On Saturday night, Italy will clash with Portugal at the Nations League.
After losing to Switzerland for the 2018 World Cup, the Nations League remains the only place for Italy this year. Still, before starting off their campaign at Nations League, Italy ceased 5 friendly matches, but only one of them ended with a win over Saudi Arabia 2-1. Despite performing horribly at friendlies, they perform no better now. victory over Portugal is the only way for Italy to sustain their position.
In his latest squad, Roberto Mancini there are three new call-ups, Sandro Tonali (Midfield) from Serie B side Brescia, Vincenzo Grifo (Striker) from Hoffenheim and Stefano Sensi (Midfield) from Sassuolo. Last month’s 1-0 win against Poland was Mancini’s first since taking charge, and he will be hoping that it is the catalyst for his country moving forward.
Whereas, Portugal head the Nations League now due to victories over Poland 2-3 and Italy 1-0. So this time the squad should save its place in the duel with Italy, which is entirely possible. Confident defence and vigorous counterattacks are among their strong points. Unlike Italy, Portugal has another game to spare.
Striker Andre Silva has had a new lease of life since leaving Milan for Sevilla in the summer and he will be desperate to show the San Siro crowd what they failed to see during his time there. Midfielder Bernardo Silva can turn any game and the Manchester City star will hope to get a starting berth at the weekend.
Predicted Line-ups:
Italy:
Donnarumma (GK); Florenzi, Bonucci, Chiellini, Biraghi; Verratti, Jorginho, Barella; Chiesa, Lasagna, Insigne.
Portugal:
Rui Patricio (GK); Cancelo, Fonte, Dias, Rui; Carvalho, Neves, Pizzi; Bernardo Silva, Andre Silva, Bruma.
My PlayerzPot XI:
PlayerzPot Prediction:
There’s a chance of Italy to enhance their defence with Giorgio Chiellini looking to make a mark on his 100th international appearance. Portugal is strong enough to hold Italy with an exceptional quality of attacks and defence. A draw is definitely on the cards which can send Portugal to next year’s final.
