Quick Predictions

Score prediction:

Netherlands 3-1 Serbia

Form:

Netherlands are unbeaten in 10 competitive home games.

Team news:

Van Hecke is injured for the Netherlands.

Top tip:

BTTS – Yes @ 2.10

Serbia are still searching for their first points in the Nations League as they play the Netherlands at the Philips Stadion on Sunday night.

The visitors are rock-bottom of the group with no points from three games, after losing 2-0 in Germany last time out.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands are in second on five points, having snatched a late 2-2 draw in Greece.

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.

Netherlands vs. Serbia key stats

• Netherlands are unbeaten in this Nations League campaign (W1, D2).
• Netherlands are unbeaten in 10 competitive home games (W6, D4).
• Serbia are on a five-match losing run in all competitions.

Netherlands vs. Serbia preview: Oranje to win comfortably?

Xavi's reign at the Netherlands has not started off too badly, as he remains unbeaten after three games.

The Oranje are second in the group behind Greece though, and will aim to finish top come the end of the next international break.

This will be their easiest fixture on paper, and the Netherlands will want to make their strong home record count against what looks to be the group's whipping boys in Serbia.

Jan Paul van Hecke is the latest player to join a growing injury list though, which will be Xavi's main concern as he aims to manage his squad.

Veljko Paunovic has no fresh injuries in his squad, but is still trying to find solutions on the pitch.

Admittedly, it is a tough group for Serbia that also contains Germany and Greece, but they look set for a swift return to League B.

The Serbs will at least want to get some points on the board in the group though, but will need to cause an almighty upset here.

They are ranked 31 places below the Netherlands (ninth) in the FIFA World Rankings (40th), and travelling to Eindhoven will be a tough task.

Netherlands vs. Serbia form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Netherlands 3-1 Serbia

The Netherlands are 1/5 (1.20) favourites, but while we agree with the bookies, we want to explore other bets.

Over 3.5 goals at 1/1 (2.00) is our first, as both nations' last five games have averaged three or more goals respectively.

BTTS – Yes at 11/10 (2.10) could also come through, having done so in the Netherlands' previous eight matches.

Tijjani Reijnders scored the Netherlands' late equaliser against Greece, and with six of his previous seven goals coming at home, Reijnders to score anytime at 21/10 (3.10) is our final pick.

Overall, we are predicting a 3-1 Netherlands victory, which is available at 10/1 (11.00).

Netherlands vs. Serbia — Whispers' Tips

> Over 3.5 goals at 2.00 | Likelihood: Medium

> BTTS – Yes at 2.10 | Likelihood: Medium

> Reijnders to score anytime at 3.10 | Likelihood: Medium

Quick Predictions

Score prediction:

Greece 1-1 Germany

Form:

Greece are unbeaten in the Nations League this campaign.

Team news:

Tzolis is injured for Greece.

Top tip:

Double chance – Greece/Draw @ 2.00

Greece are hoping to keep hold of top spot in their Nations League group as they face Germany at Toumba Stadium on Sunday night.

The Greeks boast seven points from their first three games, and also beat Germany 1-0 in the reverse fixture.

The Germans are in third on four points, but a win here would put them level with Greece heading into the final two fixtures in the next international break.

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.

Greece vs. Germany key stats

• Greece are unbeaten in the Nations League this campaign (W2, D1).
• Germany's win over Serbia ended a four-game winless run (D1, L3).
• Greece's win over Germany was their first in 10 H2Hs (D3, L7).

Greece vs. Germany preview: Greeks to stay firm?

In a group containing Germany and the Netherlands, Greece would not have expected to be top at this stage being ranked 46th in the world.

Ivan Jovanovic’s side remain unbeaten in the campaign, showing they can compete with the traditionally bigger nations.

Missing out on the World Cup was a disappointment, but the Greeks have a generation of talent coming through that could help them reach the next one.

Christos Tzolis is one of those, but after coming off early in their recent 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, the Arsenal man is set for a spell out with injury.

Germany do not have any fresh concerns themselves, and Jurgen Klopp finally got his first win in charge against Serbia.

Once powerhouses of international football, the Germans have struggled in recent years, notably getting knocked out by Paraguay at the World Cup.

They sit third in their Nations League group, and are in danger of failing to qualify for the knockouts if they do not get a positive result here.

Germany will be scarred by their defeat to Greece on home soil earlier this campaign too, and will be desperate to put things right.

Greece vs. Germany form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Greece 1-1 Germany

Germany are 10/11 (1.91) favourites, but given their stuttering start to the Nations League campaign, we are happy to go against the bookies.

Double chance – Greece/Draw at 1/1 (2.00) appeals as an opening bet, while Under 2.5 goals at 23/20 (2.15) has come through in Germany's last four competitive away games.

Four of Greece's previous five competitive home matches have produced 11 or more corners, so Over 10.5 corners at 23/10 (3.30) is our final pick.

Overall, we are predicting a 1-1 draw, which is available at 13/2 (7.50).

Greece vs. Germany — Whispers' Tips

> Double chance – Greece/Draw at 2.00 | Likelihood: Medium

> Under 2.5 goals at 2.15 | Likelihood: Medium

> Over 10.5 corners at 3.30 | Likelihood: Medium

The 27-year-old is a boyhood Palace player who has made more than 250 appearances for the club.

United's interest comes amid injury trouble at left-back and the ageing presence of Luke Shaw.

Tyrick Mitchell to Manchester United rated ”possible”

The Football Whispers Index scores every transfer rumour across five weighted factors. Read how it works here.

A score of 63 places this rumour in the middle of the Whispers Index scale, neither a formality nor a non-starter.

The finances work comfortably for United and the positional case is straightforward with Shaw ageing and Dorgu unavailable.

What holds the number back is Crystal Palace's own conduct, who are moving to extend Mitchell's contract rather than prepare to sell him.

Financial viability

United's financial position makes a deal of this size straightforward.

A record £666.5m turnover for 2024-25 leaves the club comfortably inside the new Squad Cost Ratio limits, with their spending running at roughly 57 percent of revenue against an 85 percent ceiling.

A fee in the £20m to £25m region that has been floated would barely register against that scale.

Mitchell's contract situation only sharpens the logic, since this is already the final season of his current deal.

Buying club need

The need at left-back is real rather than manufactured.

Shaw will turn 32 next July and already carries the sort of injury history that makes a younger alternative sensible, while Dorgu's absence has left United thin in the position right now.

Mitchell's underlying numbers from last season, including nearly double Shaw's chances created, suggest he would not just be squad depth but a genuine option to start.

At 27 he also fits the profile of a long-term successor rather than a short-term fix.

Player motivation

This is the pillar where the case for a move is weakest.

Mitchell is Palace's first-choice left-back and has started every league game this season, so he is not short of first-team football where he is.

A move to a club ranked 9th in Opta's global power rankings, against Palace's 32nd, would still represent a step up in profile.

But with Parish publicly naming him a retention priority and no comments from Mitchell himself about wanting out, there is little public sign he is pushing for a move.

Selling club incentive

This is the single biggest brake on the score.

