Italy is preparing to face Northern Ireland with Locatelli and Tonali.

The Italian national team is on the brink of a crucial moment in its journey towards the World Cup, with all eyes on tonight’s clash against Northern Ireland. The Azzurri, after a disappointing performance that saw them finish second in their qualifying group, are preparing to face the playoffs, where every game becomes a matter of life or death. The fear of a third consecutive disappointment looms large, and the pressure is palpable.

Coach Gennaro Gattuso, tasked with guiding Italy through this delicate mission, has opted for an audacious 3-5-2 tactical scheme, which promises to maximize his team’s capabilities. Among the starters, the presence of Manuel Locatelli, captain of Juventus, stands out as a key player, taking on the role of deep playmaker. His experience will be vital, especially considering the youth of the squad and the need for leadership in critical moments.

According to information from Sky Sport Italia, Gianluigi Donnarumma will be the guardian of the goal, backed by a defensive line consisting of Gianluca Mancini, Alessandro Bastoni, and Riccardo Calafiori. However, Bastoni’s physical condition is a concern, as the Inter Milan player has only recently returned to training after a period of inactivity. If he cannot demonstrate his fitness in a final test, his place may be taken by Alessandro Buongiorno from Napoli or Federico Gatti from Juventus.

The flanks will be handled by Federico Dimarco, who already had his place secured, and Matteo Politano, who has outperformed Marco Palestra to secure the position on the right. In midfield, alongside Locatelli, Nicolo Barella and Sandro Tonali are set to play box-to-box roles, with the Newcastle player, who has also faced some physical difficulties recently, finally available.

The front line will be occupied by Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui, both favorites to start the game, although the young Francesco Pio Esposito, who has been in great form, is pushing to secure a spot in the starting eleven.

As the kickoff approaches, the passion and anticipation surrounding the Italian national team are palpable. Fans hope that the team will not only win but also demonstrate the fighting spirit and quality that characterize Italian football. Today’s match in Bergamo is not just an opportunity to reach the playoff final; it is a chance to redeem the honor of a nation seeking a place on the world stage.

Italy Probable XI (3-5-2): Donnarumma; Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori; Politano, Barella, Locatelli, Tonali, Dimarco; Kean, Retegui.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.