Italy has always been one of the giants of world football and Uruguay are a strong South American nation when it comes to this sport. So, one can expect a lot of action when these two nations meet in an international friendly in Nice on Wednesday.
Italy will be keen to use this game as a stern test before they face Liechtenstien in the World Cup qualifiers on Sunday. This match against Uruguay will put them in good stead ahead of their qualifying match.
Though Italy will be going for a win, this international friendly also gives them a chance to play as a unit as most of their players might have just trained with the national team after their club seasons got over. So, they will need time to settle down as well.
Italy has always been a tough defending side, but key defenders like Leonardo Bonucci and Georgio Chiellini are not expected to start as they are just coming back from the Champions League final. Alessio Romagnoli and Daniele Rugani could start for Italy at the back. Ciro Immobile and Andrea Belotti are set to feature as offensive players for Italy, and this European team has goals in them.
Italy coach Giampiero Ventura wants his team to beat Uruguay and climb the ranking charts too.
"If we beat Uruguay, it'll give us an opportunity to climb in the FIFA world ranking. We already gained three or four places and could enter the top 10, which would be an extraordinary result if we think back to where we were eight months ago," Football Italia quoted the coach as saying.
Italy will have to be on top of their game against a South American team, which has some flair in them. However, they are going to miss their best player in the form of Luis Suarez due to the striker's hamstring injury.
Things don't seem too great for Uruguay as PSG striker Edinson Cavani's participation is in doubt after picking an injury in their last match against Ireland. If Cavani is absent, Cristhian Stuani will have to shoulder the offensive responsibility for Uruguay.
Irrespective of the players who might not be available, Uruguay coach, Oscar Tabarez, will try to field a strong team against Italy.
Where to watch live
Italy vs Uruguay international friendly is scheduled for 8:45 pm local time (12:15 am IST)
Live streaming and TV information can be found below.
India, UK, US: No telecast.
Italy: TV: Rai Uno.
Africa: TV – Super Sport. Live Streaming: SuperSport Live Video.
Uruguay : VTV Uruguay. Live Streaming: ESPN Play
