Prediction: Argentina vs Italy

Verdict: Draw

Best Odds: 9/4

Bookmaker: 888sport

It’s almost time for another stacked international break, and while we don’t mean that in the competitive sense, there are certainly some blockbuster friendlies taking place over the next week or so – and this is one of them. Former world champions Argentina and Italy will do battle, as one prepares for the 2018 FIFA World Cup meanwhile the other attempts to make a statement following an extremely disappointing qualification campaign.

Argentina

After barely managing to scrape through the qualification phase, Argentina will be heading into the World Cup with virtually no pressure on their shoulders. They have many high profile stars who are set for hectic conclusions to the season across Europe, and because of that, they may take an easier approach to this game against Italy.

Their upcoming group at the World Cup in Russia doesn’t look particularly favourable, with tricky games against Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria being on the cards. A game against a high profile side like Italy will serve as a good indicator as to whether or not they’re ready for the challenge of such a huge competition, as they aim to make up for the loss in the final against Germany four years ago in Brazil.

Team News

The Argentines have a strong squad, and the likes of Higuain, Messi and Aguero will all be expected to play some part in the encounter.

Italy

The Italians may not be going to the World Cup this summer, but they’re certainly making the most of this international break. Luigi Di Biagio will be taking his squad to play England after this game against Argentina, which will serve as the first clash between the two countries since 2013 and remarkably, only the second since 2000.

They’ll still be reeling from failing to qualify for the big event in Russia this summer, which has left them on the outside looking in for the first time since 1958. With no competitive tournament to look forward to for at least another two years, they’ll want to make the most of the opportunities in front of them – and defeating 2014’s runners-up would serve as a huge confidence boost for the caretaker boss.

Team News

Buffon is in the squad, despite already retiring from international duty. Balotelli has not been awarded a call-up, despite his phenomenal form for Nice.

Key Factors to Consider

• Argentina are unbeaten in their last four games against Italy, with their last loss to the Azzurri coming back in 1987.
• Italy hold the overall advantage in the head to head record, with six wins compared to Argentina’s four.
• Argentina have won just two of their last six games, with their last outing being a 4-2 loss at the hands of Nigeria.
• This game will take place in Manchester at the Etihad Stadium.
• Italy also have two wins in their last six matches, and they haven’t played since being eliminated from World Cup contention from Sweden.

Conclusion

Italy’s defence will always cause a problem for forward-thinking sides, and considering this probably means more to them given that Argentina have the World Cup to look forward to, a draw seems like the most plausible outcome.

Verdict: Draw

Best Odds: 9/4

Bookmaker: 888sport