Prediction: Italy vs Czech Republic

Prediction: Italy win

Best Odds: 13/20

Bookmaker: 888sport

The domestic season may be over but the summer has only just begun. Between the Summer Olympics and the Euros we’ve got a whole lot to look forward to and as the countdown to kick-off for the latter continues, we thought we’d take a look at a friendly game between two of the teams set to take part. Italy and Czech Republic will both participate in this year’s rescheduled European Championship and while they may be dark horses, underestimating them would be a huge mistake.

Italy

Victory is the name of the game for Italy right now as they continue to try and forget about the embarrassment they suffered in not qualifying for the 2018 World Cup. Roberto Mancini has made it his mission to turn this team around and between their goalscoring prowess and their defensive strengths, we’d say he’s done a pretty good job. Now, in a group alongside Turkey, Switzerland and Wales, they should be confident in their ability to impress.

Team News

Sensi isn’t expected to feature just yet as he continues to recover from an injury, with Acerbi and Verratti both also being fitness concerns. Elsewhere, Emerson and Jorginho are both available after getting some rest following the Champions League final with Italy being tipped to have some serious rotation.

Czech Republic

For years now we’ve all been waiting to see the Czech Republic spread their wings and become the team we all remember them to be, but for whatever reason, fans can’t seem to grasp the idea that they’re a little bit past their best. They’re capable of making their way through to the Euros but beyond that they struggle, and they can’t afford to have that mentality in a killer group that contains Scotland, England and Croatia.

Team News

Schick is set to play from the word go despite being sent off in their defeat to Wales. Darida is expected to start with Provod being a big absentee for the Czechs, and elsewhere, Kudela is banned as a result of a 10-man suspension due to racial abuse.

Factors to Consider

• Italy begin their Euro 2020 campaign on June 11, whereas Czech Republic’s first game is June 14.
• Italy have won their last six games in all competitions.
• Czech Republic have won three, drawn one and lost two of their last six games.
• Italy have scored 17 goals and conceded zero in their last six games.
• Czech Republic have scored 10 goals and conceded five in their last six games.

Conclusion

While we do think both teams will use this as an opportunity to experiment, we don’t necessarily feel as if that’s going to change the outcome or result. The Italians are just so strong right now and regardless of who is put in front of them over the course of the next few weeks, we think they’ll be capable of winning. Therefore, we’re backing them to secure a 1-0 win that gives them yet another boost heading into the Euros.

Prediction: Italy win

Best Odds: 13/20

Bookmaker: 888sport