Spain v Italy 2018 World Cup Qualifying Betting Tips September 2nd 2017
Posted by: Mitko Atanasov in Aug, 2017
Tip #1: Back Spain to win @ 1.85 with bet365.com
Tip #2: Back Under 2.5 Goals @ 1.53 with bet365.com
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Spain v Italy 2018 World Cup Qualifying Betting Tips: Match Preview
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Spain
Spain and Italy are the runaway leaders at the top of group G. Each nation has won five and drawn one of their last six World Cup 2018 qualifiers. In fact, the only way to separate the two sides is the fact that Spain are four ahead on goal-difference. If Spain can defeat Italy, then they are in pole position to clinch the group.
Thus far, Spain have been destroying teams and scoring in bulk. The only significant road block came when they travelled to Italy in October 2016, which resulted in a 1-1 draw. Italy were always going to be difficult to break down, but the Spanish did manage to score a 55th goal through Vitolo.
However, the Spanish gave away a late penalty that was converted by Italian midfielder Daniele De Rossi on 82 minutes. On paper, a 1-1 draw would have been acceptable before the game, but there was disappointment for Spain after losing in that manner.
Spain enter this qualifier as the favourites at 1.85 with bet365, but the encounter is unlikely to be entirely routine. Diego Costa is engaged in a transfer dispute with Chelsea and is visually overweight and lacking in fitness. This leaves the striking burden on Álvaro Morata, so he will have to be clinical in taking any chances against a stingy Italian defence.
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Italy
Italy have conceded once against Spain and then two goals in a strange 3-2 victory over Macedonia away in October 2016. Overall, they have only conceded once from four qualifiers, so the Italians will hope for a superb defensive performance in Spain on September 2nd.
Head coach Gian Piero Ventura still has veteran defensive talents in Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli, and Leonardo Bonucci. They will be fundamental in Italy attempting to frustrate Spain at home. The Italians are lacking in experienced quality at fullback, so remaining rigid in the middle of the park will be crucial.
On paper, the Italian midfield simply doesn’t compare to that of the Spanish. In fact, Marco Verratti is the only player who definitely stacks up well next to the Spanish starters. Italy’s midfield is highly dependent on players in their 30s, which makes the unit similar to the defence.
As a result, this could see the Italians defending extremely deep and narrow. Their defenders and midfielders simply won’t have the pace to chase back from a high defensive line. This can work pretty well, but the Italians will probably need Spain to have an off-day if they are to earn a draw or even a shock victory.
Verdict
Italy have benefitted from playing against opponents like Albania, Israel, Lichtenstein, and Macedonia. Although Spain are likely to win group G, Italy can still earn automatic qualification through an extremely high points’ finish.
Spain represent decent value at 1.85 with bet365, considering their international pedigree and that they hold the home advantage. Italy will do their utmost to stay secure at the back, but their lack of pace could see them undone eventually.
Tip #1: Back Spain to win @ 1.85 with bet365.com
Tip #2: Back Under 2.5 Goals @ 1.53 with bet365.com
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