Euro 2020: Italy vs Switzerland – 17th June @5am
Italy will look to consolidate their place in the knockout stages when they host Group A rivals Switzerland in Rome on Thursday morning.
The Azzurri began their Euro 2020 in emphatic fashion after they routed Turkey 3-0 in their opening game of the tournament, announcing themselves as serious contenders to win their first European Championship since 1968.
Switzerland were just 16 minutes away from recording a win over Wales in their first match of the tournament, only to concede from a set piece which cost them the three points.
Roberto Mancini will likely want to keep changes to a minimum against Italy’s northern neighbours after such a dominant display against Turkey. The Azzurri do welcome back midfielder Marco Verratti after spending five weeks on the sidelines with injury, though he is unlikely to play.
Players to Watch
Xherdan Shaqiri: He is Switzerland’s biggest attacking threat and he has proved before that he can do it on the biggest stage. He scored the goal of the tournament at Euro 2016 when he netted a wonderful bicycle kick against Poland. He also has a World Cup hat-trick to his name after his majestic performance against Honduras in Brazil in 2014.
Lorenzo Insigne: He’s only scored 9 goals in 42 caps for Italy, but his opportunities have been limited. Italy boss Roberto Mancini gave Insigne his chance in his side’s opening game against Turkey, and the Napoli winger did not let his manger down, bending in a beautiful goal with aplomb. This is his time in the spotlight.
Key Stats
- Italy have scored 28 goals since they have last conceded
- Italy have not lost a competitive match since September 2018
Best Bets
Match Result: Italy ($1.60)
Away Team To Score Yes/No: No ($1.92)
