Before they travel to Norway for the opening Euro 2016 qualifier, Italy will face Netherlands in an international friendly, with the game marking the start of Antonio Conte’s reign.

Following the impressive display at the 2014 World Cup, Guus Hiddink has taken over from Louis van Gaal and he, too, will want to do well in his first match since returning to the Oranje dugout.

Having largely impressed at the Euro 2012, Italy were tipped to go far in Brazil as well, but they instead crashed out in the group stage, prompting Cesare Prandelli to resign from the post.

That is unlikely to prove a problem given that the national team chiefs have persuaded Antonio Conte to take over, with the former Juventus boss widely regarded as one of Europe’s top coaches.

He has served up several surprised in his first squad, leaving Andrea Pirlo, Mario Balotelli and Antonio Cassano out, while Emmanuele Giaccherini, Cristian Maggio, Stephan El Shaarawy and Simone Zaza return.

The likes of Pablo Osvaldo and Gabriel Paletta were forced to withdraw, with Fabio Quagliarella and Angelo Ogbonna called as their replacements.

There are no doubts Antonio Conte will be eager to win his first game as Italy boss, so bear in mind home win pays 2.45 (29/20) at Betfair.

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini looks set to miss out, while Ciro Immobile and Sebastian Giovinco are expected to start up front.

Probable starting line-up (3-5-2): Buffon – Ranocchia, Bonucci, Astori – Candreva, Parolo, De Rossi, Marchisio, De Sciglio – Immobile, Giovinco.

Netherlands narrowly missed out on the place in the World Cup final, but no doubt the third-place finish was also a success.

Having exceeded expectations with Oranje, Louis van Gaal retired to take over the reigns at Manchester United, while Guus Hiddink was brought to replace him.

The experienced boss hasn’t made too many changes to the side, although Rafael van der Vaart and Ibrahim Afellay have been recalled.

Netherlands start their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign away to Czech Republic, but they first face Italy at Stadio San Nicola in Bari, where they are 3.25 (9/4) to extend the winning run.

Ron Vlaar and Jordy Clasie have puled out due to injury and they have been replaced by Gregory van der Wiel and Virgil van Dijk.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Cillessen – Verhaegh, De Vrij, Martins Indi, Blind – Sneijder, de Jong, Wijnaldum – Robben, Van Persie, Depay.