Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup Qualification match.
Despite being relegated from Nations League B last autumn, Montenegro head into this World Cup qualifier as overwhelming favourites against Gibraltar. The two sides met not long ago in World Cup 2022 qualifying, where Montenegro cruised to victories in both legs — 4:1 away and 3:0 at home.
Montenegro
By the final round of the Nations League group stage, Montenegro had already lost their chance to avoid relegation but managed to produce a shock result by beating Turkey (3:1). That win ended a run of seven straight defeats, and it was no fluke — a hat-trick from young star Nikola Krstović helped seal the win, with Montenegro generating 0.87 xG from six shots on target, mostly via counter-attacks. Manager Robert Prosinečki is expected to field his strongest attacking line-up in Nikšić, as the team looks to start their World Cup campaign on a high note.
Gibraltar
Gibraltar’s seven-match unbeaten run suggests some progress, but it’s worth looking closer. The only notable result in that stretch was a 0:0 draw against Wales, and in their Nations League group, they finished below San Marino. Gibraltar’s last away win came in October 2020, and they continue to suffer heavy defeats on the road.
Montenegro vs Gibraltar Prediction
In their two meetings during World Cup 2022 qualification, Montenegro twice exceeded their individual total goal expectation of 2.5, with Gibraltar conceding a combined 47 shots over 180 minutes. A similar level of dominance is expected here, and the hosts should deliver a convincing win.