Palace are not behaving like a club preparing to sell, they are accelerating talks on a new contract for a player their own chairman has called first in line to keep.

The arrival of Ben Chilwell in September gives them cover at left-back, but as a reserve option rather than an heir apparent to Mitchell's shirt.

With Mitchell scoring twice as recently as early September, Palace have no footballing reason to want him gone either.

Market momentum

Coverage of the story exists but has not been confirmed by the sport's leading reporters.

The strongest figure attached to it, a possible £25m offer, comes via transfer insider Ekrem Konur rather than a tier-one name like Fabrizio Romano or David Ornstein.

United are also not alone, with Liverpool, Chelsea and Juventus all credited with an interest in Mitchell.

TeamTalk's reporting suggests United's own position is conditional, that they would only move if Palace's contract talks with Mitchell collapse first.

Tyrick Mitchell to Manchester United: Will or won't it happen?

The financial and footballing case for United makes sense on paper, which is why this sits in ‘Possible' rather than lower down the scale.

For it to move into Likely territory, Palace's own retention plan needs to visibly stall, most likely through a breakdown in contract talks or Mitchell himself pushing for an exit.

Until that happens, this looks more like a name to watch for January than a deal close to getting done.

With domestic action now just around the corner, and some teams potentially forced into the transfer market sooner than expected, Football Whispers takes a look at the biggest stories making today's back pages.

Gilberto Mora remains on Liverpool radar

Liverpool are showing serious interest in Mexican teenager Gilberto Mora as the race for one of world football's most exciting young talents gathers pace.

According to TEAMtalk, the Reds have made direct ‘contact' with the 17-year-old's representatives and are viewed as the leading Premier League contenders for his signature.

Mora has enhanced his reputation with Club Tijuana and Mexico, becoming his country's youngest senior international goalscorer after impressing during the 2026 World Cup.

A transfer fee of around £23m has been mooted for the attacking midfielder, with Borussia Dortmund, Benfica, Real Madrid and Barcelona also monitoring his situation.

Man Utd handed David Raum boost

Manchester United have received a significant boost in their pursuit of RB Leipzig left-back David Raum ahead of the January transfer window.

Reports now suggest the 28-year-old is open to a move to Old Trafford, with the Germany international keen to test himself in the Premier League.

United remain in the market for a left-back after failing to strengthen the position during the summer, and Raum has emerged as one of their leading targets.

With his Leipzig contract running until 2027, the defender could reportedly be available for around £30m, making him an attractive option for the Red Devils.

Arsenal eye surprise Gonzalo Garcia move

Arsenal are monitoring Fulham striker Gonzalo Garcia just months after the Spaniard completed a move from Real Madrid.

According to reports, the Gunners are keeping tabs on the 22-year-old's progress alongside Aston Villa following his £35m summer transfer to Craven Cottage.

Despite Fulham's difficult start to the season, Garcia has impressed in the Premier League and has already opened his account with a goal against Chelsea.

Fulham are expected to demand a premium fee for the forward, but Arsenal are understood to be continuing their assessment as he adapts to English football.

Quick Predictions

Score prediction:

Canada 2-1 Peru

Form:

Peru have won only one of their last six matches.

Team news:

Marco Huaman is sidelined for the visitors.

Top tip:

Over 2.5 total goals.

Bragging rights will be at stake when Canada and Peru draw swords in a friendly at BC Place on Saturday.

The visitors are eyeing a return to winning ways after an abysmal recent run of results.

Canada, meanwhile, are eyeing back-to-back wins for the first time in eight months.

Read our Canada vs Peru prediction, preview and betting tips below, and make sure to check out our today's betting tips page for more of our expert predictions.

Canada vs Peru key stats

• Peru's last five matches have all featured goals at both ends.
• At least three goals were scored in four of Peru's last five outings.
• There were at least 11 corners in five of Canada's last seven games.

Canada vs Peru preview: Can the visitors improve their fortunes?

*These figures were accurate at the time of publishing.

In their first outing since a heartbreaking Round of 16 exit at the World Cup, Canada returned to action with a 1-0 victory over Chile.

All-time top scorer Jonathan David provided the early spark, netting what would prove to be the game's lone goal.

However, despite Chile being reduced to nine men with more than 40 minutes left on the clock, Jesse Marsch's side were unable to double their lead.

Canada came through the Chile match with no new injury worries. However, injured defenders Alfie Jones (calf) and Derek Cornelius (hip) were both omitted from this three-game friendly window against Chile, Peru, and the USA.

On the other hand, Peru are coming off a 1-1 draw with Mexico. Despite holding the advantage at half-time, they let the victory slip away in the second half.

Compounding Peru's setback, Marco Huaman sustained an injury in the second half against Mexico and was forced off in the 79th minute. The defender is unavailable for selection against Canada.

Ahead of this skirmish, Mano Menezes' men are on a three-game winless run. However, it is worth mentioning that they have not played a competitive match in over a year.

Across three previous meetings between these sides, Canada lead the overall record with two victories to Peru's one. Interestingly, their only encounter in the past 16 years came at the 2024 Copa America group stage, when Canada edged past La Bicolor by a single goal.

Canada vs Peru form guide & betting tips

Whispers Predicts: Canada 2-1 Peru

Priced at 3/5 (1.60), Canada are considered favourites by the bookmakers ahead of this clash.

Marsch's troops have three wins in their last five matches, and considering Peru's recent run of results, we are confident that the hosts will emerge victorious here.

Both teams were on the scoresheet in each of Peru's last five fixtures and this can be backed at 1/1 (2.00).

We also fancy over 2.5 total goals at 19/20 (1.95). This landed in four of the visiting team's last five outings.

Canada vs Peru — Whispers' Tips

> Over 2.5 total goals at 19/20 (1.95) | Likelihood: Probable

> BTTS – Yes at 1/1 (2.00) | Likelihood: Probable

> Match result: Canada at 3/5 (1.60) | Likelihood: Probable

> Canada & BTTS – Yes at 27/10 (3.70) | Likelihood: Possible

> Correct Score: 2-1 at 15/2 (8.50) | Likelihood: Outsider

Estonia will be looking to maintain their unbeaten run in the 2026-27 Nations League when they take on Luxembourg in the League C Group 4 clash at A. Le Coq Arena in Tallinn.

The home side sit third in the group after back-to-back draws, while Luxembourg have picked up one win and suffered one defeat from their opening two matches.

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.

Estonia vs Luxembourg key stats

• Estonia are undefeated in their last four matches.
• Luxembourg have won two of their last three matches.
• Each of Estonia's last six matches has produced Under 2.5 goals.

Estonia vs Luxembourg preview: Narrow home win?

Estonia came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against Iceland in their opening game of the competition.

Jurgen Henn's side then drew 0-0 against Bulgaria away from home, and they will now be aiming to pick up their first win of the tournament.

Their recent home form has been excellent, as they won back-to-back games in the Baltic Cup, beating the Faroe Islands and Lithuania by 1-0 scorelines.

Henn will be impressed by his side's defensive record, with Estonia conceding just once in their last four matches.

Luxembourg started the campaign with a 2-1 win over Bulgaria, with Leandro Barreiro and Vincent Thill scoring in either half.

