The stakes are high as Ukraine welcome Italy for their final Group C Euro 2024 qualifier on Monday. Italy, showing signs of revival recently, are tipped to at least avoid defeat in a match that won’t be played in Ukraine due to ongoing conflict.
Ukraine are coming off a 3-1 win against Malta in their previous qualifier, overcoming an early setback to triumph with goals from Artem Dovbyk and Mykhailo Mudryk, alongside a Ryan Camenzuli own goal. This result extends their strong form, with just one loss in their last seven matches in all competitions.
Serhii Rebrov’s Ukrainian side is in a precarious position in Group C. Sitting third, they need a win to guarantee their place in the tournament next year in Germany. Despite an impressive unbeaten streak in their last nine home matches, the war in Ukraine means they haven’t played on home soil recently, with Monday’s game at BayArena potentially feeling more like an away match.
Italy reignited their hopes in the group with a commanding 5-2 win over North Macedonia, thanks to a brace from Federico Chiesa and goals from Matteo Darmian, Giacomo Raspadori, and Stephan El Shaarawy. Now level with Ukraine on points, Italy’s superior head-to-head record and goal difference mean avoiding defeat on Monday will see them through to Germany.
Luciano Spalletti’s Italy, however, face a challenge, especially away from home. Their last away outing resulted in a 3-1 loss to England, though they previously drew with North Macedonia and secured a Nations League victory over the Netherlands.
Odds Insight
Italy is the bookies’ favourite, priced at evens for a win. Ukraine, seen as the underdog, is at 3/1.
Italy boasts an unbeaten record against Ukraine with seven wins and two draws from nine meetings, including a 2-1 victory in their last encounter.
Key Players
Ukraine’s Artem Dovbyk, in fine form for Girona and his national team, is a player to watch, with odds of 2/1 for him to score. Italy’s Federico Chiesa, pivotal in attack and fresh from a brace against Macedonia, is at 5/2 anytime.
Other Betting Points
With both teams showcasing attacking prowess, a bet on both teams to score at 5/6 has value. The match could also see a half-time draw, valued at 6/5, and over 3.5 goals, similar to their last meeting, at 5/2.
