Cyprus go in search of a second successive Group C2 victory when they host struggling Latvia in the UEFA Nations League (UNL).
Match News and Current Form
After picking up one point from their opening two games (D1, L1), Cyprus finally registered their first UNL victory of this cycle by beating Armenia 2-0 on Friday. Prior to that, the island nation had registered just two competitive successes in 11 attempts (D3, L6), and both of those came against lowly-ranked San Marino! They will now attempt to land back-to-back wins in this competition for the first time ever to boost their hopes of finally getting out of League C, and fans have every reason to expect a positive result too, as Akis Mantzios’s side have lost just one of their last six competitive home outings (W3, D2).
Latvia head into this round bottom of the group after a 2-1 home defeat to Montenegro last time out. That result means they've managed just two wins across their last 16 internationals (D5, L9), slumping to their lowest position in the FIFA world rankings since 2020 as a result. The only victories during that period came in a UNL relegation play-off against Gibraltar, meaning the pressure is now piling up on head coach Paolo Nicolato to bring about some improvement, although just two away successes outside of the Baltic Cup over the last four years (D4, L12), conceding at least twice in nine of those defeats, hardly hints that things are likely to change here.
Head-to-Head History
These two teams drew 0-0 earlier in this international break, extending Cyprus’ unbeaten run across the four all-time H2Hs (W2, D2).
Hot Stats and Streaks
Cyprus haven't scored a first-half goal in their last six matches.
Six of Cyprus’ last eight UNL outings have featured over 2.5 goals.
Latvia haven't scored a first-half goal in their last seven internationals.
Latvia’s total of three shots on target is among the lowest in the UNL this term.
Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Cyprus’ Andronikos Kakoullis is never far away from the drama, scoring twice and picking up four bookings across his last seven internationals, with each caution coming after half-time. Goalkeeper Rihards Matrevics has made 2+ saves in each of his three UNL appearances for Latvia this term, keeping one clean sheet in the process.
Kostas Pileas will be missing for Cyprus after his red card in the Armenia win, while Latvia’s Roberts Savaļnieks limped off against Montenegro on Friday.
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Betting Analysis
This is a tough match to call, but some value might be found in backing Cyprus to win as they look to continue a strong run at home against a side that struggle on their travels.
Author: Matt Jones