San Marino face Slovenia on Sunday, in a fixture that the visitors have dominated. The two nations have faced six times and the aggregate score currently stands at Slovenia 22-0 San Marino. The most recent meeting in March ended 2-0, with Slovenia registering 76% possession, 25 shots and conceding only 1 shot to the opponent.
San Marino
San Marino is a well known nation within European football communities, but their popularity isn’t a result of their great performances on the field, in fact, it is quite the opposite. Out of the 208 ranked nations by FIFA, the microstate within central Italy is classed as the lowest ranked footballing nation in the world. The small country has never won a competitive fixture and their overall goals scored/conceded is, 28 to 820.
So far in qualification Group H, San Marino have lost every game and their 4-0 defeat versus Denmark on Thursday highlighted the fact that for the majority of their matches, the players are just chasing shadows and waiting for the full-time whistle.
Slovenia
Slovenia are a nation that have impressed so far in qualifying, accumulating 10 points from 5 games which is the same as group favourites Denmark, who they actually drew 1-1 against back in June. Matjaz Kek’s side claimed another three points on Thursday as they defeated Northern Ireland 4-2, putting them one step closer to their dream of competing in the European Championship.
Slovenia’s squad has plenty of talent but their standout players feature at opposite ends of the field. Captain and Atletico Madrid goalkeeper, Jan Oblak, will be preparing for a very quiet night in between the sticks. Whereas the deadly strike duo of Andraz Sporar and exciting prospect Benjamin Sesko, will be licking their lips at the prospect of playing against San Marino.
Verdict?
Unless a miracle occurs, Slovenia should comfortably defeat San Marino and it would be a surprise if the host nation even put up much of a fight. The game may be competitive for the first twenty minutes or so, however once the first goal goes in, the fixture should adopt a friendly like atmosphere. Slovenia will also be desperate to increase their goal difference and Sunday’s game provides the perfect opportunity.
The final prediction is San Marino 0-3 Slovenia.
