Romania vs San Marino Prediction 19 November 2025

📢 What can we expect from the clash between Romania and San Marino in the final round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, set to take place at Bucharest's National Stadium? The gap in quality between the teams is significant: the Romanian squad boasts considerably stronger players, while the "white and blues" are regarded as one of the weakest sides globally. However, with both teams entering the match without any stakes in the standings, an element of unpredictability is always in play.

Head-to-Head

📊 The national teams of Romania and San Marino have officially faced each other only once in the 21st century, which took place this March during the first round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. As anticipated, Romania dominated the away game, securing a commanding 5-1 victory while maintaining full control throughout. The only surprise was San Marino's goal, but it had no impact on the overall flow of the match.

Romania Team Overview

🔴 Romania are essentially wrapping up their World Cup 2026 qualifying group stage. The team has struggled to make a significant impact this cycle, tallying just 10 points from seven matches and sitting third in the group. Climbing higher is out of reach, but they can't drop below fourth either. However, Romania still have a shot at securing a World Cup spot thanks to their successful campaign in the previous Nations League, which earned them a place in the playoffs.

🟡 The quality of play raises serious concerns. On November 15, Romania suffered a 3-1 away defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite opening the scoring, they conceded two decisive goals only after Denis Drăguș was sent off in the 67th minute. Even before the red card, the Bosnians appeared more convincing—playing faster, more aggressively, and more dangerously. Romania still have time to get their act together before the playoffs in spring, but optimism remains in short supply.

San Marino Team Overview

⚪ Last year, San Marino surprised the entire European football community. The team secured two victories—both against Liechtenstein (3-1 and 1-0)—and even topped their group in the UEFA Nations League D. This sparked hope that the "white and blues" might perform admirably in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers. However, reality has been harsh: San Marino failed to earn a single point in seven matches and suffered several crushing defeats, including a historic 0-10 loss to Austria in October.

🔵 Nevertheless, San Marino approaches the upcoming match with relatively good spirits. On November 13, they unexpectedly put up a fight against the Czech Republic in a friendly match (0-1). The visitors even attempted to control possession (34% to 66%) and managed three shots on goal. While an upset didn't materialize, San Marino can take pride in their dedication during this match. It's worth noting, however, that the Czech Republic is currently far from their best form and barely held onto second place in Group L.

Latest news

Romania

📣 Following the 3-1 defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Romania's head coach Mircea Lucescu emphasized that the result didn't reflect his team's performance: "We didn't deserve to lose after the first half, which we played very well. Two crosses and a fantastic strike put us in this situation... I'm pleased with how the team is developing and eagerly anticipate the playoff matches."

🚫 In terms of absences, forward Denis Drăguș, who was on the roster for the November fixtures, will be unavailable. In the last match, he managed to receive a straight red card just three minutes after coming onto the pitch.

San Marino

📣 San Marino's head coach Roberto Cevoli, following their 1-0 defeat to the Czech Republic, stated: "We were careful, focused, and committed throughout the match. The guys gave it their all, and a draw wouldn't have been out of place. This is the spirit I always want to see: the second half was perfect and further strengthens our belief in our abilities."

🚫 San Marino have no injuries following their friendly against the Czech Republic—all players are available. However, rotation is possible in the upcoming game, as the coaching staff might opt to give playing time to those who had fewer minutes in the previous match.

⚽️ Goal Prediction

⚽️ Goal Prediction

San Marino have predictably struggled in attack during the current qualifying campaign, with a goal difference of 1:32 after seven matches. Their only goal came against Romania (1-5), but this time the match will be on Romanian soil, and the hosts are unlikely to allow even this minimal success to be repeated. Notably, the "white and blues" have failed to score in 23 of their last 25 away games. In this scenario, a bet on San Marino not to score appears to be the optimal choice.

🚩 Corner Prediction

The upcoming match's script seems quite clear: despite lacking tournament motivation, Romania are expected to take the initiative and keep San Marino pinned back in their own half for most of the game. The "white and blues" rarely manage to mount attacks or earn corners, especially away from home. Under these conditions, a bet on San Marino under 2.5 corners seems logical.