England vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Predictions

England vs Bosnia-Herzegovina predictions for this international friendly fixture. In their first of two pre-Euro 2024 warm-up friendlies, England host Bosnia-Herzegovina at St James’ Park on Monday evening. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.

Friendlies | Jun 3, 2024 at 7:45pm UK at St. James’ Park

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England vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Predictions

England vs Bosnia-Herzegovina: Tactical Insights and Key Predictions for the Friendly

In their first of two pre-Euro 2024 warm-up friendlies, England will face Bosnia-Herzegovina at St James’ Park on Monday evening. This match is crucial for Gareth Southgate’s squad as they prepare for their bid for international glory in Germany this summer. Meanwhile, Bosnia-Herzegovina will not be part of Euro 2024, and their focus is on rebuilding for future competitions.

Match Preview

England are under immense pressure as they attempt to emulate their female counterparts and end a 58-year drought since their last major international trophy. After suffering penalty shoot-out heartbreak against Italy in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley, the Three Lions are determined to go all the way this time. England navigated their Euro 2024 qualifying group without a single defeat, setting up matches against Serbia, Slovenia, and Denmark in the group stage.

The upcoming friendlies against Bosnia and Iceland will provide England with a chance to finalise their preparations and secure a morale-boosting win before heading to Germany. Their March friendlies were disappointing, with a loss to Brazil and a draw against Belgium, highlighting the need for a strong performance.

Bosnia-Herzegovina, on the other hand, failed to capitalise on their playoff opportunity, finishing second-from-bottom in their qualifying group. Despite a decent showing in the Nations League, their Euro hopes were dashed by a late comeback from Ukraine. This match against England marks the beginning of a new era under coach Sergej Barbarez, who aims to rejuvenate the team after a string of poor results.

Team News

England will be without key players like Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Kyle Walker due to their commitments in the Champions League and FA Cup finals. Additionally, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, and Bukayo Saka are sidelined with injuries. These absences will allow fringe players like Marc Guehi, Lewis Dunk, Eberechi Eze, and Adam Wharton to make their case for inclusion in the final Euro 2024 squad.

Bosnia-Herzegovina’s squad includes several uncapped players, but they retain experienced figures like captain Edin Dzeko. However, they will miss the services of Sead Kolasinac and Ermin Bicakcic due to injuries, weakening their defensive lineup.

Expected Lineups

England: Pickford; Konsa, Dunk, Guehi, Trippier; Alexander-Arnold, Rice, Gallagher; Palmer, Watkins, Eze

Bosnia-Herzegovina: Vasilj; Ahmedhodzic, Hadzikadunic, Mujakic; Gazibegovic, Krunic, Tahirovic, Omerovic; Hajradinovic; Demirovic, Dzeko

Analysis and Predictions

England are expected to dominate this match, leveraging their superior squad depth and quality. The midfield battle will be pivotal, with England likely to control possession through players like Declan Rice and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will look to dictate the tempo and create scoring opportunities.

Key Player Duels

1. Trent Alexander-Arnold vs. Rade Krunic: Alexander-Arnold’s creativity and passing range will be crucial for England, while Krunic needs to provide stability and distribution for Bosnia.
2. Ollie Watkins vs. Anel Ahmedhodzic: Watkins’ pace and goal-scoring ability will test Bosnia’s defence, with Ahmedhodzic tasked with keeping him in check.

Gameplay Strategy

England will adopt a high-pressing game, looking to exploit any defensive lapses from Bosnia. Their aim will be to secure an early lead, allowing them to manage the game effectively. Bosnia, on the other hand, will likely adopt a more defensive approach, aiming to counter-attack when opportunities arise. Set-pieces could be a significant area of focus for both teams, given Bosnia’s physical presence and England’s attacking prowess.

Strengths and Weaknesses

England’s Strengths:

• Midfield Dominance: With players like Rice and Alexander-Arnold, England will look to control the game from midfield.
• Defensive Solidity: Despite injuries, England’s backline remains robust, with capable replacements ready to step up.

England’s Weaknesses:

• Injury Concerns: The absence of key players could disrupt team cohesion.
• Pressure to Perform: The high expectations could weigh heavily on the players, potentially affecting their performance.

