kosovo are in third place in Group A with 11 points, with England being in first place with 18 points.
• Kosovo have won four and lost two of their last six games.
• England have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Kosovo have scored 12 goals and conceded 10 in their last six games.
• England have scored 23 goals and conceded five in their last six games.

Conclusion

As a result of wanting to avoid not finishing top, we think England are going to give as good as they get against Kosovo – who, as we’ve seen already, can give just about anyone a good game. We can’t imagine it’s going to still be a goalfest as their eight goal meeting was earlier on the campaign, but we do picture it being quite entertaining. In the end we think it’ll actually end in a draw, which will be disappointing for England and serve as a really important step forward for the hosts.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 15/4

Bookmaker: bet365