Soccer Prediction For 5th Friday, September – Moldova vs Israel
Moldova vs Israel: World Cup Qualifier Prediction & Analysis
Date: September 5th, 2025
Fixture: Moldova vs Israel
Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification – UEFA Group I
In a crucial World Cup qualifier, a struggling Moldova hosts an ambitious Israeli side at the Stadionul Zimbru. This match presents a stark contrast in form, aspirations, and historical dominance, making it a pivotal encounter for both nations as they navigate their qualification campaigns.
 Moldova | Match Time & Date: 19:45 Advertisements 05/09/2025 Tips: Away (2) |  Advertisements Israel |
Match Preview
Moldova enters this fixture anchored to the bottom of Group I, having failed to secure a single point from their opening three matches. The campaign has been challenging, characterized by defensive frailties that have seen them concede 10 goals already. Currently on a four-game losing streak across all competitions, Serghei Cleșcenco’s side faces an uphill battle to salvage any hope of progression and will be playing for national pride against a familiar and formidable opponent.
Conversely, Israel has enjoyed a positive start to their quest for a first World Cup appearance since 1970.[1] Sitting second in the group with six points from a possible nine, the Chosen Team views this away fixture as a non-negotiable three points to solidify their claim for a top-two finish. Under coach Ran Ben Shimon, the squad has shown strong form, winning four of their last five international matches and carrying significant momentum into this clash.
Previous Head-to-Head Meetings
The historical record between these two nations paints a clear picture of Israeli dominance.
Total Meetings: 8
Israel Wins: 5
Draws: 3
Moldova Wins: 0
Israel remains undefeated against Moldova. Their most recent encounters were during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, where Israel secured home and away victories (2-1 and 4-1). Over the last five contests, Israel has been prolific, scoring 12 goals, and has consistently proven to be the superior side.
Analysis
The gulf in quality and form is significant. Israel, ranked 75th by FIFA, holds a substantial advantage over 154th-ranked Moldova. This disparity is reflected in their respective starts to the qualifying group. While Moldova has shown spirit, as noted in a commendable shot output against Italy, their defensive structure has been their undoing. Their task is made immeasurably harder by the suspension of their all-time leading goalscorer, Ion Nicolaescu, which severely blunts their attacking threat.
Israel, meanwhile, is a well-drilled unit with clear ambitions. Coach Ben Shimon has confidently stated that their goal is to win, highlighting the professional mindset within the camp. With key players like Manor Solomon available, they possess the creative and attacking quality to exploit a Moldovan defence that has failed to keep a clean sheet in their last six games against Israel. The visitors’ recent form is excellent, and they will arrive in Chișinău expecting to control the tempo and create numerous goal-scoring opportunities.
Prediction: Away (2)
Straightforward Prediction
Given the overwhelming evidence from recent form, head-to-head history, and team news, this match points firmly in one direction. Moldova’s defensive woes and lack of firepower due to suspension will likely be too much to overcome against a confident and superior Israeli side.
Prediction: Moldova 0-2 Israel
Possible Outcome: Israel to Win Away
An away win for Israel is the most probable outcome for this fixture. The historical dominance, with Israel being unbeaten in eight meetings, provides a strong psychological edge. The significant gap in FIFA rankings is a clear indicator of the difference in player quality. Furthermore, Moldova’s current four-game losing streak contrasts sharply with Israel’s run of four wins in their last five matches. The absence of Moldova’s key striker further tips the scales in favour of the visitors, who should have the quality to secure a comfortable and vital three points on the road.