The “Azzurri” have been convincing, entertaining and strong and taken the full home advantage playing in Italy. The have shown joy, class, multiple ways to break down any defense, been efffective, and defended so far with a deserved clean sheet. They have won both matches 3-0, they have also won the xG with about 5-1. A qualification is guaranteed, a draw is enough to win the group. I am not at all sure though that winning the group is the easiest path to final games!

Yet I am going against them in the betting market because it is always just the odds that define the choice, not the personal likings of a team.

The Italian press are expecting a strong lineup, but surely some changes will be made. Chiesa should come in, and coach Mancini should rest all players who have played full minutes or who have any injuries, minor or bigger. Verratti, Chiellini, Florenzi comes first to my mind.

Wales won poor Turkey by 2-0 very deservedly, and have now 4 points after drawing with Switzerland in the opener and they are very likely through. Wales have created quality chances, but finishing has been poor, so it is a good omen that Ramsey looked effective last time. Top star Gareth Bale also looks to be improving, and the defense has been strong so far on individual battles but collectively there is still work to do. And this is a new challenge against very dynamic Italy side.

But… there are a lof of questions! Italy are through, and no matter how good they have been in the first games does not matter when we enter the stage of not wanting to injure yourself, and also the change of personnel on the pitch makes the team different. The Sassuolo pairing of Locatelli and Berardi will be broken, Jorginho at midfield would deserve a break too.

Wales might continue with their best lineup, or will they?

I am afraid this will be a dull encounter, there will be a lot of disappointment in viewers, and this is not a real cup competition tie. Both would be satisfied with the draw, and with these words and selections so would also I.

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