Tight battle expected between Estonia and Moldova
With both nations already out of contention for World Cup 2026 qualification, Estonia and Moldova will meet in Tallinn on Tuesday, aiming to restore some pride and avoid finishing bottom of Group I.
Estonia managed to end a long goal drought last weekend, finding the net in a 3–1 defeat to Italy after a crucial error from Gianluigi Donnarumma gifted Rauno Sappinen a consolation goal. Despite losing their last five qualifiers, Jurgen Henn’s side will take confidence from their 3–2 victory over Moldova in the reverse fixture earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Moldova’s qualifying campaign has been disastrous. The team have lost all six of their group games, including a humiliating 11–1 loss to Norway, which led to the resignation of long-time coach Serghei Clescenco. New manager Lilian Popescu has inherited a squad low on morale and missing top scorer Ion Nicolaescu through injury.
With both teams struggling in attack and fielding inexperienced lineups, this match is unlikely to deliver the fireworks of their first meeting. A cautious, scrappy contest is expected, where a single goal could make the difference.
Prediction: Estonia 1–0 Moldova
Tip: Under 2.5 Goals ✅
