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Belgium and Italy will square off in one of the most anticipated matches of the Euro 2016 group stage first round. The two sides are playing alongside Sweden and the Republic of Ireland in Group E and are favorites to advance from the first two positions in the standings.
Belgium has one of the most talented squads taking part in Euro 2016, some would argue that it might actually be the most talented. The Belgians had a solid qualifying campaign, winning the group, even though they were handed a fight by Wales, who also managed to defeat them in Cardiff. It was the 2nd loss in the previous 18 matches for the Balgium national team.
Italy might not have the talent it once had, that is for sure, but the Italians still have a good roster and are playing pretty good as a team under Antonio Conte. Italy changed its style over the last few years, playing much more attractive football – fast paced and with excellent skill on the counterattacks. Italy performed very well in the Euro 2016 qualifiers, winning the group by a 4 point cushion against Croatia and not losing a single game.
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Team news & lineups:
Both teams have been hit by injuries recently. Guys like Kompany or Lombaerts were ruled out for Belgium, with Vermaelen being a doubt, while Italy will be badly hurt by the absences of Verratti and Marchisio.
Belgium: Courtois – Alderweireld, Denayer, Vertonghen, Lukaku – Witsel, Nainggolan – de Bruyne, Fellaini, Hazard – Lukaku
Italy: Buffon – Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini – Candreva, Florenzi, de Rossi, Motta, Darmian – Pelle, Eder
The two teams met in a friendly game back in November last year and Belgium won 3-1 at home, though the score was tied before the last 15 minutes. They would surely love a similar result today, but it will be much more difficult in the Euros.
Belgium might be the more talented side, I think Italy has enough to deny Belgium here. I can see a close game with each team maybe banging in a goal and a draw in the end. I reckon both Belgium and Italy will be satisfied with 1 point, as it would be very important step to finish Top 2 in an accessible group. Each side would also have honest chances to end up first.
This will be a simple and straightforward bet for me, so there`s not much else to say. My tip is the draw, with low stakes. Prediction: Belgium – Italy 1-1.
Pick: Draw
Odds: 3.12 @ 1xBet
Stake: 4
Possible profit: 8.48
Event date: 13 June
