Matchday 4

Group E
Italy vs Ghana
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12th June 2006

Prediction: Italy 1-1

With Lippi confirming that Totti will play in this match, Italy is surely fielding a 4-3-3 formation. Although Lippi is still very secretive on the first XI, he gave away that Luca Toni will be playing either Vincenzo or Alberto. With the current form of Vincenzo, the Azurri camp will definitely put a lot of pressure on Ghana's defence.

However, in the past two friendlies, the Italian midfield has failed to provide the vital delivery to its strikeforce. Furthermore, Ghana midfield is very experienced and extremely accustomed to keeping the ball. Ghana may not have a very impressive strikeforce but its ability to keep the ball in possession may very well frustrate and tire the italians.

Expect some goals for Ghana on the counter when the italians are off-guard. This game looks set for a 1-1 draw.

WC Soccer 2006