Italy vs North Macedonia predictions ahead of Friday’s Euro 2024 qualifier. In anticipation of a decisive showdown against Ukraine in their last Euro 2024 qualifying match, Italy is determined to secure a top-two spot in Group C as they host North Macedonia at Stadio Olimpico this Friday. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Match Live Friday, 17th November at 7:45 pm In:
Italy vs North Macedonia Predictions
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Clash of Contrasts: Italy’s Redemption Quest Against North Macedonia’s Resilience
Key Stats
– Italy has won four of their last nine matches, indicating a lack of consistency.
– North Macedonia has only lost one of their last four outings, showcasing their resilience and competitiveness.
As Italy and North Macedonia prepare to face off at Stadio Olimpico, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the Azzurri, who are in a tight race for Euro 2024 qualification. This encounter promises a compelling tactical battle, underlined by both teams’ recent forms and historical encounters.
Our Suggested Best Value Bet For This Match
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Best Value Bet Rationale
El Shaarawy’s recent performances for Italy, encapsulated in his average BettingTips4You rating of 6.99, indicate his growing influence in Italy’s attacking play. Despite only starting five of the nine matches he played this season, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to create and take scoring opportunities. His expected goals (xG) of 0.97 and an expected assists (xA) of 0.96 further underline his propensity to be involved in goal-scoring actions.
With Italy’s current squad dynamics, especially considering the absence of key strikers like Ciro Immobile, El Shaarawy is likely to assume a more pivotal role in the attacking third. His ability to navigate tight spaces and take shots from both inside and outside the box makes him a likely candidate to test the opposition’s goalkeeper multiple times.
Moreover, considering North Macedonia’s defensive record, conceding 14 goals in their Euro 2024 qualifiers, there will likely be spaces for Italy’s attackers to exploit. El Shaarawy’s agility and skill in creating shooting opportunities, combined with the boosted odds offered by Bet365, make this bet not only a value proposition but also a tactically informed one, reflecting the expected dynamics of the game and El Shaarawy’s evolving role in Italy’s offensive strategy.
Italy’s Quest for Consistency
Italy’s campaign has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. With a record of four wins, a draw, and two losses in their last seven matches, Luciano Spalletti’s side has shown flashes of brilliance interspersed with moments of vulnerability. The Azzurri’s attacking play has been reasonably effective, scoring 11 goals in their qualifying games, an average of 1.8 goals per game. However, their defensive lapses, conceding seven goals in the same period, have raised concerns.
Key players like Gianluca Scamacca and Ciro Immobile have been instrumental in Italy’s attacking phases, but Immobile’s absence in the upcoming match could impact their offensive dynamics. The midfield, anchored by Jorginho, will play a crucial role in controlling the game’s tempo and creating scoring opportunities.
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North Macedonia’s Surprising Resilience
North Macedonia, on the other hand, has displayed commendable resilience. Their record of two wins, a draw, and three losses in the Euro 2024 qualifiers might not seem impressive, but their performances, particularly against Italy, have been noteworthy. They have managed to score seven goals while conceding 14, highlighting both their attacking capabilities and defensive weaknesses.
Players like Eljif Elmas and Enis Bardhi have been central to North Macedonia’s strategy, with Elmas contributing three goals. Their counter-attacking style and ability to exploit spaces could pose a significant challenge to Italy’s defence.
Strategies and Key Battles
The match will likely be decided in the midfield, where Italy’s control will clash with North Macedonia’s counter-attacking prowess. The key duels between Italy’s midfield maestros and North Macedonia’s quick attackers could tilt the game in either direction.
Managerial Impact
Spalletti’s tactical acumen, particularly in orchestrating Italy’s attack, will be crucial. However, his ability to address the defensive frailties will be under scrutiny. On the other side, Blagoja Milevski’s approach of leveraging the underdog status to unsettle stronger teams has been effective, but whether it can withstand Italy’s assault at home remains to be seen.
Our Take: A Tactical Conundrum
Italy, despite being the favourites, cannot underestimate North Macedonia, a team that has proven its ability to upset the odds. The Azzurri must address their defensive concerns while capitalising on their attacking prowess. North Macedonia, though facing a daunting task, has the tools to exploit Italy’s vulnerabilities, especially on the counter. This match is not just a qualifier; it’s a tactical conundrum that will test both teams’ strategies, resilience, and ability to adapt under pressure.
Predictions and Insights
Based on the data and analysis:
- Match Outcome Prediction: Italy Win Italy’s home advantage, and a stronger squad, despite injuries, give them the edge. Their possession-based play and higher goal-scoring average suggest they can overpower North Macedonia.
- Correct Score Prediction: Italy 2 – 1 North Macedonia Italy’s offensive strength, especially at home, should see them score multiple goals. However, North Macedonia’s record against Italy and their recent form suggest they will find the net too.
- Goalscorer Prediction: Domenico Berardi With Immobile out, Berardi could be Italy’s main attacking threat. His ability to find and create scoring opportunities makes him a likely candidate to score.
- Corner Prediction: Italy More Corners, Total Over 7 Italy’s attacking style and tendency to win corners, averaging 6.3 per game, against North Macedonia’s defensive approach, points to Italy winning more corners. The total number of corners is likely to be over 7.
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