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Italy take on Ireland in the last round of games in Group E, at the same time as Sweden take on Belgium in a group of fixtures that are going to be all-important on who qualifies for the knockout round of Euro 2016. Italy take on Eire at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Villeneuve-d’Ascq on June 22nd.
Italy have a 100% record in Group E, routing Belgium 2-0 in their first match, before leaving it late to beat Sweden 1-0 in a less than convincing performance. However, what was interesting is that while both games were a contrast in terms of attacking flair, they were both defensive masterclasses from the Italians, as you would expect. Belgium and Sweden never really looked like scoring, which is the epitome of Italian football.
Ireland were unlucky to only get a point from their game with Sweden, what with it ending 1-1, as they dominated a lot of the game, and looked the better side for much of it. However, they were found out against Belgium, as they lost 3-0, and, honestly it could and should have been more. Ireland need a win here to keep their hopes alive for qualification to the knockout stages, and will be throwing everything at Italy to make it happen.
Italy have faced the Republic if Ireland 14 times, winning 9 of the meetings, while Ireland have won 2, and 3 games have finished in a draw. Ireland last beat Italy in 2011, in a friendly, with their other win coming at the 1994 World Cup in a memorable 1-0 win. However, their last game was a 0-0 draw in 2014, and their last competitive meeting was in 2012 in the European Championships, which Italy won 2-0.
Italy vs Republic of Ireland Match Betting Odds:
Italy: 2.5, 6/4, +150
Republic of Ireland: 3.0, 2/1, +200
Draw: 3.0, 2/1, +200
Italy vs Republic of Ireland Match Betting Tips:
Italy are a huge price here. Sure, they don’t need to win, and Ireland do, but seriously, Ireland showed nothing up front against Belgium, and although the Italians left it late against Sweden, they are a class apart, even if it is the Italian second string that take to the field. You’ve got players that are still playing in the top leagues in the world, against an Irish side that are from all over the place. If Ireland were a bigger price, sure, they would be value, but they’re so blood short here, and Italy are so big that Italy to win is, weirdly, the value bet here.
Italy vs Republic of Ireland Prop Bets:
There’s very little in the way of interest in the props bets, however, under 2.5 goals is the play here. Ireland had nothing in front of goal against Belgium or Sweden, while Italy don’t have much to play for. A 1-0 or a 2-0 win for Italy seems likely, even though Ireland need a win.
