Italy vs Argentina odds and betting statistics
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Italy vs Argentina match preview
In a wide-open Group G, will either make a winning start in Auckland?
Four years ago in, what was their first World Cup appearance for two decades, Italy got all the way to the quarter-finals, topping their group and knocking out China PR, before falling to Netherlands in Valenciennes.
However, le Azzurre were certainly not as impressive at last summer’s Euros, smashed 5-1 by France in their opener, exiting rock bottom of their section with just a solitary point to their name.
Milena Bertolini was in charge for both of those campaigns, but that juxtaposition makes it hard to know what Italy will produce Down Under.
Thus, Argentina will fancy their chances of commencing their antipodean adventure with a positive result.
To date, la Albiceleste are yet to win a World Cup match, belatedly getting points on the board for the first time in France four years ago, holding both Japan and Scotland to draws, coming from 3-0 down in the latter.
Sweden are overwhelming favourites to top Group G but, with WAFCON winners South Africa completing the quartet, these two know a place in the round of 16 is up for grabs.
So, can either claim a priceless and, potentially, historic victory at Eden Park?
Italy team news
Le Azzurre’s strength very much lies in the attack, spearheaded by captain Cristiana Girelli, flanked by Valentina Giacinti and Barbara Bonansea.
The headline team news surrounds who is not here, with star centre-back Sara Gama, who has 126 caps to her name, controversially left out of the squad by Milena Bertolini.
16 year old midfielder Giulia Dragoni, who was born 121 days after Italy won the men’s World Cup in 2006, could make her senior international debut in this match.
Predicted XI (4-3-3): Giuliani; Lenzini, Salvai, Linari, Boattin; Caruso, Cernoia, Giugliano; Giacinti, Bonansea, Girelli.
Argentina teams news
Yamila Rodríguez is likely to be Argentina’s main goal threat, alongside Florencia Bonsegundo and Estefanía Banini in attack.
Predicted XI (4-3-3): Correa; Chávez, Cometti, Mayorga, Stábile; Falfán, Núñez, Bonsegundo; Rodríguez, Larroquette, Banini.
Women’s World Cup Group G table
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Women’s World Cup Group G fixtures
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