Well, I wouldn’t write too much about reasons for us. Big gap in quality and home soil. That should be more than enough for Estonians.
Against… First, Serbia have new national team coach, Vladimir Petrovic, last year Crvena Zvezda’s. Under him, we (Zvezda) were playing the ugliest football that I (we) have ever seen. He invited formation with 3 defensive midfielders all together in the team! Defensive football with main target not to concede. More shocking, that was from one of two best clubs in the country who used to play against very defensive sides. I’m really afraid he’ll try the same in national team. He announced we’ll play with just one striker, Zigic, who is out of Birmingham team and out of shape. Wingers, Krasic (in a great shape at Juve) and Jovanovic (same as Zigic), and again 3 central midfielders. Stankovic is sure, for other 2 spots we have 3 players, Kacar, Kuzmanovic and Ninkovic. None of them is natural attacking midfielder (Kacar can play it though). For me, it looks like too much caution for Estonia that could lead to problems (we can’t score and become nervous, problems). Ex coach, Radomir Antic, announced yesterday he’ll suit Serbian football association for 2 mill euros for cancelling his contract. Very nice timing from him.
Goalkeeper Stojkovic, before few seasons Crvena Zvezda’s captain, made a shocking move and signed for big rivals – Partizan. Death threats to him are common things these days in Serbia. His appearance will certainly split the crowds which usually has bad impact on all players. Moving the game on Partizan’s stadium helps, however.
I would never bet against my own team and hope I’m wrong, but if I’m a foreigner I’d see X2 @ 5.00 (Bwin) as a nice little gamble. Under at 2.63 (888sport) also looks tempting and maybe I’ll take it hoping for 1-0, 2-0 win.
Some English pick(s) will come tonight or tomorrow.
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