Israel VS Italy Match Prediction

The record books show there have only been three games before between Israel and Italy, with the Azzurri unbeaten in all of the previous meetings. The last time there was a match between these sides was in 1970 at the FIFA World Cup, with Italy held to a 0-0 draw by Israel.

However, in qualifying for the 1962 FIFA World Cup, Italy won 4-2 away and 6-0 at home, although all of these matches are so long ago it is impossible to suggest they will have any bearing on what happens in this match.

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Israel v Italy: Prediction

Italy were unimpressive in their 3-1 loss to France on Thursday but they should be better here with something tangible to play for. Giampiero Ventura looks to be a good choice as the replacement for Antonio Conte and he could not ask for a more straightforward opening fixture for his first qualifying campaign. Italy lack goalscorers though, so it could well be a close match.

Israel v Italy: Betting Tips

Italy are the clear favourites here, as expected, but a price of 10/7 still looks decent value for Ventura's men to get off to a winning start in his first competitive game in charge. Israel can be backed at 5/1, while the draw is available at around the 13/5 mark for this match.

Under 2.5 goals looks to be a good selection even at a price of 8/13, while a 1-1 win for Italy - which can be backed at 9/2 - is a strong offering from the correct scores market. Italy to win to nil is also appealing for their trip to Israel, with this bet available at 8/5.

Heading into this match on a run of four defeats in a row, Israel appear to have little chance of causing an upset against one of the giants of the European game. Aside from Celtic midfielder Nir Bitton, there are few recognisable names in the Israel squad and they appear to lack a goal threat.

Israel likely XI:

Giampiero Ventura saw his side beaten 3-1 by Italy in his first match in charge of the Azzurri on Thursday and will want to see better performances from his team here. There should be a solid defence on show, but there is a lack of stardust in attack, with no regular goalscorer available to Ventura. But Italy look to have a classy crop of midfielders and they should dominate possession.

Italy likely XI:

Italy know how to get the job done when the games matter and their experience should see them through what looks to be a potential banana skin. Giampiero Ventura is still imposing his ideas on the squad and they will take time to adapt to his methods, but a narrow away win is certainly possible.

Israel have not beaten Italy in any of the three previous meetings between the sides.