The October international break brings crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers across Europe and beyond, with nations battling for precious points between October 9-14. From England’s trip to Latvia to Spain hosting Georgia, the stakes couldn’t be higher as qualification spots come into sharper focus.
We’ve analysed the form guides and head-to-head records to identify three selections offering strong winning potential. Here are our top betting picks for this international window.
World Cup Qualifiers: England’s class to overwhelm Latvia
England travel to Riga to face Latvia on Tuesday, October 14, and the Three Lions’ superior quality throughout their squad should deliver a comfortable away victory. Latvia have struggled throughout their qualifying campaign, finding goals difficult to come by against stronger opposition.
England’s attacking depth means they can rotate personnel without losing effectiveness. Harry Kane’s goalscoring record in qualifiers speaks for itself, and Latvia’s defensive frailties suggest England will score freely. The away side’s professionalism in qualification campaigns makes them excellent value.
England to win and over 3.5 goals
@ 6/5
World Cup Qualifiers: Spain to dominate Georgia at home
Spain host Georgia on Saturday, October 11, and La Roja’s technical superiority should shine through at home. The Spanish have maintained a perfect qualifying record and their possession-based approach overwhelms teams who struggle to keep the ball.
Georgia’s defensive approach may frustrate Spain initially, but the home side’s quality in the final third will eventually break through. Spain’s home fortress and depth of attacking talent points to a convincing victory in front of their passionate supporters.
Spain to win and over 2.5 goals
@ 4/6
World Cup Qualifiers: Portugal to secure comfortable win over Ireland
Portugal welcome the Republic of Ireland on Saturday, October 11, and the home side’s star quality should prove decisive. Ireland have shown defensive resilience throughout qualifying but face their toughest test against a Portuguese attack featuring world-class talent.
Portugal’s home record in qualifiers is exceptional, rarely dropping points at home against teams outside the elite bracket. Their ability to control possession and create chances should overwhelm Ireland’s defensive structure in what will be a one-sided encounter.
Portugal to win
@ 1/1


