IT’S been a long five years since Wales’ heroics at Euro 2016, overcoming Belgium to reach the semi-finals.
But it won’t be easy for the Dragons this time out, who face an in-form Italy side.
This clash is taking place in Rome, with kick-off set at 5pm and you can watch all the action from ITV1.
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What’s the form?
Wales’ 2-0 win over Turkey means they are all but sure to qualify from Group A.
Robert Page’s side has been impressive, with only two defeats in their last 19 games – against world champions France and world No1 ranked side Belgium.
This will be only the 10th time these two sides have met – their last being being in 2003 and a comfortable 4-0 victory for Italy.
Italy’s form on the other hand has been impeccable, and the Azzuri have not tasted defeat since 2018.
Roberto Mancini’s side come off the back of two straight 3-0 wins over Turkey and Switzerland in Group A, progressing through to the last 16.
Who’s in and who’s out?
Roberto Mancini is likely to make changes from his starting XI as he has the chance to rotate.
Italy’s ageing back-two of Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci – who have a combined age of 70 – will need a rest for sure
Chiellini went off after a suspected hamstring injury against the Swiss.
Mancini coudl recall midfield lynchpin Marco Verratti, who may feature after finally overcoming a troublesome knee injury.
Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale have been at the forefront of this Wales side so far, combining brilliantly last Wednesday and will need to turn on the heat against Italy.
Ethan Ampadu and Harry Wilson, introduced from the bench against Turkey, are two players pushing for recalls to the starting line-up.
Robert Page’s side played a back three in Wales’ qualifying games before reverting to a back four against Switzerland and Turkey so it will be interesting to see what tactic he employs
“I couldn’t be more proud. When you have quality like Dan James, Aaron Ramsey, Gareth Bale, Kieffer Moore, you are always going to cause teams problems. What Gareth really showed was character, everyone makes mistakes, but he got on with it and was man of the match.”
Robert Page, Wales
Who to watch out for
Bale is the key man for Wales.
If he turns up and is on top of his game, the Welsh have a chance of pulling off a major upset.
If however he struggles to impose himself on the game, the Italians will almost certainly dominate.
If the game’s rubbish…
If you didn’t think age was just a number then check out Italy boss Roberto Mancini’s stunning wife Silvia Fortini – the 55-year-old has played an absolute blinder here.
The pair wed in the summer of 2018 after the former Manchester City boss split with his ex-wife Federica in 2016.
Fancy a punt?
Get all your Euro 2020 ante-post tips with our tournament betting guide HERE.
Match odds
- Italy to win 2/5
- The draw 10/3
- Wales win 7/1
To win Euro 2020 outright
- Italy 7/1
- Wales 125/1
*All odds correct at time of publication
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
