Italy v Norway predictions, tips, lineups and free bets (Euro 2016 qualifiers - 13.10.2015)

Monday, 12 October 2015 19:30
Written by David Bet

Having already qualified for next summer’s tournament, Italy entertain Norway in their last European qualifier in Rome on Tuesday night, a tie that could decide who tops Group H. This article contains our ITALY v NORWAY match preview with free tips, predictions, best odds, probable lineups, free bets and no deposit bonuses on the match!

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ITALY v NORWAY BETTING PREVIEW

Italy secured their passage to the competition in France next year with a 3-1 victory over Azerbaijan last Friday, a rare convincing display for Antonio Conte's side. Draw or victory against the Norwegians would solidify the Azzurri's position at the summit of the table, though a loss would see Tuesday's opponents leapfrog Conte's side into top spot.

Andrea Pirlo missed the 3-1 win over Azerbaijan through a muscle problem, and he remains a major doubt. Verratti and Parolo also have injury concerns and will be rested. Antonio Conte is without the services of suspended midfielder Daniele De Rossi and could hand a start to AC Milan's Montolivo and Toronto’s Sebastian Giovinco who was impressive when coming on as a substitute last time out.

Norway, who have won three of their four qualifiers away from home, go into their final qualifying game on the back of Saturday's 2-0 home triumph over Malta. They currently sit second in Group H, but they are two points adrif Italy and two points ahead of a Croatia side who face the somewhat easier task of a trip to Malta. Furthermore, Croatia beat Norway 5-1 in March and have a superior head-to-head record against the Norwegians.

Head coach Per-Mathias Hogmo is unlikely to completely overhaul his strongest XI in what can be considered a must-win game. Hull City forward Adama Diomande misses through injury while midfielder Per-Ciljan Skjelbred suffered an ankle injury on Saturday and he is now rated doubtful.

Italy and Norway last met during Antonio Conte's debut as Italy head coach, when goals from Simone Zaza and Leonardo Bonucci secured all three points for the Azzurri. Italy have not lost in 38 qualifiers on home soil - a run stretching back to September 1999.