In their next game, they suffered a 3-0 defeat to Iceland and will now be looking to avoid back-to-back losses.

Luxembourg endured a shocking World Cup qualifying campaign, losing all six of their matches and conceding 13 goals.

However, they defeated Malta over two legs to win the Nations League promotion/relegation playoff and also beat Albania 1-0 in a recent international friendly.

Estonia vs Luxembourg form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Estonia 1-0 Luxembourg

Estonia have won their previous two meetings against Luxembourg, and they are backed to win again at 2.88, while Luxembourg are priced at 2.50 to pick up all three points.

Each of Estonia's last six matches has produced fewer than three goals, making Under 2.5 goals at 1.62 a tempting offer.

Five of Luxembourg's last six matches have not seen goals at both ends, and therefore BTTS – No at 1.87 looks another appealing option.

Estonia vs. Luxembourg — Whispers' Tips

> Both teams to score – No at 1.87 | Likelihood: High

> Under 2.5 goals at 1.62 | Likelihood: High

> Match result: Estonia win at 2.88 | Likelihood: Medium

Iceland will look to maintain their unbeaten run when they take on Bulgaria in League C Group 4 of the 2026-27 Nations League at Ice Rink Laugardalur in Reykjavik on Saturday.

The home side head into the match on the back of a 3-0 win over Luxembourg, while Bulgaria drew 0-0 against Estonia in their previous game.

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.

Iceland vs Bulgaria key stats

• Bulgaria are winless in their last four matches.
• Iceland have picked up only one win in their last seven matches.
• Bulgaria are undefeated against Iceland in their previous two meetings.

Iceland vs Bulgaria preview: Draw on the cards?

Iceland picked up their first victory of 2026 in their last game, securing a 3-0 win that marked their biggest victory since September 2025, when they defeated Azerbaijan 5-0 in the World Cup qualifiers.

Arnar Bergmann's side opened the campaign with a 1-1 draw against Estonia and now sit top of the group with four points.

Iceland finished third in their World Cup qualifying group, three points behind Ukraine, and struggled for consistency throughout 2026.

In the five friendly matches played before this competition, Iceland failed to win any of them, losing three and drawing two, but their form has been encouraging so far in the Nations League.

Bulgaria finished bottom of their World Cup qualifying group, picking up just one win, a 2-1 victory over Georgia, throughout the entire campaign.

In the FIFA Series in Indonesia earlier this year, Bulgaria secured a 10-2 victory over the Solomon Islands before beating the hosts 1-0, but their results have dried up since then.

Bulgaria are without a win in their last four matches across all competitions and are still searching for their first victory in the Nations League.

They lost 2-1 to Luxembourg in their opening game before drawing 0-0 with Estonia, leaving them fourth in the group.

The two sides last met in 2005, with Bulgaria defeating Iceland in both World Cup qualifying matches.

Iceland vs Bulgaria form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Iceland 1-1 Bulgaria

Iceland have picked up just one win in their last seven matches, while Bulgaria are winless in their last four, making it difficult to pick a clear-cut winner, with a draw at 4.0 potentially on the cards.

Three of Bulgaria's last five matches have produced fewer than three goals, making Under 2.5 goals at 2.0 a tempting offer.

Bulgaria have scored first in five of their last seven matches, and they are backed to open the scoring against Iceland at 3.75.

Iceland vs. Bulgaria — Whispers' Tips

> Both teams to score at 2.08 | Likelihood: High

> Under 2.5 goals at 2.0 | Likelihood: High

> Match result: Draw at 4.00 | Likelihood: Medium

> Bulgaria to score first at 3.75 | Likelihood: High

North Macedonia and Scotland will meet in Skopje on Saturday with neither side having won their opening two UEFA Nations League matches in League B Group 1.

The hosts sit bottom of the section after successive defeats, while Scotland are one point better off following a draw with Slovenia and a heavy loss to Switzerland.

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.

North Macedonia vs. Scotland prediction, preview & betting tips – 03/10/2026 key stats

• Neither of North Macedonia's last six outings has produced goals at both ends.
• Each of Scotland's last six matches has failed to feature goals at both ends.
• North Macedonia have registered fewer than four team corners in seven of their last nine competitive fixtures.
• North Macedonia are winless in their last 10 matches across all competitions.

North Macedonia vs. Scotland preview: Struggling sides meet in Skopje

North Macedonia have endured a sharp decline since beginning last year's World Cup qualifying campaign with a victory over Liechtenstein, with their subsequent run leaving them without a win across their next 10 matches.

Goce Sedloski's appointment has yet to bring an improvement in results, as the former North Macedonia defender has overseen two draws and four defeats since taking charge in December 2025.

The Lynxes have also found themselves chasing games from the wrong side of the scoreline in both Nations League fixtures, losing 3-0 at home to Switzerland before a 2-0 setback against Slovenia.

There is at least some encouragement in their record at the Tose Proeski Stadium, where they had avoided defeat in every home game since June 2023 before Switzerland ended that 12-match unbeaten sequence on home turf last month.

Scotland have experienced their own difficult opening under Sebastien Pocognoli, who is still waiting for his first victory after beginning his tenure with a draw and a defeat.

The Scots were held 0-0 by Slovenia in their opening fixture before Switzerland took advantage of Jack Hendry's early dismissal to record a 3-0 victory at Hampden Park.

That loss also highlighted Scotland's attacking difficulties, as they failed to register a shot on target and have now gone four matches without scoring.

The Tartan Army's recent away performances offer a more positive backdrop, however, with only one defeat in the last eight matches outside their country and seven clean sheets during that period.

Andrew Robertson is set to reach another milestone by earning his 100th Scotland cap, giving the visitors another source of experience as they attempt to revive their campaign in Skopje.

North Macedonia vs. Scotland form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: North Macedonia 0-1 Scotland

Scotland are priced at 1.75 (3/4) to claim their first victory of the campaign, but their recent lack of goals makes a narrow success more appealing than expecting a comfortable away win.

As such, Under 2.5 goals at 1.65 (13/20) looks worth backing given the low-scoring nature of this fixture in recent meetings and the attacking difficulties both sides have experienced during this campaign.

The under 3.5 North Macedonia corners selection at 1.73 (8/11) also provides an interesting route into the game, particularly with the hosts having struggled to generate a high corner count in recent competitive fixtures.

Both teams to score – No at 1.73 (8/11) complements the main selection, as neither side has shown enough attacking consistency to make goals at both ends particularly convincing.

A 0-1 Scotland victory at 6.00 (5/1) therefore looks like an appealing correct-score option, with the visitors potentially having enough quality to edge a cagey contest without producing a high-scoring victory.

North Macedonia vs. Scotland — Whispers' Tips

> Under 2.5 goals at 1.65 (13/20) | Likelihood: Probable

> Both teams to score – No at 1.73 (8/11) | Likelihood: Possible

> Under 3.5 North Macedonia team corners at 1.73 (8/11) | Likelihood: Possible

> Scotland win at 1.75 (3/4) | Likelihood: Possible

> Correct score – North Macedonia 0-1 Scotland at 6.00 (5/1) | Likelihood: Outsider

Switzerland will attempt to maintain their perfect Nations League record when they welcome unbeaten Slovenia to Lucerne on Saturday evening.

