The last quarterfinal at Kiev tonight is promised to be a feast of spectacular football as Italy clashes England. Both teams have many things in common, from playing style to players.
Tonight match will be the third time that Azzurri and Three Lions face each other in official match of big tournament like EURO. Italy won both previous matches, 1-0 in EURO 1980 Group Stage and 2-1 in World Cup 1990.
Italy and England have many similarities. Both teams have impressive unbeatable streak, 11 for England and 13 for Italy. Hodgson's and Prandelli's favorite formation is 4-4-2 and defense plays a vital role in their strategy. However, there are some basic difference which will define they shown down of this match.
Defense has always been Italy's trademark, and it's not easy to change in one or two day despite that Italy has not produced many world-class defenders like before. Under Prandelli's regime, however, Italy is rather different in the way they approach the match. More speed and more attack were seen as opposed to safe and slow place, sneaking wins in the past.
In the opposite, England seems to have take on Azzurri tendencies under new manager Roy Hodgson. Since his appointment in May, we saw 4 wins and 1 draw for the Three Lions, with a very organized and disciplined defense. This comes as no surprise as Hodgson previously managed Udinese and Inter Milan.
Italy - possible risk?
The change in their playing style have paid off so far as Italy has gotten into quarterfinal in a very tough group. However, it seems there's question of their effectiveness over England's tight defense.
Except for the match against the group's weakest team, Republic of Ireland, Italy did not look sharp in their more open approach, especially in the match against Croatia. Facing a well organized defense by Croatia, Azzurri's offense were stuck and had to depend on Pirlo's free kick to take the lead. While attacking does not prove effective, their back, in a moment of relapse, made mistake and allowed Croatia to level the game.
Different approach was not effective for Azzurri?
The organization and player's level of England's defense is even better than Croatia. There's a possible risk over there for Prandelli's squad. Italian coach has another headache though. Balotelli has scored, but given his behavior, whether to put him in the starting line up or as substitution for Cassano - Di Natale?
Injury is another problem for Italy, when Chiellini's absence will leave a big hole in Azzurri's defense. De Rossi could play very well as central defender, but then it will pose threat to the midfield as Thiago Motta might not be able to play.
England - new apperance
The migration of Italian coaches and the pressure to win with all costs, many English Premier League teams have switched their strategy to focus on defense. The most successful example was Di Matteo, who brought Chelsea to their first Champions League title. English players, therefore, need no time to blend in the Italian catenaccio.
Players that the Three Lions possess at the moment fit perfectly well into Roy Hodgson's plan to create a team with disciplined and organized defense. We can see how well Steven Gerrad adapt to the new playing style of England, and lead England through group stage.
England with new apperance
Rooney's return after suspension perfected England's game. His sensitivity, accuracy and positioning fill in what England needs. Unlike Prandelli, Hodgson's men are confidence and of high spirit. With all these build-ups, England can look forward to their first win over Italy in official matches of big tournament.
Our predictions
As we stated above, Italy looks troubled while England looks strong. We will lean our prediction towards Rooney and teammates. This will be a close match with a gap of 1 goal for England.
Betting Tips
Here are the odds for major market at 36BOL.com, let's take a look:
Our suggestion is putting money down for England Asian Handicap (-) 0.25 at odds 1.370. Watch out for market England to score first as we believe this is the chance for Rooney to fire the second time.
Fore more odds and markets, visit 36BOL Sports Betting.
No comments:
Post a Comment