With all of the six groups completing their first round of fixtures, we once again return to Group A where Italy will take on Switzerland at the Stadio Olympico in Rome.
Italy
The quarter-finalists from the previous edition made easy work of dark horses Turkey following a stellar second half performance. Their well-balanced squad marshaled by Roberto Mancini impressed many with their convincing and fluid display of football.
They continued their streak of clean sheets and were equally potent at the other end of the pitch as well. Currently on a nine-game winning streak, Italy will aim for their 10th win, which would make it only the second time in their history.
Bolstered by the brilliant attacking mind of Lorenzo Insigne on the flank and the lethal finishing of Ciro Immobile make Italy a side to fear.
Robert Mancini would not be tempted to tinker with the line-up that won 3-0 against Turkey. However, he may have to make a forced change at right-back with first-choice player Alessandro Florenzi limping away after sustaining an injury.
Also, while he still has midfield maestro Marco Verratti to unleash, the PSG midfielder might be kept until the pivotal fixtures as he continues to recover from a knee injury. Notably, Jorginho had controlled the midfield with a solid display for the Azzuri.
Switzerland
The Swiss endured a frustrating draw against Wales in their opening encounter. They had to settle for a point despite being the better team by a fair margin.
The 13th ranked nation arguably face their biggest challenge in the group and it would take a special performance to topple the high-flying Italians.
This fixture would mark a return to Italy for coach Vladimir Petkovic, who formerly managed Serie A club Lazio.
Waging Odds: Italy (1.65) vs Switzerland (5.75) (Draw 3.75)
Switzerland are the underdogs and are priced at 5.75, meaning if you bet ₹100 on them and if they win the match, you’ll be making ₹575.
Italy are priced at 1.65 and are the favourites. Betting ₹100 on them will earn you ₹165 if they come out as winners.
The odds for a draw are placed at 3.75. Betting ₹100 on them will earn you ₹375 if the fixture ends all level.
Our Prediction:
The Swiss cavalry might not have enough weapons in their arsenal to topple the well-oiled machine that is Italy.
The threat posed by Shaqiri and co. won’t budge the formidable back three of the hosts comprising of veterans Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci.
Expect Lorenzo Insigne to run the show while Jorginho controls the midfield yet again in a 2-0 win for the team, that keeps them on top of the group.
Place your bets for the match here.
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