iBet: Italy’s Andrea Pirlo could have a big game against Ireland

Italy v Republic of Ireland, kick off 7.45pm

Back Andrew Pirlo to be ‘Man Of The Match’ at 11/2

Italy have to win this and hope the result in the clash between Croatia and Spain goes their way to progress. I expect them to get the job done against an Ireland team that’s found themselves playing in a class above what they are used to, but the price on them to do so of 1.32 with Betfair (around 1/3 on in old money) will only interest big hitters. If they do win, there’s a fair chance that Andrea Pirlo will have a big game. The Juventus star has looked at the top of his game in three of the four halves of football Italy have played so far and with his range of passing and sumptuous close skills and delivery he is a player that does stand out. Pirlo showed he dead ball prowess by scoring against Croatia and looks their ‘go to’ man for set pieces. I think we have to assume the Man of the Match will be from the Italy side, and unless someone scores two or more, Pirlo looks worth a bet at a best price of 11/2 with BoyleSports.

Advices

There’s been plenty of talk about a 2-2 carve-up in the Spain v Croatia game – a score that would put both teams through and Italy out – and it’s been backed into as short as 4-1. Spain can be backed at 4/5 to win the game.

Betfair gives you better value. To see how much more you can win go to www.betfair.com/betchecker

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