Germany and Italy face off in the second quarter final match of Euro 2016 today at Bordeaux. The game is worthy of a final and will definitely eliminate one of the strong title contenders . Both teams have played free flowing football throughout the tournament and the stakes will be really high in this quarter final encounter featuring Germany vs Italy.
Germany have had a relatively easy ride so far , they faced Ukraine in the opening game and won unconvincingly , leaving a lot of work to be done for manager Joachim Low. They followed it up with a dull 0-0 draw with poland before narrowly winning 1-0 against Northern Ireland. There was a no show from the World Champions at the group stages. They upped their game against Slovakia riding on brilliant performances from Draxler and Kimmich , and need similar performance from their star players today if they are to break down a sturdy Italian defence.
Antonio Conte’s team is built like a classic Italian team, rock solid at the back and a terrorising force going forward. Italy were really impressive in their first two games easily seeing off Belgium and Sweden. They tasted defeat against Republic of Ireland when Conte fielded a second string squad knowing top spot was guaranteed. They outplayed Spain in the round of 16 clash and never really gave the defending champions a glimmer of hope , with Chiellini and Bonucci taking care of every spanish attack. They are playing fearless football and will not be surprising if they eliminate the World Champions tonight.
Italy have history on their side as Germany have never beaten them at a major competition in 8 attempts. Their last meeting at a major tournament was decided by two goals from Mario Balotelli at the semi finals of Euro 2012 . Germany pathetic record against Italy and Antonio Conte’s men will look to extend the same today.
The game is expected to be straightforward with both sides going all out attack from the start , a classic quarter final is upon us. Here are the expected lineups :
Germany – Neuer; Kimmich, Boateng, Hummels, Hector; Kroos, Khedira; Muller, Ozil, Draxler; Gomez.
Italy – Buffon; Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Florenzi, Parolo, De Rossi, Giaccherini, De Sciglio; Pelle, Eder.
Also Read – Euro Fantasy Tips