The hosts have recorded successive 3-0 victories over North Macedonia and Scotland, while the visitors have collected four points from their opening two fixtures after drawing with Scotland before defeating North Macedonia.

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.

Switzerland vs. Slovenia key stats

• Zeki Amdouni has scored three goals across Switzerland's two Nations League matches this campaign.
• Only one of the last six H2H meetings between the two nations produced goals at both ends.
• Switzerland have kept clean sheets in four of their last five matches across all competitions.
• Slovenia have scored before half-time in only one of their last 13 matches.
• Switzerland have avoided defeat in seven of their last eight meetings with Slovenia, winning six of those encounters.

Switzerland vs Slovenia preview: Swiss seek to strengthen promotion push

Switzerland have responded impressively to their relegation from League A last season, opening their return to the second tier with back-to-back victories by three-goal margins.

Murat Yakin's side began with a 3-0 triumph away to North Macedonia before producing the same scoreline against Scotland at Hampden Park, leaving them perfectly placed to challenge for promotion.

The latest victory was secured as Switzerland spent more than 80 minutes against 10 men, with Ricardo Rodriguez and Nico Elvedi finding the net before Zeki Amdouni completed the scoring late on.

That result leaves the Red Crosses unbeaten in regulation time in 11 matches (W6, D5), though they suffered an extratime defeat to Argentina in the 2026 World Cup.

Slovenia have also made a positive start under Bostjan Cesar after needing a Nations League playoff to retain their League B status last season.

A goalless stalemate with Scotland preceded Tuesday's 2-0 victory over North Macedonia, with Sandri Lovric breaking the deadlock shortly after the interval before Aljosa Matko added his first international goal late on.

That victory represented a welcome response after Slovenia had managed only one win across their previous 11 matches.

The visitors will now face a much tougher examination against a Swiss side that defeated them 3-0 when they last met just over a year ago.

Slovenia's away record provides another concern ahead of the trip, as they have won only one of their last six matches on foreign soil while drawing two and losing three.

Switzerland vs. Slovenia form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Switzerland 2-0 Slovenia

Switzerland's win price of 1.33 (1/3) offers limited value on its own, but their early performances make a home victory difficult to overlook.

The first-half goals market provides a more appealing route, with Switzerland over 0.5 first-half goals at 1.53 (8/15) offering a reasonable return given how quickly they have found attacking rhythm in recent matches.

Amdouni to score anytime at 2.10 (11/10) is also worth considering after the forward scored three times across Switzerland's opening two Nations League matches.

Both teams to score – No at 1.60 (3/5) provides another attractive angle, as Slovenia's recent matches have generally been low-scoring and Switzerland have shown the defensive control to keep opponents quiet.

A 2-0 Switzerland victory at 5.50 (9/2) therefore looks like an appealing correct-score selection, with the hosts capable of establishing control early before using their defensive strength to see out another comfortable result.

Switzerland vs. Slovenia — Whispers' Tips

> Switzerland win at 1.33 (1/3) | Likelihood: Probable

> Switzerland over 0.5 first-half goals at 1.53 (8/15) | Likelihood: Possible

> Both teams to score – No at 1.60 (3/5) | Likelihood: Possible

> Zeki Amdouni anytime scorer at 2.10 (11/10) | Likelihood: Possible

> Correct score – Switzerland 2-0 Slovenia at 5.50 (9/2) | Likelihood: Outsider

Quick Predictions

Score prediction:

Belarus 3-0 San Marino

Form:

Belarus have one point from two matches; San Marino have two defeats from two

H2H:

Belarus have won both previous meetings

Top tip:

Belarus to win to nil

Belarus continue their 2026-27 UEFA Nations League campaign on Saturday when they welcome San Marino in League C Group 1, with the hosts still searching for their first victory of the campaign after taking one point from their opening two fixtures.

San Marino arrive at the match at the bottom of the group after back-to-back defeats, and will be looking to end a winless run that stretches back to November 2024. The visitors have a difficult task against a Belarus side that won both previous meetings between the nations.

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.

Belarus vs San Marino key stats

• San Marino have lost both of their opening fixtures, conceding 10 goals without scoring.
• Belarus won both previous meetings with San Marino, by 5-0 and 2-0.
• San Marino have won just twice in 19 previous Nations League matches.
• San Marino's last victory came against Liechtenstein in November 2024.

Belarus vs San Marino preview: Hosts target first Nations League win

Belarus began their Group 1 campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Albania before drawing 0-0 with Finland, results leaving Viktor Goncharenko's side third in the table, with one point separating them from Finland and Albania above them. 

However, a home fixture against San Marino offers Belarus an opportunity to put their first win on the board before facing Finland on October 6.

Belarus have been regular participants in League C since the competition's inaugural season, having started in League D in 2018-19. 

Their overall Nations League record stands at eight wins, 10 draws and seven defeats, and they will be aiming to add to that tally against the group's bottom side.

San Marino, meanwhile, have endured a difficult opening to the campaign, with Roberto Cevoli's team beaten 7-0 by Finland and then losing 3-0 to Albania, leaving them without a point or a goal after two matches. 

They have conceded in both halves in six of their last seven internationals, underlining the defensive challenge they face in Belarus.

The visitors have struggled for results over a longer period, losing 16 of their last 17 matches in all competitions. 

Their last win came against Liechtenstein in the Nations League in November 2024, although their promotion from League D in the 2024-25 edition was a notable achievement after they recorded two victories.

Belarus have a clear advantage in the head-to-head record, having beaten San Marino 5-0 and 2-0 in the 2018-19 Nations League.

Belarus vs. San Marino form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Belarus 3-0 San Marino

Belarus have had their own struggles, but they face a San Marino defence that has already conceded 10 times in this campaign and scored none, making Belarus to win to nil at 1/2 (1.50) a good bet.

San Marino's scoring record offers little evidence that they will trouble Belarus consistently, and their limited return across previous Nations League campaigns makes an away goal difficult to predict with confidence, making Both teams to score – No at 11/25 (1.44) another solid pick.

A 3-0 scoreline at 5/1 (6.00) is our prediction, with the hosts capable of taking control while keeping San Marino at arm's length.

Belarus vs. San Marino — Whispers' Tips

> Both teams to score – No at 11/25 (1.44) | Likelihood: High

> Belarus win to nil at 1/2 (1.50) | Likelihood: High

> Under 3.5 goals at 8/11 (1.72) | Likelihood: Medium

> Correct score — Belarus 3-0 San Marino at 5/1 (6.00) | Likelihood: Low

Quick Predictions

Score prediction:

Finland 1-2 Albania

Form:

Finland have taken four points from two matches; Albania have won both of their opening fixtures.

H2H:

Finland have won four of seven previous meetings, with Albania winning twice and one match drawn.

Top tip:

Over 2.5 goals

Finland welcome Albania to the Helsinki Olympic Stadium on Saturday afternoon for a Group C1 encounter in the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League, with the visitors looking to maintain their perfect start and the hosts aiming to close the two-point gap at the top.

