Italy were the first team to qualify for the round of 16 following their comfortable wins over Turkey and Switzerland. They will look to make it three from three when they take on a spirited Wales.
Sunday, 20 June
Stadio Olimpico – Rome
To Win Match
Italy 5/10
Draw 3/1
Wales 62/10
Italy
Italy have been arguably the best team in the tournament so far, bagging six goals without conceding. Their last win against the Swiss took their undefeated streak to 29 games.
Roberto Mancini’s men look well oiled in all positions and will be hard to break down for absolutely any team. Will the former Man City mentor ring the changes for this clash? Unlikely considering a Welsh win here would take them ahead of the Italians.
Aside from their amazing squad the Italians have also had the added benefit of playing both of their group games at ‘home’ thus far as both games were played at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome and their game against Wales will also be played at the same venue.
Wales
If Wales win, they go through, if Wales draw, they go through and if they lose there’s a strong chance that they still might make it through as well, depending on the margain of defeat and results elsewhere.
Wales were impressive in their last game downing Turkey 2-0 and based on the chances that were missed, it could have been much more.
Midfield maestro Aaron Ramsey was impressive against the Turkish, and a man of the match performace for captain Gareth Bale currently see them with one foot in the round of 16. Both these men should again play vital roles to see their team into the next round.
Verdict: Draw 3/1
It’s an encounter that is extremely difficult to call as the mindsets of both these teams are unknown. Is anyone going out to win the game? With Wales wanting to secure their place into the next round, they will definitely be trying to find the result that best suits them, which in this case will be a draw. If the Italians rest players, their usual style of play might be hampered. With all that being said, I will be tipping the draw at 3/1.
