Euro 2020 reaches its fitting final and it is England who will take on Italy at the Wembley Stadium. The Three Lions will look to end their lengthy trophy drought while the Azzuri hopes to heal their wounds from the 2012 Final defeat.
England
Gareth Southgate’s side have managed to do one better than their effort from the 2018 World Cup, but still needs silverware to justify their credentials. The team have a glorious chance to etch their name in football folklore with a win here.
The side battled hard to make it into the finals following a stern test at the hands of surprise semi-finalists Denmark. They needed a penalty from Harry Kane in extra time to cement their place in the final game of the tournament.
Southgate is expected to name the same side from the semi-final success. The front four of Saka, Sterling, Mount and Kane have been balanced so far. Despite rallying cries to include Jack Grealish in the set-up, Southgate has been using him as a super-sub for an attacking spark when needed and will do so in the final as well.
The midfield picot of Kalvin Phillips and Declan Rice have been nothing short of phenomenal. Their stints in the midfield are one of the reasons behind England’s impressive defensive record.
While initially Tyrone Mings and Kieran Trippier were in the backline, the return of Manchester United duo Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw have made the defence even more solid. With only a solitary goal conceded so far, and none from open play, the team have been the best defensive side in the competition,
While Southgate employed the use of a back three against Germany, he is likely to stick with a back four for the occasion despite the opposition’s threat.
Italy
Roberto Mancini’s transformation to this Italian side could see a highlight if they end up on the winning side. The side were made hard to work during their semi-final win over Spain. The players kept their calm in the penalty shootouts and booked their place in the finals.
The Italian side are also expected to field the same eleven from their semi-final triumph. Emerson will keep his place in the absence of the injured Spinazzola. Federico Chiesa, who was initially used off the bench, has had a stellar knockout run and will start ahead of his compatriots on the wing.
The form of Ciro Immobile remains a slight worry for the visitors who boast an intimidating set of players in the midfield and the heart of the defence.
Waging Odds: England (2.50) vs Italy (3.25)
England are favourites and are priced at 2.50, meaning if you bet ₹100 on them and if they win the match, you’ll be making ₹250.
Denmark are priced at 3.25 and are the underdogs. Betting ₹100 on them will earn you ₹325 if they come out as winners.
Our Predictions
The occasion of a final is always a tough nut to crack and these two European heavyweights will duel in a scrappy tough contest that is almost impossible to anticipate on paper.
England head into the contest as slight favourites and might edge this one out by a slender margin like 2-1 after extra time to finally bring football home.
Place your bets for the match here.
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