England v Slovenia Predictions, Betting Tips and Previews

Wembley Stadium - World Cup Qualifying Group F

England welcome Slovenia to Wembley on Thursday evening, with the Three Lions needing a win to guarantee them a place at next summer’s World Cup. The hosts have a commanding lead in Group F, and securing their spot in Russia should be a formality.

Past Meetings

Slovenia won’t be a pushover though after holding Gareth Southgate’s side to a draw earlier in the campaign. That game in Ljubljana ended goalless in Southgate’s second match in charge, although it was the only time England have failed to beat Slovenia in the five meetings between the two countries.

Team News

After the drama surrounding his single-finger salute to Kyle Walker, Dele Alli ended up receiving a one-match ban from FIFA. His absence could mean Raheem Sterling regains his place in the starting lineup after being dropped for England’s last outing.

With five goals in seven Eredivisie games for Vitesse so far this season, Tim Matavz will pose a goal threat to the Three Lions’ backline. And after scoring three in his last three games for Slovenia, Josip Ilicic could be one to watch too.

England v Slovenia Preview and Predictions

England all but secured qualification for the 2018 World Cup with their comeback victory against Slovakia last time out. Now they just need to finish off the job on Thursday. Slovenia are still very much in the mix for a playoff place though, so they’re sure to give everything they can in this Wembley clash.

It promises to be a test of nerve for Southgate’s young and inexperienced side. The Three Lions should take confidence from having one of the most in-form strikers in European football leading the line though. Harry Kane helped himself to 13 goals in September, and is hungry to keep hold of the England captaincy. With the pace of Sterling, Marcus Rashford and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain around him, there should be more than enough to see off the visitors.

Slovenia have a puncher’s chance if they can keep England at bay, although they need a favour from Scotland who host Slovakia on Thursday. Srecko Katanec’s side then play the Scots in their final game which could turn out to be an all or nothing affair.

For this one though, England start as huge favourites at 3/10 for the win. Slovenia are available as long as 10/1, while the draw’s priced at 4/1.

Recommended Bets

Harry Kane to score and England to win at evens

Improve your odds on a home win with a bet that looks as certain as they come based on current form.

England to win both halves at 21/10

Back the hosts to make sure of their World Cup qualification with a dominant performance throughout on Thursday.