After Italy thrashed North Macedonia, Ukraine have to win if they want to qualify for Euro 2024. These circumstances make the upcoming game extremely challenging for Serhiy Rebrov's team: they are facing top opponents in the decisive game.
Even with all injury concerns, Italy remains the toughest opponent possible. A defeat against them is really possible and even if it happens, Ukraine will still have a chance to qualify for Euro 2024 via play-offs.
In general, Italy look like firm favourites and betting odds say the same.
Ukraine vs Italy: betting odds
Here's what Ukraine's and Italy's chances to win look like according to top-tier bookmakers:
Ukraine's win: 4.10
Draw: 3.58
Italy's win: 1.95
Ukraine don't lose: 1.86
Italy don't lose: 1.24
Bookies don't expect a goal galore like it was in Italy's previous 5:2 win against North Macedonia. The chances for both teams to score are 50/50:
Total goals more than 2,5: 2.03
Total goals less than 2,5: 1.79
Both teams to score - yes: 1.87
Both teams to score - no: 1.87
Please note that betting odds are subject to change before the game. You can follow the changes on Stake.
Ukraine vs Italy head-to-head
Bad news for Ukraine: 6 losses in 6 official games. Moreover, Ukraine scored only 3 goals in those encounters.
Predicted line-ups
Ukraine: Bushchan - Mykolenko, Matviyenko, Zabarnyi, Konoplya - Stepanenko, Zynchenko, Sudakov - Mudryk, Dovbyk, Tsygankov
Italy: Donnarumma - Dimarco, Acerbi, Mancini, Darmian - Jorginho, Barella, Frattesi - Chiesa, Raspadori, Scamacca
Ukraine vs Italy prediction
Today's game is decisive for Ukraine, their spirit and morale are as high as possible. Besides, Ukrainian footballers head to the game after a friendly with Lechia Gdansk, whereas Italy had to hit top gear against North Macedonia.
However, Italy aren't the team to underestimate. Even though they will get the job done with a draw, they will be pushing to win and finish the campaign on a high.
Very often, when both teams are aiming to win, the game ends in a stalemate. Since such an outcome is acceptable for Italy, they might be tempted to park the bus closer to the full-time whistle if the teams are level by that moment.
Our prediction: a draw with both teams to score (Stake odds - 3.60).
