On June 6, 2025, Estonia and Israel meet at the A. Le Coq Arena in Tallinn for a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash. Both sides have registered one win and one defeat from their opening two Group I fixtures, leaving them level on three points apiece as they jostle for second place in the standings.
The match kicks off at 20:45 CEST for viewers in Italy, Germany, France, and Spain, and at 19:45 BST in the UK. With focus already shifting to the business end of the qualifiers, this showdown could be pivotal in deciding who stays on course for a World Cup berth.
How are both teams coming into this?
Estonia began their campaign with a spirited victory, showcasing an aggressive approach under significant home support. However, their momentum was halted by a narrow defeat in their second outing. Coach tactics have emphasized quick transitions and set-piece proficiency, which they will look to exploit again on home turf.
Israel has experienced a similar run of results, grinding out a win before slipping to defeat. They have impressed with defensive resilience and effective counter-attacks, adapting well to different styles of play. Their balanced record reflects the competitiveness of Group I, where every point is hard-fought.
Our forecast
Given both sides’ cautious starts, a tight contest is expected. The home advantage could give Estonia a slight edge, but Israel’s disciplined backline will make it difficult to break through. A low-scoring affair seems most likely as each team prioritizes not conceding.
We predict a 1-1 draw, with goals coming from set pieces or quick breaks. However, a narrow victory for either side cannot be discounted, especially if one side capitalizes on a moment of individual quality or defensive lapse.
