In an intriguing UEFA Nations League clash, Latvia will host North Macedonia in Group C4, with both teams looking to solidify their positions in the tournament.
Match Overview
Latvia, competing in their first League C campaign after promotion from League D, started the season with mixed results. After suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat to Armenia in their opening match, they bounced back with a narrow 1-0 victory over the Faroe Islands, thanks to Renars Varslavans’ decisive goal. Currently level on points with second-placed Armenia, Latvia will be eager to capitalize on their home advantage, aiming to secure their first-ever win against North Macedonia.
North Macedonia, under the guidance of Blagoja Milevski, hopes to launch a promotion bid after a disappointing previous campaign where they finished third in their group. They began their current campaign with a frustrating 1-1 draw against the Faroe Islands but rebounded impressively, defeating Armenia 2-0 even with 10 men. Goals from Enis Bardhi and Bojan Miovski secured the victory, and they will look to build on that momentum against Latvia.
Recent Form
– Latvia Nations League Form:
– 1-0 win against Faroe Islands
– 4-1 loss to Armenia
– North Macedonia Nations League Form:
– 2-0 win against Armenia
– 1-1 draw against Faroe Islands
Team News
Latvia:
Latvia’s manager, Paolo Nicolato, is likely to retain the same lineup that secured victory over the Faroe Islands. They are expected to line up in a back three consisting of Raivis Jurkovskis, Daniels Balodis, and Kristers Tobers. Janis Ikaunieks, who has been in fine form for his club, will play a crucial role in the attack.
North Macedonia:
North Macedonia will be without defender Gjoko Zajkov, who is suspended after receiving a red card in the previous match. In his absence, Milevski is expected to field a back three of Visar Musliu, Nikola Serafimov, and Jovan Manev. Enis Bardhi, having scored in both opening matches, will be a key figure in their attacking setup alongside other threats like Bojan Miovski.
Possible Lineups
Latvia:
– Goalkeeper: Matrevics
– Defenders: Jurkovskis, Balodis, Tobers
– Midfielders: Savalnieks, Zelenkovs, Saveljevs, Ciganiks, Varslavans
– Forwards: Gutkovskis, Ikaunieks
North Macedonia:
– Goalkeeper: Dimitrievski
– Defenders: Musliu, Serafimov, Manev
– Midfielders: Dimoski, Babunski, Alimi
– Forwards: Churlinov, Bardhi, Elmas, Miovski
