The Nations League semi-finals sees two European powerhouses face off with Italy looking for revenge on Spain after losing at this stage to the same opponents two years ago.

These two topped their respective Nations League groups back in September last year but both sides have had disappointments since then and will be hoping to bounce back in this semi-final.

La Roja snapped Italy’s 37-game winning streak in the Nations League semi-final two years ago and the Azzurri will be aiming not to fall for a repeat again on Thursday.

New Spain manager Luis de la Fuente will be hoping to put his side’s 2-0 defeat at the hands of Scotland behind them, with the winner going on to meet either the Netherlands or Croatia in Sunday’s final.

Football Bet of the Day – Sunday 15th June

• Italy @ 11/5

Date: Thursday 15 June, 2023
Time: 19:45
Location: De Grolsch Veste, Enschede, Netherlands

Italy and Spain have had a disappointing few months, with the Azzurri missing out on the World Cup and La Roja losing out on penalties to Morocco in the round of 16.

Roberto Mancini’s men were then beaten 2-1 at home by England in Euro 2024 qualifying before picking up a 2-0 victory over Malta in their second qualifier.

Mancini has selected an experienced squad for these Nations League Finals, with captain Leonardo Bonucci the critical cog in their defence.

Despite their recent defeat to England, Italy have won four of their last six games, including a Nations League victory over the Three Lions.

The Azzurri topped a tricky section in this competition, getting the better of England, Germany and Hungary.

Italy also have more of a settled squad than their opponents Spain, who are undergoing changes under their new boss.  

Only six players remain from the team that played in the Nations League finals 18 months ago, with Jesus Navas and Juan Bernat being invited back into the fold.

De la Fuente is looking to transition away from Luis Enrique’s patient, possession style of football that did appear stale at times near the end of his predecessor’s reign.

La Roja’s shock defeat at the hands of Scotland in March means they have now won just one of their last five matches in all competitions.

A low-scoring affair looks set to ensue between these two, as less than three goals were scored in four of Italy’s and all six of Spain’s Nations League group games.

Six of the last eight meetings between this pair of European giants have also seen under 2.5 goals, so expect a cagey affair, which may just suit the Italians.

Mancini’s men look less in flux than their opponents and could well take advantage of that to secure a victory and passage to the Nations League final, where they will meet the Netherlands or Croatia.

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