> Italy – Ireland, both playing and hoping

In the opening match with a 1-1 draw with Spain, the 3-5-2 formation with De Rossi pulled down to play as a centre-back had a clear effect, helping Italy create a balanced position and even take the lead.

The current situation in Group C does not allow Italy to lose points again.

Di Natale and Cassano will be the iron fist on the Italian front line today.

On the training ground in Wieliczka on Saturday, Italy switched to practicing in a 4-3-1-2 formation instead of the familiar 3-5-2 and closed the door to the press.

Prandelli refused to provide details, but according to experts in Italy, the change in tactical diagram at this time of life and death is to help Italy attack better, while ensuring that risks on the side are limited.

This combination means that Italy will use a brand new attack, because Cassano and Di Natale have never played a full match together.

Under the defense and midfield, due to the tactical requirements of switching from a three-defender scheme to four defenders, Bonucci, Maggio and Giaccherini will most likely have to sit out.

In the middle of the field, Pirlo will still be the lowest player, taking on the role of triggering the attack from behind.

De Rossi will be returned to the midfield to support Pirlo, while maximizing his ability to shoot from the second line.

4-3-1-2 is the diagram that Prandelli cherished and applied to Italy throughout the qualifying journey.

Returning to the familiar formation when meeting the Republic of Ireland today, Italy promises to attack better and fully exploit the abilities of De Rossi, who, along with Pirlo, are two rare Italian midfielders at this level.

Phuong My