Introduction
The Euro Championship Qualification stage presents an intriguing match-up as Moldova prepares to face Albania on November 17, 2023. The fixture is scheduled to take place at the Stadionul Zimbru in Chişinău, where both teams will be vying for crucial points in their respective journeys towards the coveted European competition.
Match analysis
When dissecting the teams' recent matches, Moldova has shown a resilient streak. Their last 10 games exhibit a mixed form with three wins, three draws, and four losses. Notably, they have managed to secure a draw against a strong Polish side and a victory over the Faroe Islands. Moldova's tendency to find the back of the net in recent outings is apparent but keeping a clean sheet appears to be a vulnerability.
On the other hand, Albania boasts a significantly stronger recent record, with seven wins, two draws, and only one loss in their last 10 games. They've demonstrated both offensive prowess and defensive solidity, which is echoed in their current standing as group leaders. Their recent triumph over Bulgaria and decisive 3-0 victory against the Czech Republic stand out as testaments to their well-oiled team dynamics and goal-scoring capabilities.
Recent form
Moldova's recent form indicates they have the capacity to upset higher-ranked teams, with a noteworthy 30% win rate in their last 10 games. Yet, consistency is an issue, with a goal-scoring average of 0.8 goals per game, coupled with the concern of conceding at critical moments.
Albania's recent form is impressive, with a 70% win rate in their last 10 games. They've been scoring an average of 1.6 goals per match while maintaining defensive rigour by conceding less frequently. Their cohesive gameplay has undoubtedly been effective in their qualification campaign thus far.
Head to head
- Albania has a clear advantage in recent head-to-head encounters with Moldova.
- Albania won the last three meetings, with Moldova failing to score in all three.
- The last meeting at Stadionul Zimbru ended with a 4-0 victory for Albania.
Albania holds a significant edge in head-to-head clashes:
- Albania wins: 100%
- Draws: 0%
- Moldova wins: 0%
Prediction
Considering Moldova's home advantage, there might be an inclination to believe in their potential to cause an upset. However, Albania's current form is superior, and their performances against Moldova historically have been dominant.
For the betting tip, the safe option would be to back Albania to win, given their unblemished record against Moldova and their stronger showings in recent matches. An Asian Handicap in favour of Albania could also offer value, reflecting the expected disparity in performance levels.
In terms of goal predictions, it would be reasonable to consider an 'Under 2.5 goals' bet as although Albania is likely to win, Moldova has shown they can be tough to break down at times, especially at home. Moreover, conceding goals has been the Achilles heel for Moldova, so a 'Both teams to score - No' bet may also present a good option.
Full-time Prediction: Moldova 0-2 Albania
Betting Tip: Albania to win, Asia Handicap (-1) for Albania, Under 2.5 goals, Both teams to score - No
