Euro 2016 preview and odds: Italy vs Republic of Ireland

Published on: 22/06/2016

Euro 2016 preview and odds: Italy vs Republic of Ireland

Stade Pierre Mauroy, Lille Métropole - 20:00pm 22 June 2016

Group stage - Group E

Italy will face holders Spain in the Round of 16 next Monday regardless of the outcome of this game. Meanwhile, Republic of Ireland need a win to stand any chance of progressing.

Ireland hoping to invoke spirit of 94

Ireland will be hoping for a repeat of their 1994 World Cup performance when they beat Italy 1-0 to record their only ever victory against the Azurri. Only three points will do for Martin O`Neill`s men who will be boosted by the fact that Italy could field a weakened team. Star names such as Buffon, Chiellini and Bonucci could all be rested as Antonio Conte looks to give some of his fringe players a chance to shine.

The last time the two sides met at competition level, it was Italy who ran out 2-0 winners in the group stage of Euro 2012. In total, the Italians have won four, drawn two and lost one competitive game against their rivals. Their last friendly game took place in London in 2014 and ended in a goalless draw.

Conte has expressed the importance of maintaining his team`s momentum by going for the win. There will be certainly be changes but he has no intention of giving the Irish an easy ride.

Ireland need a win to qualify so there should be no holding back from O`Neill`s side. Their last victory at a finals event came over 14 years ago and now would be the perfect time to grab another.

They showed plenty of spirit when qualifying for this tournament and will need to rekindle all of that passion if they are to extend their stay in France.

Form (all competitions):

Hungary: DWLDDWLWDD

Portugal: DDWLWWLWLW

Betting predictions

Ireland will have the perfect opportunity to show what they are made of against a much-changed Italian side who have nothing left to play for.

You can back Ireland to win at 12/5 with Bet365.

By Neil Morris

Published on: 22/06/2016

Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (22/06/2016 16:13:29) but are subject to change.