Italy v Argentina predictions: Azzurri can respond to World Cup disappointment

Free football tips, best bets and analysis for Italy v Argentina in the Finalissima on Wednesday.

Where to watch

Premier Sports 1, 7.45pm Wednesday

Best bet

Italy draw no bet
1pt 11-10 Betfred

Team news

Italy
Domenico Berardi, Andrea Pinamonti, Federico Chiesa, Ciro Immobile, Gaetano Castrovilli and Rafael Toloi are sidelined.

Argentina
Centre-back Cristian Romero (knock) will be assessed.

Match preview

Italy will have to watch on from afar for the second World Cup finals in succession after failing to qualify for Qatar later this year. But the Azzurri demonstrated a winning mentality at Euro 2020 and can make a successful return to Wembley by defeating Argentina in the Finalissima.

Both nations have selected strong squads and are fully engaged in the relaunched clash between the South American and European champions which was last contested in 1993 when Argentina beat Denmark in a penalty shootout.

Argentina should pack a punch with Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez set to line up in attack, while Italy will be more reliant on solid defending with Giorgio Chiellini preparing for his international swansong.

Chiellini's partnership with club-mate Leonardo Bonucci was a crucial aspect of Italy's Euros success last summer, but Roberto Mancini's side also played some positive, inventive football and were worthy winners after dominating the final against England.

They may have to adopt a more counter-attacking approach against Argentina, who head to Wembley full of confidence after a 31-game unbeaten run.

However, Argentina have not come up against European opposition since October 2019 when they drew 2-2 with Germany in a friendly in Dortmund.

The Albiceleste haven't beaten a European nation in their last five attempts and could be edged aside by the Italians, whose wily defence could hold the key to victory.

Key stat

Argentina have not won any of their last five matches against European teams

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