Italy vs Spain 6/10 – World Cup Qualify
The Battle for Top Spot in Group G
COMPETITION: 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying
GAME: Italy vs Spain
LOCATION: Juventus Stadium
DATE: Thursday 06/10
TIME: 20:45
In 31 previous matches between the teams, Italy have won 11 times, Spain have won 11 times and there have been 9 draws.
Italy started their 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign away to Israel, in a game which could have caused them problems. However, two goals inside the opening 31 minutes, saw Italy take control of the game and despite Israel getting a goal back, Italy sealed the points with a third goal, late in the game. It was just the start required, before this meeting with Spain.
The Spanish are the favourites to top this group and qualify automatically and they can take a big step towards Russia, with a win in Turin. Julen Lopetegui’s team began Group G with the easiest fixture available, at home to Liechtenstein. Despite only scoring one goal in the first half, Spain went on to win the game 8-0 and secure their place at the top of the group.
Tips
We have looked closely at the following aspects of this match, which offer good betting value:
- Winner
- Both Teams to Score
- Anytime Goalscorer
Italy Very Strong at Home
You have to back 40 games, to find the last time Italy lost a competitive match on home soil, which was in 1999, against Denmark during the European Championship qualifiers. Italy may not have the big names of old but they are still a force to be reckoned with at home and although Spain are the bookies favourites, Italy defeated them at Euro 2016 and will be confident of repeating the win, especially in-front of their own fans.
Game Tip: Italy to Win is 3.2 at Bet365
Spain to Score in Turin
Italy’s defence, although strong with their Juventus spine, is not unbreakable and the fact Croatia, Norway and Azerbaijan all scored in Italy during Euro 2016 qualification, shows they can be broken down. Spain will be 100% confident they can score goals in this game but with the passionate Turin crowd, they will find it difficult to prevent Italy scoring too.
Game Tip: Both Teams to Score – Yes is 2.25 at 888sport
Lazio Striker on Form
Italian striker, Ciro Immobile, has been in great form for Lazio this season, scoring 4 goals in Serie A. Immobile also scored when coming off the bench against Israel in the first match of this group and found the back of the net twice on the weekend for Lazio, meaning he is full of confidence now.
Game Tip: Ciro Immobile to Score Anytime is 4 at Bet365
