Italy vs Netherlands 05/06/18

5 June 2018

Roberto Mancini’s second match as Italy’s head coach went all wrong, as the Blues lost to France by three goals to one, showing off various weaknesses at the back, and they are hoping to drastically improve their game against the Netherlands at the AllianzStadium in Torino. The 2006 World Cup champions have failed to secure their 19th World Cup appearance, which was considered a national tragedy due to high expectations set up by the home fans. The same goes for the Dutch side, who after missing out on EURO 2016 won’t be participating in another major international tournament following a few unconvincing displays in the qualifications. Ronald Koeman is looking for his second victory with the national team after a 3-0 win over Portugal back in March, but theOranje have to put considerably more effort than they did against Slovakia. Both sides are desperately trying to revive their football which is why this encounter should offer much more than a regular friendly match. The last head-to-head meeting between Italy and the Netherlands took place last year, with the Blues defeating the old rivals by two goals to one.

Both coaches are trying to shake things up a bit by introducing new faces to their respective squads, and although it is just a friendly, both ofthem will have best of their stars available for the showdown.