North Macedonia vs Italy Prediction 09.09.2023

• Competition: European Qualifiers - Group C
• Date: Saturday, 9th, September 2023
• Kickoff: 19:45 UTC +1 / 20.45 CEST
• Venue: National Arena Toshe Proeski (Skoplje)

The National Arena Toshe Proeski will become the place where Luciano Spalletti will attempt to secure a triumph in his debut match as the new coach of Italy in the EURO 2024 qualifiers against North Macedonia.

The opening match of North Macedonia's EURO 2024 qualification campaign seemed like a walk in the park against Malta, but they had to sweat it out to secure a 2-1 victory over the 171st-ranked national team in the world. The real shocker, though, came in the next game when they relinquished a two-goal lead, leading to a shocking 2-3 defeat to Ukraine. Things went from bad to worse as England handed them their heaviest defeat in history, crushing them 0-7 at Old Trafford.

Discontent with their bronze finish in the UEFA Nations League - a 1-3 loss to Spain in the semifinals followed by a hard-fought 3-2 triumph over the Netherlands in the third-place battle - Roberto Mancini tendered his resignation. Luciano Spalletti, who had led Napoli to an Italian title after a 33-year hiatus, was appointed as his successor. Guided by their new tactician, Gli Azzurri return to the EURO action, currently holding the third spot in Group C with a modest three points. This comes following a reassuring 2-0 win against Malta, considered the minnows of the group, and a close 1-2 defeat to the relentless England.

North Macedonia vs Italy Betting Tips: Over 2.5

Macedonia's defense displayed vulnerability and helpless throughout the EURO qualifiers, leading to 11 goals conceded in just three games. Adding to the concern is the temporary departure of Stefan Ristovski, the captain and one of the defensive pillars, from the national team. Despite defensive shortcomings, the Lynxes managed to maintain their attacking form, with both teams finding the net in four out of their five matches played in Skopje.

Moreover, Italy is grappling with defensive uncertainty away from their home turf, managing to keep a clean sheet only once in their last five visits. In addition, the last and sole occasion when these two national teams met in Skopje, we witnessed a goal explosion, with Gli Azzurri coming out on top in a thrilling five-goal thriller, winning 3-2. Without a doubt, Italy will be hungry for vengeance after North Macedonia ousted them from the previous World Cup qualifiers. Nevertheless, with Milevski's team having little to lose in this encounter, an attacking strategy is on the horizon. Consequently, the Macedonians, despite their underdog label, are anticipated to make Saturday's match interesting, promising a goal-filled spectacle!