Slovenia welcome Cyprus to Stadion Stožice in Ljubljana for an international friendly as both nations begin preparations for their upcoming UEFA Nations League campaigns. With home advantage, superior squad quality, and stronger recent performances, Slovenia will be aiming to build momentum before facing Croatia later this week.

Slovenia vs Cyprus Match Preview

Match News and Current Form

Slovenia enter this fixture looking to continue the positive start made under new head coach Boštjan Cesar. After missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Slovenians are focused on rebuilding ahead of the Nations League.

Cesar’s reign began with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Hungary, but his side responded impressively by securing a 3-2 victory over Montenegro. Swansea City striker Žan Vipotnik stole the headlines with a brace, highlighting the attacking quality still available despite the absence of star forward Benjamin Šeško.

Playing at home should further boost Slovenia’s confidence. Ranked significantly higher than their opponents and possessing greater experience at international level, they will be expected to dominate proceedings.

Cyprus, meanwhile, continue their rebuilding process under Akis Mantzios after another disappointing qualification campaign. The visitors finished well short of the playoff places and have managed just three victories from their last 12 matches.

While wins over Moldova and San Marino offered some encouragement, Cyprus have struggled against stronger opposition and remain one of the lower-ranked teams in Europe. Their focus is now on preparing for a Nations League campaign that includes Armenia, Latvia, and Montenegro.

Facing a disciplined Slovenia side away from home represents one of their toughest tests in recent months.

Head-to-Head Record

Historically, Slovenia have enjoyed the better record in meetings between the two nations and enter this clash as clear favorites.

The hosts possess more quality throughout the squad and significantly greater experience at the highest level.

Hot Stats and Streaks

• Slovenia won their most recent match 3-2 against Montenegro.
• Slovenia have lost only once in their last three home fixtures.
• Cyprus have won just 3 of their last 12 matches.
• Cyprus have failed to score in 3 of their last 6 away games.
• Slovenia have scored 5 goals across their last 2 matches.
• Cyprus are ranked 126th in the FIFA World Rankings.

Key Players to Watch

Slovenia – Žan Vipotnik

The Swansea striker arrives in excellent form after scoring twice against Montenegro and finishing the club season with 25 goals.

Cyprus – Ioannis Pittas

Cyprus’ leading active scorer remains their biggest attacking threat and will be crucial if the visitors are to cause an upset.

Team News

Slovenia remain without star striker Benjamin Šeško due to a shin injury, but Andraž Šporar and Žan Vipotnik provide plenty of attacking quality.

Cyprus are expected to continue integrating younger players into the squad, with Panagiotis Andreou among those likely to feature.

Slovenia vs Cyprus Betting Tips

Best Bet: Slovenia to Win

The hosts possess superior quality across the pitch and should make home advantage count against a limited Cyprus side.

Alternative Bet: Over 1.5 Goals

Slovenia have shown attacking improvement under Cesar, while Cyprus have struggled defensively against stronger teams.

Both Teams to Score: No

Cyprus have often struggled for goals away from home, and Slovenia’s defensive organization should help them keep a clean sheet.

Correct Score Prediction

Slovenia 2-0 Cyprus

The hosts should control possession and create the better chances throughout the match. Cyprus may remain compact for long periods, but Slovenia’s superior attacking options are expected to make the difference.

Final Prediction

Slovenia to Win

Over 1.5 Goals

Both Teams to Score – No

Correct Score: Slovenia 2-0 Cyprus

Slovenia look well-positioned to secure a comfortable victory in Ljubljana and continue building confidence ahead of a challenging UEFA Nations League campaign.