Italy vs Sweden – 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers – Preview

Posted on November 13, 2017 by Sreya

Italy vs Sweden – Italy hosts Sweden at the Giuseppe Meazza on 13th November, Monday in the second leg of their crucial 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Italy were pushed to the brink in the first leg and lost it 1-0, which could make all the difference. From not missing out on a FIFA World Cup since 1958 to leaving it late for qualification this season, Italy’s national football team has come under a lot of scanner due to their current qualification performances.

Giampiero Ventura is under a lot of pressure to deliver a strong performance from his national side and it is to be seen if they manage to turn things around Sweden tonight.

Team News

Marco Verratti is suspended while Leonardo Bonucci, Simone Zaza and Leonardo Spinazzola will face late fitness tests.

Jimmy Durmaz is Sweden’s primary injury concern.

Italy Possible Starting Lineup: Gianluigi Buffon, Georgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci, Andrea Barzagli, Antonio Candreva, Alessandro Florenzi, Jorginho, Marco Parolo, Mateo Darmian, Manolo Gabbiadini, Ciro Immobile.

Sweden Possible Starting Lineup: Robin Olsen, Mikael Lustig, Victor Lindelof, Andreas Granqvist, Ludwig Augustinsson, Viktor Claesson, Jakob Johansson, Albin Ekdal, Emil Forsberg, Ola Toivonen, Marcus Berg.

Thoughts From Both Camps

“We are Italy and, if we qualify, I would like to be able to say that we did it by playing football. I don’t know what sort of game it will be but I hope it will be played in the correct spirit.”

– Giampiero Ventura, Italy.

“We’re fully aware of the task ahead of us, going to Italy with a slender 1-0 lead. To keep a clean sheet was obviously something we really wanted and we’re pleased with that. We re-focus and go again. We’re going to stay humble and do everything we can to progress.”

– Sebastian Larsson, Sweden.

Contributor’s Pick

According to Italy vs Sweden H2H Stats, Italy have won three, lost one and drawn one of their previous five encounters with Sweden. A 1-0 win for Italy is the most probable outcome with the qualifier likely to be decided in extra-time or on penalties.