Italy vs France Preview, Prediction, and Top Wagers: Predicting the Outcome of the Clash Between Two Football Giants
L nearly faces L Italy sqares off with France in the UEFA Nations League this Sunday. The Italians clinched a historical 3-1 win in Paris, a feat not achieved in 70 years. Both teams have already secure their place in the next round, but a draw would see France top the group.
A Coup De Grace for Italy
Italy has rebounded impressively post-Euros. In the Nations League they've won 4 out of 5 games, with a draw against Belgium. The campaign started with a 3-1 comeback victory in France, followed by a 2-1 "away" win over Israel. Despite playing a man down for 50 minutes, they surrendered a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 against Belgium. They then claimed a dominant 4-1 victory over Israel (producing 2.77 xG) and secured a fine 1-0 win in Belgium on Thursday night, creating 2.48 xG while conceding just 0.52 xG.
Wager now: UEFA Nations League## The Coach's Favorites
Luciano Spalletti is revamping an Italy side, and Jorginho seems to have fallen out of favor. Federico Chiesa, Gianluca Scamacca, and defender Riccardo Calafiori are unavailable for this FIFA break. Rotation is possible for this match. Moise Kean may feature in the starting XI to breathe some fresh air into their attack, while Destiny Udogie and Manuel Locatelli are strong substitution options.
High on Confidence
With Spalletti at the helm, Italy is brimming with confidence as players begin to adopt his tactical strategies. While they've already qualified, they'll aim to finish top of the group with at least a draw. Italy seeks to maintain possession but can also shift into a solid defensive shape, utilizing a 5-4-1 or a midfield diamond when required.
Wager now: UEFA Nations League## Floundering France
France's 2-1 defeat to Spain in the Euro semi-finals was only their second loss in 15 matches. They suffered a 3-1 home loss to Italy in the Nations League opener but bounced back with a 2-0 victory over Belgium, registering 25 shots and conceding just 0.56 xG. Subsequent wins included a 4-1 triumph over Israel in Budapest and a 2-1 victory in Belgium, though they allowed 2.69 xG and 20 shots in the latter match. Thursday's home match against Israel ended in a 0-0 draw despite France creating six big chances from 24 shots.
Absent Stars
France is without several key players. Kylian Mbappe is back after a reported rift with the coach. Eduardo Camavinga is suspended, Aurelien Tchouameni is not selected, and Ousmane Dembele is sidelined with an injury. Randal Kolo Muani is set to lead the line, with Warren Zaire-Emery providing support. Chris Nkunku, Kingsley Coman, and Marcus Thuram are viable attacking options if needed.
Wager now: UEFA Nations League## A Cautious Approach
Didier Deschamps often adopts a tactical approach of caution against formidable opponents, and this game is no exception. France is struggling to find their rhythm in attack, particularly without Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann. A 0-0 draw might be palatable for Les Bleus.
Key Stats
- Italy has won 4 out of their last 5 matches.
- Italy won their last fixture against France (though they lost the previous 3, all featuring BTTS).
- France has lost 2 out of their last 6 matches (after losing just 2 in the previous 18).
- France has scored 8 goals in their last 4 matches (compared to 5 goals in the 8 matches before that).
- France has kept 8 clean sheets in their last 12 matches.
Wager now: UEFA Nations League## The Verdict
Given their current form, Italy appears favorite. However, France boasts a solid defense that could pave the way for a 0-0 stalemate. A high-scoring match seems unlikely.
Best Bet: Italy to win at 2.70
Alternate Bet: Under 2.5 goals
Correct Score Tip: Italy 1-0 France
Italy has a promising record in the UEFA Nations League, winning 4 out of 5 games and drawing one, including a memorable 3-1 comeback victory in France. However, they will face a challenge against France, who are without key players such as Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni. Despite this, Didier Deschamps' tactical approach often errs on the side of caution against formidable opponents like Italy. Rotation is possible for Italy, with Moise Kean and Manuel Locatelli potential starters or substitutes. Although France's defense has been solid, Italy is the favored team, with a best bet on Italy to win at 2.70. An alternate bet could be Under 2.5 goals, as a high-scoring match seems unlikely based on the teams' recent form. A potential correct score tip for the match is Italy 1-0 France. Football enthusiasts can ensure an exciting analysis by visiting footy_analysis and checking out the sport's latest sheets to make informed decisions on their bets for the UEFA Nations League match between Italy and France this Sunday.
