The picturesque Stadio Carlo Castellani in Empoli is set to host an intriguing international friendly between Italy and Bosnia Herzegovina on June 9, 2024.
This encounter is more than just a game; it’s a final tune-up for Italy before they embark on their Euro 2024 campaign, while Bosnia Herzegovina looks to regain their form after missing out on the tournament.
Match Preview
Italy, under the stewardship of Luciano Spalletti, is approaching this match with a blend of confidence and caution.
The Azzurri are unbeaten in 2024, showcasing a formidable defense that has kept three clean sheets in their last four matches.
Despite a goalless draw against Turkey, Italy’s home record remains impressive, with four wins and a draw in their last five games on home soil.
Bosnia Herzegovina, on the other hand, is in a rebuilding phase under Sergej Barbarez.
The Dragons are looking to snap a five-game losing streak and will be keen to make a statement against the Italians.
Their recent 3-0 loss to England, despite a resilient defensive display, highlighted the need for improvement in both attack and defense.
The head-to-head record between these two nations leans heavily in favor of Italy.
In their last five encounters, Italy has won three times, with one game ending in a draw, and Bosnia Herzegovina claiming one victory.
The most recent match saw Italy triumph with a 2-0 scoreline in the UEFA Nations League back in November 2020.
Prediction
Italy’s consistent performance and strong home record make them the favorites to win this friendly.
However, Bosnia Herzegovina’s determination to bounce back could see them put up a tough fight.
We predict a competitive match with Italy likely to secure a win, but not without resistance from the Dragons.
Betting Tips
For those looking to place bets, here are some tips based on current odds and predictions:
Match Result: Italy to win, with the odds reflecting their strong form and home advantage.
Both Teams to Score: Given Bosnia Herzegovina’s recent defensive lapses, betting on both teams to score might offer value.
Total Goals: Considering Italy’s solid defense, betting on under 2.5 total goals could be a prudent choice.