Brazil – Italy 21.03.2013

Friendly match between two most successful national teams in World Cup history.

Brazil and Italy have shared nine World Cup titles between them – five for Brazil, four for Italy. This match will be played in Geneve, Switzerland.

I think Italy have some kind of complex when play against Brazil. The Azzuri have no win against the Selecao for more then 30 years. Last time Italy won on the World Cup 1982 in Spain, when they won the trophy.

Brazil is currently on 18th position on FIFA Rankings, their lowest rating in the history. Brazil have no win on the last three matches. They suffered two defeats and played one draw in the last three friendly games. That was one of the reasons why the officials decided to change Mano Menezes as coach and to announce Luiz Felipe Scolari for the second time in his career.

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Italy coach Cesare Prandelli also has some problems in front of this match. The biggest problem is in the defense as the central defender Giorgio Chiellini is doubtful with an ankle problem. It is expected Andrea Ranocchia to replace him.The team-mates Mario Balotelli and Stephan El Shaarawy will probably lead the attack, but I don’t trust them too much. They are both young and very inconsistent.

I think the result on this match is not important for Prandelli. He is fully focused on next match with Malta in the qualifications for the World Cup. Three points from that match is a priority for Prandelli. On contrary, Brazil is the host of 2014 World Cup and they do not play qualifiers, but only friendly games. This is the second match in charge for Scolari, he lost against England in the debut. It is clear he will like a victory more then anything. And I believe Brazil will win.