Italy and England go head-to-head in a crucial Group D clash at the Manaus stadium tonight. The Azzuri might go into this tie as firm favourites but on their day,
Italy and England go head-to-head in a crucial Group D clash at the Manaus stadium tonight. The Azzuri might go into this tie as firm favourites but on their day, the English can steam roll any big opposition. As these two European giants collide, we take a look at the strengths and weaknesses:
England:
Strengths – Coach Roy Hodgson has given young talent a go at this year’s World Cup and the likes of Raheem Sterling, Ross Barkley etc. will be on show at Brazil. Their pace, power and agility can cause problems to the ‘slow’ Italian defence. With many of the Italian players lacking some pace, England can unleash these young superstars.
Weakness – Defence still remains fragile. At times, the Three Lions depend a lot on their star player Wayne Rooney to deliver the cutting edge. The temperature can be a problem for the English players as they try to cope against the Italian juggernaut.
Italy:
Strengths – Having been defeated them back in Euro 2012, Italy will again look to run over the England young turks. The likes of Andrea Pirlo, Mario Balotelli and Lorenzo Insigne can provide the spark. Italy’s main weapon will be their strikers and ‘Super Mario’ will be the key man to deliver the goods.
Weakness – England can expose the Italian defence as the latter plays very deep. Some of the Italian stars lack the pace and agility which can be an advantage to the English team.
All and all, Italy and England are on par going into this game.
