Italy continues their 100% perfect start to their Euros campaign this weekend when they welcome Austria. The match schedules for Saturday at the Wembley Stadium with kickoff at 10 pm.
The Azzurri are on an incredible run with a record-equalling track in the European championship. In contrast, Austria is in the knockout phase for the first time ever after ending their Euro drought with two wins.
First, Italy were favorties to make the group stages without much competition from Switzerland, Wales and Turkey. However, the main task remains keeping in check all the competitions. Their last 1-0 win over Wales made it their 11th straight win while going on a 30 undefeated streak.
Roberto Mancini made eight changes to their starting XI after back to back 3-0 wins over Switzerland and Turkey. However, the wholesome changes did not impact the side’s run-of-form with nine points from three matches in the group stages.
Furthermore, the Azzurri are yet to concede a goal in the competition. It was a moment of pure bliss for goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu who gained some minutes after Donnarumma came off. Italy’s last time failed to keep a clean sheet dates back last October in their 1-1 draw.
Odds seem stacked against Austria, but a lot is going on for them so far. The main talisman, David Alaba versatility, came in handy while playing left-back, defender and central midfield.
Italy vs Austria Head to Head
Both sides have one match against each other, with it ending in a draw. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Italy 1-0 Wales
- Italy 3-0 Switzerland
- Turkey 0-3 Italy
- Italy 4-0 Czech Republic
- Italy 7-0 San Marino
Away
- Ukraine 1-0 Austria
- Netherlands 2-0 Austria
- Austria 3-1 North Macedonia
- Austria 0-0 Slovakia
- England 1-0 Austria
Italy Team News
Captain Giorgio Chiellini trained separately from the rest of the squad. However, Acerbi is available to fill in the defence alongside Bonucci. Full-back Alessandro Florenzi is not 100% fit to feature, thus giving Spinazolla a spot at right-back. There is a midfield dilemma with the return of Marco Veratti in place of Locatelli.
Austria Team News
We expect a change in defence to give David Alaba a more advanced role in the starting lineup. Controversial attacker Marko Arnautovic returns to the fold after serving a one-match suspension for abusing a fellow player.
Prediction and Odds
The onus remains on Italy to show their prowess even though Austria will put up a fight this weekend.
- Italy Win
- Goals Under 2.5
- No Score: Away
