Italy to conduct professional job in play-off
Italy get going in their shock World Cup play-off campaign in danger of not qualifying for the tournament despite winning Euro 2020 last summer.
Gli Azzurri face North Macedonia in the first round of the play-offs before the winner plays Portugal or Turkey for a place at the World Cup.
North Macedonia have come on leaps and bounds in the last few years and will be confident of making things difficult for the overwhelming favourites in Italy.
Roberto Mancini has seen some players withdraw from injury but they still have quality all over the pitch.
Background
Neither side have been particularly impressive since Euro 2020, but motivation can play a huge factor in international football so the recent form may not be as relevant as it is at club level.
On paper, this match is not a contest but the visitors have been solid defensively and exceeded expectations with their performances in the summer.
Italy typically thrive more when a team comes onto them and their clever midfielders like Nicolo Barella and Marco Verratti to pick the opposition apart in transition.
The build-up to a potential final play-off between Portugal and Italy may help North Macedonia, Gli Azzurri know that they have a lot of work to do to make the World Cup, and they cannot afford to take the visitors lightly on Thursday evening.
Goals?
Italy can make things comfortable and then see the game out.
Italy have scored in five of seven.
Italy have conceded in four of seven.
Italy have seen both teams score in four of seven.
Italy have seen over 2.5 goals in three of seven.
North Macedonia have scored in four of seven.
North Macedonia have conceded in three of seven.
North Macedonia have seen both teams score in two of seven.
North Macedonia have seen over 2.5 goals in five of seven.
Italy should be able to make this one comfortable, if they can break the deadlock early then they will break a lot of tension.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
North Macedonia stun Italy, 1-0.