Cyprus and Montenegro will bring their UEFA Nations League campaigns to a close on Sunday when they meet at the Alphamega Stadium in Limassol for their final group fixture.
Although both nations have already achieved their respective objectives, there will still be plenty of motivation to finish the competition on a positive note.
Montenegro have been the standout side in the group and will be looking to maintain their unbeaten record, while Cyprus can take encouragement from their recent performances as they prepare for another meeting with the newly promoted visitors.
Read our prediction, preview and betting tips for the game below, and make sure to check out our today's betting tips page for more of our expert predictions.
Cyprus vs. Montenegro key stats
- Montenegro have won their last three meetings with Cyprus.
- Cyprus have won their last three matches at home.
- Montenegro are on a five-match unbeaten run away from home, with their last such defeat coming well over a year ago.
Cyprus vs. Montenegro preview: Chance to finish on a high
Cyprus vs Montenegro — Tale of the Tape
| Cyprus | vs | Montenegro |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd | Position | 1st |
| 8 | Points | 13 |
| 6 | Goals For | 9 |
| 4 | Goals Against | 5 |
| 2 | Clean Sheets | 1 |
| 2nd (H) | Home / Away Rank | 1st (A) |
Cyprus have picked up eight points from their five group games, recording two wins, two draws and one defeat to establish themselves as the second-best team.
A 1-1 draw against Armenia in their previous outing was enough to guarantee a playoff place for Apostolos Mantzios's side, who recovered well after losing their opening fixture against Montenegro.
During this Nations League campaign, the Cypriots played out a goalless stalemate with Latvia before recording consecutive victories over Armenia and Latvia. Getting a positive result over Montenegro on Sunday would mark a strong end to an overall impressive tournament showing.
Mantzios will be hoping Marcus Edwards can make another big contribution in attack, with the 27-year-old having scored twice in five international appearances, while Ioannis Pittas should also feature alongside youngster Iasonas Pikis, who found the net on his debut against Armenia.
In terms of absentees, Kostas Pileas is the main one as he remains unavailable due to a suspension.
Montenegro have been the dominant force in the group, collecting 13 points from five matches to guarantee promotion after winning four times and drawing once.
Mirko Vucinic's side began their campaign with victories over Cyprus and Armenia before adding another three points against Latvia, while a goalless draw with Armenia proved to be their only hiccup.
The Brave Falcons returned to winning ways in their previous outing, overcoming Latvia 2-1 for the second time in the competition, and will now attempt to continue their unbeaten record against Cyprus.
However, Montenegro will have to make do without Stefan Savic, who is suspended after being sent off against Latvia.
At the opposite end of the pitch, Milutin Osmajic and Nikola Krstovic are expected to lead the attacking line, with the pair having scored 21 international goals between them, while Sead Haksabanovic should also retain his place in midfield.
Cyprus vs. Montenegro form guide & betting tips
| Cyprus | vs | Montenegro |
|---|---|---|
LDWWD |
Form (UEFA Nations League) | WWWDW |
| 8 | Points | 13 |
| 2nd | Form Table | 1st |
| 6 | Goals For | 9 |
| 4 | Goals Against | 5 |
LDWWD |
Form (All Comps) | WWWDW |
Whispers predicts: Cyprus 1-1 Montenegro
Montenegro have been a dominant force in their group, but their defence has not been impenetrable.
Both teams to score at 4/5 (1.80) is a tasty bet given the visitors have only managed to keep one clean sheet during this Nations League campaign.
Backing the draw in the outright market at 11/5 (3.2) is another top recommendation, given just how strong Cyprus have been at home, and how effective Montenegro have played on the road.
The correct score of 1-1 at 5/1 (6.0) is another tasty option for those looking to boost their odds. It is worth mentioning that this selection landed when Cyprus took on Armenia in their last international.
> Both teams to score – yes at 4/5 (1.80) | Likelihood: Probable
> Draw at 11/5 (3.2) | Likelihood: Possible
> Correct score 1-1 at 5/1 (6.0) | Likelihood: Outsider