Serbia vs England Prediction & Betting Tips (9 September)

As the 2026 World Championship qualifiers heat up, Serbia prepares to host England in Belgrade’s Rajko Mitić Stadium—a venue known for its electric atmosphere and partisan crowd. Serbia, under the steady hand of Dragan Stojković, enter the clash unbeaten in their last six competitive matches. Their recent 3–0 dismantling of Andorra, powered by a hat-trick from captain Aleksandar Mitrović, marked his 100th appearance and reaffirmed his status as the nation’s all-time top scorer. With defensive anchors like Nikola Milenković and midfield enforcer Nemanja Maksimović, Serbia have built a resilient spine that’s difficult to break down, especially on home soil.

England, meanwhile, arrive with a perfect qualifying record but not without blemishes. Since Thomas Tuchel took over following Gareth Southgate’s departure, the Three Lions have shown tactical discipline but struggled for fluency in attack. A narrow win over Albania and a labored performance against Andorra exposed vulnerabilities, particularly in transition. Tuchel’s squad announcement ahead of the Serbia fixture revealed notable absences—Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Jack Grealish, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are all sidelined—forcing a reshuffle that includes fresh faces like Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Djed Spence. Harry Kane remains the focal point up front, supported by Marcus Rashford and Jarrod Bowen.

Historically, England have had the upper hand in this matchup, winning their last encounter 1–0 at Euro 2024 courtesy of a Bellingham header. But Serbia’s recent form and home advantage suggest a more balanced contest this time. The Eagles have not lost a World Cup qualifier since 2017 and are riding a wave of confidence, especially with Mitrović in peak form. England’s defense, led by Jordan Pickford and a rotating back line, will need to be sharp to contain Serbia’s direct and physical style. The midfield battle could prove decisive, with Serbia’s compact pressing likely to test England’s ability to build from the back.

Given the current trajectory of both squads, a 2–1 scoreline in favor of Serbia feels plausible. Mitrović’s clinical finishing and Serbia’s cohesive unit could edge out a depleted England side still searching for rhythm under Tuchel. Expect a tense, high-stakes affair with moments of brilliance and grit. England may find the net through Kane or Rashford, but Serbia’s momentum and home crowd could tip the balance in their favor.