UEFA Nations League action returns as FYR Macedonia face Switzerland in a League B Group 1 showdown on Saturday 26 September 2026 at 18:45 UTC. This pivotal opener could set the tone for both nations’ campaigns, with Macedonia desperate to prove they belong at this level against a Swiss side aiming for promotion.
Form Guide
FYR Macedonia approach this clash in mixed form, with 2 wins, 1 draw and 2 losses in their last five matches. They’ve averaged 1.2 goals scored per game while conceding 1.4, showing vulnerability at the back that Switzerland will look to exploit.
Switzerland bring slightly better momentum with 3 wins and 2 defeats in their last five outings. The Swiss have been more clinical going forward, netting 1.6 goals per game, though their 1.2 goals conceded average suggests potential openings for Macedonia’s attack.
Head-to-Head
These nations have met just twice before, with Switzerland enjoying a perfect record. Their last encounter in 2019 saw the Swiss claim a 4-0 victory, continuing their dominance in this fledgling rivalry. Macedonia will be desperate to rewrite history on home soil.
Team News & Injuries
FYR Macedonia’s preparations have been hampered by the absence of key defender Gjoko Zajkov through suspension, weakening their backline against Switzerland’s potent attack. Veteran striker Aleksandar Trajkovski also faces a late fitness test that could deprive them of crucial experience up front.
Switzerland travel without midfielder Djibril Sow, whose creative influence in midfield will be sorely missed. However, their squad depth means Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka should slot seamlessly into a more advanced role to dictate play.
The Odds
Bookmakers heavily favour Switzerland at 1.53 for victory, reflecting their superior FIFA ranking and recent form. FYR Macedonia are 6.50 outsiders for a famous win, with the draw priced at 4.00. A Switzerland win with both teams to score offers value at 3.10 given both sides’ attacking tendencies.
Our Prediction
While FYR Macedonia will fight passionately in front of their home supporters, Switzerland’s quality and experience in these competitions should prove decisive. We predict a 2-1 victory for the Swiss, continuing their perfect record against Macedonia but in a much tighter contest than previous meetings. Switzerland’s 60% win probability in recent matches compared to Macedonia’s 40% suggests they’ll edge this Nations League opener.
Odds are informational, correct at time of publishing and subject to change. 18+, please gamble responsibly.