Jacob Friis's side opened with a 7-0 victory over San Marino before drawing 0-0 with Belarus, while Rolando Maran's men have beaten Belarus 2-0 and San Marino 3-0 to collect six points from their first two games.

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.

Finland vs. Albania key stats

• Finland have scored seven goals across their opening two Group C1 matches.
• Albania have scored five goals across their opening two games.
• Three of the last five matches involving Finland have produced over 2.5 goals.
• Three of Finland’s last five home matches have produced over 2.5 goals.

Finland vs. Albania preview: Unbeaten hosts face early group leaders

Finland have made a positive start to life in League C after their relegation from League B in the previous Nations League edition, with a convincing opening win followed by a disciplined performance against Belarus.

The Eagle-owls began their campaign with a 7-0 away victory over San Marino, giving them an immediate boost to their goal difference. 

They were unable to maintain that scoring rate against Belarus, however, as the teams played out a goalless draw on September 29, with four points from two matches leaving Finland second in Group C1, two behind Albania.

Friis's side have previously competed in League B in three Nations League campaigns, but their relegation last time out means this season presents a different challenge. 

The group provides an opportunity to pursue promotion, although the early standings make Saturday's meeting particularly important if Finland are to catch the leaders.

The hosts have no reported injury or suspension concerns ahead of the match, and Joel Pohjanpalo is expected to lead the attack, with the experienced forward having scored 22 goals in 91 appearances for Finland. 

Topi Keskinen could also feature in an attacking role, while Lukas Hradecky is set to start in goal. 

Albania, meanwhile, have made an equally encouraging start under Maran, taking maximum points from their first two fixtures and keeping clean sheets in both.

The Red and Blacks opened with a 2-0 home victory over Belarus before travelling to San Marino and winning 3-0. 

Those results have put them at the top of the section with six points and a five-goal advantage, leaving them in a strong position ahead of their first meeting with Finland in this Nations League campaign. 

Albania's recent Nations League history has included spells in both League B and League C. They competed in League B in the 2022-23 and 2024-25 editions, but are back in the third tier for this campaign, where promotion will be the immediate objective.

Maran could retain the side that started the 3-0 victory over San Marino, with Rey Manaj expected to lead the line. 

Manaj has scored 12 goals in 47 appearances for his country, while Myrto Uzuni and Anis Mehmeti are also expected to provide attacking support. 

The head-to-head record offers Finland some encouragement, having won four of the seven previous meetings, with Albania claiming two victories and the other match ending in a draw. 

Albania have lost three of the last four encounters, and their most recent win over Finland came in a World Cup qualifying match in September 1980.

Finland vs. Albania form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Finland 1-2 Albania

The Albania win at 3.05 (41/20) is an option for those expecting the visitors to extend their winning start. They have scored five goals without conceding in their first two matches, although Finland's unbeaten record and home advantage make this a challenging assignment.

A 2-1 Albania victory at 8.00 (9/1) is the predicted scoreline, with the visitors' attacking output giving them a route to victory if they can find a way through Finland's defence. 

Over 2.5 goals at 2.28 (32/25) is the main prediction for this fixture, with both teams expected to find the net over three times between them.

Finland vs. Albania — Whispers' Tips

> Both teams to score at 10/11 (1.94) | Likelihood: High

> Over 2.5 goals at 32/25 (2.28) | Likelihood: High

> Match result – Albania win at 41/20 (3.05) | Likelihood: Medium

> Correct score — Finland 1-2 Albania at 24/5 (5.80) | Likelihood: Low

Both teams are eager to bounce back, having each lost their previous match; Wales fell 2-0 away to Denmark, and Norway suffered a 2-1 setback at home to defending champions Portugal.

The Dragons have zero points after two matchdays in League A, Group D, and will look to get their campaign back on track, while Landslaget have three points following their matchday 1 victory over Denmark.

Make sure you do not miss a minute of the action with our live blog below!

Wales vs Norway: What's the story?

Under Craig Bellamy, the Dragons are seeking their first victory of 2026 after a six-game winless streak (D2, L4). They opened their League A campaign with defeats against Portugal and Denmark, putting them firmly at the bottom of the pile, and are now definitely aiming to turn things around at home.

The stumbling block for Wales in their quest to return to winning ways is a lack of luck and sharpness up front. Despite creating a combined five big chances and registering four shots on target in their last two outings in this competition, Bellamy's troops are yet to score a goal.

Norway, meanwhile, enter Cardiff looking dangerous in the final third. Backed by the lethal Erling Haaland and the creative spark of captain Martin Odegaard, Landslaget have not failed to find the net in their last 10 matches and have won three of their last six outings (L3), including the thrilling 3-2 victory over Denmark exactly a week ago.

Although Stale Solbakken’s men lost 2-1 to Portugal last weekend, that encounter could have gone in their favour, as they created six big chances and registered as many as six shots on target; Norway will look to get things right in the attacking third as they bid to tighten their place in the top two.

Interestingly, this will be the first clash between Wales and Norway in 15 years, with their last encounter dating back to a friendly in November 2011, which the Welsh side won 4-1.

However, across 11 all-time historical meetings, this fixture has showcased a close battle, with Norway holding four wins, Wales three, and four skirmishes ending in a draw.

On that note, although Wales were victorious in the last two H2Hs (4-1 in 2011 and 3-0 in 2008), Norway have improved significantly in recent years, and it will be interesting to see which team grabs the headlines when all is said and done tonight.

The 23-year-old has started across all three competitions for Lyon this season and racked up 792 minutes, and his form has alerted a crowded field of suitors ahead of January.

Liverpool kept a 20% sell-on clause in the original deal, which hands them an edge over every rival in the queue.

Tyler Morton to Liverpool rated ‘possible'

The Football Whispers Index scores every transfer rumour across five weighted factors. Read how it works here.

The algorithm weighs five things in turn, how affordable the deal is, how badly the buyer needs the player, whether the player would want the move, whether the seller has reason to let him go, and how credibly the deal is being reported, before adjusting for the clubs chasing him and how far the talks have got.

On this one the money barely moves the needle against Liverpool, since a £26m asking price is loose change at Anfield and they claw a fifth of any fee straight back through their sell-on clause.

What drags the score down is the queue of eight clubs and the simple fact that Liverpool have done nothing beyond watch, which is the single most decisive point here: interest is not a bid, and nobody has made one

Financial viability

Money is the reason this score is not lower, because the price being floated would not stretch Liverpool in the slightest.

A £26m outlay against the kind of revenue Liverpool bank in a season is the sort of deal they could do without selling anyone first, and the 20% sell-on clause effectively shaves a fifth off whatever headline figure a rival would have to pay.

The one thing pulling the other way is the contract, because four years to run means Lyon are under no pressure to accept a cut-price bid and can hold out for their valuation.

Wages are a non-issue when the man at the top of the payroll earns £350,000 a week, so Morton slots in below that ceiling with room to spare.

Buying club need

The pull here is as much administrative as it is footballing, because a homegrown midfielder helps Liverpool fill a 25-man squad list that non-homegrown signings cannot.

