Slovakia U21 v Sweden U21 Betting Tips: Lively affair expected in Group A

As things stand, Group A is the tightest in the competition with all four teams still in with something of a chance of going through. Both Slovakia and Sweden come into this game knowing that a win could see them progress in first place, although their fate will depend on the outcome of the other final match between England and Poland.

Having won one and lost one, Slovakia have so far been a bit up and down at this tournament; they were deserved winners against Poland as they showcased both great forward energy and character, but lost, and deservedly so, against England last time out. Both of their performances so far have showcased attacking strength and defensive weaknesses so goals could once again be on the cards. With Sweden also among the goals last time out, and needing to go for it here too, the bet that stands out is ‘Over 3.5 Goals’ at 7/4.

Like their opponents, Sweden have also come across a bit top heavy at this tournament. They may well have drawn 0-0 against England, but they weren’t without goal-scoring chances while England also failed to make the most of some promising attacking opportunities. What’s more, last time out, the goals flowed nicely as they drew 2-2 with tournament hosts Poland. In scoring twice, the Swedes looked a real threat going forward but were disappointing at the back, especially when aiming to hold onto their lead late in the day. From an attacking point of view, you’d have to fancy them to continue producing goals, especially since Slovakia are yet to concede less than two goals at this tournament.

Much like Sweden, against Poland, Slovakia also showed that they’re capable of scoring goals and will be confident of doing so again, particularly after seeing Sweden concede twice against the Polish last time out. However, keeping a clean sheet probably won’t be their main focus as their best chance of winning here is likely to be by outscoring their opponents rather than trying to sit back and contain.

Against England, the Slovaks proved that they’re a threat on the counter so in a game that is likely to be open as both teams go for the three points, that could be a viable route to goals once again.

Quite simply, neither of this pair look like the sort of team you’d fancy to keep a clean sheet, while both have enough to offer up-front to suggest that goals are likely.

All in all, the circumstances surrounding this fixture pretty much dictate how each team has to play as nothing other than a win will do. Slovakia have the upper-hand slightly as they’re already on three points, but a win would guarantee at least second place for this pair and thus an open, attacking encounter is expected.

More U21 tips can be found here.