FYR Macedonia vs Spain - World Cup Qualification Europe Preview and Odds

Published on: 11/06/2017

FYR Macedonia vs Spain - World Cup Qualification Europe Preview and Odds

June 11, 2017 19:45pm - Nacionalna Arena Filip II Makedonski

World Cup Qualification - Group G

Macedonia are almost certainly out of the race for a place at next summer`s World Cup in Russia. However, they will be motivated to make a name for themselves by overcoming the challenge of 2010 World champions winners Spain. They will be boosted by a recent three-game unbeaten run which including a 0-0 friendly draw against Turkey and back-to-back 3-0 wins away to Liechtenstein and at home to Belarus.

A record of one win and four defeats in Group G has left them second from bottom in the table above rank outsiders Liechtenstein. That record highlights the enormity of the task at hand on Sunday.

Meanwhile, despite going through a transitional period, Spain are still sitting comfortably at the top of the table with four wins and one draw from the five games they have played. A record of 19 goals scored and just two conceded has kept them ahead of second-ranked Italy on goal difference. In fact it was the Italians who prevented Spain from having a perfect record, holding them to a 1-1 draw in Torino back in October.

Spain are unbeaten in nine games under Julen Lopetegui, although they have been held to 2-2 friendly draws by both England and Colombia - the latter game taking place less than a week ago. Overall, they look to have improved their new boss following a disappointing Euro 2016 campaign and look all set to take their place in Russia next year with a new look squad in tow.

Recent form (All competitions)

FYR Macedonia: DWWLL

Spain: DWWDW

Betting odds and tips

Macedonia gave Spain a tough time the last time they visited in September 2015 with the game ultimately being settled by a Pachovski own goal. Spain have improved since then and an easier contest should be expected with Spain once again winning without reply.

You can back Spain to Win to Nil at 8/13 with Bet365.

By Neil Morris