That need has sharpened since the summer, with Curtis Jones gone to Inter for £30m and Mac Allister's future the subject of open speculation, leaving the middle of the pitch lighter than it was a year ago.

Morton's age is the other tick, since a 23-year-old with resale value and a decade ahead of him is exactly the profile the club has been recruiting rather than a short-term fix.

What stops this scoring higher is that Gravenberch is the settled man in the deep role, so Morton would be bought to compete and to pad the homegrown count rather than to walk straight into the side.

Player motivation

On prestige alone the move sells itself, since Liverpool and the Champions League sit a clear rung above Lyon and the Europa League.

The catch is minutes, and it is a real one, because Morton has gone from the fringes at Anfield to an undroppable starter in France, and going back would mean surrendering that certainty to fight Gravenberch and company for a place.

This is the heart of why the pillar is middling rather than high, as the model rewards a player gaining guaranteed football, not one trading it away for a bigger badge.

His own view is the missing piece, with nothing on the record from Morton or his representatives, so the reputation he has built, including Joe Hart's Gerrard comparison, is doing the talking for now.

Selling club incentive

Lyon's books are the backdrop to everything here, because a club that only escaped an administrative demotion on appeal is not in a position to wave away a profit.

Morton is precisely the asset that model exists to cash in, bought for around £10m rising to £15m and now carrying a price tag some £11m higher than that, the clean trading margin that keeps a selling club solvent.

Set against that is the timing and the lack of a ready replacement, since prising out your most-relied-upon midfielder in January with no successor lined up is how a season unravels, which is why Lyon are said to want to block any winter move.

The pull between a club that needs money and a club that needs the player is what leaves this pillar high but not maxed, with the financial logic pointing one way and the sporting logic the other.

Market momentum

The reporting is solid without being spectacular, with Graeme Bailey at TEAMtalk breaking Liverpool's renewed interest and Pete O'Rourke at Football Insider backing it days later, which is the kind of independent corroboration the model rewards.

Add Ekrem Konur's £26m price and TuttoJuve's line on Juventus and you have a story carried by several credible voices rather than a single outlet, which is why momentum lands in the middle of its range.

What keeps it from going higher is the nature of what is being reported, because every one of those voices is describing monitoring ahead of January rather than an offer, and a watching brief is not forward motion.

Tyler Morton to Liverpool: Will or won't it happen?

The honest read is that this is a plausible deal waiting on someone to actually start it.

For it to go through, two things probably need to line up in the same window, Lyon deciding their finances matter more than keeping Morton until summer, and Liverpool moving first in a field where seven other English clubs and Juventus are all watching the same player.

What kills it is just as clear, either Lyon holding firm on a player they would rather not sell mid-season, or Liverpool spending their January midfield budget on Adam Wharton, the name that has sat above Morton on their shortlist all along.

Quick Predictions

Score prediction:

Spain 3-0 Czechia

Form:

Spain are unbeaten in 40 games in normal time.

Team news:

Sulc is suspended for Czechia.

Top tip:

Yamal to score first @ 5.00

Spain are aiming to continue their perfect start to the Nations League campaign when they play Czechia at the Estadio Nuevo Carlos Tartiere on Saturday night.

La Roja have won both their opening games so far, and top the group heading into the third round of fixtures.

Meanwhile, Czechia are still searching for their first point after losing both of their matches.

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.

Spain vs. Czechia key stats

• Spain are unbeaten in 40 games in normal time (W30, D10).
• Czechia are winless in seven competitive matches in normal time in 2026 (D3, L4).
• Spain are unbeaten in seven H2Hs (W5, D2).

Spain vs. Czechia preview: La Roja to march on?

After winning the World Cup, Spain have already established themselves as the team to beat in the Nations League.

After beating England, ranked fourth in the world, 3-2 on their own patch, La Roja dismantled Croatia 4-1 to extend their astonishing unbeaten run in normal time.

Luis de la Fuente's side will be expected to continue that against Czechia, and should show no mercy with no fresh concerns in their squad.

Spain will be eager to keep their place at the top of the group, especially if there is a winner between Croatia and England in the other fixture.

Czechia will just be happy to get a point on the board after losing their first two games, both on home soil.

Santi Denia's reign has not got off to the best start, and the Spaniard faces his toughest task yet with his team playing his fellow countrymen and world champions in Oviedo.

The visitors' defeats were narrow though, losing by one goal to Croatia and conceding two to England with 10 men.

Pavel Sulc was the man sent off in that match and is suspended for this one, while Adam Karabec is also an injury doubt.

Spain vs. Czechia form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Spain 3-0 Czechia

Spain are huge 1/11 (1.09) favourites, but while we agree with the bookies, we want to explore other bets.

BTTS – No at 1/2 (1.50) is likely to come through as La Roja assert their dominance, and Lamine Yamal is a player to watch.

Having scored inside just two minutes in his opening two Nations League appearances, Yamal to score first at 4/1 (5.00) is priced quite generously.

Overall, we are predicting Correct score – 3-0 at 21/4 (6.25), as we expect Spain to be comfortable.

Spain vs. Czechia — Whispers' Tips

> BTTS – No at 1.50 | Likelihood: High

> Yamal to score first at 5.00 | Likelihood: Medium

> Correct score – 3-0 at 6.25 | Likelihood: Low

Quick Predictions

Score prediction:

USA 3-1 Mexico

Both teams to score:

Yes

Team news:

Raul Jimenez was left out of the Mexico squad through injury.

Top tip:

USA to win @ 2.19

The United States of America will likely have their Gold Cup final defeat at the back of their minds when they walk out onto State Farm Stadium in Arizona for their friendly date with Mexico on October 4.

Since then, the Stars and Stripes have come a long way under the guidance of experienced head coach Mauricio Pochettino, despite bowing out of their home World Cup in the Round-of-16.

There has been a changing of the guard for Mexico, with Javier Aguirre stepping down as the head coach after England knocked them out at the same stage of the competition, with Rafael Marquez now the man at the helm.

Describing this match as a friendly is a disservice, as these teams are rivals, and given their proximity to each other, this upcoming clash looks set to be a fiery affair.

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.

USA vs Mexico key stats

• The USA have won both their friendly fixtures during this international break.
• Mexico are on a run of three games in all competitions without a win.
• Sebastian Berhalter has scored twice and assisted two goals in his last two matches.

USA vs Mexico preview: Revenge for Gold Cup defeat

Mauricio Pochettino made it clear that he was going to experiment with younger players during this international break, leaving out some veterans like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Folarin Balogun.

Eight of the 28 players in the current squad are aged 21 or younger and are with the USMNT for the first time in their careers, and it seems that the decision has paid off for the Stars and Stripes.

Their two friendlies against Peru and Chile finished with victory for the home side, with Pochettino's troops scoring four goals in each game, encouraging signs for a team that is being heavily rotated.

The hosts have become accustomed to matches that produce a goal feast, as since their opening World Cup game against Paraguay to now, the USA's games have seen 30 goals go in, averaging 3.75 goals per match.

The Yankees have won five of their previous seven matches, with their only defeats coming against Belgium and Turkiye, proving that they are developing into a more difficult team to beat.

