Italy is back in action in the UEFA Nations League this week as they take on side Bosnia with a spot in the Euros 2020. The match schedules for Friday at Florence with kickoff at 9:45 pm.
The match will mark Italy’s first return to action following their 9-1 thrashing of side Armenia in the final Euro 2020 qualifiers. On the same night, Bosnia managed to finish the qualification campaign with a win over Liechtenstein.
Italy did not live up to its name during the inaugural Nations League. The side managed to finish second in the group behind Portugal. The side registered only one win from four matches earning five points in the buildup.
Roberto Mancini came under heavy criticism over the lackluster performances for the side. Mancini will be looking to regain the fans’ trust this week with a triumphant win over side Bosnia.
However, the side is currently on an eleven game winning streak, which makes it a record for the squad. The side has a tight game next month in the Euros 2020 as they take on side Netherlands.
Bosnia earned a promotion to League A after the side managed to finish on top of League B Group 3 in their last outing. Bosnia competed in the World Cup 2014 but has never finished in the finals of a European Championship.
Italy vs. Bosnia Herzegovina Head to Head
Both sides have two games against each other, with Italy taking home two wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
Italy 9-1 Armenia
Bosnia 0-3 Italy
Liechtenstein 0-5 Italy
Italy 2-0 Greece
Finland 1-2 Italy
Away
Liechtenstein 0-3 Bosnia
Bosnia 0-3 Italy
Greece 2-1 Bosnia
Bosnia 4-1 Finland
Armenia 4-2 Bosnia
Italy Team News
Mancini will be unable to call upon Juventus attacking midfielder Bernadeschi, who is out with a muscular injury. On the other hand, Napoli winger Insigne is also out due to an ankle injury. A solid replacement is Europe’s top scorer Immobile who had an amazing season at Lazio. Young sensations Zaniolo and Chiesa expect to earn some minutes.
Bosnia Team News
Veteran striker Eden Dzeko expects to lead the attacking line, with hopes of adding over 58 goals at the international level. Sead Kolisinac is back in the starting XI with his future at the Emirates unclear with a possible move away.
Prediction and Odds
Bosnia will pose a heated match, but the attacking prowess of Italy will sure see the side pull off a win.
Italy Win
Goals Under 2.1
Away: No Score
