The clash at Croke Park is just one of many crucial fixtures on what is sure to be a dramatic night of World Cup action and the place to be this weekend is in front of the television.
Italy and Republic of Ireland have dominated Group 8 pretty much since things got underway in Europe, both remain unbeaten, but it is the current World Cup holders that top the section and a point for Marcello Lippi’s men on their travels will secure their place in South Africa.
With a home tie against Cyprus to come in Parma on Wednesday, even defeat for the Azzurri should still see them qualify for the finals but they’ll want to get the job done in style and with the minimum of fuss. Whether they will or not is another matter however and I take the hosts to be good enough for at least a share of the spoils.
Saturday’s clash takes on further intrigue with the prospect of Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni facing his birth nation and the team he formerly coached but that is a mere subplot away from the action on the pitch and it is sure to be fiercely competitive.
There is no doubt that Italy possess the more talented individuals, it’s hard to imagine anybody in a green shirt forcing their way into the away side’s starting line up, but the pair couldn’t be separated when they met in Bari when they last met and a draw looks on the cards once more.
Robbie Keane’s late equaliser that night in a 1-1 stalemate continued Republic of Ireland’s decent start to the qualifying campaign and home wins over Cyprus, Georgia and a draw with Bulgaria have seen them keep the heat under the Italians. They host Montenegro on Wednesday in the final round of matches and with a runners-up spot already all but secured, Ireland can play without fear on Saturday.
At the prices, Italy can be taken on at around the 2.50 mark, I am keen to oppose the visitors and they have hardly been helped with the news on Thursday that inspirational captain Fabio Cannavaro is to be investigated for an alleged doping offense. He had already been ruled of Saturday’s clash through suspension but it will certainly rock the Italian boat, despite their considerable experience.
While the home side rely on Robbie Keane’s goals and creativity they do have an excellent spine and the central defensive partnership of Richard Dunne, now of Aston Villa, and Manchester United’s John O’Shea is a solid one. They ably protect the magnificent Shay Given in goal but Republic of Ireland will miss Damien Duff; the winger being ruled out through injury.
Given the circumstances and the passionate home support, Italy are sure to be fully tested throughout and, while the likes of Gennaro Gattuso and Andrea Pirlo in midfield are just about as good as it gets, it is certainly not an easy task for Lippi’s side. There’s no team better equipped to gain a point when that is the brief but I couldn’t rule out the hosts edging it and opposing Italy is the call.
1pt Lay Italy (vs. Republic of Ireland) @ 2.50 (Betfair)