Germany will be hoping to get one over on Italy on Tuesday evening when they welcome the Azzurri to the Allianz Arena in Munich.
The last time Die Mannschaft beat Italy was on 21 June 1995, nearly 21 years ago during a friendly in Zurich. Since then, it’s been the Italians who have left the stadium the happier of the two sets of supporters, remaining undefeated in seven matches.
In terms of internationals on the world stage, again it’s Italy who have had the upper hand. Germany are still without a victory in either the European Championships or the World Cup, with some famous matches being played out between the two such as the 4-3 win in Mexico City or the last gasp Fabio Grosso winner in 2006 that left the host nation stunned.
Joachim Low’s side enter in this friendly off the back of two defeats to both France and England. The more recent of the two occurred on Saturday, letting a two goal lead slip to allow Eric Dier and the visitors to mount a tremendous comeback.
There doesn’t seem to be much change in the line-up from that 3-2 defeat, but Emre Can could make way for Matthias Ginter at right-back. Mario Gomez will face some former teammates as well if Davide Astori and Federico Bernardeschi start for Italy.
In regards to the aforementioned Azzurri, a solid showing against Spain saw them secure a 1-1 draw with the former World and current European champions.
Prior to that match, a loss to Group rivals Belgium and a 2-2 draw to Bulgaria have shown the unpredictable nature of Antonio Conte’s men, but they will be looking to maintain their unbeaten record against the Germans.
Although opting for a 3-4-3 style recently, a 4-3-3 should be the formation of choice for Conte, one he has elected to use for most of his tenure as coach.
There shouldn’t be too much difference from the team that did draw with Spain, considering players like Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini are injured, but Eder could make way for Simone Zaza whilst Luca Antonelli would be the extra defender at the back.
Roma’s Alessandro Florenzi or Lazio’s Antonio Candreva should make way for Lorenzo Insigne of Napoli, who has been knocking on the door for his chance with the Azzurri for some time and came off the bench to score the opener on Thursday.
Form Guide: Germany (W-L-W-L-L) Italy (W-W-L-D-D)
Expected Starting XIs
Germany: Neuer; Ginter, Mustafi, Hummels, Hector; Khedira, Kroos; Muller, Ozil, Reus; Gomez.
Italy: Buffon; Darmian, Astori, Bonucci, Antonelli; Motta, Parolo, Candreva; Insigne, Pelle, Zaza.
