Like all the other groups at Euro 2012, there is still plenty to play for in Group C and Italy will be desperate to claim all three points to ensure their qualification for the knockout stages when they face the already-eliminated Republic of Ireland on Monday (Italy 2/7, draw 9/2, Ireland 11/1).
So far, all four games in the pool have been absolute crackers but, after both Croatia and Spain beat the Boys in Green, the Azzurri will be expecting a comfortable win.
After a disappointing build-up to the tournament, Cesare Prandelli’s men have quietly impressed in Poland and Ukraine with two solid defensive displays, but will be looking to showcase their attacking prowess when they step out in Poznan.
Italy have often built their success on firm foundations but under Prandelli they have displayed much more offensive tendencies and contain a number of flair players within their ranks.
The most notable of these is perhaps Udinese captain Antonio Di Natale (7/2 first goalscorer) who looks set to start at the Municipal Stadium due to the lingering doubts over the fitness of the enigmatic Mario Balotelli.
Di Natale has been the top Italian striker in Serie A for the last few seasons and despite being relatively small, has the pace and trickery to trouble any defence.
The 34-year-old scored in the 1-1 draw with Spain and with this likely to be his last major championships, he will be desperate to make an impact.
The Irish have had a torrid time at Euro 2012 and, after being easily outclassed by both Croatia and Spain, know that it is now impossible for them to qualify for the quarter-finals.
However, despite their lack of talent, they’re certainly not short of determination and will not be overawed against their illustrious rivals, especially after they won 2-0 in the two sides’ last meeting.
For a number of Giovanni Trapattoni’s players this may well be their international swansong, as the young side that almost beat Spain at their last major tournament appearance in 2002 is starting to look weary and tired.
As usual, their chances of success will probably revolve around the performance of captain and talisman Robbie Keane (10/1 first goalscorer) who has so far remained coy on his plans for the future.
Although he may be past his best, Keane still has the talent to muster something out of nothing and will be desperate to prove he can cut it on the big stage.
However, despite Ireland’s best efforts, Italy should be more than strong enough to overcome them and, although it may be tight early on, fatigue could play a part in the latter stages, which may open the floodgates (Italy 7/1 to win 3-0).
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