Bosnia-Herzegovina’s Strengths:

• Experience Upfront: Edin Dzeko’s experience and goal-scoring ability are invaluable.
• Set-Piece Threat: Bosnia’s aerial prowess can be dangerous in set-piece situations.

Bosnia-Herzegovina’s Weaknesses:

• Defensive Frailties: Frequent goals conceded highlight their defensive vulnerabilities.
• Lack of Depth: Missing key players exposes their lack of quality replacements.

Managerial Analysis

Gareth Southgate (England): Southgate has faced criticism for his conservative tactics, but his focus on youth development and squad cohesion remains crucial. His ability to integrate new players will be tested in these friendlies.

Sergej Barbarez (Bosnia-Herzegovina): Barbarez’s task is challenging, with a need to rebuild and develop a competitive squad. His tactical acumen and ability to inspire his team will be critical.

Expected Goals Averages

England have averaged 2.8 goals per game in their recent qualifiers, showcasing their attacking capabilities. In contrast, Bosnia have conceded an average of 2 goals per game, indicating defensive issues. This suggests England will have ample opportunities to score.

Betting Angles and Predictions

Best Bet: England -2 to Win

Given England’s superior quality and Bosnia’s defensive frailties, a wager on England to win with a -2 handicap is a prudent choice. The Three Lions have demonstrated their attacking prowess throughout the Euro 2024 qualifiers, averaging 2.8 goals per game and displaying a solid defensive unit with several clean sheets.

Bosnia-Herzegovina, conversely, have struggled defensively, conceding an average of 2 goals per game in their qualifiers. With England’s fringe players keen to impress and secure their spots for the Euros, this match is likely to see England dominate proceedings. The -2 handicap bet accounts for England’s expected superiority and Bosnia’s recent form, making it a strong and logical prediction.

Correct Score Prediction: England 3-0 Bosnia-Herzegovina

A 3-0 scoreline for England reflects their offensive capabilities and Bosnia’s defensive vulnerabilities. England have averaged nearly 3 goals per game in recent qualifiers and friendlies, showcasing their ability to break down defences efficiently. Bosnia’s recent form, including a string of heavy defeats, suggests they will struggle to contain England’s attacking threats.

The absence of key defensive players for Bosnia further weakens their backline, making them susceptible to England’s high-tempo attacking style. Given these factors, a 3-0 win for England aligns well with the expected flow of the game and England’s need for a strong performance to build confidence ahead of the Euros.

Goalscorer Prediction: Ollie Watkins to Score Anytime

With Harry Kane likely to be rested, Ollie Watkins is expected to lead the line for England. Watkins has been in impressive form domestically, showcasing his pace, positioning, and finishing skills. His recent performances have demonstrated his ability to find the net against various defences, making him a prime candidate to score in this match.

Bosnia’s defensive record, which includes conceding an average of 2 goals per game, indicates that they are vulnerable to fast, incisive forwards like Watkins. Therefore, predicting Watkins to score anytime during the match is a sound bet, considering his form and the defensive weaknesses of the Bosnian side.

Team to Score First: England

England are expected to take the initiative from the outset, given their superior squad and tactical approach. With a strong midfield capable of controlling possession and creating chances, England are likely to press Bosnia early on.

Bosnia’s tendency to concede early goals, as seen in their recent matches, supports this prediction. England’s attacking players, including the likes of Watkins, Eze, and Palmer, are well-equipped to capitalise on any defensive lapses. Given these considerations, England scoring the first goal seems highly probable, reflecting their dominance and attacking intent.

Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target Over 6.5

Considering England’s offensive style and Bosnia’s defensive shortcomings, betting on England to have over 6.5 shots on target is an innovative and realistic market. England have averaged 5.6 shots on target per game in their recent qualifiers, and with Bosnia’s defensive issues, this number is likely to increase.

The fringe players in the England squad will be eager to make an impression, leading to a high volume of attempts on goal. Bosnia’s defensive structure, weakened by the absence of key players, is expected to face significant pressure from England’s attack, resulting in numerous shooting opportunities. Therefore, predicting England to register over 6.5 shots on target offers a compelling betting angle, supported by statistical trends and the match context.

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