Our Prediction for Iceland vs Ukraine 10/10/2025
Iceland face Ukraine in Reykjavík on Friday evening with both teams eager to find consistency in Group D. The hosts began with a convincing win over Azerbaijan before losing away to France, while Ukraine have taken just one point from two matches and are already under pressure to respond.
Both sides are well organised but have struggled to turn possession into goals. Iceland’s strength at home and Ukraine’s technical quality make this an even contest.
Predicted scoreline: Iceland 1–1 Ukraine
Iceland Form Analysis
Iceland opened qualifying with an emphatic 5–1 win over Azerbaijan before losing 2–0 to France, who eventually showed their quality despite a competitive first half. Heimir Hallgrímsson’s side sit second in the group and remain tough to beat at home.
Albert Guðmundsson continues to be the team’s key attacking outlet, combining flair with composure in front of goal. Jón Dagur Þorsteinsson adds pace and width down the left, while captain Hákon Arnar Haraldsson drives play from midfield. In goal, Rúnar Alex Rúnarsson has been reliable with his handling and positioning.
Iceland’s compact shape and set-piece threat remain their strongest weapons, though they can find it difficult to build sustained pressure against teams who keep the ball.
Ukraine Form Analysis
Ukraine have endured a slow start, drawing 1–1 with Azerbaijan and losing 3–0 away to France. They’ve shown flashes of quality but have struggled for consistency in both penalty areas.
Oleksandr Zinchenko continues to dictate play from midfield, offering balance and control, while Mykhailo Mudryk provides pace and directness on the left. Roman Yaremchuk remains their focal point up front, supported by creative movement from deeper positions. Andriy Lunin has grown into his role as first-choice goalkeeper and brings composure in possession.
Ukraine can dominate territory but sometimes lack the penetration to turn it into clear chances. Their ability to stay patient and avoid costly mistakes will determine how they fare in Reykjavík.
Best Betting Odds for Iceland vs Ukraine
Last Encounters Between Iceland and Ukraine
The two nations last met during the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, when Iceland won 2–0 in Reykjavík through a brace from Gylfi Sigurðsson. Ukraine have yet to win an away fixture against Iceland in competitive football.
Group D Table
Which Teams Will Qualify from Group D
France already looks certain to finish top, leaving the rest of the group to fight for second place and a possible playoff. Iceland’s home form gives them belief, while Ukraine’s technical ability means they are still in contention. Both teams need wins rather than draws at this stage, and dropping points here could make qualification extremely difficult.
Players That are Currently Playing in the EFL
Jón Dagur Þorsteinsson – Oxford United (Championship)
Þorsteinsson has adjusted well to the Championship, offering pace and consistent delivery from the left. His form at club level has translated into confidence for the national team.
Willum Þór Willumsson – Nottingham Forest (Championship)
Willumsson’s energy and aggression make him vital to Iceland’s midfield. He presses intelligently and contributes on both sides of the ball.
Viktor Korniienko – Cardiff City (Championship)
The Ukrainian left-back has impressed with his work rate and defensive positioning since joining Cardiff. His ability to support attacks gives Ukraine an extra dimension when he features.
Players That Used to Play in the EFL
Gylfi Sigurðsson – Formerly Reading (Championship)
Sigurðsson began his senior career in the Championship with Reading, where his technique and eye for goal quickly stood out. His development in English football laid the foundation for a distinguished international career.
Aron Gunnarsson – Formerly Cardiff City (Championship)
Gunnarsson spent several successful seasons in the EFL, captaining Cardiff and becoming known for his leadership and stamina. Though now retired from international duty, his influence remains felt in the squad.
