After only two games Italy are now considered by many as title contenders. Antonio Conte’s team is one of those who are yet to concede a goal at this tournament, and have looked a very hard side to beat. The defensive trio of Juventus collective Chiellini-Bonucchi-Barzagli look really impressive: already nullifying the threat of not only Lukaku and Hazard, but the mighty Ibrahimovic too.
The Italians aren’t just well organized, but they know how to get a result also. And, having won both of their opening matches, they’re already at the top of the Group E, so they can field some reserve players in this final group game. Sirigu, Ogbonna, El Shaarawy, Zaza and Immobile are all expected to make the starting XI. But considering both how well drilled Conte gets his players and how poor Ireland looked last time out, even a half reserve team can get a result in this one.
One of Italy’s secrets and indeed one of their weapons is that you never know how they’re going to score. It can be a long cross to Giaccherini, a solo run by Eder or an unexpected counter. They’re calm and collected, waiting for any mistake by their opponent and pouncing when given the chance. We know how well the Italians are likely to defend and they won’t be pushing for a big score here, so a good bet looks to be Italy to win 1:0, 2:0 or 2:1 at 2/1.
We also can expect both teams to play wisely in the 1st half. Ireland will try to park the bus and use Shane Long to get in behind Italy, something that isn’t easily done. Whereas Italy will just bide their time and wait for their chance. A secondary bet in this one is the double result – a draw at half time and Italy to win the match by full time at 4/1.
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