Italy vs Austria, Euro 2020 last-16: prediction and team news

Italy are set to play Austria at the Wembley Stadium on Saturday in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Euro 2020.

The European Championship knockout stages begin this weekend. The first match of the last-16 stage is Wales-Denmark in Amsterdam before Italy face Austria at Wembley.

Italy rank high among the most impressive teams at Euro 2020 so far, and after winning all their matches in Group A, they have a clash with Austria in the second round.

Italy have racked up impressive numbers going to this game; they won all their group games with clean sheets, scoring seven goals.

No other team currently at the tournament has such numbers, which easily makes Italy strong favorites in the competition.

Austria didn’t have it all smooth in their run for the second round ticket. Austria managed a second place finish in Group C with wins over Ukraine and North Macedonia.

Austria haven’t had a run as strong as Italy’s; they have three losses and two wins in their last six matches.

Italy vs Austria predictions:

  • Italy have won each of their last 11 games to nil.
  • Austria haven’t scored in four of their last six matches.
  • Austria have scored more than a goal in just one of their last six matches.
  • Italy have 11 straight wins and clean sheets.
  • Italy are unbeaten in 30 matches.
  • Austria have three losses in the last six matches.

In 35 head-to-head encounters between the two sides, Italy hold the clear advantage. They have won 16 games, lost 11 and drawn eight.

The two countries last faced each other way back in 2008, with the game ending in a 2-2 draw. Goals from centre-back Emanuel Pogatetz and striker Marc Janko for Austria was cancelled out by a goal from striker Alberto Gilardino and an own goal from goalkeeper Ramazan Ozcan for Italy.

Austria possess plenty of talent in their squad but they face an in-form Italian side. Expect Italy to dictate play, dominate possession and find the back of the net at some point in the game. Austria will make it competitive, but Italy are likely to finish Saturday as quarter-finalists.

Italy have been one of the best teams in the competition so far.

Austria, on the other hand, have done well to reach this stage. Much of their team is comprised of Bundesliga stars, led by the versatile David Alaba. The Real Madrid bound player can operate in a number of positions, and he will be crucial for his country.

Italy will be the favourites to win here.

Our prediction: Italy win @ 1.50

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