Sweden Set for UEFA Nations League Clash Against Azerbaijan

Sweden are gearing up to face Azerbaijan in a UEFA Nations League clash at the Friends Arena in Solna on Tuesday. The fixture, scheduled for November 19 at 7:45 pm UK time, sees Sweden reveling in their successful campaign, having already secured promotion to League B.

Sweden, under the management of Jon Dahl Tomasson, enter the match in high spirits after overcoming Slovakia 2-1 to confirm their ascent from League C. The team’s potent attacking duo, Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres, have been instrumental, with Isak poised as one of the league’s top scorers.

In contrast, Azerbaijan, led by veteran coach Fernando Santos, are facing difficulties in the competition. The team languishes at the bottom of the League C group standings, with one point from five games. This precarious position places them at risk of relegation to League D, the lowest tier of European competition.

The Swedish side is expected to make several changes, partly due to injuries, such as the absence of a Manchester United defender. This has allowed Tomasson the opportunity to rotate his squad, potentially bringing new faces such as the Darmstadt striker to capitalize on the final group game before turning their focus to World Cup qualifying next year.

Azerbaijan’s squad has also been hit by setbacks, with key players withdrawing due to injuries. Striker Mahir Emreli, suspended previously, is now available and may replace Qarabag‘s Sheydayev upfront. Additionally, goalkeeper Shakhrudin Magomedaliyev, who recently kept a clean sheet against Estonia, may continue between the sticks.

The nations have met multiple times in recent years, with Sweden generally dominating the encounters. The last match in September ended in a 3-1 victory for Sweden in Baku, with goals from Isak and Gyökeres solidifying their triumph.

Meanwhile, Azerbaijan will be fighting against the odds to avoid demotion, hoping to reverse their fortunes with an unexpected victory in Solna.