Germany vs. Italy Preview
Where: Nouveau Stade de Bordeaux – Bordeaux, France
When: Saturday, July 2, 3:00 PM ET
Line: Germany +112 vs. Italy +245, tie +185; total: 2.0 – view all Euro 2016 lines
TV Broadcast: ESPN2
Writer’s Prediction: Italy wins, 1-0.
Cash In on the Best Online Sportsbook Offers Now at TopBet!
Offensive Edge – Germany (+112)
Germany obviously has the superior offensive talent. The likes of Toni Kroos, Mesut Ozil, and Thomas Muller are all world-class stars, while Italy’s attacking weapons are hardly household names.
Despite the lack of talent, Italy’s offense isn’t as far off as many had anticipated, though. Manager Antonio Conte has worked wonders with the limited resource at his disposal. The Azzurri have defeated the two best teams they’ve faced – Belgium and Spain – by a combined score of 4-0. The Italians are at their best when they can counter-attack, and they’ll get the chance to play that style against the aggressive Germans.
Defensive Edge – Italy (+245)
Italy has the edge on defense, but only just. The Azzurri’s famed back three of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini, is arguably the more cohesive unit in the tournament. They have yet to concede a goal in the Euros when they play together. (Chiellini was rested in their loss to Ireland.)
Conte’s tactics have also been spot-on on the defensive side. His effective pressing stifled Spain’s famed passing game, which allowed Italy to get the upper hand in their round of 16 matchup. However, Italy’s overall defensive strength will be weakened due to the absence either Daniele De Rossi (injury) and Thiago Motta (suspension) sitting in front of the back three.
Germany’s defense is less proven, particularly full-backs Joshua Kimmich and Jonas Hector. Because of the high defensive line they play, the Germans can be prone to balls over the top which lead to good goalscoring opportunities for their opponents. That has yet to hurt them in this tournament, though. They are the only team that has not conceded a single goal at the Euros.
Writer’s Prediction: Conte orchestrates another outstanding tactical masterclass as Italy (+245) wins, 1-0.
Create a betting account now and start earning big on all the Euro 2016 soccer action this summer.
