Italy were crowned champions of Europe last summer when beating England in the Euro 2020 final, with Roberto Mancini’s side now sniffing the opportunity to land another piece of silverware. The Azzurri clash with Spain in the Nations League semi-final and this is a repeat of the Wembley showdown that occurred at the European Championships.
On that occasion, a 1-1 draw led to the tie going to extra-time and penalties, with Italy coming through the clash. However, we think they can claim a normal time victory and they thrashed Lithuania in their most recent encounter, having previously had a tight defence when drawing 0-0 away to Switzerland.
Spain have recently registered victories over Kosovo and Georgia, although Luis Enrique’s team were beaten 2-1 away to Spain directly after Euro 2020, with the side having been profligate with their chances in that game and the same applied when they last met Italy.
Federico Chiesa is back fit and firing for the national side and recently scored the winner for Juventus in their Champions League clash against Chelsea, while Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci can continue to be rock solid at the back.
BETTING VERDICT
Italy to win