UEFA Qualification Bet Preview – October 12 | Latvia vs Armenia bet preview | Spain vs Scotland bet preview | Croatia vs Turkey bet preview

Our UEFA Qualification bet preview takes a look at the first set of matches set to kickoff on Thursday. With eight matches on the agenda, our football experts will give expert European qualifying bet predictions based on analysis and insights from years of professional handicapping.

Latvia vs Armenia Bet Preview

Last month’s double losses have left the Latvians trailing in the group, but their upcoming opponents are still eyeing a spot in Germany’s big event.

The unexpected journey to Euro 2004 feels distant for Latvia, who’ve faced 10 defeats in their recent 12 home games for the Euro qualifiers, especially after the September letdown.

A loss against Wales and a crushing 5-0 defeat in Croatia were stark contrasts to Latvia’s earlier performances, where they nearly clinched points multiple times.

In June, Latvia was on the brink of securing a draw twice – first against this week’s contenders after a last-minute penalty in Armenia, then a narrow 3-2 loss to Turkey even after equalizing at the 94th minute with captain Kristers Tobers’ goal.

After a commendable UEFA Nations League run, Latvia, under coach Dainis Kazakevics, is racing against time with only three games left for a redeeming win in Euro 2024 qualifiers. They’re aiming to bridge the seven-point gap with the team above them, which is their best-case scenario now.

Neck and neck with Wales, Armenia is just a stone’s throw from Latvia in the league, and is merely three points away from Group D’s leaders.

With an aim to make their debut in a major championship, Armenia is still a strong contender with three games left. But they’re closely trailed by top picks Croatia, who have an extra match up their sleeve.

As we approach the final month, ex-Ukraine coach Oleksandr Petrakov seeks to build on previous victories, like the summer triumph over Wales, and to keep up with the second-placed Turkey.

Claiming the top two positions in the league ensures a direct pass to Germany, and Armenia’s 1-1 draw against Turkey in September – where they almost emerged victoriously if not for Turkey’s late equalizer – keeps their aspirations burning.

With the support of the global Armenian community, Petrakov has blended talents like Argentina natives Lucas Zelarayan and Norberto Briasco. Despite a 1-0 setback against Croatia recently, Armenia is poised to set new benchmarks for their football legacy.

Latvia vs Armenia Team News

Not only are Latvia lagging behind in Group D, they are also set to be without several important players this week, most notably former Rakow Czestochowa striker Vladislavs Gutkovskis, who played a pivotal part in winning the Polish title last season and scored eight times across the most recent World Cup qualifiers and Nations League campaign.

Left-back Raivis Jurkovskis is also out injured, while captain Kristers Tobers must serve a suspension. Furthermore, key defender Antonijs Cernomordijs may not be fit until Sunday’s game against Turkey.

More positively, midfield duo Oskars Vientiess and Bogdans Samoilovs have been selected by Dainis Kazakevics for the first time – the latter leads Latvia’s Virsliga in assists (10) this season.

Meanwhile, Armenia have dropped Koln striker Sargis Adamyan due to a lack of first-team action in the Bundesliga, but Russia-born Edgar Sevikyan earns a first senior call-up and will compete with Grant-Leon Ranos – who bagged a brace in June’s win over Wales – for selection up front.

Among many players born abroad, Ranos joins Sweden-born defender Andre Calisir and defensive midfielder Ugochukwu Iwu – originally from Nigeria – in the visitors’ squad.

Slovan Bratislava winger Tigran Barseghyan is the Armenians’ leading active scorer with nine goals, including the late winner when they last met Latvia, four months ago.

Latvia potential starting XI:
Ozols; Savalnieks, Oss, Dubra, Sorokins; Jaunzems, Emsis, Saveljevs, J. Ikaunieks; Uldrikis, Krollis

Armenia potential starting XI:
Cancarevic; Calisir, Harutyunyan, Mkrtchyan; Dashyan, Iwu, Spertsyan, Tiknizyan; Zelarayan, Barseghyan; Ranos

Latvia vs Armenia Prediction

Latvia 0 – Armenia 1

September’s qualifiers left Latvia scoreless and point-less, underscoring the uphill battle they face at Skonto Stadions this Thursday. With Armenia heading to Riga, driven by the ambition of clinching a top-two spot in Group D, the odds favor the visitors walking away with a victory as 1.8 favourites.

