Italy take on Argentina at Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium later this week, with the Azzurri looking to banish memories of their failure to qualify for this summer’s World Cup Finals. Meanwhile, opponents Argentina are gearing up for two group matches against European opponents in Russia, with a clash against the four-time World Cup winners set to provide a stern test.
International Friendly – Etihad Stadium, Manchester – Friday 23rd March – 19:45 UK Time
Italy vs Argentina Match Preview
Italy and Argentina go head-to-head on Friday evening, with the two giants of international football both requiring victories for differing reasons. Despite failing to qualify for the World Cup, Italy are never an easy team to beat, with caretaker boss Luigi Di Biagio hoping to impress. However, with Barcelona man Lionel Messi potentially lining up for Argentina, it could be a tricky 90 minutes for the Azzurri. For those looking to place a bet on the clash, be sure to check out our top tip below. However, let’s start by taking a closer look at the two teams, starting with the home side.
Italy Team News & Form
Caretaker boss Di Biagio has named Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon in his squad to face Argentina, despite the 40-year-old having announced his retirement following their defeat against Sweden. Elsewhere, AC Milan youngster Patrick Cutrone has been called up for the first time as a result of his fine form in Serie A, along with Fiorentina’s Federico Chiesa. Italy were held to a goalless draw at home to Sweden last time around, with their 1-0 away defeat in Scandinavia meaning that they missed out on a place in a World Cup Finals for the first time since 1958. The Azzurri have won just two of their last six matches.
Argentina Team News & Form
Argentina come into this match off the back of a surprise 4-2 defeat to Nigeria, however a 3-1 win over Ecuador had previously secured their place in Russia this summer. Manager Jorge Sampaoli has named a mixture of youth and experience in his squad to face Italy, with youngsters Lautaro Martinez and Fabricio Bustos joining the likes of Messi, Angel Di Maria and Javier Mascherano.
Italy vs Argentina Head to Head
The two nations have met 14 times in competitive matches in their history, with Italy having come out on top on six occasions, as well as registering four draws. However, Argentina have won the last three meetings between the duo, including two successive 2-1 victories in friendly encounters, coming in 2001 and 2013 respectively. Italy’s last win against Argentina came back in 1987.
Italy vs Argentina Betting Odds and Predictions
Given their recent struggles, it comes as little surprise that it is Italy who are the underdogs for victory with the majority of bookmakers. The Azzurri can be backed for victory at odds of 3/1 with bookmaker William Hill, while Lionel Messi and Co are priced at 19/20 on the same platform. Meanwhile, those looking to back a draw on Friday evening can take advantage of odds of 23/10 with Paddy Power.
Italy vs Argentina Betting Tip
However, our top betting tip for the match is to bet there being under 2.5 goals during the 90 minutes, with odds of 3/5 available at Ladbrokes.