Cyprus vs Bosnia & Herzegovina Prediction – FIFA World Cup Qualifiers 2025 | Match Preview, Probable Lineups & Fantasy Tips
The UEFA Group H clash in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers 2025 continues with Cyprus hosting Bosnia & Herzegovina on 9 October 2025 at the AEK Arena, Larnaca. Bosnia arrive in strong form, aiming to solidify their position as group leaders. Cyprus, meanwhile, need to pick up positive results to keep hope alive for qualification or playoff spots. This match is expected to be competitive, with Bosnia being slight favourites due to their attacking strength and defensive record.
🏟 Match Details
- Match: Cyprus vs Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Competition: FIFA World Cup 2025 Qualifiers (UEFA Group H)
- Date: 9 October 2025
- Venue: AEK Arena, Larnaca, Cyprus
- Kick-off Time: Evening local time
🌤 Pitch Report & Conditions
The pitch in Larnaca is likely to be well-prepared and flat, helping passing football. Cyprus have shown resilience at home, making it difficult for visiting teams to dominate fully. Goals might come via set pieces or transitions. Weather conditions are expected to be clear, aiding an open match. Bosnia may look to control possession and exploit wings, while Cyprus will likely sit deeper and counter.
Cyprus Team Preview
Cyprus have struggled overall in this campaign, with only a win and a draw so far, compared to several losses. At home, they have avoided defeat in their recent qualifiers but have difficulty converting pressure into goals. Their attacking options are limited but capable, and they may rely heavily on key forwards and midfielders to produce moments.
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches): D-L-L-D-L
Strengths: Home spirit, set-piece threat, counterattacks from wide areas
Weaknesses: Defensive lapses, struggles to keep sustained possession, few chances created
Key Players:
- Ioannis Pittas: Main goalscorer so far, expected to lead the attack
- Grigoris Kastanos: Creative midfielder who can assist and create chances
- Ioannis Kousoulos / Andronikos Kakoulis: Wing/forward players who can stretch pitches
Likely Formation: 4-4-2 or 4-5-1, with one forward and midfielders supporting transitions
Bosnia & Herzegovina Team Preview
Bosnia & Herzegovina are in excellent shape in the qualifiers: strong attacking performances, solid defense, and maintaining momentum. Their away record is especially good, and they tend to take control through midfield dominance and quick attackers. Bosnia’s superior squad depth gives them confidence.
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches): W-W-L-W-W
Strengths: Clinical finishing, good away performances, midfield control, possession dominance
Weaknesses: Occasional defensive vulnerability on counterattacks, reliance on key forwards
Key Players:
- Edin Džeko: Seasoned striker, likely goal-scorer
- Ermedin Demirović: Secondary goal threat up front
- Haris Hajradinović: Midfield creator and link-player
- Josip Dedic / Nikola Vasilj: Possible contributors in attack and support
Likely Formation: 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, focusing on high press, wing play, and fast attacks
⚔ Head-to-Head & Tactical Outlook
In recent matches between these two, Bosnia have had the upper hand, winning more often. They tend to dominate possession and tempo, while Cyprus often rely on defensive structure, counter-attacks, and set-pieces. Expect Bosnia to push forward from the start, with Cyprus trying to absorb pressure and hit on breaks.
🔍 Match Prediction & Score Forecast
Bosnia & Herzegovina are expected to claim a narrow away win. Their attacking strength and solid away record are likely to decide the match. Cyprus may score but will find it hard to stop Bosnia’s offense.
- Predicted Winner: Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Correct Score Prediction: Cyprus 1 – 2 Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Total Goals: Over 2.5 Goals
- Both Teams to Score: Yes
💡 Fantasy / Dream11 Tips
- Captain Pick: Edin Džeko — consistent goal chance.
- Vice-Captain: Ioannis Pittas — likely to feature in attack and scoring chances.
- Safe Picks: Haris Hajradinović, Grigoris Kastanos for contributions.
- Differential Picks: Ioannis Kousoulos or a wing/forward from Cyprus who might benefit from space.
- Avoid Risk: Deep defenders from Cyprus likely to concede; midfielders with fewer forward involvement may underperform.