Norway and Slovenia are set to clash in an exciting UEFA Nations League encounter, both seeking to maintain their unbeaten records in the 2024-25 season. With four points apiece, they currently sit three points clear of both Austria and Kazakhstan in Group B3.
Match Overview
Norway is competing in League B for the third consecutive time, looking to improve on their previous campaigns. In 2022-23, they finished third in their group, narrowly missing out on promotion. Their current campaign started with a frustrating goalless draw against Kazakhstan, but they bounced back impressively with a 2-1 victory over Austria, thanks to Erling Haaland’s decisive goal, bringing his international tally to 32.
Stale Solbakken’s side has a strong home record in the Nations League, winning seven of their last ten home matches (D1, L2). With their last win under their belt, they aim to secure back-to-back victories for the first time since late 2023.
On the other hand, Slovenia is also in League B, having finished third in their previous campaign. Matjaz Kek’s team started this season well, securing a 1-1 draw against Austria followed by a commanding 3-0 victory over Kazakhstan, highlighted by a hat-trick from Benjamin Sesko. They now look to break a four-match winless streak away from home in the Nations League (D3, L1).
Recent Form
– Norway Nations League Form:
– 0-0 draw against Kazakhstan
– 2-1 win against Austria
– Slovenia Nations League Form:
– 1-1 draw against Austria
– 3-0 win against Kazakhstan
Team News
Norway:
Norway will be without their captain, Martin Ødegaard, who is sidelined due to an ankle injury. This will require manager Stale Solbakken to make changes to the lineup that defeated Austria. Antonio Nusa is a potential candidate to step in for Ødegaard. Key player Erling Haaland will continue to lead the attack after his recent performance.
Slovenia:
Slovenia is also dealing with injury issues, missing Sandi Lovric and Tomi Horvat. Veteran goalkeeper Jan Oblak will anchor the defense, likely supported by Petar Stojanovic, Vanja Drkusic, Jaka Bijol, and Erik Janza. Up front, Benjamin Sesko, who has been in excellent form this season, will aim to add to his tally.
Possible Lineups
Norway:
– Goalkeeper: Nyland
– Defenders: Ryerson, Ostigard, Hanche-Olsen, Wolfe
– Midfielders: Myhre, Berg, Berge
– Forwards: Sorloth, Nusa, Haaland
Slovenia:
– Goalkeeper: Oblak
– Defenders: Stojanovic, Drkusic, Bijol, Janza
– Midfielders: Ilicic, Gnezda Cerin, Elsnik, Mlakar
– Forwards: Sesko, Sporar
