UNL: Netherlands vs. Italy Preview, Betting Tips, Prediction, Picks

Third-place games are usually uninteresting for the participants, who are still grieving for the finals. Though, in this case, the Netherlands has a big motive because it meets Italy on its own turf. Oranje will have the crowd support, while on the other side, the Italian surely won’t back down here. The two sides have lost the respective finals, and getting back home with at least a bronze medal would be satisfying after such a development. The game will take place in Enschede, at De Groisch Veste Stadium. 

Preview

Netherlands (+125) was stunned by the Croatians, who managed to pull back from behind, take the lead, and recover from a late equalizer after that. Instead of going all-in, the hosts of the tournament slowed down in the extra-time, conceding twice and losing the game. 

What was the reason for that we don’t quite know, but one thing is for sure, the Netherlands’ defense is problematic, and even though it has superstars, it doesn’t work well. 

Meanwhile, the attack is solid but not world-class, which has to be acknowledged as well. Still, the forwards are delivering when needed. The efficiency of Oranje’s games is pretty high, with the past five contests ending with over 2.5 goals, four of them with four or more. 

Italy (+200) lost three of the previous four appearances, which is one of the worst stretches this unit had in a while. In each of those events, we’ve seen them allowing at least two goals, meaning their defense also isn’t reliable. The reason is the rebuild, with Chiellini and the veterans put aside. 

Moderate efficiency is something pretty frequent when Italy plays, with six of the most recent seven events this team played ending like that. Azzurri played solid during the UEFA Nations League, but they’ve opened the EURO qualifiers lousy, losing to England at home, 1-2. 

The loss to Spain is one more reminder that Roberto Mancini needs to act fast otherwise, his squad might not be competitive in the upcoming championship.

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Some changes are expected to happen, but for the moment, neither coach has revealed his intentions. 

UNL: Croatia vs. Spain Preview, Betting Tips, Prediction, Picks

Head to Head Games

Throughout history, we’ve seen a number of exciting and important meetings between these nations, but the most recent happened three years ago, in the UEFA Nations League. Italy was victorious in the Netherlands, 0-1, while the second meeting ended without winners, 1-1.

Since 2014, they have encountered five times, and four clashes were with 2 or 3 goals. 

Prediction

The players are disappointed about not reaching the finals, but on the other hand, they won’t have any pressure, so we expect to see them a bit more relaxed in this event. That’s why we go for three or more goals. As you noticed, it’s mentioned that the respective defenses aren’t at the desired level and that they make plenty of mistakes. This pick is valued at -120, which is solid, having all the circumstances in mind. For those who would like to increase profits, go with both teams to score and exceed 2.5 goals. 

Pick: Over 2.5 goals