Serbia vs England Preview, prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds | 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

England are first in Group K, while Serbia are second in the Group

The upcoming Serbia vs England match at the Rajko Mitic Stadium in Belgrade could change the picture of Group K of the FIFA World Cup European qualifiers. England are currently at the top after winning all four matches, but Serbia are only five points behind, and they also have a match in hand. In such a situation, this clash will not only prove to be a battle of points but also a test of confidence.

England have registered consistent wins so far, but their performance has lacked sparkle. Their last match was a 2-0 win against Andorra, but the performance raised questions. Thomas Tuchel’s team will look weak due to the absence of players like Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Despite this, names like Harry Kane and Phil Foden can make a difference for them.

A win to take us into Tuesday's trip to Serbia! 🔜 pic.twitter.com/Ja1RAmMd8R

— England (@England) September 6, 2025

Serbia always prove to be difficult at home. Their confidence is high after defeating Andorra 3-0. Aleksandar Mitrovic will not be able to play due to injury, but the ability of Dušan Vlahović and the presence of Nikola Milenković in defence make them strong. The atmosphere in the stadium and the enthusiasm of the supporters often put the opposition teams under pressure.

🇱🇻 𝟬-𝟭 🇷🇸 | Нова три бода за Србију у квалификацијама за #FIFAWorldCup. 👏🏻🦅#LVASRB #WCQ pic.twitter.com/Rf26SJ7bME

— Fudbalski savez Srbije | FA of Serbia (@FSSrbije) September 6, 2025

This match is decisive for both teams. The Three Lions will want to strengthen their hold in the group by winning, while Serbia will want to capitalise on the opportunity and put pressure. Whatever the result, the game is expected to be tough and exciting.

Kick-off:

• Location: Belgrade, Serbia
• Stadium: Rajko Mitic Stadium
• Date and Kickoff Time: September 10 – 12:15 am IST
• Referee: Daniele Orsato
• VAR: In Use

Form:

Serbia (in all competitions): W-W-D-W-D

England (in all competitions): W-L-W-W-W

Players to watch out for:

Dusan Vlahovic (Serbia):

Dušan Vlahović will be the one to watch out for Serbia in this crucial match-up. The Juventus striker was named the Serbian Footballer of the Year in 2024, and he is a very clinical finisher with his physical presence up top.

Vlahovic scored in the 1-0 win against Latvia, which was his first goal for Serbia on foreign soil. The Juven striker will have to fire if Servia have to force a result out of this game.

Harry Kane (England):

The English captain, Harry Kane, will be the one to watch for the Three Lions. The sensational striker will yet again be the main man for the Lions. There will be a huge responsibility on the England captain in the absence of some important attacking players. Kane has scored three goals in four matches in the FIFA World Cup 2025-26 qualifiers so far.

Harry Kane joins the great Bobby Moore on 108 England caps – the joint-fifth highest of all time. 👏 pic.twitter.com/Kc4AN9m3SZ

— England (@England) September 7, 2025

Match Facts:

• The Three Lions maintain a perfect record in the World Cup Qualifiers, winning all four matches in Group K.
• Serbia are hot on England’s heels, sitting in second place with seven points from three games.
• The two teams will meet in a competitive match for the first time in Serbia. Their last encounter on Serbian soil was in 1987 (as Yugoslavia), and their recent Euro 2024 game was played in Germany.

Serbia vs England: Betting Tips and Odds

• England to win: 1.67 as per 1xBet
• Total goals under 2.5: 1.66 as per 1Win.
• Harry Kane to score anytime: 2.12 as per Winmatch.

Note: Odds are subject to constant changes.

Injuries and Team News:

For the Three Lions, defender John Stones has withdrawn from the squad due to a muscle injury. Stones arrived at the camp with a muscular issue that hasn’t improved, so Thomas Tuchel opted not to risk him.

Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka are also out with injuries, while Cole Palmer is dealing with a groin issue. Trent Alexander-Arnold was not selected for this squad, continuing to be out of favour with the England manager.

Serbia will also be without their star striker, Aleksandar Mitrovic, due to injury.

Head-To-Head Stats:

Total matches: 15

Serbia won: 4

England won: 6

Draws: 5

Predicted Starting Lineup:

Serbia Predicted Starting Lineup (3-1-4-2):

Đ. Petrović; M. Veljković, N. Milenković, S. Pavlović; S. Lukić; A. Živković, F. Kostić, I. Ilić, A. Katai; D. Vlahović, L. Jović

England Predicted Starting Lineup (4-2-3-1):

J. Pickford; R. James, D. Burn, M. Guehi, M. Lewis-Skelly; D. Rice, E. Anderson; N. Madueke, E. Eze, M. Rashford; H. Kane

Match Prediction:

While England’s recent performance against Andorra was uninspiring, their overall form and talent level make them the clear favourites. The Three Lions have a perfect record in the qualifiers so far and will be determined to make a statement in this tough away fixture. Their 1-0 win over Serbia at Euro 2024 also gives them a mental edge.

Prediction: Serbia 0-2 England

Telecast details:

India: Sony Sports Network, SonyLiv

USA: Fox Sports 2

UK: ITV

Nigeria: Afrosport TV

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.