Slovenia currently ranks third in Group 3, sharing points with the top two teams. Benjamin Sesko and his teammates remain in the race for direct promotion to League A or a play-off spot but also risk a relegation play-off.
They opened the campaign with a 1-1 draw against Austria, followed by a 3-0 win over Kazakhstan, but then fell to Norway with a 3-0 loss. Slovenia rebounded in their last outing, securing a 1-0 victory over Kazakhstan.
Norway is aiming for promotion to the Nations League’s top tier. Despite having one of their most talented generations, Norway has yet to qualify for a major tournament. Led by Erling Haaland, they currently top Group 3, tied in points with Slovenia.
Norway’s journey began with a scoreless draw in Kazakhstan, then a 2-1 win over Austria, and a 3-0 triumph against Slovenia, though they were dealt a setback with a 5-1 loss to Austria in their last match.
Slovenia will be without several key players, including defenders Karic and Zec, midfielders Repas and Jovanovic, and forward Kramer. Defender Gorenc Stankovic also remains sidelined since October.
However, key players such as captain and goalkeeper Oblak (Atlético Madrid), central defenders Drkusic and Bijol, and forwards Sesko and Sporar are expected to play, with Vipotnik likely available as a substitute.
Norway is missing goalkeeper Nyland, defenders Hanche-Olsen and Ajer, and wingers Sahraoui and Bobb. Captain Odegaard, who recently returned from injury, is not included in the lineup.
Nonetheless, Norway’s attack remains formidable with Haaland and Sorloth up front, supported by defenders Ostigard and Ryerson and midfielders Berge and Thorsby.
Prediction
Both teams have recently seen lower-scoring games, with Norway’s last 17 of 19 matches and Slovenia’s previous 17 of 19 home games featuring three goals or fewer.
Score Prediction: Slovenia 1 : 1 Norway
