The two nations will clash on Friday, March 27, kicking off at 06:45 AEDT. Alongside this game, another between Türkiye and Romania will also be taking place, with the victors of both playing each other in the final playoff game to seal their place on the plane.

Quick Picks

Our pick: Slovakia to win

Value bet: 'Over 2.5 goals'

Long shot: BTTS to hit

Betting Preview

Since being separated from Czechoslovakia, Slovakia have managed to reach just one FIFA World Cup Finals, back in 2010, reaching the quarter-finals in South Africa. They won their qualification group that year, and almost did the same this time around.

They finished second in Group A, just three points behind winners Germany. They won four of their six games (2L), which included winning each of their three home contests. This included a 1-0 victory over Germany. It was more impressive given that they only managed to score six goals across the campaign, conceding eight.

Kosovo will be aiming to make their first FIFA World Cup Finals, and had an impressive qualifying campaign. The small nation managed to finish second in Group B, amassing 11 points from six games (3W, 2D, 1L), finishing three points behind Switzerland.

Two of their wins were on the road, as they defeated Sweden (1-0) and Slovenia (2-0). The other away game was a 4-0 defeat to the Swiss.

They also weren't big scorers, as they only managed six, but kept goals being conceded to just five.

This will be the first meeting between the two nations, adding further intrigue to the betting for punters. For those new to international tournament wagering, our guide to the 2026 tournament covers everything you need to know.

Betting Markets to Watch

Slovakia are considered the early favourites in the betting, with their positive home form likely guiding the prices that have been set. Indeed, they boast a 100% record in qualifying, but Kosovo did win 66.6% of their away matches. Still, there's arguably value in the moneyline based on the home record.

In terms of other markets, the 'Over 2.5 Goals' bet offers value, despite both teams averaging just one goal per game during qualifying. There were occasions where both managed to score multiple times in games, and with it being a one-game shootout, the balance suggests that there could be 3+ on the day. You can combine these selections by placing a same game multi.

We also think the BTTS to hit is worth value, especially as the odds suggest it won't. Both teams have tight defences, but both have shown vulnerability at times. David Strelec, Ivan Schranz, Vedat Muriqi, and Fisnik Asllani all have the ability to find the net on occasion.

Our Prediction

Check the latest Slovakia vs Kosovo betting odds at Sportsbet.

We think that the most likely outcome is for Slovakia to win this game. We also think that it is likely that the 'Over 2.5 goals' market will hit, as will the BTTS, due to the stakes that this game involves.

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