The previous five head-to-heads produced two wins apiece for either side, highlighting just how difficult this match and rivalry is.

Mexico will be proud of their display at the World Cup as co-hosts, as they romped through the group stage, winning each of their matches on their way to the Round-of-32, where they clinically swept Ecuador aside before setting up a date with England.

El Tri gave the Three Lions a tough game and never gave up, despite going down 2-0 before the 40-minute mark, they pushed to get back into the game, but were ultimately knocked out with the match finishing 3-2.

New boss Marquez should be slightly concerned that his team could not get over the line in any of their two friendly matches, especially because they conceded first in both games and scored an equaliser, but still they could not find a way to use that momentum to get in front.

While they are on a three-game winless run, you cannot ignore their streak of seven victories on the bounce before that, something Marquez will remind his troops about before they walk out onto the pitch at State Farm Stadium.

The visitors should be confident of hurting their oppponents this weekend, considering the fact that they won the most recent two clashes between the nations.

USA vs Mexico form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: USA 2-1 Mexico

It feels as if Pochettino's team are finally playing according to his vision for the team, and being at home makes them favourites to win here, so backing them at 2.19 odds seems like an opportunity to capitalise on.

The one aspect that the USA need correcting is their defence, as they have conceded 10 goals in their recent five matches, which opens the door for the Mexican side to get some joy too in Arizona, making the BTTS – Yes at 1.73 odds an appropriate pick.

The hosts have put together a unique run of scoring the first goal, something they have accomplished in four of the last five matches, with the only outlier being their defeat to Belgium, in which they still managed to score in the first half, suggesting that the home side will score the first at at 1.84 odds.

USA vs. Mexico — Whispers' Tips

> Both teams to score – Yes at 1.73 | Likelihood: High

> 1×2 – USA at 2.19 | Likelihood: Medium

> USA first to score at 1.84 | Likelihood: High

> Totals – Over 2.5 goals at 1.90 | Likelihood: Medium

Quick Predictions

Score prediction:

Croatia 1-3 England

Form:

England have won their last eight away games.

Team news:

O'Reilly has left the England camp.

Top tip:

Over 3.5 goals @ 2.88

England are aiming for back-to-back Nations League wins when they take on Croatia behind closed doors in Rijeka on Saturday evening.

The Three Lions beat 10-men Czech Republic 2-0 on their travels last time out, giving them three points from their opening two games.

Meanwhile, Croatia were defeated 4-1 in Spain, and also have three points from their first two matches.

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.

Croatia vs. England key stats

• Croatia are unbeaten in nine home games (W8, D1).
• England have won their last eight away matches.
• England have won the previous three H2Hs.

Croatia vs. England preview: Three Lions to take three points?

Slaven Bilic made a positive start to his return to managing Croatia, beating Czech Republic 2-1 away from home.

However, they were humbled by Spain last time out, and face another tough test against England, who beat them 4-2 at the World Cup.

Although they are at home, they are playing behind closed doors after UEFA sanctions from 2025, so may suffer without a home crowd behind them.

Martin Erlic, Josip Juranovic and Josip Stanisic all missed Croatia's defeat to Spain, and so remain doubts for this one.

Nico O'Reilly missed England's win over Czech Republic through injury, and has since returned to Manchester City.

Ezri Konsa also missed the game and so remains a doubt, but Thomas Tuchel still has a strong squad to choose from.

Realistically, the Three Lions must win here to keep the pressure on Spain at the top of the group, and they will fancy their chances given their strong away form.

England (fourth) are ranked nine places above Croatia (13th) in the FIFA World Rankings, so come into this as favourites.

Croatia vs. England form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Croatia 1-3 England

England are favourites with bookies, and given their brilliant away record of late and the fact they are playing behind closed doors, England to win at 10/11 (1.91) appeals as an opening bet.

Over 3.5 goals at 15/8 (2.88) is our next pick, having come through in their World Cup clash and also in matches involving both teams in the Nations League.

Anthony Gordon is in fine form having scored in both Nations League fixtures for England so far, so Gordon to score anytime at 3/1 (4.00) could also be worth backing.

Overall, we are predicting a 3-1 England victory, which is available at 14/1 (15.00).

Croatia vs. England — Whispers' Tips

> England to win at 1.91 | Likelihood: High

> Over 3.5 goals at 2.88 | Likelihood: Medium

> Gordon to score anytime at 4.00 | Likelihood: Medium

The Three Lions beat Czech Republic 2-0 last time out, while Croatia lost 4-1 to Spain.

Both nations rank in the top 12 for Nations League squads ranked by market value, but how do they compare to each other?

FootballWhispers explores who the least and most expensive players are, with all market values taken from Transfermarkt.

Croatia vs. England squads: Market values

Croatia's market value is £373.70m, the 14th-highest in the world and 10th from UEFA.

England's market value is considerably higher at £1.19bn, ranked second-highest in the world only behind France (£1.24bn).

Croatia vs. England squads: Most expensive players

Croatia's most expensive player is Josko Gvardiol (£59.72m), followed by Luka Vuskovic (£51.19m) and Martin Baturina (£46.93m).

England's most expensive player is Jude Bellingham (£136.51m), followed by Bukayo Saka, Morgan Rogers and Elliot Anderson (all £93.85m).

Croatia vs. England squads: Least expensive players

Croatia's least expensive player is Josip Misic (£850k), followed by Ivan Perisic (£1.02m) and Andrej Kramaric (£2.13m).

England's least expensive player is Jason Steele (£427k), followed by Jordan Pickford (£11.09m) and Dominic Calvert-Lewin (£18.77m).

Croatia vs. England squads: Transfer records

Croatia's most expensive transferred player is Gvardiol, who signed for Manchester City from RB Leipzig for £76.79m in 2023/24.

England's most expensive transferred player is Rogers, who signed for Chelsea from Aston Villa for £117.74m in 2026/27.

Quick Predictions

Score prediction:

Argentina 3-0 Burkina Faso

Both teams to score:

No

Team news:

Lionel Messi will not feature in this game.

Top tip:

Argentina over 2.5 goals @ 1.92

The countdown to Lionel Messi's final international match for Argentina is fast approaching, and as much as his fans around the world want time to stand still, the skipper will inevitably bow out of the global football scene, but not before his beloved nation hosts Burkina Faso in a friendly clash on Sunday, October 4.

The Albiceleste made a return to the pitch on Thursday morning for the first time since their World Cup final defeat to Spain in New Jersey, and while it was triumphant, it just meant that there is one more game until a nation must say goodbye to its hero.

Burkina Faso travel to Buenos Aires in good spirits after they remained unbeaten in their two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers during this international break, but visiting the South American nation will prove a tough ask.

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.

Argentina vs. Burkina Faso key stats

• Argentina won 15 of their last 16 matches in all competitions.
• The hosts restricted Bolivia to three shots last time out with none of them being on target.
• Burkina Faso's win against Central Africa on Monday ended a four-game winless streak.

Argentina vs. Burkina Faso preview: Momentum in favour of hosts

Argentina got back to winning ways in their first friendly of the international window against Bolivia, blowing them away 4-0 on the day, the clean sheet thanks to a centre-back pairing of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez.

