We are almost at the conclusion of the UEFA qualifying stage in preparation for the World Cup, making the games all the more intense. England has romped through Group K to clinch the automatic qualifying spot, but Serbia is still fighting for its place. It’s a high-stakes game between two talented squads.
The odds are stacked in favor of England: the Three Lions are a -310 favorite to win and +425 to draw at DraftKings Sportsbook, while Serbia is at +900. Let’s get into a prediction and a pick for this contest.
England vs. Serbia prediction, pick
Two main stories have dominated England’s qualifying stage. First is the defense: England has yet to concede a goal through six games. It’s an incredible feat that has them feeling good about their chances to contend next year. The play of Harry Kane has been another story as Bayern’s superstar has found the net six times in six games. He’s got an air of inevitability around him during international play.
Serbia’s work will be cut out for them in a do-or-die game. With two games remaining, Serbia trails Albania by one point. Both teams have to face England, and whoever can take points from this matchup will likely advance. If the Serbs want to steal something from this one, they need better play from their striking duo, Dusan Vlahovic and Aleksandar Mitrovic.
England isn’t one to take their foot off the gas. However, with their spot in the cup clinched, they may turn to some second-team players to preserve their top guys. Meanwhile, the Serbs will be playing with utter desperation since losing by a small margin does almost nothing for them. I’d keep an eye on the lineups here, but I see value in the side with everything to lose vs. the side with nothing to gain.