Latvia vs Armenia Best Bet

While the away side look tempting as favourites, we love the under 2.5 goals at 1.75 here. Latvia hasn’t been able to find the back of the net, while Armenia has seen both of its last games end at two and one goals, respectively.

Spain vs Scotland Bet Preview

Spain and Scotland are set to face off in a crucial Euro 2024 qualifier match in Seville. Their last encounter ended in a surprising 2-0 win for Scotland, catching Spain off-guard. Since that unexpected defeat, Spain has made a strong comeback. They clinched the UEFA Nations League trophy and secured impressive wins against teams like Italy, Croatia, Georgia, and Cyprus. Captain Alvaro Morata’s hat-trick in the 7-1 victory over Georgia was a highlight.

Under the leadership of Coach Luis de la Fuente, Spain has shown resilience and determination. They’ve sent a clear message to their rivals: they’re back in form and hungry for more wins.

On the other side, Scotland, guided by Steve Clarke, has been exceptional. Their recent performances, especially the dramatic win against Norway and their victories over Georgia and Cyprus, show they’re a team in top form. Ranked 31st globally, Scotland is proving they’re a force to reckon with.

Spain, ranked 10th in the world, has an impressive home record in Euro qualifiers. Their last home match against Scotland in 2011 ended in a 3-1 win for Spain. But this time, Scotland comes with the confidence of their recent win against Spain and a string of good performances.

Spain vs Scotland Team News

Luis de la Fuente’s squad for the upcoming matches stays mostly the same as September’s selection. Notably, Cesar Azpilicueta, Jose Gaya, and Alex Baena didn’t make the cut. Lamine Yamal also withdrew because of a leg injury.

Yeremi Pino returned to Villarreal after a hamstring injury. Stepping in for the injured players are Ansu Fati and rising star, Bryan Zaragoza. Despite these changes, de la Fuente still has many of his key players.

Goalkeeper Unai Simon is set to start. The team is likely to play in a 4-3-3 formation. Defensively, Robin Le Normand and Aymeric Laporte are expected in the center, with Dani Carvajal and Alejandro Balde as full-backs.

Midfield will feature Rodri, joined by Mikel Merino and Gavi. Up front, Alvaro Morata will lead, supported by Ferran Torres and Nico Williams on the wings.

Steve Clarke, like the Spain coach, made only slight modifications to his team for the upcoming international matches. The team will miss Kieran Tierney, sidelined due to a hamstring issue.

Ryan Jack and Kevin Nisbet also stepped back from the squad due to health concerns. Notably, Clarke hasn’t added any replacements for them.

In goal, Angus Gunn is the anticipated choice. The team is set to adopt a 3-4-2-1 setup. The defense is expected to comprise Ryan Porteous, Jack Hendry, and Liam Cooper. Their strategy would be to block pathways and challenge Spain’s forwards.

Billy Gilmour and Callum McGregor are poised to dominate the midfield. They’ll focus on maintaining solid central control while setting up swift counter-moves.

Wingbacks, Aaron Hickey and Andrew Robertson, are expected to widen the play in attack. This would complement the compactness of the two offensive midfielders. Scott McTominay and John McGinn will likely adopt forward roles, with Che Adams leading the offensive charge against Spain.

Spain potential starting XI:
Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Balde; Merino, Rodri, Gavi; Torres, Morata, N. Williams

Scotland potential starting XI:
Gunn; Porteous, Hendry, Cooper; Hickey, Gilmour, McGregor, Robertson; McTominay, McGinn; Adams

Spain vs Scotland Prediction

Spain 1 – Scotland 1

Scotland have been on a tear in the European qualifications and despite traveling to Spain, they should be able to trouble the home team yet again. The front three of Morata, Torres and Williams may have issues creating meaninful goal chances, while the visitors should be able to find the goal.

