A mammoth match is in store for the Euro 2016’s quarter-finals with Italy being handed another stern test of their skill and talent. Antonio Conte’s men are facing the 2014 World Cup champions, who are yet to hit the highest heights at the tournament.

Good for Gold?

Joachim Loew’s men are still unbeaten in France and are yet to concede a goal, but their overall performances have not been as convincing as it was expected prior to the competition. Bayern Munich forward Thomas Muller has had a quiet campaign so far, but charismatic forward often finds his way to score in the biggest of games and Germans are known as the side to really step up the plate when it is most needed. Germany’s main strength resides in gifted midfield which could prove to be the key moment in what is likely to be an epic battle between two great rivals. Toni Kroos will be key link in controlling the pace of the game for Loew’s side as Real Madrid star is having a wonderful tournament so far, playing such an important role for Germans. Die Mannschaft have had an easy job in the round of last 16 having dispatched Slovakia with a comprehensive 3-0 triumph and Germany will now be eager to continue the trend. It will be easier said than done as Germany have a poor record against the Italians and Loew’s team will have to wary of the challenge that lies ahead.

Germany boss will have no selection issues heading into the quarter-final game against Italy. Following a comfortable win over Slovakia, Joachim Loew will most likely opt to field Mario Gomez up front with misfiring Thomas Muller being given the chance to pick up the pace from the off once again.

Underrated Italy

Having arrived to France being labelled as the worst Italian team to go to a major tournament in last 50 years, Azzurri have done brilliantly to put their critics in place with a series of tactically perfect performances. Starting from their opening win over Belgium and the 2-0 win over Spain, Italy have managed to assert their dominance and claim their stake on the European title. It is the second mammoth match in a row for Italy as Conte’s men prepare to face Germany following a morale-boosting triumph over Euro 2012 winners. Azzurri head into the match against Loew’s men with one of the most remarkable record in international football. Italy has beaten the 2014 World Cup champions in all eight of their meetings in major tournaments, including several games that are still scarred deep on Germany’s national pride. Antonio Conte has displayed tactical brilliance during the Euro 2016 with his team showing commendable discipline alongside tireless efforts against teams that might even be called more talented and with more individual quality. Conte has been able to get the best out of his men building a strong force upon incredible defence line consisting of experienced Giorgio Chiellini and impeccable Leonardo Bonucci.

Antonio Conte will have several worries ahead of Germany game as Danielle De Rossi will be unavailable for selection following a thigh injury he picked against Spain. Roma midfielder was replaced by Thiago Motta, who will also be unavailable for the forthcoming duel due to a yellow card suspension. In addition, Antonio Candreva is an injury doubt and Italy boss is facing some difficult calls ahead of the match.

Verdict

Italy have held pretty well during the entire Euro 2016. On the other side, Germany have not been as compelling as their fans would have liked and with a negative record against Italy hanging over their heads Loew’s men could find plenty of incentive to give more than what they have in order to dispatch Azzurri.

Top pick: Germany   2.30 (13/10) @WilliamHill

Alternative pick 1: Germany to qualify   1.57 (4/7) @PaddyPower

Alternative pick 2: Both teams to score – No   1.62 (8/13) @Bet365