This will be the second Group D match for today. Both the clubs have had a poor pre-World Cup run with some rather unimpressive performances. But this time England boasts of some really exciting young talents who have had a brilliant season with their respective clubs. This group also dubbed as the ‘group of death’ will play host to some unnerving fixtures such as this. Roy Hodgson’s team head into this game with some forgettable results in the pre-World Cup friendlies. Cesare Prandelli’s side too has had a bad run, a bit like England. It remains to be seen which team will emerge winners in this evenly paired match-up judging by their recent performances.
Players to look out for:
England’s defender’s Cahill, Jagielka and Baines are ones to watch out for as they come into the tournament having had an exceptional season with their clubs. Other young players like Sturridge, Sterling and Lallana will play crucial role in their country’s attacking line-up along with Rooney and Welbeck. Among the Italians, Andrea Pirlo, the midfield maestro will be one to follow for his extraordinary skills with the ball. Mario Balotelli will be another prospect to watch out for despite his bad season as he never fails to be top class for his nation.
Teams head-to-head: England and Italy have played 24 games between them among which Italy has won 9, drawn in 7 and lost in 8 while England has had 8 victories, 7 draws and 9 losses.
Probable line-ups:
England: Hart; Johnson, Cahill, Jagielka, Baines; Gerrard, Henderson; Sterling; Lallana, Sturridge, Rooney.
Italy: Sirigu; Abate, Bonucci, Bonucci, Chiellini; De Rossi, Candreva, Pirlo, Marchisio; Balotelli, Cassano.
Prediction: England possesses a more productive and youthful squad with all players involved having had an exceptional season while Italy has to rely on a few key players. I vouch for a possible England victory.
Final Score Prediction: England 3-2 Italy.
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