With the national team heading to the nation's capital for this one, Lionel Scaloni may put his best starting XI forward to treat the home fans, barring one Lionel Messi, who is only due to linke up with his teammates for their final fixture against Benin next week.

The Albiceleste have been incredibly efficient in front of goal against other African opponents, as they scored three goals each against Egypt, Cape Verde and Algeria, all of which came at the World Cup in North America.

Since their first game of that competition, Argentina have scored 23 goals in nine matches, which means they are averaging 2.5 goals per match, an indication that the home side are firing on all cylinders.

Even without their inspirational captain Messi, the home side managed four goals against fellow South Americans Bolivia, after recording 18 shots on the day, six of which were on target with an xG of 2.24.

The visitors have just recently entered into a new era with Amir Abdou taking charge of Burkina Faso since March this year, taking the reins from Brama Traore.

Results have not gone according to plan for the Stallions under the new boss, as he has overseen six matches in total, leading them to victory just twice, while three ended in a draw.

Abdou's clash with Argentina will be his first fixture against a team outside of Africa, and coming up against the former World Champions will be tough for any nation around the world, let alone a side that are ranked 60 places below the hosts.

Burkina Faso have not been prolific in the attacking third recently, scoring just four goals across their last five competitive fixtures, which is an average of 0.8 goals per game.

Argentina vs. Burkina Faso form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Argentina 3-0 Burkina Faso

Argentina should just have too much in the tank for Burkina Faso, who have never faced the South American nation before, and opting to back the hosts to win at 1.20 odds makes sense, but there is not much value in it.

It is worth highlighting that the hosts have scored exactly three goals in five of their recent nine fixtures, which translates to 56% of that run, leading to an interesting betting option of a three-way handicap and backing Argentina to win with a -2 handicap at 2.65 odds.

After keeping a clean sheet last time out, Scaloni's men will be keen to treat the home fans to another shut out, and considering Burkina Faso's average over the last five matches, it is worth exploring the BTTS – No bet at 1.63 odds.

To capitalise on Argentina's brilliance in the attacking areas of the pitch, focusing on their goal count is a good idea, as they scored more than two goals in five of their last seven matches, which makes getting behind the hosts to score over 2.5 goals at 1.92 odds a sensible approach.

Argentina vs. Burkina Faso — Whispers' Tips

> Both teams to score – No at 1.63 | Likelihood: High

> 1×2 – Argentina at 1.20 | Likelihood: High

> Argentina to win with -2 handicap at 2.65 | Likelihood: Medium

> Argentina totals – over 2.5 goals at 1.92 | Likelihood: Medium

Quick Predictions

Score prediction:

Faroe Islands 1-3 Slovakia

Form:

Slovakia are yet to drop points this term, while Faroe Islands are yet to lose or win a game.

H2H:

Slovakia won both their meetings against Faroe Islands during the qualification phase for the 1998 World Cup.

Top tip:

Over 2.5 total goals

The only two remaining unbeaten teams in Group C3 clash as Faroe Islands welcome Slovakia to Tórsvøllur in the third round of UEFA Nations League fixtures on 02 October, Friday.

While Slovakia currently top the group with two wins out of two, Faroe Islands have drawn both their opening matches.

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.

Faroe Islands vs Slovakia key stats

• Faroe Islands are ranked 123rd worldwide.
• The hosts have lost only two of their last 10 matches.
• Slovakia sit 45th in the FIFA World Rankings.
• The visitors have lost six of their last seven trips (L6).

Faroe Islands vs Slovakia preview: Falcons extend gap over the islanders

Faroe Islands have punched above their weight in their opening two matches, drawing against both Kazakhstan and Moldova.

The pair of 1-1 draws means Faroe Islands are undefeated in three successive competitive games, and have lost only two of their last 10.

Eydun Klakstein’s side take it up a notch on home turf, now unbeaten in four consecutive outings, with their only defeat here coming to Croatia in September 2025.

Faroe Islands are without any real injuries or suspension worries, and the same can be said about Slovakia.

The Falcons opened their Nations League account with a 2-0 win over Moldova, before dispatching Kazakhstan 2-1 recently.

With six points already in their coffers, Slovakia are favourite to qualify as group leaders for the promotion playoffs.

Vladimir Weiss can now see his side open up a seven-point lead over Faroe Islands with another victory, although their away form is a cause for concern with only one win in seven away from home.

Faroe Islands vs Slovakia form guide & betting tips

Whispers predicts: Faroe Islands 1-3 Slovakia

According to Bet365, Slovakia to win at 8/13 (1.61) offers value as straightforward favourites.

Given their favourites tag, HT/FT – Slovakia/Slovakia at 17/11 (2.54) is a bet worth backing, with the visitors expected to dominate from the get go.

Slovakia have scored at least twice in each of their last six games. Over 2.5 total goals at 13/10 (2.30) is worth considering as well despite only one of the Faroe Islands’ last eight UNL matches featuring over 2.5 goals.

Faroe Islands vs Slovakia — Whispers' Tips

> Slovakia to win at 8/13 (1.61) | Likelihood: Likely

> Slovakia/Slovakia at 17/11 (2.54) | Likelihood: Probable

> Over 2.5 total goals at 13/10 (2.30) | Likelihood: Very Likely

Until then, speculation ahead of the January transfer window continues to gather pace, so with that in mind, Football Whispers takes a look at the biggest rumours and headlines from today's back pages.

Liverpool leading Kevin Schade race

Liverpool have emerged as strong contenders in the race to sign Brentford winger Kevin Schade ahead of the January transfer window.

According to reports, the Reds are among the leading admirers of the 24-year-old, who has scored three goals in his first five Premier League appearances this season.

Schade is entering the final 18 months of his Brentford contract, and uncertainty over a new deal has alerted a number of top clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham.

Liverpool view the versatile Germany international as a player capable of strengthening multiple attacking positions, with his ability to operate on either wing making him an attractive option for Andoni Iraola's side.

LaLiga giants ready to pounce on Erling Haaland

Manchester City could face a battle to keep hold of Erling Haaland should the striker become available in the future.

Reports suggest both Real Madrid and Barcelona are monitoring the Norway international, who remains one of the most coveted forwards in world football.

The 26-year-old has scored an extraordinary 169 goals in 205 appearances for City, cementing his status as one of Europe's elite attacking talents.

While no move appears imminent, Haaland would be expected to attract significant interest from the continent's biggest clubs if his situation at the Etihad Stadium were to change.

Spurs monitor Konstantinos Tzolakis

Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring Hull City goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis as they assess their long-term options between the posts.

According to reports, Spurs have watched the 23-year-old on multiple occasions following his impressive start to life in the Premier League after joining Hull from Olympiacos in a £20m deal plus add-ons.

Tzolakis has already kept three Premier League clean sheets this season and continues to enhance his reputation at international level with Greece.

While Hull have no intention of selling, Tottenham are understood to be keeping close tabs on the goalkeeper amid growing doubts over the long-term suitability of current No.1 Antonin Kinsky.