Italy to run riot against struggling Greece
A hopeless Greek side travel to Italy having drawn at home to Liechtenstein in their previous fixture, a shadow of the nation that won the whole shebang at Euro 2004 and more recently reaching the round of 16 at the 2014 World Cup.
Gli Azzurri top Group J with a 100% record so far, clinching some tight games in the latter stages with some astute additions from the bench in this the former Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini’s first qualification campaign as gaffer. A win could confirm qualification for Italy and equally kill off Greece’s chances with the hosts coming into this encounter as big favourites.
Recent form
Italy come into this one having won six competitive internationals on the spin with five in that run bringing over 2.5 goals and with them scoring two or more. Six out of their last seven strikes have come in the second period however in the reverse fixture Gli Azzurri won 3-0 with all finishes occurring in the first 45. Greece are in dire straits following the draw with Liechtenstein, they also have not beaten a top 20 FIFA ranked nation in over three years and have beaten Italy just once in 17 attempts through the ages. Italy have remarkably not lost on home soil competitively since 1999, though Angelos Anastasiadis’ men have found the net in 10 of their last 13 away outings not including friendlies.
Ones to Watch
Ciro Immobile has nine goals already this season for Lazio, now 29 years old he still has a point to prove for his country having only notched eight times in 36 caps. He scored the opener in the last match, a workmanlike 2-1 victory in Finland thanks to a late Jorginho penalty and will be hoping he can carry his domestic form onto the pitch wearing the famous blue jersey. Torino striker Andrea Belotti has been amongst the goals lately for Italy too however Immobile is expected to be picked ahead of him this time.
Marco Verratti alongside Chelsea’s Jorginho should dictate play from the middle of the park in a match where Gli Azzurri are certain to be allowed possession for extended periods. The PSG midfielder is an expert at unlocking defences with his quick feet, distribution and constant energy that has gained him many admirers all across Europe.
A quality Italian side should breeze past Greece on home soil and go on to sustain first place in Group J with comfort. Lorenzo Insigne will cause havoc down the left and combined with others is sure to create plenty of chances on Saturday evening.
Italy – Greece Betting Tip
Italy to Win + Over 2.5 goals with Bet365 at odds of 29/25.
For more Euro 2020 action visit our Euro 2020 Betting Guide.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
Italy only managed to breach the resilient Greece back line in the second period, a Jorginho penalty and a late striker from Federico Bernadeschi got the Italians a 2-0 win.