Match Preview: Azerbaijan vs Sweden
Match Information:
– Date and Time: 5 September 2024 at 16:00 UTC
– Stadium: Tofiq Bakhramov Stadium
– Location: Baku, Azerbaijan
– Referee: Balazs Berke, Hungary
Team Analysis:
Azerbaijan:
Recent Performances:
– Azerbaijan had a mixed bag of results in international friendlies, with a notable 3-2 win against Kazakhstan, but losses to Albania (1-3) and draws against Bulgaria (1-1).
– In Euro 2024 Qualification, Azerbaijan had a significant 3-0 win over Sweden but suffered heavy losses, such as a 0-5 defeat to Belgium.
Predicted Formation and Line-Up (4-3-3):
– Goalkeeper: Likely to be from the starting XI.
– Defenders: A mix of local league talents and possibly some overseas players.
– Midfielders: Likely featuring more defensive-minded players given recent performances.
– Forwards: Key players who contributed to their recent scoring.
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Key Strengths and Considerations:
– Playing at home can provide a significant advantage.
– The win over Sweden (3-0) previously will boost their confidence.
– Defence may need to be tighter given recent losses.
Sweden:
Recent Performances:
– Sweden had a rough time with international friendlies, with a 0-3 loss to Serbia and a 1-2 loss to Denmark.
– During Euro 2024 qualifications, they were both highs and lows. They lost 0-3 to Azerbaijan and wrapped up with a 1-1 draw against Belgium, showing inconsistency.
Predicted Formation and Line-Up (4-3-2-1):
– Goalkeeper: Likely to be the first-choice in competitive matches.
– Defenders: A more experienced backline, possibly including players from top European leagues.
– Midfielders: A mix of defensive and attacking midfielders.
– Forwards: Will rely on experienced forwards to find the net.
Key Strengths and Considerations:
– Defensive and midfield strength with players from top leagues.
– Forward line may struggle if they carry recent form.
– Will be motivated to rectify the earlier 3-0 loss against Azerbaijan.
Head-to-Head (H2H):
– Azerbaijan won their recent encounter 3-0 during Euro 2024 qualifications (November 16, 2023).
– Sweden had previously dominated the other encounter in March 2023, winning 5-0.
– Historically, Sweden has had an upper hand, but recent meeting shows Azerbaijan’s capability for an upset.
Weather Factor:
– Baku typically has mild weather in early September which should be advantageous for both teams to play their natural game.
Prediction:
Considering Azerbaijan’s home advantage and their recent win over Sweden, they will be confident. However, Sweden’s historical edge and recent challenges in friendlies indicate this could be a tighter contest.
Predicted End Score: Azerbaijan 1 – 2 Sweden
Potential Goalscorers:
– Azerbaijan: Likely a forward or midfielder who contributed in recent wins.
– Sweden: Likely top striker and possibly a midfielder from top leagues.
This prediction is based on detailed analysis of recent performances, player capabilities, and historical data. Football outcomes can be unpredictable due to numerous on-field dynamics and factors, so the actual result may vary.
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