Luxembourg take on the visitors Slovakia in the round 8 match of group stage of UEFA Euro-2024 qualification. The match will be played on Monday, October 16th at Stade de Luxembourg (Luxembourg).
Luxembourg's national team once again proved to all the skeptics that they can play football by securing an important draw in Iceland (1-1). In the first match against the Vikings, they were the stronger side, winning 3-1. Scoring goals hasn't been a problem for the Red Lions in this qualifying cycle. In addition to Iceland, they've found the net against Bosnia (2-0, even in an away game) and Liechtenstein (2-0). Currently, Luxembourg has a real chance to qualify for the Euro. The team is just two points behind Slovakia in the standings, and they have a crucial home match against their direct competitor. They need to summon all their willpower, as this match is essentially the most significant in the recent history of the modest national team. A victory would place them in second position, and maintaining that position in the remaining fixtures (especially since they won't have to play against the Portuguese) would earn them a spot at the Euro.
| 2 x £10 Free Bet | Review | |||
| 100$-500$ for No Lose Free Bets | Review | |||
| 100% up to £200 | Review | |||
| Not available | Review |
Slovakia is also eager to qualify for the Euro, and a draw in this match would suit them. However, a win would significantly increase their chances of reaching the major tournament and likely remove all doubts. Despite the general perception of The Falcons as a team associated with closed, cautious football, they have had matches in this qualification cycle with exchanges of precise shots. For instance, in an away game against Portugal a round ago, Slovakia lost 2-3. They also won a game against Iceland on the road (2-1). Furthermore, they scored four goals in two matches against Liechtenstein and two more against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Slovakian players know how to score; they have found the net ten times in seven matches in the current Euro qualification campaign.
The first encounter between these opponents at the start of the Euro 2024 qualification cycle ended goalless. However, it was a tough March, and both teams' motivation may not have been as high. Now, Luxembourg and Slovakia are direct competitors in the battle for second place in the group, with a Euro ticket at stake. I believe this battle will be much more emotional and goal-rich than their previous meeting. If a draw essentially suits the visitors, the hosts must secure a victory in this crucial home match. Luxembourg's players have learned to play high-quality, combination football in attack and must impose their style on their opponents in this vital home game, even if The Falcons initially aim to maintain a clean sheet. However, going forward, the hosts will have to open up, which the Slovakian players are likely to exploit. My prediction is Both Teams to Score!
Prediction for the match: Both teams to score – yes.
