There will be huge pressure on Italy, as the race for important qualification points ramps up this week. The reigning EURO champions are in danger of missing out on a qualification spot in Group C, as they will need maximum points in Rome on Friday to force a final day shootout against Ukraine.
Before Betting On Italy vs North Macedonia
It hasn’t been the easiest qualification campaign for Italy over the last 12 months, as the reigning EURO champions remain in danger of missing out on the major tournament next summer. They currently sit third in the standings, and they will need a home victory against North Macedonia to force a final day shootout with Ukraine next week.
Italy sit three points behind Ukraine, while a victory for the visitors could reignite their slim hopes of reaching the major tournament. The reigning champions boast a slightly better goal difference than Ukraine, meaning that a victory on Friday will ensure that at least a draw against their direct rivals will see them finish second behind England in the Group C standings.
However, Italy will be looking to get back on track this week after they were edged out by England in their previous qualifier. Despite taking an early lead, Italy went on to lose 3-1 at Wembley. That was their second defeat in six qualification matches in the group, with both losses coming against the Three Lions.
North Macedonia sit a place below Italy in the standings, but they are sitting just six points off second spot. But, their goal difference could ultimately be crucial, as they have a ten goal swing to make up on Ukraine. They also come into this match after losing three of their last five in Group C, while they were beaten by Ukraine in their most recent match.
Italy vs North Macedonia Offshore Odds & Pick
It has been a rocky qualification campaign for Italy, but there is an expectation that they will get back on track this week. We struggle to overlook their clear credentials to land maximum points on Friday.