Spain vs Scotland Best Bet

We live Scott McTominay 2+ shots on goal at 2.38 odds. McTominay caused lots of issues in the Spanish defense last match, scoring two goals. We once again see him being a large part of the Scottish offense in the game and taking two shots (not on target) seems to be the best bet.

Croatia vs Turkey Bet Preview

Croatia and Turkey are set to clash in Osijek. Both stand equally with 10 points, but Croatia holds a slight edge with an additional game and a victory against Turkey in their previous encounter.

Under Zlatko Dalic, Croatia remains undefeated in Group D, targeting their sixth consecutive Euros. Their 2018 World Cup finals appearance and recent participation in the Nations League finals showcases their prowess. With stars like Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic nearing their career end, Croatia is gearing up for a standout performance in the upcoming Euro in Germany. In the previous face-off, Croatia’s Mateo Kovacic shone with two goals, but Turkey, with their resilient spirit, cannot be underestimated.

In Group D, Armenia and Wales, both with seven points, loom as potential threats. A misstep by either Croatia or Turkey could open doors for these teams. Croatia’s upcoming matches are crucial. They’ll confront Wales, followed by games against Latvia and Armenia in November. But the immediate focus is on Turkey, a team they’ve historically drawn with at home.

Turkey’s new coach, Montella, steps into the spotlight with the task of revitalizing a team that’s seen recent underperformance on the international stage. Despite having immense talent, Turkey’s recent track record has been patchy. They’re driven by the ambition to reclaim their stature in European football, particularly remembering their strong 2008 European Championship run.

The upcoming match promises intensity. Croatia’s commendable home record in European qualifiers adds another layer of intrigue. For fans globally, this is more than a game; it’s about pride, history, and a bright footballing future.

Croatia vs Turkey Team News

Captain Luka Modric leads Croatia’s experienced team as always headed into this round of qualifying matches. But they’ll be without Ivan Perisic due to an injury from his time at Tottenham Hotspur. Luka Ivanusec, who scored against Latvia, is also injured. So, Josip Brekalo might start the game.

Defender Josko Gvardiol risks missing the next match against Wales if he gets a yellow card. Even though Zlatko Dalic left out Marin Pongracic and Duje Caleta-Car, there are backup options.

For Turkey, Merih Demiral is suspended, so Caglar Soyuncu might team up with Kaan Ayhan in defense. Real Madrid’s Arda Guler is injured, and Cengiz Under isn’t playing. This makes Galatasaray’s Kerem Akturkoglu a key player. Juventus’s newcomer, Kenan Yildiz, is in the squad but might not play.

Hakan Calhanoglu will captain Turkey from midfield. Goalkeepers Altay Bayindir from Manchester United and Trabzonspor’s Ugurcan Cakir are both options for the starting spot.

Croatia potential starting XI:
Livakovic; Juranovic, Vida, Gvardiol, Sosa; Modric, Brozovic, Kovacic; Kramaric, Petkovic, Brekalo

Turkey potential starting XI:
Cakir; Celik, Ayhan, Soyuncu, Ozkacar; Yuksek; Kahveci, Kokcu, Calhanoglu, Akturkoglu; Yilmaz

Croatia vs Turkey Prediction

Croatia 2 – Turkey 0

Both teams have a lot to play for with a spot at the top of the table hanging in the balance. With the more experienced and talented team, plus the home field advantage, Croatia should be able to win this as 1.6 favourites.

Croatia vs Turkey Best Bet

Our best bet for the Croatia vs Turkey match is over 8.5 corners at 1.8 odds. In the last match these teams played, Turkey alone had 9 corners while they pressed after being down two goals. With this match expected to see Croatia jump out in front once again, we should see plenty of corners as Turkey continues to work inwards from the wings.