Qualification points remain a mirage for Moldova after three defeats in the previous international break, and their next task is the ambitious team of Israel, scheduled for Friday in Chisinau.
While there are five rounds left, Moldova's chances are practically non-existent and their history in World Cup qualifications backs this theory. The Tricolorii have not achieved victory in 23 consecutive qualification games, with their last win dating back to 2013.
Their performance in the lowest tier of the UEFA Nations League was a huge positive, but the moment they faced high-level opposition, they received an instant reality check. And even Estonia beat them away at Chisinau in March.
Meanwhile, Israel already secured six points from their clashes with Estonia, and are certainly eyeing two wins against Moldova in the hope of finishing second in the group ahead of Italy. Ran Ben Shimon's squad looked very sharp in the three games to date, scoring seven goals, although they still lost 4-2 to Norway.
How the bookies view it: Huge away advantage
There is a clear gap in class between Moldova and all other national teams in Group I, making them the underdogs in every fixture. This one is no different, as Moldova are available at 21/4 and Israel have a massive advantage at 11/20. The draw has been priced at 16/5.
Recent head to head: Israel remain unbeaten
Moldova and Israel have been part of the same qualification group on multiple occasions, including ahead of the 2022 World Cup. The Tricolorii have not managed to win in six attempts since 2004, with Israel winning five times. The last two meetings ended in a 2-1 for Israel in Be'er Sheva and a 4-1 away at Chisinau.
Players to watch: A chance for Solomon to shine again
Watch out for Tottenham's Manor Solomon, who joined Villarreal on loan on deadline day after a phenomenal campaign last season. He spent the season at Leeds (loan) and was one of the main figures who won them promotion to the Premier League.
Solomon finished the campaign with 10 goals and 13 assists in the Championship. He just recovered from a short-term calf injury and should be on the pitch for Israel. He picked up two assists in the first three qualification rounds, and we fancy him for a strong performance against Moldova.
Probable line-ups
Moldova: Avram, Platica, Baboglo, Craciun, Reabciuk, Ionita, Perciun, Rata, Stina, Motpan, Nicolaescu
Israel: Glazer, Dasa, Shlomo, Lemkin, Revivo, Peretz, Gloukh, Gandelman, Jaber, Solomon, Baribo
Anything else catch the eye?
Israel need back-to-back wins against Moldova if they are to continue the fight for second place in the group. Norway are already six points ahead and in perfect form, so it is up to Shimon's men to make life difficult for Italy, who remain third.
Moldova could potentially threaten Daniel Peretz or even find the net, but we don't expect any bigger surprises here. Israel conceded in both matches against Estonia but still won. We have to back the visitors to extend Moldova's winless streak in WCQs. We expect either a 0-2 or a 1-2 at best if Moldova utilize their few opportunities.
GambleAware