The Daily Star Ireland
As the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign intensifies, Serbia welcome England to Belgrade’s Rajko Mitić Stadium—a venue renowned for its fierce atmosphere and passionate supporters. This matchup promises to be one of the most intriguing fixtures in Group A, with both sides carrying momentum but also facing challenges that could shape the outcome.
Serbia Riding a Wave of Confidence
Under the guidance of Dragan Stojković, Serbia enter the clash unbeaten in their last six competitive outings. Their recent 3–0 victory over Andorra was a statement performance, highlighted by a hat-trick from captain Aleksandar Mitrović, who celebrated his 100th cap in style. Already Serbia’s all-time leading scorer, Mitrović continues to be the focal point of the attack, while defensive stalwarts like Nikola Milenković and midfield enforcer Nemanja Maksimović provide balance and resilience. Playing at home, Serbia will look to leverage both their form and the intimidating energy of Belgrade to unsettle the visitors.
England Facing Injury Setbacks
England, meanwhile, travel to Serbia with a perfect qualifying record but questions about their overall fluency under new manager Thomas Tuchel. Since replacing Gareth Southgate, Tuchel has instilled discipline and defensive organization, but recent narrow wins over Albania and Andorra revealed difficulties in breaking down compact opposition. A spate of injuries has complicated matters further—Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Jack Grealish, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are all unavailable. Their absence has opened the door for younger talents like Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Djed Spence, while captain Harry Kane continues to spearhead the attack alongside Marcus Rashford and Jarrod Bowen.
Key Battles to Watch
Historically, England have edged this fixture, including a 1–0 win at Euro 2024 courtesy of a Jude Bellingham header. But Serbia’s unbeaten qualifying record, stretching back to 2017, suggests this meeting could be much tighter. Mitrović’s aerial dominance and physical presence will test England’s back line, led by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. The midfield duel may prove decisive, with Serbia’s aggressive pressing aimed at disrupting England’s attempts to build play from deep. For the Three Lions, patience and efficiency in possession will be crucial to avoid being caught on the break.
Prediction
With Serbia in strong form and England weakened by key absences, the hosts look poised to seize the moment. A 2–1 victory for Serbia feels realistic, with Mitrović likely to provide the decisive edge. England still have the quality to respond—through Kane or Rashford—but Tuchel’s side remains a work in progress. Expect a tense, physical encounter where Serbia’s home advantage could make all the difference.
Prediction: Serbia 0 – 0 England
