Belgium vs Italy: Italy backed to beat Belgium at Euro 2020
Two continental heavyweights go head-to-head on Friday night at the Allianz Arena, as Belgium clash with Italy in the Euro 2020 quarter-finals.
Both teams have been thoroughly impressive so far and will need to lay down a marker in this fixture.
Belgium have peaked at just the right time under Roberto Martinez and Euro 2020 could represent one of their Golden Generation’s last shots at glory. The Red Devils edged Portugal to a 1-0 victory in their previous game and will have to be equally robust in this match.
Belgium are undefeated in 23 of their last 27 matches. They have won 11 of their last 13 including their first four at Euro 2020.
Italy were given a run for their money against Austria last week and do have a few issues to resolve ahead of this game. The Azzurri are on an exceptional winning streak at the moment and have a point to prove against Belgium this weekend.
Italy have won 24 of their last 28 matches and won to nil in 11 of their last 12 matches. They are playing with plenty of confidence and one of the favourites to win Euro 2020.
Belgium vs Italy Predictions:
- Belgium have won 11 of their last 13 matches (all competitions).
- Italy have won by 2+ goals in 3 of their last 4 matches against Belgium (all competitions).
- Italy have won to nil in 11 of their last 12 matches (all competitions).
- Italy have won by 2+ goals in 10 of their last 12 matches (all competitions).
- Italy are unbeaten in their last 31 matches.
Italy have an excellent record against Belgium and have won 14 out of a total of 23 matches played between the two teams. Belgium have managed only five victories against Italy and will need to improve their record in this fixture.
The previous meeting between the two teams took place at Euro 2016 and ended in a 2-0 victory for Italy. Belgium were surprisingly poor on the day and will need to step up in this match.
Belgium have an abundance of talent in their squad but will have to make do without the talismanic Kevin De Bruyne in this game. Belgium may have a golden generation but they’re a much poorer side without De Bruyne in the side. Both he and Hazard had to come off the bench to rescue Belgium when they were 1-0 down to Denmark in the group stage. That doesn’t bode well for a clash with one of the favourites.
With Eden Hazard also injured, the Red Devils will face one of their most difficult battles in recent years.
Italy faced a fair share of problems against Austria but their superior bench strength saw them through what was a fitting litmus test. The Azzurri hold a slight upper hand at the moment and could book themselves a place in the semifinals this weekend.
Italy are unbeaten in 31 games and they’ve won 11 of their last 12 internationals. They are in fantastic form and Mancini has built a side capable of taking on the very best in the world.
Our prediction: Italy win @ 2.42
