MATCH OF THE DAQ previews Spain v Italy (Confederations Cup, K.O 20.00, BBC 1)
Italy will want revenge for their 4-0 defeat in the Euro 2012 final at the hands of Spain tonight, but on current form it looks likely that the world and European champions will inflict more pain on the Azzurri, who are struggling defensively and with injuries.
Spain v Italy
Confederations Cup
K.O 20.00, BBC 1
HEAD TO HEAD
(Max last 10 only)
01 Jul 2012 European Championship, Spain 4:0 Italy
10 Jun 2012 European Championship, Spain 1:1 Italy
22 Jun 2008 European Championship, Spain 0:0 a.e.t. 4:2 PSO Italy
26 Mar 2008 Friendly, Spain 1:0 Italy
28 Apr 2004 Friendly, Italy 1:1 Spain
29 Mar 2000 Friendly, Spain 2:0 Italy
18 Nov 1998 Friendly, Italy 2:2 Spain
09 Jul 1994 World Cup, Italy 2:1 Spain
14 Jun 1988 European Championship, Italy 1:0 Spain
12 Jun 1980 European Championship, Spain 0:0 Italy
PREVIEW
Italy will want revenge for their 4-0 defeat in the Euro 2012 final at the hands of Spain tonight, but on current form it looks likely that the world and European champions will inflict more pain on the Azzurri, who are struggling defensively and with injuries.
Mario Balotelli has been ruled out of the Confederations Cup semi-final through injury leaving the Italians devoid of forward options. Right-back Ignazio Abate is missing and the influential Andrea Pirlo may not be fully fit.
Cesare Prandelli’s men have conceded eight goals in just three games so far and had to come back from the brink just to see off a spirited Japan side 4-3 in the group stages.
Brazil beat them 4-2 and Italy only just defeated Mexico courtesy of another late goal. Whether they have the legs to go with a stylish Spanish side intent on keeping the ball in these humid conditions looks unlikely.
Spain have netted 15 times already, with ten against minnows Tahiti, whilst also stretching their unbeaten run to 28 competitive games – a new world record.
Italy have an overall better head-to-head record against La Roja but have only won one of the last eight encounters. They are as big as 7.8 to cause a surprise tonight against rivals quoted at around 1.42.
For a bit of value it is worth backing Spain to keep a clean sheet at around 2.11 on BETDAQ. They have conceded just once and, with injuries decimating Italy’s attack, it could be a quiet night for the Spanish keeper.
RECOMMENDATION: (1-10 points)
Back Spain to keep a clean sheet at around 2.21 on BETDAQ: 4 points
Wednesday: -6.00 points
JUNE RETURN TO DATE: +18.55 points
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